South Coast AQMD remains in extreme nonattainment for the federal ozone standard and is working to improve air quality through the adoption of the 2022 Air Quality Management Plan, which seeks to require zero-emission technologies wherever feasible. On August 4th, South Coast AQMD adopted Rule 1153.1, which includes the first zero-emission limits on certain commercial food ovens. Current rulemaking is assessing feasibility of zero-emission technology for commercial water heating.
Over 60 cities across California are considering or have adopted ordinances that support zero-emission appliances, and the California Air Resources Board has commenced rulemaking to assess the feasibility of zero-emission appliances.
Currently, consumers can choose healthier zero-emission appliances for space and water heating, clothes drying, and other applications that improve indoor and ambient air quality. The federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) rebates anticipated to be administered by California in 2024 will apply to appliances such as heat pumps for space and water heating and clothes drying, with increased focus on low- and moderate-income households. TECH Clean California rebates
for heat pumps are available state-wide, and utility programs also incentivize zero-emission appliances. South Coast AQMD is designing a new rebate program to incentivize zero-emission space and water heating in the region.
In addition to health, other benefits of zero-emission appliances include safety and convenience. For example, induction cooktops which do not have an open flame are easier to clean, are not hot to the touch, and don’t require large hoods or fans. Zero-emission options can also be affordable for consumers, with forthcoming Inflation Reduction Act rebates anticipated to include up to $840 for the purchase of electric stoves, cooktops, ranges, or ovens. The availability of zero-emission options provides consumers opportunities to choose healthier appliances for their homes, improving indoor air quality and helping clean the air we breathe.