Palo Alto committee recommends emergency reach-code amendments including AC-to-heat-pump replacement rule

The Climate Action and Sustainability Committee recommended that the City Council adopt emergency local amendments to the city energy code on Sept. 5, 2025, including a provision that when air conditioners are replaced homeowners must either install a heat pump or implement specified efficiency measures; staff said the AC-to-heat-pump requirement would take effect Jan. 1, 2027 if approved.

Committee staff said the package also includes a FlexPath compliance option for remodels larger than 1,000 square feet that requires projects to achieve 12 points by choosing measures from a flexible list of energy-efficiency and electrification options. Tim Scott, resource planner, said the 12-point target is intended to provide clear, cost-effective routes that can make all‑electric pathways viable for remodel projects.

Why it matters: Staff and committee members framed the amendments as a near-term step to increase residential electrification and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while responding to a state law, AB 130, that narrows some local reach-code authority beginning Oct. 1. Staff accelerated the residential pieces so the city can present them before the statutory deadline.

Key details - Staff recommended the committee recommend Council adoption of the residential amendments at the Sept. 8…