The bill sSB301 File No. 345 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that updates energy efficiency standards for a wide range of commercial and residential products, and also provides for grants and loans for retrofitting projects aimed at improving energy efficiency in multifamily residences. The bill amends existing definitions and introduces new ones, such as "Portable electric spa" and "Computer monitor," to align with current standards like those of the California Code of Regulations. It removes outdated definitions and products from the list of those subject to energy efficiency standards, while adding new ones and updating standards for others. The bill specifies testing requirements for products like fluorescent lamps, residential ventilating fans, showerheads, and water coolers, and aligns standards with Energy Star Program Requirements and American National Standards for products like commercial hot food holding cabinets and portable electric spas.

The bill also outlines the authority of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to adopt energy standards and establish greenhouse gas emissions standards under certain conditions, and to adopt standards for products if federal standards were voided after publication. Manufacturers are required to certify compliance with DEEP. The bill expands DEEP's multi-housing retrofit pilot program to offer grants in addition to loans, extends certain program-related deadlines, and makes minor, technical, and conforming changes. The fiscal impact includes a delay in the effective date of bond funding for the retrofit program, with potential savings for ratepayers due to new energy efficiency standards. The bill is effective October 1, 2024, except for the provisions on the multi-housing retrofit pilot program, which are effective upon passage. The Energy and Technology Committee has given a Joint Favorable Substitute recommendation for the bill.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
ET Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 345: