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Council advances REACH code updates and 2026 building standards to encourage electrification
Summary
East Palo Alto council voted to introduce and waive first reading of an ordinance adopting the 2026 California building code with local REACH-code amendments (two-way AC to heat pump options, FlexPath for major renovations and electric readiness). Staff and consultants and climate groups framed the policy as future-proofing and reducing indoor/outdoor pollution.
The East Palo Alto City Council on March 4 introduced an ordinance to adopt the 2026 California Building Standards and a package of local REACH codes aimed at encouraging electrification and energy efficiency in alterations, additions and equipment replacements.
City Attorney Lee and consultant Taylor Taylor (TRC) summarized four REACH-code options: two-way AC-to-heat-pump provisions for single-family and nonresidential buildings (allowing either heat-pump installation or additional energy-efficiency measures when replacing AC), a FlexPath performance option for major single-family renovations that requires a target score of prescribed measures, and electric-readiness triggers that require wiring and outlet preparation when specific electrical work occurs.
Taylor described the costs and benefits: installed heat pumps can cost roughly $1,000 to $3,000 more upfront than a like-for-like air conditioner, but Peninsula Clean Energy rebates (about $1,500 per unit and larger income-qualified rebates) and lifecycle bill savings (estimated $200400 per year) make electrification cost-effective in many cases. The consultant said the reach codes are —focused on opportune moments, such as equipment burnout or major renovations, and allow exemptions for technical infeasibility, panel upgrades, or hardship.
Speakers from regional organizations supported the changes. Dashiell Leeds of the Sierra Club and Brian Schmidt from Menlo Park urged adoption, tying the measures to the city's climate action goals and the Bay Area Air District's future NOx limits.
After public comment and council discussion about economic impacts and equity protections, the council voted to introduce the reach-code ordinance and waive first reading so the matter can move forward as an ordinance. Staff will return with final ordinance language and implementation details and will make supporting materials available for the public.
Next steps: Staff will return with a final ordinance for adoption and supporting implementation materials, including outreach plans and guidance on the exemptions process.
