California is leading the way for a clean energy future in many ways, including banning gas. Many California towns and cities have implemented natural gas bans for new construction in recent years. In 2023, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) voted to ban the sale of new gas furnaces and water heaters beginning in 2030.
A widespread switch from natural gas to electric appliances has the potential to reduce carbon emissions significantly in California. But it also creates confusion for consumers.
We’ll explain what California’s natural gas bans mean for you and how you can prepare when making upgrades to your home.
What Does California’s Proposed Natural Gas Ban Mean for You?
The CARB’s proposed state-wide ban on new gas furnaces and water heaters is slated to begin in 2030. And while home electrification is the ultimate goal, California homes do not have to be all-electric by that date.
- This regulation does not limit the use or repair of existing gas furnaces or water heaters.
- You will not be forced to replace any gas appliances that are currently in use in your home.
- All new space and water heaters installed after 2030 must be zero-emission appliances.
CARB is still defining what appliances qualify for zero-emission status but heat pumps and electric resistance appliances will likely be considered zero-emission.
When It’s Time to Upgrade Appliances, Choose Electric
The best way to prepare for gas bans is to start operating within their confines now. If you need to replace a gas appliance in your home, choose an all-electric replacement. The same goes for new construction—if you’re building a new home, forgo the gas line and install all-electric home appliances instead.
CARB’s proposed gas ban would only impact space and water heating appliances, but we recommend going all-electric even when it is not required by law because electric appliances are the future. Making the switch now will help you prepare for the possibility of stricter gas bans in the future.
There is an electric alternative to every type of gas home appliance.
- Gas furnaces → heat pumps
- Gas water heaters → heat pump water heaters
- Gas stoves → induction stoves
- Gas clothes dryers → heat pump clothes dryers
Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Replacing gas appliances with electric means you will be using more electricity. While it’s possible for a 100A panel to accommodate an all-electric home, it’s also likely that it won’t be able to handle the added load, especially if you’re installing multiple new electric appliances. Upgrading your electrical panel will make the transition to electric appliances easier, prevent damage to your new appliances, and reduce the risk of fire and other safety hazards that can occur with older electric panels.
Make the Switch to Solar Energy
One of the main benefits of electric vs natural gas appliances is that electric appliances can be powered by solar energy. If you’re planning to install all-electric appliances, or if you’re building a new all-electric home, it’s a good idea to consider installing solar panels, too. With solar panels, you’ll be able to power your electric HVAC system, water heater, and stove with electricity you generate yourself, eliminating your reliance on fossil fuel and saving you money on your utility bills.
Save on Electrification Upgrades with Rebates and Incentives
There are several rebates and incentives available to make electric appliances more affordable to install.
The new energy efficiency tax credit reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of your project costs, up to $2,000 for heat pumps and heat pump water heaters, and up to $600 for electrical panel upgrades.
The federal solar tax credit reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of your solar panel and battery installation costs with no limit.
There are several local California rebate programs as well, including TECH Clean California.
Use The Switch Is on Incentive Finder to find incentives available in your area.
Find a Clean Energy Contractor Today
Gas bans may be coming, but you don’t have to electrify everything all at once. You can start by simply replacing gas appliances with electric alternatives when they die instead of installing gas replacements.
The Clean Energy Connection makes it easy to find a contractor that can help you make the switch. Our free online directory connects you to licensed and vetted clean energy contractors near you. You can search by services offered, rebates available, and more to find the right contractor for your project.