Berkeley Becomes First City in the United States to Phase Out Gas

BERKELEY, C.A. -- Last night, the Berkeley City Council voted to unanimously approve a groundbreaking ordinance that prohibits the installation of polluting gas infrastructure for new buildings. The ordinance also received public support from both local energy providers -- East Bay Community Energy (EBCE) and Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). In Berkeley, residents receive electricity that is 78-100% carbon free.

Berkeley's gas phase out isn't just a good move against the climate crisis; it's also good for public health. Homes with gas appliances not only have high levels of indoor air pollution but have also been linked to increased rates of childhood asthma. By phasing out gas in new buildings, Berkeley moves to protect the health of its current and future residents.

In response, Sierra Club Senior Campaign Representative Matt Gough released the following statement:

"Berkeley is the first city in the country to take the groundbreaking step of banning gas in new buildings as it strives to protect its community and embrace a clean energy future. The passage of this gas ban is more proof that California’s cities and counties are embracing the climate goals of SB 100 and moving their communities beyond fossil fuels, and the fact that PGE endorsed the ordinance is further proof that our future is electric. Berkeley has established itself as a leader by banning gas and creating a roadmap for other counties and cities across the country to follow.

“Affordable housing is a top issue for Berkeley families: removing gas lines from buildings and opting for all electric appliances provides significant cost reductions in new construction. In moving beyond gas and instead installing an all-electric infrastructure, the Berkeley Gas Ban ordinance strategically lowers the financial, health and environmental costs of newly constructed buildings.”