California Air Resources Board (CARB) staff will be co-hosting the first of three listening sessions in Nevada County with local nonprofit Sierra Energy Reimagined (SERi) to obtain community feedback on the development of statewide zero greenhouse gas emission standards for space and water heaters. These standards seek to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) and smog-forming nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from new space and water heaters sold in the state to help meet California’s climate goals and federal air quality standards. This potential regulation would not limit use or repair of existing space or water heaters. 

These measures are designed to help meet California’s climate goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045, and would apply to all of California, including Nevada County residents and businesses. This meeting offers a chance to offer your perspectives in person with CARB staff who are visiting the region to hear your feedback as they develop a proposal. Your voice matters! 

CARB staff wish to proactively share information, hear public thoughts, and identify ways to effectively manage a potential transition to zero-emission space and water heaters. Some key issues they are examining, and wish to hear from the public about, include:   

  • Needs in rural areas, where people rely on wood stoves and/or propane for home and water heating and face frequent power outages. 
  • Potential housing impacts from a transition to zero-emission space and water heating, and ways to minimize risks to tenants of increased rental cost or displacement.  
  • Energy cost implications and strategies for maintaining energy affordability.  
  • Access to knowledgeable contractors and high-quality jobs. 

Local host, Sierra Energy Reimagined, will also introduce itself and discuss its plans to assist residents with resources and information to reduce energy use, decrease utility bills and lower related greenhouse gas emissions. 

SERi will offer attendees the chance to win a portable induction stovetop. 

To assist us in planning the meeting, please register here

For any questions, send an email to info@sierraenergyreimagined.org 

Monday, September 9th, 5:30-7:00 pm
Madelyn Helling Library / 980 Helling Way, Nevada City, CA 95959 

California Air Resources Board 

CARB’s mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy.  CARB is the lead agency for climate change programs and oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health-based air quality standards. 

Learn more about CARB at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/ 

Sierra Energy Reimagined 

SERi was established in 2024 by a group of Nevada County citizens to advocate and facilitate energy conservation and use of clean energy in the Sierra by inspiring, informing and empowering our communities. Its vision is to drive the transition towards a sustainable energy future in the Sierra. We aim to educate and engage our communities in adopting clean energy practices, promoting environmental stewardship, and fostering a culture of energy conservation.  

Learn more about Sierra Energy Reimagined at https://www.sierraenergyreimagined.org/