Conflicting energy policies.

What is happening? Local governments in California are adopting building codes that support electrification and eliminate the use of natural gas. These policies are hitting a brick wall with the infrastructure to support it.

Why is this important? Berkeley’s transformers and distribution lines are being challenged to withstand the increased electric use. The infrastructure was built before the homes had A/C and certainly not as many electronics or electric cars.

How will this be important? “Modernizing the entire grid, quickly, is cheaper in the long run, but there’s a big upfront cost: about $160 million, by one preliminary estimate. If financed over 30 years at an interest rate of 3.2 percent, it would cost about $11 million a year.”

Governing | California’s Grid Isn’t Ready for Fully Electrified Homes