The City of Goleta is nearing implementing higher energy standards for all new buildings.

The changes would affect single-family homes, low-rise multi-family buildings, and non-residential buildings. 

Dana Murray, sustainability manager for Goleta, said the ordinance would help phase out the use of natural gas in new buildings. 

“Limiting those greenhouse gas emissions is really critical to avoid worsening climate change impacts,” Murray told the City Council on Feb. 4. “We’re already feeling the effects of climate change, and by having higher energy performance standards, it really reduces the greenhouse gas emissions that are embedded in new construction.”

The ordinance still would allow for gas equipment and appliances but would require electric space and water heating. However, if developers wanted to keep gas space and water heating, they would have to find other ways to reach the required energy standards through high insulation, solar, or battery storage.

Murray said it’s more cost effective to take higher energy performance actions with new construction. She also said that electric buildings are less expensive to construct, reduce the risk of gas explosions and improve indoor air quality.

Councilman Stuart Kasdin said that by having the ordinance promote something that is more cost effective, it could encourage more people to pursue electric. 

“It’s something that even if you didn’t give a whit about climate change, it might be something people want to do, it might be something developers want to do, it might be something that homeowners want to see,” Kasdin said. 

Under the ordinance, all new buildings would have to meet a specific energy performance score above the state requirements. There would be exceptions for small single-family homes and accessory dwelling units. 

There also would be requirements for electric readiness, allowing for the future switch of all electric appliances in case of future state regulations. 

“When folks go to change out their gas dryer, gas water heater, they may be required by the state in the future to choose that all-electric option, so this essentially prepares all new buildings for that potential future,” said Angeline Foshay, Goleta’s management analyst.

The city now will submit the ordinance to the California Energy Commission and the Building Standards Commission for approval. 

Once approved, the ordinance would be in effect for the rest of 2025.