California regulators approve energy rules that discourage gas appliances in new buildings

California regulators on Wednesday adopted stricter building energy efficiency standards as the state continues to push for the phasing out of gas appliances.

While the state's new energy regulations, which take effect in 2026, do not require builders to use zero-emission technologies such as electric heat pumps in their new buildings, they will make it more difficult and expensive for them to install gas heaters and water heaters.

The decision to regulate the use of gas appliances through energy efficiency rules rather than a mandate came after the city of Berkeley, California, lifted its ban on gas lines in new buildings in March after the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the ban violated federal law.

The California Energy Commission voted 4-0 to pass the energy bill, which sets high efficiency standards and encourages builders to use heat pumps for space and water heating. If a builder chooses to install gas heating for any of those purposes, he or she will have to spend more money on efficiency improvements such as thicker windows, more insulation or better plumbing.