Six local governments in California are allowed by state regulators to limit the use of natural gas in many new buildings, encouraging the installation of all-electric appliances (including HVAC systems). These natural gas bans are scheduled to take effect in January. Berkeley was the first city to pass a ban on natural gas appliances in new homes. Now, the cities of San Jose, Menlo Park, San Mateo, West Hollywood and Santa Monica, and Marin County will ban or limit gas appliances in many new buildings. Where natural gas is still allowed, the local governments may require new construction to be more energy-efficient than the state requires.
