HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes 07-78 Enact Policies & Pgrms - Global Emissions CITY OF PALM DESERT
OFFICE OF ENERGY MANAGEMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST; Adopt Resolution No. o�-�s , a Resolution of the City of Palm Desert
Pledging to Enact Policies and Programs to Reduce Harmful Global
Emissions
SUBMITTED BY: Patrick Conlon, Director of O�ce of Energy Management
DATE: December 13, 2007
CONTENTS: 1) Resolution No.o�-78a Resolution of the City of Palm Desert Pledging to
Enact Policies and Programs to Reduce Harmful Global Emissions
2) California AB32 Information
3) Interoffice Memo from Mark Greenwood, P.E. Public Works
Recommendation:
Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. o�-� pledging to enact
policies and programs to reduce harmful global emissions.
Executive Summary:
The proposed Resolution outlines 12 action steps the City can take to do its share in
reducing global warming emissions. As this report shows, many of these action steps are
already being done in Palm Desert as our normal course of business. The two major tasks
ahead, which start in 2008, will be the carbon footprint inventory and action plan for
greenhouse gas reduction. This is necessary for compliance with AB32 and development
of a green building ordinance.
Discussion:
The pledge of the Resolution is simple: strive to reduce greenhouse emissions in Palm
Desert 7% below 1990 levels by 2012, five years from now. The difficulty is the amount of
work the City needs to accomplish to establish how much greenhouse emissions were
produced in the City of Palm Desert in 1990, a consulting study will be necessary to
determine this and appropriate actions the City needs to take to reduce those emissions.
The State of California has adopted different goals in A632, which were signed into law in
September 2006. AB32's statewide goals will eventually impact California cities, by requiring
them to establish or estimate baseline years' inventory for greenhouse emissions within that
city in 1990 and 2000; produce an action plan, that wiN reduce the city's emissions levels to
the 2000 level by the year 2010 and 1990 level by the year 2020.
Greenhouse Gas Resolution
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December 13, 2007
Attached is a copy of AB32. One of the differences between the City's Resolution and
California AB32 is that the Resolution has a more stringent 5-year goal of reduction of
emissions to 7% below 1990 levels by 2012. If the City of Palm Desert can strive to adopt
and implement the 12 suggestions outlined in the Resolution, then we will already be in
compliance with state law AB32.
The following is a discussion item by item on the Resolution.
Item #1: "Inventory global warming emissions in City operations and in the community, set
reduction targets and create an action plan."
This action item is on our "To Do" list. The City needs to establish two baseline years as
starting points: 1990 and 2000. Staff will be returning to Council in 2008 with a consultant's
proposal to perform a study of our City emissions impact in 1990, 2000 and today so we may
set targets and develop an action plan to meet these target emissions.
Item #2: "Adopt and enforce land-use policies that reduce sprawl, preserve open space, and
create compact, walkable urban communities." Submitted bv Tonv Baqato, Principal
Planner.
The City of Palm Desert has adopted and encourages policies and programs promoting infill
development reducing sp�awl and creating a compact community that can provide for all
types of uses and services.
Policy 4 of the "Land Use Element" of the City's General Plan states "Every opportunity shall
be exploited to enhance the character and viability of the City's commercial areas, including
Highway 111, EI Paseo, the University Park planning area and the Interstate-10 corridor, by
integrating nearby higher density residential uses with retail and office/business park land
uses".
This policy identifies the City's priority for development within our city, rather than sprawling
outside the City limits. The City also allows higher density residential uses adjacent to and
within commercial and office areas that provides a jobs/housing balance, as well as various
types of services within the City that create a compact urban footprint.
Most of the City's vacant land and area of future growth is located within an area known as
the University Park Planning Area. In the General Plan, this will be a compact, walkable
community. It provides a maximum of 1,050 acres for commercial and office use with 697
acres of residential land, allowing a maximum of 7,753 units, 272 acres of open space, and
208 acres for public facilities. The area provides for a high-density overlay, that requires
higher density projects to be in close proximately to public transportation, commercial, office
and open space areas.
In addition to this policy, the City has adopted and enforced land use principles that limit
development on the hillside area and encourages cluster development to create more open
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space. They also provide for public trails, and require 40 to 50 percent of 'open space' areas
in the City's highest density zones.
Item #3: "Promote transportation options such as bicycle trails, commute trip reduction
programs, incentives for car pooling and public transit." Submitted by Tonv Baqato,
Principal Planner.
The rapid growth of the City of Palm Desert, and the Coachella Valley in general, has caused
an increase in traffic and presents one of our toughest challenges of protecting the residential
character of our community while still meeting the accessibility needs of the community's
residents and visitors.
Over the past decade, the City has made a conscious effort with policies and programs to
promote alternative transportation methods by expanding options for pedestrians, bicycles
and golf carts. The City has expanded sidewalks next to major roads and has provided for 70
miles of on-street and off-street bicycle and golf cart paths. In addition, the City has adopted
policies promoting mass transit expansion by consulting and coordinating with the SunLine
Transit Agency and Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) encouraging the
development of rideshare and other alternative, high occupancy transit programs.
Recently, the state of California adopted Assembly Bill 32 (AB32) committing to reduce its
greenhouse gases to 2000 levels by 2010, to 1990 levels by 2020 and to 80% below 1990
levels by 2050. To achieve this goal, the City of Palm Desert will have to rely on ridesharing
and mass transit as key components of our transportation future.
Item #4: "Increase the use of clean, alternative energy by, for example, investing in "green
tags", advocating for the development of renewable energy resources, recovering landfill
methane for energy production, and supporting the use of waste to energy technology."
Palm Desert through its Energy Ordinance #1124 promotes the use of photovoltaic solar as
an optional avenue that developers may pursue in documenting compliance to the provisions
of the Ordinance. The current Palm Desert Energy Program will be working in 2008 to
develop a photovoltaic solar concept for residential and commercial applications as well as a
low-cost financing program for homeowners and business owners who wish to install solar
panels on their buildings or invest in various energy efficiency improvements. The City of
Palm Desert's public transportation company, SunLine Transit Agency, utilizes a fleet of
compressed natural gas buses along with a hydrogen fuel cell bus covering the various
routes within Palm Desert. Per the franchise agreement with the solid waste company
Burrtec, all trucks used for sold waste collection are required to run on compressed natural
gas.
Items #5 and #6: "Make energy efficiency a priority through building code improvements,
retrofitting city facilities with energy efficient lighting and urging employees to conserve
energy and save money; Purchase only Energy Star equipment and appliances for City use."
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The City already has these energy-related items in place. Palm Desert Ordinance #1124
requires all new construction to be 10% to 15% more energy efficient than required by the
2005 energy conservation standards set forth in State law. The current Palm Desert energy
standards are approximately 70% more efficient than what was required in 1990 and 45%
more efficient than what was required in 2000. New City buildings (Visitor's Information
Center and the Henderson Building) were designed and built in conformance with the
Leadership In Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Standards. The City will continue
this practice with future buildings. The Civic Center has been retrofitted with various energy
efficiency measures such as a 75,000 watt photovoltaic solar system, urethane foam
insulated roof system with UV reflective coating, and T-8 fluorescent lighting to name a few.
As the existing HVAC equipment in all our City buildings is being replaced, we will use only
Energy Star-rated 14 SEER and higher equipment.
Item #7: "Practice and promote sustainable building practices using the U.S. Green Building
Council's LEED program or a similar system." Submitted bv Tonv Baqato, Principal
Planner.
Currently, the City has no policies or mandatory requirements for sustainable building
practice using the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED program. However, the City has
begun to practice sustainable building techniques by constructing the first LEED Certified
building in the Coachella Valley. The City is constructing a new community center using
sustainable building practices and will apply for LEED Certification. In addition, City staff
encourages developers to voluntarily use sustainable building practices to achieve LEED
Certification. Although the City has no specific policies or mandatory requirements for
sustainable building practices, we are committed to promoting alternative energy, water
conservation and recycling.
Regarding the use of energy, the City has pledged to reduce its energy demand and use by
30 percent over the next five (5) years. The City has developed a partnership between
Southern California Edison, Southern California Gas Company, and The Energy Coalition.
Palm Desert residents now have more reasons than ever to start conserving energy. Known
as "Set to Save", the partnership offers cash incentives to residents who pursue a wide
variety of conservation measures such as replacing aging air conditioners and pool pumps
with newer, more energy efficient models. The City is also offering free in-home energy
surveys to all Palm Desert residents to identify ways to save energy and money on their utility
bills. The City has also adopted a Local Energy Efficiency Ordinance requiring minimum
energy efficiency standards for all new construction, including remodels, additions,
alterations, condominium conversions, and tentative improvements.
Regarding the use of water, the City has established a Water Efficient Landscaping
Ordinance that includes desert adapted and native trees and shrubs promoting green
sustainable design. The City has a City Arborist and fairly large professional landscape staff
for its size. In addition, the City provides local training and outreach programs for schools,
Home Owner Associations (HOA's), celebrates Arbor Day, and publishes City of Palm Desert
Landscape Maintenance Guidelines to educate the public about proper tree maintenance.
The City has a Landscape Beautification Committee that reviews City projects and
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landscaping in Public Rights-Of-Ways. The City co-sponsors water conservation programs
with the Coachella Water Valley District (CVWD) and works with the local grassroots
organization, The Desert Horticultural Society, on its projects.
Item #8: Increase the average fuel efficiency of municipal fleet vehicles; reduce the number
of vehicles; launch an employee education program including anti-idling messages; convert
diesel vehicles to bio-diesel."
Attached to this report is a memo from Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works,
addressing the Palm Desert fleet and purchasing guidelines.
Item #9: Evaluate opportunities to increase pump efficiency in water and wastewater
systems; recover wastewater treatment methane for energy production."
We are currently in the process of completing this task as part of our Energy Program. Motor
and pump specialists from Southern California Edison are visiting each of the City's 23 golf
courses to do a free evaluation on the existing pumps and indicate where energy savings can
occur. They also identify incentive funding to help offset those energy efficiency improvement
costs. After the golf courses are addressed we will be scheduling with the CVWD to inventory
the 38 active well sites within Palm Desert along with the pumps at the Cook Street plant.
The CVWD Cook Street sewage treatment plant does not use a methane digester to process
the solid waste, referred to as sludge. The sludge is instead compacted and exported from
the Cook Street location to be used as fertilizer. City staff will be working with CVWD staff to
address the feasibility of harvesting methane gas in the future.
Item #10: "Increase recycling rates in City operations and in the community." Submitted bv
Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Proqrams.
Since the approval of A6939 the City has always exceeded the required 50% diversion. The
following are the diversion rates for Palm Desert: In 2005 = 62%; 2004 = 63%; 2003 = 62%;
2002 = 60% and 2001 = 57%, with an average of 61% over the last five reporting years. The
City has also moved forward with the promotion of the Free Commercial Recycling Program.
We have 356 businesses implementing recycling programs and saving $6,000.00 monthly.
The City has also incorporated recycling requirements within most of our City construction
contracts. The City also approved a mandatory automated collection system for all
residences within the City. This system requires all residential customers (except multi-family
housing units) to have a trash and recycling container. This automatically increased
participation by approximately 25%. If the City decides to approve mandatory recycling, all
residences will have the proper setup and businesses will also have the ability and education
necessary to recycle.
Item #11: "Maintain healthy urban forests; promote tree planting to increase shading and to
absorb CO2." Submitted bv Tonv Baqato. Principal Planner.
Since we live in the desert, the term "Urban Forest" doesn't strictly apply. The City's General
Plan makes no clear statement as to the value and purpose of its "Urban Forest". However
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the City does promote tree planting and increased shading through the Parking Lot
Ordinance and Tree Ordinance. To be sustainable, the City allows water-efficient trees and
desert landscaping as long as a project complies with our Water Efficient Ordinance. The
Parking Lot Ordinance requires shade trees to mitigate the negative impact of roads and
parking lot surfaces.
Item #12: Help educate the public, schools, other jurisdictions, professional associations,
business and industry about reducing global warming pollution."
As part of our existing Energy Program we are currently doing this activity in grade schools
as part of The Energy Coalition's `PEAK School Program'. In 2008, we propose to expand our
energy and environmental training to Palm Desert High School with the National Energy
Scholar Program. We have met with Pat Walsh, the Principal of PDHS, and the 40 members
of the PDHS Environmental Club who are excited about this new proposed program.
C.P. Shankar, with American Grid, Inc. has successfully implemented the following Energy
Stewardship Program in the State of Maryland.
National Energy Schola�C9 Program
YOUTH ACTION PROGRAM FOR SCHOOL & COLLEGE STUDENTS
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CA
"U.S. demand for electricity will increase by 19% over the next 10 years, while the
supply will increase by only 6%. This incremental supply will primarily be provided by the
addition of 100+ coal fired power plants at cost of over $100 billion. The project plans
are currently awaiting federal/local approvals." - Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
— 10-year demand forecast (2006).
"U.S. contributes to over 25% of the world wide carbon emissions and ranks number
one in the per capita carbon emissions among the developed nations." - United Nations,
Climate Action Report.
"U.S. energy consumption pattern can be divided as follows - '/� residential use; '/3
industrial use and '/3 transportation. In densely populated metro-areas, residential use
takes a higher share of up to 2/3 of total consumption. " - U.S. Dept. of Energy.
"In major cities across the U.S., 'price-caps' established under the previous Energy Act
are expiring shortly, resulting in higher utility prices - ranging from 20-200% over the
next 5 years." - U.S. Dept. of Energy.
There is an urgent need to educate today's America's youth - the next generation of
energy users, on environmental & energy stewardship. The National Energy ScholarC9
certification program is a comprehensive and systematic course of study on the
principles of energy, its relationship to our environment, principles of personal, family
and community stewardship, and how they can enable responsible energy use and
respect for environment.
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The course will empower students to learn practical and permanent ways to take
ownership and responsibility for their own personal energy use and local environment. It
would enhance a student's personal awareness of responsible energy use, its benefits
to their environment with strong reinforcement of their positive behavior. Upon
successful graduation, the student would become an ambassador for personal energy &
environmental stewardship and help transform their communities one home at a time.
Rising energy costs (for heating, cooling, lighting, and transportation) and rapid global
warming result in an urgent need for American families to seek effective ways to curtail
their energy waste and help protect their environment. Regulators and policy makers at
the national/local levels continue to debate a variety of alternatives including exploration
of new sources of fossil fuels, renewable energy resources and aggressive conservation
efforts using public transportation. These debates may be good for the media, but the
resulting actions may not be fast enough to help our citizens and communities.
Studies indicate that, (a) merely throwing expensive technology at consumers (at
significant direct or indirect costs to the tax payers) does not necessarily result in
desired outcomes when they fail to complement their behavior and lifestyles, (b) to be
effective, successful energy conservation programs require more permanent behavioral
changes through increased levels of awareness and positive reinforcement of good
behavior, and (c) these changes of enhanced personal responsibility and a keen sense
of stewardship at the individual, family and community level, must begin at a very young
age - at the high school and college level - so the next generation of energy users would
learn more responsible ways to use energy and protect their environment.
While fear and guilt are often used as the tools to create change in human behavior, the
results are usually temporary since they create confusion and anxiety among
uninformed citizens. The primary objective of this program is to educate communities on
the practical ways to change every day energy use habits, and their impact on local
environment and climate action; resulting in a more permanent, intelligent and
responsible choices that citizens can make for themselves. Increasing awareness and
encouraging energy stewardship at the personal, family & community levels is the
quickest, most economical, and the cleanest way to bring about this change. Each of us
needs to do our share to make this objective successful.
Staff will return to the Council in early 2008 to review the specifics of the above program for
possible financial support from the City of Palm Desert to implement this program.
Submitted by: Approval:
r�
�,� � �
Patnck Conlon Carlos Orteg
Director of Office of Energy Management City Manager
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 13, 2007
XII. RESOLUTIONS
C. RESOLUTION NO. 07-78 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, PLEDGING TO ENACT
POLICIES AND PROGRAMS TO REDUCE HARMFUL GLOBAL
EMISSIONS.
,;ITY COUNCIL TZUIv:
APPROV£D � DENYED
RECBIVED OTHER /�t,�d ,
��S �lo U7-78 �_
MEETING DATE /a-- �3-a� _
AYES: �r i �__
NOES: _ _._ �__._.__._.
ABSENT: F�r7er�ii ---.--- -,
ABSTATN: __.
VERIFIED BY: � /":Y) / __
Original on File wi City Cler.k' s OfficF
RESOLUTION NO. 07-78
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, PLEDGING TO ENACT POLICIES AND
PROGRAMS TO REDUCE HARMFUL GLOBAL EMISSIONS
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, by the City Council of Palm Desert,
California, as follows:
The City of Palm Desert pledges to enact policies and programs to meet or beat
the target of reducing harmful global emission levels to seven (7) percent below
1990 levels by 2012, including efforts to: reduce the United States' dependence
on fossil fuels and accelerate the development of clean, economical energy
resources and fuel -efficient technologies such as conservation, methane recover
for energy generation, waste to energy, wind and solar energy, fuel cells, efficient
motor vehicles, and bio fuels.
1. Inventory harmful global emissions in City operations in the community,
set reduction targets and create an action plan;
2. Adopt and enforce land -use policies that reduce sprawl, preserve open
space, and create compact, walkable urban communities;
3. Promote transportation options such as bicycle trails, commute trip
reduction programs, incentives for car pooling, and public transit;
4. Increase the use of clean, alternative energy by, for example, investing in
"green tags", advocating for the development of renewable energy
resources, recovering landfill methane for energy production, and
supporting the use of waste to energy technology;
5. Make energy efficiency a priority through building code improvements,
retrofitting city facilities with energy efficient lighting and urging employees
to conserve energy and save money;
6. Purchase only Energy Star equipment and appliances for City use;
7. Practice and promote sustainable building practices using the U.S. Green
Building Council's LEED program or a similar system;
RESOLUTION NO. 07-78
8. Increase the average fuel efficiency of municipal fleet vehicles, reduce the
number of vehicles, launch an employee education program including anti -
idling messages, and convert diesel vehicles to bio-diesel;
9. Evaluate opportunities to increase pump efficiency in water and
wastewater systems and recover wastewater treatment methane for
energy production;
10. Increase recycling rates in City operations and in the community;
11. Maintain healthy urban forests; and promote tree planting to increase
shading and absorption of CO2; and
12. Help educate the public, schools, other jurisdictions, professional
associations, business and industry about reducing global warming
pollution.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of
Palm Desert, California, on this 13th day of December, 2007 by the following
vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
JEAN M. BENSON, MAYOR
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
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� � � � • � A Fact Sheet of the Union of Concerned Scientists
Capping Global Warming Emissions • P�otect entities that have reduced their
Scientists overwhelmingly agree that in order to emissions through actions prior to this
prevent the most devastating consequences of regulatory mandate
globa] warming, such as a 90% loss of California's • Allow for coordination with other states
Sierra snowpack, global warming emissions and countries to reduce emissions
worldwide must be significantly reduced. Many
scientists agree that reductions must be on the Economic Benefits of Implementing a
oraer of go%by m�a-cenc�ry. Global Warming Emissions Cap
Two recently released, sepazate and independent
In response to this waming from the scientific economic analyses show that significantly reducing
community,the state of California has shown California's global warming emissions is expected
national and international leadership in committing to create jobs and wealth in Califomia.�
to reduce its global warming emissions to 2000
levels by 2010(1 1%below business as usual),to The State's top energy modelers found that 83,000
1990 levels by 2020(25%below business as jobs and$4 billion in income could be generated in
usual),and 80°lc below 19901evels by 2050. California by meeting the state's goals by 2020.
Existing policies, such as California's landmark Leading economists from UC found that eight
global warming emissions standard for vehicles policies can take the state over half way to meeting
and renewable energy and efficiency requirements the 2020 reductions. These policies,such as
will move the state half-way toward meeting the cleaner standards for vehicles and capturing
2020 target. Additional policies are essential to get methane from landfills,can increase the Gross
us the rest of the way there. State Product by approximately $60 billion, and
create over 20,000 new jobs.
AB 32—Global Warming Solutions
Act of 2006 California Leadership
AB 32 codifies the state's goal by requiring that Calitornia is the world's l2`�largest source of
the state's global warming emissions be reduced to carbon dioxide, the chief heat-trapping gas that
1990 levels by 2020. This reduction will be causes global warming. The state has a
accomplished through an enforceable statewide cap responsibility to reduce its share of emissions, and
on global warming emissions that will be phased in by doing so can lead the United States—and the
starting in 2012. In order to effectively implement World—in developing the innovative policies and
�he cap, AB 32 directs 1he California Air Resources technologies needed to avoid the most dangerous
Board(CARB) to develop appropriate regulations consequences of global warming.
and establish a mandatory reporting system to track
and monitor global warming emissions levels.
AB 32 sponsors: Environmental Defense,
Additionally, AB 32 requires that CARB use the Natural Resources Defense Council
following principles to implement the cap:
• Distribute benefits and costs equitably
• Ensure that there are no direct, ttldl[eC[,oi � Hanemann,Michael and A.Farrell,"Managing Greenhouse
cumulative increases in air pollution in Gas Emissions in California,"January 2006.
local eommunities (http•//calclimate.berkelev.edu/mana�ng GHG, in CA.html)
and Chaptcr 8."Economic Assessment,"Climatc Action T'eam
Repon.Mazch 2006
(http://www.climatechange.ca.gov/cli matc_action_team/report
s/index.html)
�,,� UnionofConarnedsciencises Union of Concerned Scientists • ww•w.ucsusa.org/clean_california
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Assembly Bill No.32
CHAPTER 488
An act to add Division 25.5 (commencing with Section 38500) to the
Health and Safery Code,relating to air pollution.
[Approved by Govemor September 27,2006.Filed with
Secretary of State September 27,2006.]
L�GISLA'1'IVE COUNSEL'S DIGE51'
AB 32, Nunez. Air pollution: greenhouse gases: California Global
Warming Solutions Act of 2006.
Under existing law, the State Air Resources Board (state board), the
State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission
(Energy Commission),and the California Climate Action Registry all have
responsibilities with respect to the control of emissions of greenhousc
gases, as defincd, and the Secretary for Environmental Protection is
required to coordinate emission reductions of greenhouse gases and
climate change activity in state government.
This bill would requirc the state board to adopt regulations to require the
reporting and verification of statewide greenhouse gas emissions and to
monitor and enforce compliance with this program, as specified. The bill
would require the state board to adopt a statewide greenhouse gas
emissions limit equivalent to the statewide greenhouse gas emissions
levels in 1990 to be achieved by 2020,as specified.Thc bill would require
the state board to adopt rules and regulations in an open public process to
achieve the maximum technologically feasible and cost-effective
greenhouse gas emission reductions,as specified.The bill would authorize
the state board to adopt market-based compliancc mechanisms,as defined,
meeting specified requirements. The bill would require the state board to
monitor compliance with and enforcc any rule,regulation,order,emission
limitation, emissions reduction measure, or market-based compliance
mechanism adopted by the state board,pursuant to specified provisions of
existing law. The bill would authorize the state board to adopt a schedule
of fees to be paid by regulated sources of greenhouse gas emissions, as
specified.
Because the bill would require the state board to establish emissions
limits and other requirements, the violation of which would be a crime,
this bill would create a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local
agencies and school districts for ccrtain costs mandatcd by the state.
Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that no reimbursement is rcquired by this act for
a specified reason.
A9
Ch.488 —2—
The peoplc�of the State of Calijornia do enact a.r fo/lows:
SECTION 1. Division 25.5(commencing with Scction 38500)is addcd
to thc Hcalth and Safery Codc,to read:
DIVISION 25.5. CALIFORNIA GLOBAL WARMING SOLUTIONS
ACT OF 2006
PART 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
CHAPTER 1. TITLE OF I�IVISION
38500. This division shall be known, and may be citcd, as the
California Global Wanning Solutions Act of 2006.
CHAPTER 2. FINDINGS A\D DECLARATIONS
38501. The Legislature finds and declares all of thc foUowing:
(a) Global warming poses a serious threat to the economic wcll-being,
public health, natural resources, and the environment of California. The
potential adverse impacts of global warming include the exacerbation of
air quality problems, a reduction in the quality and supply of water to the
state from the Sierra snowpack, a rise in sea levels resulting in the
displacement of thousands of coastal businesses and residences,damage to
marine ecosystems and the natural environment, and an increase in the
incidences of infectious diseases, asthma, and other human health-related
problems.
(b) Global warming will have detrimental cffects on some of
California's largest industries, including agriculture,wine,tourism,skiing,
recreational and commercial fishing, and forestry. It will also increase the
strain on elcctriciry supplies necessary to meet the demand for summcr
air-conditioning in the hottest parts of the state.
(c) California has long been a national and international Icader on
energy conservation and environmental stewardship efforts, including the
areas of air quality protections,energy efficiency requirements,renewable
energy standards, natural resource conservation, and greenhouse gas
emission standards for passenger vchicles.The program established by this
division will continue this tradition of environmental leadership by placing
California at the forefront of national and international efforts to reduce
emissions of grcenhouse gases.
(d) National and intcrnational actions are neccssary to fully address the
i�suc of global warming. However, action taken by Califomia to reduce
emissions of grcenhouse gases will have far-reaching effects by
cncouraging other states, thc fcdcral government, and other countries to
act.
89
—3— C h.488
(e) By exercising a global leadership role, California will also position
its cconomy, technology centers, financial institutions, and businesses to
benefit from national and international efforts to reduce emissions of
greenhouse gases. More importantly, investing in the development of
innovative and pioneering technologies will assist California in achieving
the 2020 statewide limit on cmissions of greenhouse gases established by
this division and will providc an opportunity for the state to takc a global
economic and technological lcadcrship role in reducing emissions of
greenhouse gases.
(� It is the intent of the Legislature that the State Air Resources Board
coordinate with state agencies, as well as consult with the environmental
justice community, industry sectors, business groups, academic
institutions, environmental organizations, and other stakeholdcrs in
implementing this division.
(g) It is the intent of thc Lcgislature that the State Air Resources Board
consult with the Public Utilities Commission in the development of
emissions reduction measures,including limits on emissions of greenhouse
gases applied to electricity and natural gas providers regulated by the
Public Utilities Commission in order to ensurc that electricity and natural
gas providers are not required to meet duplicative or inconsistent
regulatory requirements.
(h) It is the intent of the Legislature that the State Air Resourccs Board
design emissions reduction measures to meet the statewide emissions
limits for greenhouse gases established pursuant to this division in a
manncr that minimizes costs and maximizes benefits for California's
economy, improves and modernizes California's energy infrastructure and
maintains electric system reliability, maximizes additional environmental
and economic co-benefits for California, and complements the state's
efforts to improvc air quality.
(i) It is the intent of the Legislature that thc Climate Action Team
cstablished by the Governor to coordinate the efforts set forth under
Executive Order S-3-OS continuc its role in coordinating overall climatc
policy.
CHAPTER 3. DtFINITtONS
38505. For thc purposes of this division, the following tcrms have the
following mcanings:
(a) "Allowance" means an authorization to emit, during a specificd
ycar,up to one ton of carbon dioxide equivalent.
(b) `Alternative compliance mechanism" means an action undertaken
by a greenhouse gas emission sourcc that achieves the equivalent
rcduction of greenhouse gas emissions over the same time period as a
direct emission reduction, and that is approved by thc state board.
"Alternative compliance mechanism" includes, but is not limited to, a
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Ch.488 —4—
flcxiblc compliance schedule, alternative control technology, a process
changc,or a product substitution.
(c) "Carbon dioxidc cquivalcnt" mcans the amount of carbon dioxide
by weight that would produce the same globa] warming impact as a given
weight of another greenhouse gas, based on the best available sciencc,
including from the Intergovcrnmental Pancl on Climatc Change.
(d) "Cost-effective" or"cost-effectiveness" means the cost per unit of
reduced emissions of greenhouse gases adjusted for its global warming
potential.
(e) "Direct emission reduction" means a greenhouse gas emission
reduction action made by a greenhousc gas emission source at that source.
(� '`Emissions reduction measure" means programs, mcasures,
standards, and alternative compliance mechanisms authorized pursuant to
this division, applicable to sources or categories of sources, that are
designed to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.
(g) "Greenhouse gas" or "greenhouse gases" includes all of thc
following gases: carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide,
hydrofluorocarbons,perftuorocarbons,and sulfur hexaflouride.
(h) "Greenhouse gas emissions limit"means an authorization,during a
specified ycar, to emit up to a levcl of grccnhousc gascs specified by the
state board,expressed in tons of carbon dioxide equivalents.
(i) "Greenhouse gas emission sourcc"or"source"means any source,or
category of sources,of greenhouse gas emissions whose emissions are at a
level of significance,as determined by the state board,that its participation
in the program established under this division will enable the state board to
cffectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and monitor compliance with
the statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit.
(j) "Leakage" means a reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases
within the state that is offset by an increase in emissions of greenhousc
gases outside the statc.
(k) "Market-based compliance mechanism" means either of thc
following:
(1) A system of market-based declining annual aggregate emissions
limitations for sources or categories of sources that emit greenhouse gases.
(2) Greenhouse gas emissions exchanges, banking, credits, and other
transactions, governed by rules and protocols cstablished by the state
board,that result in the same greenhouse gas emission reduction, over thc
same time period, as direct compliance with a greenhouse gas emission
limit or emission reduction measure adopted by the state board pursuant to
this division.
(n "State board"means the State Air Resources Board.
(m) "Statewide greenhouse gas emissions" means the total annual
emissions of greenhouse gases in the state, including all emissions of
greenhouse gases from the generation of electricity delivered to and
consumed in California, accounting for transmission and distribution line
losses, whethcr thc clectricity is gcnerated in state or imported. Statewide
emissions shall be expressed in tons of carbon dioxide equivalents.
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(n) "Statewidc greenhousc gas emissions limit"or"statcwide emissions
limit" means the maximum allowable level of statewide grecnhouse gas
emissions in 2020, as determincd by the statc board pursuant to Part 3
(commencing with Section 38850).
CHAPTER 4. ROLE OF STATE BOARD
38510. Thc State Air Resources Board is the state agency charged with
monitoring and regulating sources of emissions of grecnhouse gascs that
cause global warming in order to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.
PART 2. MANDATORY GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
REPORTING
38530. (a) On or bcfore January 1, 2008, the state board shall adopt
regulations to require the reporting and verification of statewide
greenhouse gas emissions and to monitor and enforce compliance with this
program.
(b) The regulations shall do all of the following:
(1) Require the monitoring and annual reporting of grccnhouse gas
emissions from greenhouse gas emission sources beginning with the
sources or categories of sources that contribute the most to statewide
emissions.
(2) Account for greenhouse gas emissions from all electricity consumed
in the state, including transmission and distribution line losses from
clectriciry generated within the state or imported from outside the state.
This requirement applies to all retail sellers of electriciry, including
load-serving entities as defined in subdivision (j) of Section 380 of the
Public Utilities Code and local publicly owned electric utilities as defined
in Scction 9604 of thc Public Utilitics Code.
(3) Where appropriate and to thc maximum extent feasible, incorporate
the standards and protocols developcd by the California Climate Action
Registry, established pursuant to Chapter 6 (commcncing with Section
42800)of Part 4 of Division 26. Entitics that voluntarily participatcd in the
California Climate Action Registry prior to December 31, 2006, and have
developed a greenhouse gas emission reporting program, shall not be
required to significantly alter their reporting or verification program except
as necessary to ensure that reporting is complete and verifiable for the
purposes of compliance with this division as determined by the state
board.
(4) Ensure rigorous and consistent accounting of emissions, and
provide reporting tools and formats to ensure collection of necessary data.
(5) Ensure that greenhouse gas emission sources maintain
comprehensive records of all reported greenhouse gas emissions.
(c) The state board shall do both of the following:
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Ch.488 —6—
(1) Periodically rcview and updatc its emission reporting requirements,
as necessary.
(2) Revicw existing and proposed international, federal, and state
grecnhouse gas emission rcporting programs and make reasonablc ef�orts
to promote consistency among the programs established pursuant to this
part and other programs, and to streamline reporting requirements on
greenhouse gas emission sources.
PART 3. STATEWIDE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS LIMIT
38550. By January 1, 2008, the state board shall, after one or more
public workshops,with public notice,and an opportuniry for all interested
parties to comment, determine what thc statewide greenhouse gas
emissions level was in 1990, and approve in a public hearing, a statewide
greenhouse gas emissions limit that is equivalent to that level, to be
achieved by 2020. In order to ensure che most accurate determination
feasible, the state board shall evaluate the best available scientific,
technological, and economic information on greenhouse gas emissions to
determine the 1990 level of greenhouse gas emissions.
38551. (a) The statcwide greenhouse gas emissions limit shall remain
in effect unless otherwise amended or repealed.
(b) It is the intent of thc Legislature that the statewide greenhouse gas
emissions limit continue in existence and be used to maintain and continue
reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases beyond 2020.
(c) The state board shall make recommendations to the Govcrnor and
the Legislature on how to continue reductions of greenhouse gas emissions
beyond 2020.
PART 4. GREENHOUSE GAS EMiSSIONS REDUCTiONS
38560. The state board shall adopt rules and regulations in an open
public process to achieve the maximum technologically feasible and
cost-effective greenhouse gas emission reductions from sources or
categories of sources, subject to the criteria and schedules set forth in this
part.
38560.5. (a) On or before June 30, 2007, the state board shall publish
and make available to the public a list of discrete early action greenhouse
gas emission reduction measures that can be implemented prior to the
measures and limits adopted pursuant to Section 38562.
(b) On or before January 1,2010,the state board shall adopt regulations
to implement the measures identified on the list published pursuant to
subdivision(a).
(c) The regulations adoptcd by the state board pursuant to this section
shall achieve thc maximum technologically feasible and cost-effcctive
reductions in greenhousc gas cmissions from those sourccs or categories of
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—7— C h.488
sources, in furtherance of achieving ihe statewide greenhouse gas
emissions limit.
(d) The regulations adopted pursuant to this section shall be enforceable
no later than January 1,2010.
38561. (a) On or before January 1, 2009, the state board shall prepare
and approve a scoping plan,as that term is understood by the state board,
for achieving the maximum technologically feasible and cost-effective
reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from sources or categories of
sources of greenhousc gases by 2020 undcr this division. The state board
shall consult with all state agencies with jurisdiction over sources of
greenhouse gases, including the Public Utilities Commission and the State
Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission, on all
elements of its plan that pertain to energy related mattcrs including,but not
limited to,electrical generation, load based-standards or requirements,the
provision of reliable and affordable electrical service, petroleum refining,
and statewide fuel supplies to ensure thc greenhousc gas emissions
reduction activities to be adopted and implementcd by the statc board are
complementary, nonduplicative, and can be implemented in an efficient
and cost-eff'ective manner.
(b) The plan shall identify and make recommendations on direct
emission reduction measures, alternative compliance mechanisms,
market-based compliance mechanisms, and potential monetary and
nonmonetary incentives for sources and categories of sources that the state
board finds are necessary or desirable to facilitate the achievement of the
maximum feasible and co�t-efTective reductions of greenhouse gas
emissions by 2020.
(c} In making the determinations required by subdivision (b), the state
board shall considcr all relevant information pertaining to greenhouse gas
emissions reduction programs in other states, localities, and nations,
including the northeastern states of the United States, Canada, and the
European Union.
(d) The state board shall evaluate the total potential costs and total
potential cconomic and noneconomic benefits of the plan for reducing
greenhouse gases to California's economy, environment, and public
health, using the best available economic models, emission estimation
techniques,and other scientific methods.
(e) In developing its plan, the state board shall take into account the
relative contribution of each source or source category to statewide
greenhouse gas emissions, and the potential for adverse effects on small
businesses, and shall recommend a de minimis threshold of greenhouse
gas emissions below which emission reduction requirements will not
apply.
(� In developing its plan,the state board shall identify opportunities for
emission reductions measures from all verifiable and enforceablc
voluntary actions, including, but not limited to, carbon sequestration
projccts and best management practiccs.
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Ch.488 —8—
(g) The state board shall conduct a series of public workshops to givc
interested partics an opportuniry to comment on the plan. The statc board
shall conduct a portion of these workshops in regions of the state that havc
the most significant exposure to air pollutants, including, but not limited
to,communitics with minoriry populations,communities with low-income
populations,or both.
(h) The state board shall update its plan for achieving the maximum
technologically feasible and cost-effective rcductions of greenhousc gas
emissions at Icast once every five years.
38562. (a) On or beforc January 1, 201 l, the statc board shall adopt
greenhouse gas emission limits and cmission reduction mcasures by
regulation to achicvc the maximum technologically feasible and
cost-effective reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in furtherance of
achieving the statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit, to become
operative beginning on January 1, 2012.
(b) In adopting regulations pursuant to this section and Part 5
(commencing with Section 38570), to the extent feasiblc and in
furtherance of achieving the statewidc grccnhouse gas emissions limit,the
state board shall do all of the following:
(1) Design thc regulations, including distribution of emissions
allowances where appropriate, in a manner that is equitablc, seeks to
minimize costs and maximize the total benefits to California, and
encourages early action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
(2) Ensure that activities undertaken to comply with the regulations do
not disproportionately impact low-income communities.
(3) Ensurc that cntities that have voluntarily reduccd their greenhousc
gas emissions prior to the implementation of this scction receive
appropriatc credit for early voluntary reductions.
(4) Ensure that activities undertaken pursuant to the regulations
complement, and do not interfere with, efforts to achieve and maintain
fcderal and state ambient air quality standards and to reduce toxic air
contaminant emissions.
(5) Consider cost-effectiveness of these regulations.
(6) Consider overall societal benefits, including reductions in other air
pollutants, diversification of energy sources, and other benefits to the
economy,environment,and public health.
(7) Minimize the administrative burden of implementing and
complying with these regulations.
(8) Minimize leakage.
(9) Consider the significance of the contribution of each source or
category of sources to statewide emissions of greenhouse gases.
(c) In furtherancc of achieving the statewide grecnhouse gas emissions
limit, by January 1, 2011, the state board may adopt a regulation that
establishes a system of market-based declining annual abbregate emission
limits for sources or catcgories of sources that cmit greenhouse gas
emissions, applicable from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2020,
inclusive, that the state board dctcrmines will achieve thc maximum
89
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technologically feasible and cost-effcctive reductions in grcenhouse gas
emissions, in the aggregate, from those sources or categories of sources.
(d) Any regulation adopted by thc statc board pursuant to this part or
Part 5 (commencing with Scction 38570)shall ensurc all of the following:
(1) The greenhouse gas emission reductions achieved are real,
permanent,quantifiable,verifiablc,and enforceable by the statc board.
(2) For regulations pursuant to Part 5 (commencing with Section
38570), the reduction is in addition to any greenhouse gas emission
reduction otherwise required by law or regulation, and any othcr
greenhouse gas emission reduction that otherwise would occur.
(3) If applicable,the greenhouse gas emission reduction occurs over thc
same time period and is equivalent in amount to any direct emission
reduction required pursuant to this division.
(e) The state board shall rely upon the best available economic and
scientific information and its assessment of existing and projected
technological capabilities when adopting the regulations required by this
section.
(� The state board shall consult with the Public Utilities Commission in
the development of the regulations as they affect electricity and natural gas
providers in order to minimize duplicative or inconsistent regulatory
requirements.
(g) After January 1, 2011, the state board may revise regulations
adopted pursuant to this section and adopt additional regulations to further
thc provisions of this division.
38563. Nothing in this division restricts the statc board from adopting
greenhouse gas emission limits or cmission reduction measures prior to
January 1, 2011, imposing those limits or measures prior to January 1,
2012,or providing early reduction credit where appropriate.
38564. The state board shall consult with other states, and the fedcral
government, and other nations to identify the most effcctive strategies and
methods to reduce greenhouse gases, manage greenhouse gas control
programs, and to facilitate the development of integrated and
cost-effective regional, national, and international greenhouse gas
reduction programs.
38565. The state board shall ensure that the greenhousc gas emission
reduction rules, regulations, programs, mechanisms, and incentives undcr
its jurisdiction, where applicable and to the extent feasible, direct public
and private investment toward the most disadvantaged communities in
California and provide an opportunity for small businesscs, schools,
affordable housing associations, and other community institutions to
participate in and benefit from statewide efforts to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.
2f 9
Ch.488 —10—
PART 5. MARKET-BASED COMPLIANCE MECHANISMS
38570. (a) Thc state board may includc in the regulations adopted
pursuant to Section 38562 the use of market-based compliance
mechanisms to comply with the regulations.
(b) Prior to the inclusion of any market-based compliance mechanism
in the regulations,to the extent feasible and in furtherance of achieving the
statewide greenhouse gas emissions limit,thc state board shall do all of the
following:
(1) Consider the potential for dircct, indirect, and cumulative emission
impacts from these mechanisms, including localized impact� in
communities that are already adversely impacted by air pollution.
(2) Design any market-based compliance mechanism to prevent any
increase in the emissions of toxic air contaminants or criteria air
pollutants.
(3) Maximize additional environmental and economic benefits for
California,as appropriate.
(c) The state board shall adopt regulations governing how market-based
compliance mechanisms may be used by regulated entities subject to
greenhousc gas emission limits and mandatory emission reporting
requirements to achieve compliance with their greenhouse gas emissions
limits.
38571. Thc state board shall adopt methodologies for the quantification
of voluntary greenhouse gas emission rcductions. The state board shall
adopt regulations to verify and enforce any voluntary greenhouse gas
emission reductions that arc authorized by the state board for use to
comply with greenhousc gas emission limits established by the state board.
The adoption of inethodologies is exempt from the rulemaking provisions
of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with
Section I I340)of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code).
38574. Nothing in this part or Part 4(commencing with Section 38560)
confers any authority on the state board to alter any programs administered
by other state agencies for thc rcduction of greenhouse gas cmissions.
PART 6. ENFORCEMENT
38580. (a) The state board shall monitor compliance with and enforce
any rule, rcgulation, order, emission limitation, emissions rcduction
measure, or market-based compliance mechanism adopted by the state
board pursuant to this division.
(b) (1) Any violation of any rule,regulation,order,emission limitation,
emissions reduction mcasure,or other measurc adopted by the state board
pursuant to this division may be enjoined pursuant to Section 41513, and
the violation is subjcct to those penalties set forth in Article 3
(commencing with Section 42400) of Chaptcr 4 of Part 4 of, and Chapter
1.5 (commencing with Scction 43025)of Pact 5 of,Division 26.
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—11 — Ch.488
(2) Any violation of any rulc, regulation, ordcr, emission limitation,
emissions reduction measurc, or other measurc adopted by the state board
pursuant to this division shall be deemed to result in an emission of an air
contaminant for the purposes of the penalty provisions of Article 3
(commencing with Section 42400) of Chapter 4 of Part 4 of, and Chapter
1.5 (commencing with Section 43025)of Part 5 of, Division 26.
(3) The state board may develop a method to convert a violation of any
rule, regulation, order, emission limitation, or other emissions reduction
measure adopted by the state board pursuant to this division into the
number of days in violation, where appropriate, for thc purposes of the
penalty provisions of Article 3 (commencing with Section 42400) of
Chapter 4 of Part 4 of,and Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 43025)
of Part 5 of, Division 26.
(c) Section 42407 and subdivision (i) of Section 42410 shall not apply
to this part.
PART 7. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
38590. If the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 43018.5 do not
remain in effect, the state board shall implement alternative regulations to
control mobile sources of greenhouse gas emissions to achieve equivalent
or greater reductions.
38591. (a) The state board, by July 1, 2007, shall convene an
environmental justice advisory committee, of at least three members, to
advise it in dcveloping the scoping plan pursuant to Section 38561 and any
other pertinent matter in implementing this division. The advisory
committee shall be comprised of representatives from communities in the
statc with the most significant exposure to air poilution, including, but not
limited to, communities with minoriry populations or low-income
populations,or both.
(b) The state board shall appoint the advisory committec members from
nominations received from environmental justice organizations and
community groups.
(c) The state board shall provide reasonable per dicm for attendance at
advisory committee meetings by advisory committee members from
nonprofit organizations.
(d) The state board shall appoint an Economic and Technology
Advancement Advisory Committee to advise the state board on activities
that will facilitate investment in and implemcntation of technological
research and development opportunities, including, but not limited to,
identifying new technologies, research, demonstration projects, funding
opportunities, developing state, national, and intemational partncrships
and tcchnology transfer opportunities, and identifying and assessing
research and advanced technology investment and incentive opportunities
that will assist in the reduction of grecnhouse gas emissions. The
committee may also advise the state board on state,regional,national,and
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Ch.488 —12—
international economic and technological developments related to
grcenhouse gas emission reductions.
38592. (a) All state agencics shall considcr and implement strategies
to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
(b) Nothing in this division shall relicve any person, entity, or public
agency of compliance with other applicable federal, state,or local laws or
regulations, including state air and water quality requiremcnts, and other
requirements for protecting public hcalth or the cnvironment.
38593. (a) Nothing in this division affects the authoriry of the Public
Utilities Commission.
(b) Nothing in this division affects the obligation of an electrical
corporation to provide customers with safe and reliable electric scrvice.
38594. Nothing in this division shall limit or expand thc cxisting
authority of any district,as defined in Scction 39025.
38595. Nothing in this division shall preclude, prohibit, or restrict the
construction of any new faciliry or the expansion of an existing facility
subject to regulation under this division, if all applicable reGuirements are
met and the faciliry is in compliance with regulations adopted pursuant to
this division.
38596. The provisions of this division are severable. If any provision
of this division or its application is held invalid, that invalidity shall not
affect other provisions or applications that can be given effect without the
invalid provision or application.
38597. The state board may adopt by regulation, aftcr a public
workshop, a schedule of fees to be paid by the sources of greenhouse gas
emissions regulated pursuant to this division, consistent with Section
57001, The revenues collected pursuant to this section, shall be deposited
into the Air Pollution Control Fund and are available upon appropriation,
by the Legislature, for purposes of carrying out this division.
38598. (a) Nothing in this division shall limit the existing authority of
a state entity to adopt and implement greenhouse gas emissions reduction
measures.
(b) Nothing in this division shall relieve any state entity of its lcgal
obligations to comply with existing law or regulation.
38599. (a) In the event of extraordinary circumstances, catastrophic
events, or threat of significant economic hann, the Governor may adjust
the applicable deadlines for individual regulations, or for the statc in the
aggregatc,to the earliest feasible date after that deadline.
(b) The adjustmcnt period may not exceed one year unlcss the
Govcrnor makes an additional adjustment pursuant to subdivision(a).
(c) Nothing in this section affects the powers and duties established in
the California Emergency Services Act (Chapter 7 (commencing with
Section 8550)of Division 1 of Title 2 of the Government Code).
(d) The Govcrnor shall, within ]0 days of invoking subdivision (a),
provide written notification to the Legislature of the action undertaken.
SEC. 2 No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Scction 6
of Article XIII B of the California Constitution because the only costs that
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may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurrcd
because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or
infraction, or changcs the penalry for a crime or infraction, within the
meaning of Section 17556 of thc Government Code, or changes the
definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIII B of
the California Constitution.
O
89
CITY OF PALM DESERT
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: Adopt Fleet Purchasing Guidelines
SUBMITTED BY: Mark Greenwood, P.E.
Director of Public Works
DATE: December 13, 2007
CONTENTS: Chart of Current Fleet Vehicles by Fuel Type
Fleet Purchasing Guidelines
Recommendation:
By Minute Motion, adopt fleet purchasing guidelines to maximize the use of
alternative-fuel vehicles.
Background:
In an effort to reduce reliance on imported oil, to reduce vehicle emissions, and to
comply with recent mandates regarding government fleets, the City desires to
incorporate as many alternative-fuel vehicles (AFVs) into its fleet as possible.
Prior to compiling a comprehensive report and proposing the attached fleet
purchasing guidelines, Public Works Department staff conducted exhaustive
research into the alternative-fuel vehicles available on the market today, which
include CNG, propane, E85 (ethanol) and biodiesel. In addition, staff has gained
considerable first-hand knowledge of the performance and maintenance
requirements of different fuel types from our current fleet which consists of
alternative fuels (60%), gasoline (35%) and diesel (5%). Finally, we toured and
obtained data from the City of Santa Monica's fleet maintenance facility, which
services vehicles powered by CNG, hydrogen, and biodiesel.
Discussion:
All-electric Several years ago, the City participated in a demonstration
program using all-electric pickup trucks, with poor results. The vehicles were
returned to the manufacturer prior to the planned end of the demonstration because
of the many mechanical inefficiencies related to battery failure during the hot
summer months.
Staff Report
Page 2 of 4
December 13, 2007
Plug-in hybrid Plug-in hybrids are an emerging technology which shows
promise for fleet operations in urban areas. A Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
(PHE� is essentially an electric vehicle with a gasoline engine backup. In addition
to CNG, hydrogen, and biodiesel, the City of Santa Monica operates a small number
of PHEVs for demonstration purposes. Given the poor performance of the all-
electric trucks in our demonstration, it is unclear how well this type of vehicle would
perform in the desert environment. Staff suggests that a PHEV would be a good
candidate as a demonstration vehicle for use on a trial basis by the Office of Energy
Management to assess its effectiveness and determine the best use for PHEVs in
our fleet.
Propane At least one vehicle manufacturer advertises the availability of
propane-fueled pickup trucks. However, these vehicles have not been certified for
use in California. Staff will continue to monitor the availability of this type of vehicle.
E85 �Ethanol) E85 fuel is 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. Several vehicle
manufacturers, including Ford and General Motors, sell a wide range of E85
vehicles. However, the E85 fuel has very limited availability in California at this time,
with only four fueling stations. Due to the wide availability of vehicles, availability of
this fuel is likely to expand in the future. Staff does not recommend E85 vehicles at
this time; however, we will continue to monitor the situation.
CNG Compressed natural gas is an efficient and clean fuel; the
American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy ranked the Honda Civic GX as the
"greenesY' 2007 production vehicle. Another benefit of CNG is that it is produced in
North America (the United States produces 85% and the remaining 15% is imported
from Canada). We currently have three dedicated CNG Honda Civic GX vehicles in
our fleet. These vehicles are equipped from the factory with dedicated CNG
systems, and maintenance is available at the local Honda dealership by Honda-
trained technicians. These original equipment manufacturer (OEM) CNG vehicles
have performed well in our fleet.
However, there are no OEM CNG pickup trucks on the market. Our fleet currently
has 22 pickup trucks that were retrofitted with dedicated CNG systems. These
vehicles have required more frequent maintenance than the typical gasoline-
powered vehicles. The relative complexity and uncommon nature of CNG vehicles
require more highly trained service technicians. The nearest maintenance facility
where technicians are trained in this CNG system is located in Riverside.
Transporting vehicles to and from Riverside is ine�cient and expensive, and
vehicles serviced at the facility are often returned to us with repairs performed in a
way that does not meet our expectations.
It is anticipated that technicians holding ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
certification possess the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain a diverse fleet.
Yet, without an ASE Certified Senior Mechanic on staff we must continue to have
these trucks serviced by a third party. Therefore, staff would not recommend the
Staff Report
Page 3 of 4
December 13, 2007
purchase of CNG retrofit trucks unless a position for an ASE Certified Senior
Mechanic is approved.
A "slow-fill" CNG fueling station has been installed at the Corporation Yard so that
our dedicated CNG vehicles may be fueled overnight. The cost for this installation
was less than $10,000. The City has an account with Burrtec Waste Industries to
provide CNG fuel for the price of $1.29 per gallon, as well as a back-up account with
SunLine Transit for $2.40 per gallon. Both the Burrtec and the SunLine Transit
facilities provide fast-fill service, allowing vehicles to be fueled within minutes.
As the City's use of CNG vehicles expands, it may be beneficial to build a CNG fast-
fill station of our own. The estimate to install a "fast-fill" station, either at the
Corporation Yard or here at the Civic Center (possibly located within the "charging
station" at the San Pablo entrance to City Hall), is between $150,000 and $200,000.
Our experience with CNG vehicles has shown a travel distance of approximately 150
miles before requiring refueling. CNG fueling stations are located sporadically
throughout southern California; therefore, these vehicles are primarily used for local
(valley) transportation only.
Hybrid Hybrid vehicles that use both battery and gasoline are probably
the most widely available AFVs on the market, with many manufacturers and many
models to choose from. We have four Honda Civic hybrids that have performed well
with normal maintenance. The drawback to the hybrid is that they do use gasoline;
therefore, they are not as green as other AFVs; however, they can travel a further
distance without concern for fuel availability. ChevroleUGMC manufactures a hybrid
Silverado truck that could be a replacement option for the dedicated gasoline trucks
in our fleet. A small hybrid SUV, such as the Saturn Outlook Green Line or the Ford
Escape may be a reasonable alternative to the all-gasoline minivans in our current
fleet.
Biodiesel Another viable alternative to gasoline is biodiesel. Biodiesel is a
fuel produced from organic feed sources such as corn and vegetable oil. In its pure
form (B100) it is non-toxic and biodegradable. This fuel is one of the safest fuels to
use, store and handle because it does not produce combustible vapors. Biodiesel
offers greatly reduced emissions over diesel and gasoline. Biodiesel vehicles have
been successfully integrated into the City of Santa Monica's alternative-fuel vehicle
fleet. It has been reported that all diesel trucks manufactured after 1997 are capable
of running on biodiesel without the requirement of system modifications. However, it
has also been reported that vehicle manufacturers will not honor warrantees on
vehicles that have used biodiesel fuel. This issue is being disputed in the courts by
biodiesel users; therefore, transitioning the pickup truck fleet toward diesels utilizing
biodiesel fuels should remain a serious option.
The Corporation Yard has a diesel tank to fuel the diesel vehicles and equipment. A
new biodiesel tank would be needed during the transition period while older vehicles
remained in our fleet. A new tank for biodiesel is estimated to cost $35,000. It is
Staff Report
Page 4 of 4
December 13, 2007
recommended that biodiesel be phased in, starting with B20 (20% bio-fuel, 80%
diesel) and progressing to 650 (50% bio-fuel, 50% diesel) and finally to B100 (no
petroleum diesel) over the course of several years, as the City of Santa Monica has
successfully accomplished.
Based on our exhaustive research regarding alternative fuels, the types of vehicles
available, and the current and future needs of the City, the attached purchasing
guidelines have been developed for fleet vehicles and equipment.
Department Head:
Mark Greenwood, P.E.
Director of Public Works
Approval:
Homer Croy Paul Gibson
ACM for Development Services Finance Director
Carlos L. Ortega
City Manager
/dhl
CITY OF PALM DESERT
FLEET PURCHASING GUIDELINES
It is the intent of the City of Palm Desert to purchase alternative-fuel
vehicles whenever possible. It must be understood that this policy does
not restrict the choice of vehicles other than to require alternative fuels for
all vehicles. Because this is an area of growing technology, the focus
should not be on any one type of vehicle or equipment, but rather to
utilize all technologies available, when and where appropriate. Available
models include, but are not limited to, those listed. Available models are
listed in order of preference, below:
CARS / SEDANS
1 . CNG - Factory installed only (no third party retrofitters)
100% factory warranty and support
- Honda Civic GX (dedicated CNG)
2. Hybrid
- Honda Accord
- Honda Civic
- Honda Insight
- Nissan Altima
- Saturn Aura Green Line
- Toyota Prius
3. Plug-In Hybrid (recommended in small quantities for
demonstration purposes only)
- Toyota Prius
PICK-UP TRUCKS
1 . Diesel - (biodiesel compatible)
- GMC Sierra
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Dodge Ram
- Ford F-250
2. Hybrid
- GMC Sierra
- Chevrolet Silverado
Fleet Purchasing Guidelines Page 1
3. Dedicated CNG retrofit (only if ASE Certified Senior Mechanic on
city staff for in-house repairs)
- GMC Sierra
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Ford F 150
- GMC Sierra
VANS / SUV
1 . Hybrid
- Ford Escape
- Saturn VUE
- Saturn Outlook (6-passenger with a 3�d row seat)
- Mercury Mariner
HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT
1 . Diesel - (biodiesel compatible)
2. CNG
Fleet Purchasing Guidelines Page 2
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