Outrage to gas ban mandate — ideology vs common sense

This decision was made with no real outreach to the public. The consequences will be catastrophic. Here’s why:

1). The costs to replace gas appliances with electric are enormous for all stakeholders: homeowners, small businesses, rental property owners and renters. For gas water heaters alone, estimates suggest 40%-50% of single-family homes and 30%-40% of multiunits have them. The cost for an electric water heater and furnace, including electrical panel, wiring could be around $40K-$70K or more.

2). Overwhelmed, contractor prices will skyrocket with long installation wait times. Renters will demand compensation for lengthy installation delays. High demand could lead to appliance shortages.

3). Housing providers will pass on some costs to renters through higher rents with already high rents. Higher rents will be justified since renters would share in cleaner air benefits.

4). Only 5% of harmful emissions are linked to home appliances.

The best solution is an incentive based solution with tax credits and subsides. Mandates make sense for new properties or major remodels. Simple solutions to complicated problems never work. We need a lawsuit here or the Federal Government to step in. BTW, Noelia Corzo, county supervisor, supports the ban.

Gary Isoardi

San Mateo