San Ramon City Council
June 10, 2025

Accessed December 2024 at: https://owl.cwp.org/mdocs-posts/review-of-the-available-literature-and-data-on-the-runoff-and-pollutantremoval-capabilities-of-urban-trees/ 56 Armand, Wynne (2024). How do trees and green spaces enhance our health? Accessed December 2024 at:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-do-trees-and-green-spaces-enhance-our-health-202404193034 57 The Municipal Code has provisions for the preservation and protection of certain categories of trees within San Ramon. When preservation is not practical or feasible, there is a process for calculating an in-lieu fee associated with the tree removals when planting replacement trees on site is not practical or feasible. The in-lieu fees are deposited into the Tree Mitigation Fund to assist the City Departments in funding the planting of replacement trees elsewhere in San Ramon.

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Packet Pg. 277 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan
74 By cultivating an expanded tree canopy and encouraging restorative landscaping—such as mulching, compost application, and prescribed grazing—San Ramon stands to capture more atmospheric carbon, reduce local heat, and offer spaces that enhance quality of life for residents.58 As San Ramon continues to implement carbon-reducing actions across all sectors, nature-based carbon sequestration will serve as an integral component of a healthy, vibrant, and climate-resilient future.

10.2 Nature-based Carbon Sequestration Measures and
Actions Detail
Actions, key pillars, co-benefits, and specific quantitative GHG emissions reductions associated with implementation of Measure CS-1 are included in Table 34Table 34.

Table 34 Measure CS-1 Actions
Action ID Action Description Key Pillars
CS-1a Continue to protect trees on private property through the City’s Tree Preservation and Protection ordinance and implement enforcement provisions on those who do not comply with the ordinance.

CS-1b Conduct a Tree Canopy assessment and Tree Inventory assessment to assess the existing canopy cover in the community, including identifying areas with below average canopy coverage, and assess the tree management practices and systems in the community.

Use the assessments to develop an Urban Forest Management Plan to design and implement a tree preservation, maintenance, and planting program with the goal of reinstating and maintaining San Ramon’s status as a Tree City USA. As part of the plan, establish a canopy coverage goal, a goal of having no significant difference in canopy coverage between census blocks in the community, and guidelines for drought- tolerant and fire-resistant trees and water-efficient irrigation methods.

Additionally, based on the Urban Forest Management Plan, Measure C-1’s natural lands carbon stock inventory and strategies, and Measure W-3’s compost application, develop a quantitative nature-based carbon sequestration target to be achieved by 2045.

CS-1c In the Urban Forest Management Plan and implementation prioritize tree implementation in areas with populations most at risk to extreme heat impacts (e.g., older adults, children, outdoor workers, individuals with disabilities, transit dependent individuals, and individuals with chronic health conditions).
58 Demir, C. and S.E. Ozcan (2023). Do air quality and green space reduce propensity to crime?: An empirical investigation of OECD countries.

Management of Environmental Quality 34(2): 351-367. Accessed December 2024 at: https://doi.org/10.1108/MEQ-08-2022-0235

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Action ID Action Description Key Pillars
CS-1d Establish a Tree Trust or Tree Endowment that can be used for purchasing trees in selected communities with below average tree canopy coverage and supporting staff resources for the Urban Forest Management Program.

Additionally, identify and apply for applicable federal (e.g., USDA) and state (e.g., California ReLeaf, Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program (AHSC), Urban and Community Forestry Program) available grants for Tree Planting projects.

CS-1e Apply to be a Tree City USA to recognize and promote the City’s urban forest efforts.

Post the Urban Forest Management Plan and an interactive map showing the results of the tree canopy assessment along with areas identified for new tree canopy. Include a description of the climate benefits (e.g., carbon sequestration, urban heat island reduction) and co-benefits of urban trees (e.g., improved air quality, utility bill savings, stormwater management, mental health benefits).

Additionally, promote restorative landscaping techniques including mulching, compost application, alley cropping, and prescribed grazing to help the community increase carbon sequestration on private lands, where economically and environmentally feasible.

CS-1f Partner with local nurseries, arborists, and nonprofits to conduct community tree planting events on Arbor Day and throughout the year to plant trees and teach community members about tree maintenance. Continue to partner with Alameda County Industries (ACI) of San Ramon to promote and fund tree plantings.

Total GHG Emissions Reduction from Measure
 Supportive Measure and Actions
Cost Categorization
 City Cost: Moderate Cost
 Community Cost: Low Cost
Co-Benefits
 Improved Public Health
 Environmental Quality and Ecosystem Services
 Enhanced Community Character and Quality

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Packet Pg. 279 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) City of San Ramon
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76 11 Implementation and Monitoring
This CAP serves as a roadmap for San Ramon to achieve the 2030 GHG emissions reduction target and make progress towards the 2045 carbon neutrality target through the implementation of measures and actions. The measures and actions outlined within this CAP align with current State regulations and climate science and build upon the San Ramon 2011 CAP, assumptions about the trajectory of technology advancements, adoption rates, and technology costs. Regular monitoring and updates to this CAP will enable the City to adapt to new developments to these factors by refining measures and actions, as needed. This chapter identifies the implementation plan for the CAP measures and actions and outlines how the implementation will be monitored, reported on, and used for future CAP updates to keep San Ramon on course towards its GHG emissions reduction targets.

11.1 CAP Implementation and Monitoring
The success of the CAP in accomplishing its goals is highly dependent on successful Implementation and Monitoring of the adopted Measures and Actions. Central to the implementation strategy is the creation of a full-time sustainability position(s), discussed in Implementation Measure IMP-2. This City staff position will be a key organizer for cross-departmental collaboration and be responsible for consolidating information for progress monitoring and reporting. Table 35Table 35 outlines the implementation timeframe of each CAP action, the City department(s) responsible for leading each action’s implementation and the Key Performance Indicators and Sources that will be used to monitor the implementation of each measure. The implementation timeframes follow a phased approach and are defined as follows. Monitoring and refinement of the CAP actions will occur ongoing throughout each phase.
 Phase 1 actions will occur in the short-term, within the next two years (2025-2026).  Phase 2 actions will occur over the mid-term (2027-2030).  Phase 3 actions will occur over the long-term, after dependent actions (e.g., feasibility studies) are implemented (2030+).

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Packet Pg. 280 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 77 Table 35 CAP Implementation Timeframe, Responsibility, and Monitoring Metrics Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure C-1 Conserve and manage the existing open spaces, natural lands, and trail system in San Ramon to reinforce the community’s defining characteristics and increase carbon sequestration on these lands.

Change (%) in annual carbon sequestration2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: Natural Lands Carbon Stock Inventories
Action C-1a Encourage efforts to increase equitable access to open spaces, natural lands, and trails, reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), and maintain and increase carbon sequestration potential.

Parks and Community Services Department
Phase 3
Action C-1b Conduct a natural lands carbon stock inventory and work with Contra Costa County to identify carbon sequestration strategies for San Ramon’s open spaces and natural lands-including on Cityowned lands. Regularly update the natural lands carbon stock inventory to track progress over time. Additionally, obtain data on the use of San Ramon open spaces, natural lands, and trails (e.g., number of visitors, distanced traveled, mode of travel, distanced traveled to the space and mode of transportation) and track it on an annual basis. Utilize data to promote, support grant applications for, and analyze access to San Ramon’s open spaces, natural lands, and trails. Work with the Conservation Easement holders and within the constraints of those easements.

Parks and Community Services Department
Phase 2-3
Action C-1c Directly engage residents living on low and moderate incomes and vulnerable communities to identify barriers to accessing and enjoying San Ramon’s open spaces, natural lands, and trails. Develop partnerships and programs to address these barriers if determined necessary.

Parks and Community Services Department
Phase 2
Action C-1d Leverage San Ramon’s vision for equitable open space to pursue local and state funding to continue to develop a natural lands carbon stock inventory, and preserve, manage, and expand San Ramon’s open spaces, natural lands, and trails.

Parks and Community Services Department
Phase 2-3
Action C-1e Conduct educational campaigns for community members and school children on the public health, equity, and climate benefits of preserving and expanding San Ramon’s open spaces, natural lands, and trails. Incorporate this education into annual programs (such as the Trails Challenge and Coastal Cleanup Days) and the San Ramon Trails Mobile App, where feasible, to brand San Ramon as a City for equitable open space.

Parks and Community Services Department
Phase 3
Action C-1f Continue partnerships with San Ramon’s Open Space Partners and expand partnerships to community-based organizations like the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, Friends of San Ramon Creek, and East Bay Parks to reach more community members and gain support for San Ramon’s equitable open space vision as it connects to climate goals.

Parks and Community Services Development
Phase 2-3

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure E-1 Work with MCE to have 100% clean community power supply at least 94% of residential electricity and 65% of commercial electricity in the community by 2030.

Share (%) of total electricity consumption from MCE Deep Green 2030: 14,213 MT CO2e 2045: 0 MT CO2e Source: GHG Inventories
Action E-1a Adopt a resolution to automatically enroll all San Ramon new and existing accounts in MCE’s Deep Green option by 2030 (or similar option providing 100% renewable and carbon-free electricity).

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2
Action E-1b Continue to work with MCE to conduct an annual analysis of opt-out rates in the community and expand the research to understand the community’s concerns with switching to 100% renewable electricity. Include targeted outreach to residents living on low and moderate incomes, vulnerable communities, emergency buildings, and those who are opting-out of MCE.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action E-1c Partner with community-based organizations to help community members living on low and moderate incomes grow awareness of MCE’s California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) and Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs and receive decreased electricity rates.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action E-1d Work with MCE to continue or expand the funding and subsidy plan/program for customers enrolled in the CARE or FERA programs to switch to MCE’s Deep Green option. This may include subsidizing costs to customers who participate in CARE/FERA programs through non-discounted customer rate increase or obtainment of funding for vulnerable communities.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action E-1e Continue to partner with MCE to build capacity to support San Ramon’s clean community power goals and conduct educational campaigns, including tabling at community events, establishing informational resources on the City's website, regularly posting on social media, and developing energy bill inserts to highlight the benefits of 100% renewable energy, promote the available incentives, and promote MCE’s Flex Market Programs as a cost savings strategy. Include targeted outreach to convert PG&E and direct access customers to MCE to decrease the community’s optout rate.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2-3

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure E-2 Decarbonize 100% of new residential and commercial construction by 2026. Share (%) of new building permits for all-electric buildings2030: 6,195 MT CO2e 2045: 32,741 MT CO2e Source: Community Development Department
Action E-2a Adopt a single margin source energy score or more stringent ordinance by 2026 to reduce new residential and commercial natural gas construction. Include significant residential and commercial remodels in the ordinance by 2027.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-2b Partner with MCE or PG&E to conduct an electrification infrastructure and capacity feasibility study to identify expected increases in electricity demand due to building and vehicle electrification and identify infrastructure improvements (including local renewable energy and storage projects) to increase capacity to meet demand. Include the potential role of distributed energy resources in the study as directed under Measure E-5.

Community Development Department
Phase 1
Action E-2c Identify cost-effective strategies for how the ordinance and mitigation measure can facilitate both construction and on-bill cost savings and prevent energy utility bills increases for residents living on low and moderate incomes (e.g., incorporation of energy efficient requirements, smart electrical panel options, building management system options).

Community Development Department
Phase 1
Action E-2d Host regular workforce development trainings for installers, local contractors, and building owners/operators to provide financial resources and technical resources on all-electric construction. Partner with community-based organizations to connect members of vulnerable communities to these training programs Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-2e Conduct educational campaigns to educate building owners, developers, and the construction industry on the cost savings, environmental benefits, and versatility associated with all-electric construction, as well as the advantages all-electric construction provides for USGBC LEED certification. Utilize the cost-effective strategies as education materials and share the information on the City’s website, at City events, and at the City’s permit counter.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-2f Partner with organizations such as the Building Decarbonization Coalition, MCE, BayREN, and USGBC to develop the ordinance and mitigation measures and educate the community on the benefits of all-electric construction.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure E-3 Electrify 14% of existing residential buildings by 2030 and 57% by 2045. Change (%) in residential natural gas consumption and share (%) of residential building permits for electric appliances2030: 11,255 MT CO2e 2045: 49,490 MT CO2e Source: GHG inventories and Community Development Department Action E-3a Adopt a reach code in 2026 requiring all new residential central air conditioning unit installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling with a single unit for residential buildings. In doing so, the City will:  Engage with interested parties in the building industry and residential sector, such as City staff, City officials, the Contra Costa Association of Realtors, Building Industry Association of the Bay Area, local developers, and local residents regarding the purpose and impact of the reach code.  Conduct public hearings and public notices to facilitate community feedback on the draft ordinance and formally adopt the reach code.
 Submit the adopted reach code to the California Energy Commission and California Building Standards Commission.

Enforce reach code compliance through a comprehensive permitting compliance program which may include but is not limited to providing dedicated time for routine staff training and building inspections, imposing fees for noncompliance to offset staff costs and encourage voluntary compliance, establishing easy to understand web-based compliance checklists and permit applications, and facilitating online permitting. Additionally, consider streamlining the permitting process for smart electrical panels and other electric load management technology.

Community Development Department
Phase 1
Action E-3b Complete a residential existing building electrification feasibility analysis to determine the upfront and on-bill costs associated with building electrification strategies (including an assessment of residential building electrical panel capacities and potential upgrades needed) and draw on existing reach codes from similar jurisdictions to identify barriers to replacement and permit compliance (including equity barriers). Use this information to develop cost-effective strategies to include in the existing building electrification reach code (e.g., energy efficiency requirements, load management strategies) and develop projects and incentives for the building electrification resource center.

Community Development Department
Phase 1

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action E-3c Partner with properties in San Ramon that provide deed-restricted affordable housing, MCE, PG&E, and BayREN to initiate and complete a low-income and affordable housing electrification pilot project. The project will implement energy efficiency strategies with electrification to mitigate increased energy bills for occupants. Promote the pilot project as a case study for future projects in the community.

Community Development Department
Phase 2
Action E-3d Partner with MCE and PG&E to review residential incentives and rebates for procedural equity (e.g., complex application processes, credit checks) and develop a process so that existing and updated incentive programs continue to be equitably distributed to the community. Hurdles to equitable implementation could include credit checks, excessive procedural roadblocks, and lack of targeted outreach.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-3e Conduct education campaigns to educate homeowners on the public health and environmental benefits of electrification, cost-effective strategies for electrification, available resources provided by the building electrification resource center, and the upcoming requirements of BAAQMD Air District Rules 9-4 and 9-6 for furnaces and water heaters. The campaign may include hosting regular events, such as an electrification fair, in partnership with community-based organizations like 350 Contra Costa Action to educate community members on available electric technologies, resources, incentives/rebates, and contractors.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-3f Partner with Contra Costa County and MCE to create a building electrification resource center to provide residents information about electrification consultants and assessments, turn-key installations by pre-approved contractors, low up-front costs and on-bill financing, and equipment and labor warranties. As part of the building electrification resource center, provide free electrification assessments to rental and multi-family properties, as well as seniors and residents living on low and moderate incomes.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Measure E-4 Electrify 2% of existing commercial buildings by 2030 and 33% by 2045. Change (%) in commercial natural gas consumption and share (%) of commercial building permits for electric appliances2030: 853 MT CO2e 2045: 13,634 MT CO2e Source: GHG inventories and Community Development Department Action E-4a Adopt a reach code in 2026 requiring all commercial central air conditioning unit new installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling with a single unit for nonresidential buildings. In doing so the City will:  Engage with interested parties in the building industry and commercial sector, such as City staff, City officials, the Contra Costa Association of Realtors, Building Industry Association of the Community Development Department
Phase 1

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Bay Area, local developers, and local businesses regarding the purpose and impact of the reach code.  Conduct public hearings and public notices to facilitate community feedback on the draft reach code and formally adopt the reach code.
 Submit the adopted reach code to the California Energy Commission and California Building Standards Commission.

Enforce and track reach code compliance through the same permit tracking program developed for residential building electrification.

Action E-4b Develop monitoring and assessment protocols to track costs and benefits associated with commercial building electrification and adjust policies as needed.

Community Development Department
Phase 1
Action E-4c Partner with MCE and PG&E to review incentives and rebates for procedural equity and develop a process so that existing and updated incentive programs continue to be equitably distributed to the community. Hurdles to equitable implementation could include credit checks, excessive procedural roadblocks, and lack of targeted outreach.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-4d Work with MCE, PG&E, and BayREN to incentivize all-electric retrofits by combining rebate programs and financing mechanisms to create cost-effective electrification packages and develop bulk-purchasing opportunities for multi-unit development owners. Prioritize small, and frontline community-owned businesses in distribution. Additionally, work with the organizations to publicize commercial tax breaks to highly efficient net-zero energy building owners.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-4e Conduct targeted outreach and complete tailored campaigns during development of the reach code to identify potential barriers to commercial electrification (including equity barriers) and educate commercial property owners on the benefits of electrification and cost-effective strategies (e.g., energy efficiency and optimization upgrades to allow for the downsizing of electrical infrastructure and appliances). Include targeted outreach to small businesses and minority-owned businesses.

Community Development Department
Phase 1
Action E-4f Partner with the Bay Area Council and the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce to inform, encourage and facilitate electrification for commercial business owners.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure E-5 Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy. Solar and battery capacity added (MW)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive
Source: Community Development Department
Action E-5a Streamline the permitting process for battery storage systems in residential and commercial buildings.

Community Development Department
Phase 2
Action E-5b Consider adopting a solar ordinance requiring newly constructed and majorly renovated multifamily and commercial buildings install solar systems and storage that meet the minimum requirements of Tier 2 Voluntary Standards under CalGreen and engage the commercial sector and Homeowner Associations to identify ways the City can support commercial energy storage installations and neighborhood-scale microgrid opportunities. Additionally, include the role of distributed energy resources, including rooftop solar and battery storage systems, into Measure E-2’s feasibility study.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-2
Action E-5c Partner with community-based organizations such as GRID Alternatives to connect residents living on low incomes to solar energy via the California Solar Initiative’s Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) Program and the Low-Income Weatherization Program (LIWP).

Community Development Department
Phase 2-3
Action E-5d Connect home and business owners to incentives for renewable energy and storage including Net Metering Programs through PG&E for bill credits, the federal investment tax credit, and the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) and Equity Resilience rebates that provide an upfront rebate for battery storage.

Community Development Department
Phase 2-3
Action E-5e Conduct an educational campaign that promotes the installation of storage technology in concert with renewable energy infrastructure through multilingual education programs, outreach, and information provided via City platforms and community events. Include in the campaign  Community spotlights highlighting interviews with San Ramon community members who pair installation of storage technology with renewable energy infrastructure.  Promotion of MCE’s credits for excess solar energy and use of stored solar energy during peak hours to save costs on utility bills.
 Education on the resilience and cost saving benefits of distributed energy resources, including their role in electrification.

Additionally, connect large commercial developers and large business property owners to workshops on the benefits of microgrids and energy resilience.

Community Development Department
Phase 2-3
Action E-5f Collaborate with PG&E, MCE, Contra Costa College, and/or other regional and local community partners to support and incentivize local on-site energy generation and storage resources.

Community Development Department
Phase 2-3

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure E-6 Monitor and maintain equitable implementation and benefits of energy strategies. Low-income, moderateincome, and vulnerable homes installing heat pumps, solar, and batteries, or receiving rebates (#)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: MCE and PG&E
Action E-6a Establish an Equitable Electrification Working Group or dedicate City staff time to monitor the implementation of energy strategies for residents living on low and moderate incomes and vulnerable communities.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1
Action E-6b Conduct engagement and direct outreach to residents living on low and moderate incomes and vulnerable communities as part of the monitoring process.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action E-6c Identify equity parameters to prioritize a neighborhood for a neighborhood electrification pilot project with MCE and PG&E. Secure resources and partnerships to complete the pilot by 2035.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2
Action E-6d Pursue budget allocations and funding to finance the monitoring, engagement, and education efforts for equitable electrification.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action E-6e Partner with community-based organizations to educate residents living on low and moderate incomes and vulnerable communities on the public health benefits and potential cost impacts of electrification to empower such community members to actively engage in the ordinance development and implementation process.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action E-6f Engage with PG&E to identify opportunities and funding for natural gas infrastructure pruning to reduce the chance of stranded assets, provide potential funding, and establish an efficient and equitable transition to carbon-neutral buildings.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 3

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure T-1 Implement and regularly update the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan as needed to reduce vehicle miles traveled and achieve an active transportation mode share of 3% by 2030 and 8% by 2045.

Active transportation mode share (%)2030: 600 MT CO2e 2045: 2,254 MT CO2e Source: US Census Bureau12
Action T-1a Implement the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan in accordance with the plans’ visions, objectives, and guidelines so that the City adds approximately 27 miles to the existing bicycle network by 2030 and implements 50% of the proposed improvements to the walking district by 2030. Continually improve methods for engaging the community, monitoring progress, identifying barriers, and identifying new funding opportunities to update the plans every 5 years. Include the development of a reporting process for residents to identify streets and intersections where bikers and pedestrians feel unsafe or lack access. Additionally, in plan updates, consider including bicycle storage/parking infrastructure and facilities to charge electric micromobility devices.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-1b Establish a standard methodology for measuring walkability, bike-ability, and access to transit that incorporates metrics for the real estate sector. By 2026, set short- and long-term targets for each metric at the neighborhood-level.

Public Works Department Phase 1
Action T-1c Directly engage community members living on low and moderate incomes and those disconnected by interstates to identify barriers to active transportation, especially in connecting these communities to the downtown core and public transit. Review all bicycle and walking network projects for these barriers and update projects accordingly to vet and update active transportation projects to be deployed equitably across all San Ramon neighborhoods.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-1d Work with local active transportation organizations like Bike East Bay to identify and pursue regional and state funding to implement the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan and leverage San Ramon’s participation on the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) - Southwest Area Transportation Planning Committee (SWAT) to pursue funding for regional VMTreducing projects included on the Comprehensive Transportation Project List. Additionally, consider adopting an ordinance requiring development projects to pay fees that will be dedicated to implementing active transportation projects citywide.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-1e Partner with the school district (through Safe Routes to School), youth sports leagues, and regional organizations like Bike East Bay to educate the community on bicycle and pedestrian safety and the health and environmental benefits of active transportation.

Public Works Department Phase 2

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-1f Partner with community-based organizations to continually vet and identify safety issues and concerns related to new and existing bicycle and walking infrastructure to maximize the safety of and build confidence throughout the community in San Ramon's active transportation infrastructure.

Additionally, continue to use The League of American Cyclists’ resources, checklist, and tools to maintain San Ramon’s designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community Designation.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Measure T-2 Promote active transportation mode shift by enhancing 37 miles of vehicle roadways into active transportation corridors by 2045 that extend safe active transportation routes from residential areas into the downtown core.

Bicycle and pedestrian lanes added (miles)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: Public Works Department
Action T-2a Convert 37 miles of vehicle roadways into active transportation corridors by 2045. Public Works Department Phase 2-3 Action T-2b Conduct a comprehensive study to identify vehicle roadways to convert into active transportation corridors to inform updates to the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan with a goal of developing safe and reliable active transportation corridors between residential and commercial areas as well as between residential areas and schools. The study shall consider latent active transportation demand by commuting types (i.e., trips to/from work within the City, trips to/from school within the City, trips to/from downtown core within the City), GHG emission reduction potential, and potential economic benefits for local businesses and residential properties. The study shall also consider development of the Iron Horse Trail into an active transportation corridor as analyzed in the Contra Costa Iron Horse Trail Study.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-2c Include equity metrics in the roadway study to increase equitable access (from residents living on low and moderate incomes and vulnerable communities) to the benefits of the active transportation corridors. Engage with community-based organizations in the development and assessment of these equity metrics.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-2d Dedicate staff time to identify and pursue regional and state funding sources to conduct the study and implement the active transportation corridor conversions.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-2e Host regular car-free community events (potentially coupled with large and regular community events like the Farmers’ Market) that periodically close streets to cars to demonstrate the livability benefits, recreational opportunities, business opportunities, and active transportation improvements of reclaiming roadways. Couple these events with Listening Sessions for the City to hear community concerns on active transportation, account for them, and provide information back out to the community. Additionally, develop a public, interactive map (or promote the use of an existing map such as Google Maps’ Bicycle-friendly Routes Layer) to show existing and new bike routes within the City and indicate the infrastructure type (e.g., whether the lane is a protected bicycle lane or if it is a shared lane with vehicles). Promote new active transportation infrastructure via social media and highlight success stories of community members switching to active transportation modes due to corridor development.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3

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Final Draft Climate Action Plan 87
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-2f Partner with transportation organizations such as the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to conduct the study, plan the conversion, and identify and pursue funding. Partner with communitybased organizations in the development and assessment of the equity metrics as well as the promotion of the car-free events and social media material.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Measure T-3 Implement a new zero-emission local microtransit service to close the “last-mile” gap for public transit and target a public transit mode share of 14% by 2030 and 16% by 2045.

Public transit mode share (%)2030: 3,191 MT CO2e 2045: 4,904 MT CO2e Source: US Census Bureau12
Action T-3a Work with the Contra Costa Transportation authority (CCTA) to implement a networked, ondemand, and zero-emission microtransit service in San Ramon that is connected to both the active transportation infrastructure and public transit system (including the Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station). Additionally, work with new multi-family and commercial developers to encourage developments to include microtransit services or shuttles to connect residents and commuters to the active transportation and public transit system, where feasible.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-3b Conduct a study to identify the routes (including those along Bollinger Road and Dougherty Canyon Road) and frequencies for a new microtransit service that will maximize equitable access to the Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station and minimize commuting to the station via single occupancy vehicles. Consider piloting the microtransit service to determine effective routes and frequencies to maximize use.

Public Works Department Phase 1
Action T-3c Directly engage community members living on low and moderate incomes to identify potential barriers to the potential use of the microtransit system (e.g., shuttle schedules vs. work schedules) and address the barriers in the route, frequency, and schedule design.

Public Works Department Phase 1
Action T-3d Pursue funding for the microtransit service through local programs such as PG&E’s EV Fleet program and state programs such as the Hybrid and Zero Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-3e Develop an ongoing educational campaign centered around the Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station to inform residents of the microtransit service routes and schedules and, if applicable to the service, partner with Google Transit to publicize service routes, stops, schedules, and real-time shuttle tracking on Google Maps.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action T-3f Partner with CCTA and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to conduct the study, plan the conversion, and identify and pursue funding.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2

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Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan 88
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure T-4 Reduce vehicle miles traveled by emphasizing increased affordable housing in higher density areas as established by the Housing Element Update.

Affordable housing units built in higher density areas (#)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: Community Development Department
Action T-4a Update local codes to streamline the approval process for affordable housing sites in higher density areas as established by the Housing Element.

Community Development Department
Phase 2
Action T-4b Identify locations in the downtown core and other higher density, transit-rich areas for potential affordable housing development.

Community Development Department
Phase 2
Action T-4c Conduct a general educational campaign to increase the community’s understanding of affordable housing and promote the positive impacts it has on the community.

Community Development Department
Phase 2-3
Action T-4d Partner with the East Bay Housing Organizations to plan and advocate for affordable housing sites that are integrated into a robust active transportation and public transit network.

Community Development Department
Phase 2-3
Measure T-5 Transition 100% the municipal vehicle fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2045. ZEV share (%) of municipal vehicles 2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive
Source: Public Works Department
Action T-5a Implement vehicle replacements in alignment with the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation to electrify or otherwise decarbonize 100% of the municipal fleet by 2045 and install electric vehicle (EV) chargers/alternative fueling stations at City-owned properties to support this zero-emission fleet (including County Connection bus services at transit centers and mobility hubs).

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action T-5b Develop a vehicle replacement plan to transition the municipal fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and meet the requirements of the Advanced Clean Fleet Regulation. Continuously monitor the availability of ZEV’s and evaluate their suitability as replacement vehicles (considering vehicle function, associated costs, vehicle right-sizing, and potential fuel and maintenance savings) to update and accelerate the vehicle replacement schedule. Develop a municipal electric vehicle infrastructure plan to analyze the organization’s charging needs through 2045 and create a prioritized list of new chargers to be installed on City-owned properties.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-5c Develop and implement a pricing plan to allow public use of some municipal EV charging stations that would allow revenue to be used for infrastructure projects, active transportation plans, or other equitable uses; set requirement that 100% of revenue from charging stations must directly benefit community members living on low moderate incomes and vulnerable communities.

Public Works Department Phase 2

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Packet Pg. 292
Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 89
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-5d Secure funding from state programs (such as the California Air Resources Board's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project and the Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program) and federal sources (such as the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program and Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program) to increase procurement of ZEVs and installation of EV/ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure at municipal facilities. Additionally, explore opportunities for Low Carbon Fuel Standard credit generation from use of low carbon fuels/electricity for fleet vehicles. Additional funding and financing may be available from:  PG&E’s EV Fleet Program  BAAQMD Air District opportunities including Carl Moyer  Charging as a service (CaaS) providers  Inflation Reduction Act vehicle tax credits (can be issued to Cities as direct payment starting in 2024)
Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action T-5e Leverage municipal fleet electrification as a local case study for San Ramon commercial fleets.

Promote the planning, contracting, funding, implementation process along with lessons learned through transparent and simple-to-reach outreach material. Distribute the materials to local businesses and publish on the City’s website.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Measure T-6 Increase passenger zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045. ZEV share (%) of passenger vehicles and publicly accessible chargers installed (#) 2030: 33,038 MT CO2e 2045: 155,696 MT CO2e Source: GHG Inventories or California Department of Motor Vehicles23 and Public Works Department Action T-6a Adopt an electric vehicle reach code by 2026 requiring new multifamily construction to install the minimum number of EV chargers based on Tier 2 CalGreen requirements (20% of total parking spaces). Additionally, implement the Electric Vehicle Readiness Plan to install 700 additional public EV chargers in San Ramon by 2030.

Community Development Department and Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-6b Develop an Electric Vehicle Readiness Plan that establishes a strategy to equitably increase ZEV adoption and infrastructure in San Ramon. The plan shall include:  Direct engagement with the community, including community members living on low and moderate incomes and members living in multi-family housing, to identify barriers to ZEV adoption and strategies to address them  A study to identify a prioritized list of locations for new ZEV infrastructure with particular consideration for locations that will increase the equitable distribution of chargers to community members living on low and moderate incomes and residents living in multi-family buildings  Consistency with the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and the General Plan.

Public Works Department Phase 1

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Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan 90
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-6c Work with stakeholders to develop a ZEV car-share pilot program to provide access to an affordable, zero-emission mobility option at affordable housing sites and select an affordable housing site to install EV charging infrastructure for a pilot project.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-6d Work with BAAQMD the Air District to pursue ZEV grants and other funding mechanisms for all community members facing income-based barriers to purchasing a ZEV. Additionally, work with organizations such as MCE and PG&E to incentivize electric vehicle charger installations (including at-home electric circuits, panel upgrades, and Level 2 chargers) through on-bill financing and rebates and encourage use of existing electric vehicle chargers through subsidies.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-6e Educate residents on the availability of electric vehicle charger incentives/financing programs, the City’s permitting process, and MCE’s Residential EV Rate Plan to help community members charge during off-peak hours and save money on home charging. Include targeted outreach to rental and multi-family property owners to distribute the information. Additionally, partner with ZEV manufacturers and retailers to host an EV demonstration and outreach event to allow residents to test drive EVs, speak with EV owners about their driving experience, and speak with experts on the benefits of EVs, charging options, and steps to applying for EV rebates.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-6f Work with local partners like BayREN, MCE, the County’s Charge Up Contra Costa program, and BAAQMD the Air District to coordinate and provide multilingual education and outreach to the community on available ZEV rebates for residents and public charger locations; and host the EV demonstration and outreach event.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Measure T-7 Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption to 25% by 2030 and 100% by 2045. ZEV share (%) of passenger vehicles 2030: 9,478 MT CO2e 2045: 42,335 MT CO2e
Source: GHG Inventories and California Department of Motor Vehicles23 Action T-7a Adopt an EV reach code by 2026 requiring new commercial construction install the minimum number of EV chargers based on Tier 2 CalGreen requirements (20% of total parking spaces).

Community Development Department and Public Works Department Phase 1
Action T-7b Directly engage with delivery service providers operating in the community to understand ZEV capacity and identify gaps in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure to maintain route efficiency. Consider establishing licensing fees for commercial delivery vehicles (such as Amazon and UPS, or vehicles making online retail deliveries) to provide funding for commercial ZEV adoption and fueling/charging infrastructure and/or provide discounted licensing fees for delivery companies which utilize ZEVs.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2

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Packet Pg. 294
Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 91
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-7c Require 50% of the revenue from the potential licensing fees be directed towards active transportation projects and EV charging infrastructure to benefit community members living on low and moderate incomes.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-7d Work with MCE and PG&E to coordinate and promote available commercial ZEV rebates and funding for ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure (e.g., Communities In Charge program). Include direct outreach to small and minority-owned businesses and information on MCE’s Commercial EV Rate Plans for businesses to charge during off-peak hours.

Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action T-7e Provide commercial fleet operators educational material on the environmental and financial benefits of a ZEV fleet (e.g., cost savings on maintenance of ZEVs, new revenue streams when opening charging to the public) and the technical steps and resources for transitioning to a ZEV fleet. Include material on the municipal fleet transition as a case study.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-7f Partner with organizations such as the Rotary Club of San Ramon and San Ramon Chamber of Commerce to understand impacts of the licensing fee and conversion rates to help identify hurdles and maintain progress with the program while avoiding negative impacts to the local business community. Additionally, implement public-private partnerships with local businesses to site ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure for commercial and public use across the community.

Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Measure T-8 Work with Bishop Ranch to modify the Transportation Demand Management Program to achieve a 1.6 Average Vehicle Ridership (AVR) among 30% of employers by 2030 and 60% by 2045.

AVR2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive
Source: Public Works Department Annual AVR surveys
Action T-8a Expand the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Program for Bishop Ranch with policies designed to achieve a 1.6 Average Vehicle Ridership (AVR) among 30% of employers by 2030 and 60% by 2045 upon implementation. Establish procedures and a schedule to monitor implementation of the program and regularly update the program based on survey results and GHG emissions reduction progress.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action T-8b Conduct annual AVR surveys of businesses in Bishop Ranch to determine weekday AVR and mode split, perceived barriers to alternative modes of transportation (modes other than single occupancy vehicles) and telecommuting, and interest in sustainable transportation amenities, infrastructure, and events/resources. Review the survey results and work directly with businesses to correct survey data, when necessary.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action T-8c Direct TMD fee revenues towards expanding public transit and active transportation infrastructure for equitable access and employee rideshare subsidies for small and minority-owned businesses.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3

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Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan 92
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-8d Consider imposing an annual tiered TDM fee for Bishop Ranch businesses based on progress towards the AVR goal (aka. increase the fee for businesses who do not achieve the AVR goal and decrease it for those who do) to fund the program.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action T-8e Provide businesses education material to distribute to employees on available sustainable mode share subsidies, available public transit routes and frequencies, and the benefits of sustainable commutes. Host a Commuter Fair for Bishop Ranch and community events such as Bike to Work Day.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action T-8f Partner with the San Ramon Transportation Demand Management Advisory Committee to develop and implement the TDM Program, conduct the AVR surveys, and educate businesses.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Measure T-9 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 12% of off-road equipment by 2030 and 100% by 2045. Rebates issued (#) or equipment replaced through Off-road Equipment Replacement Program (#)2030: 4,840 MT CO2e 2045: 10,082 MT CO2e Source: BAAQMD Air District and City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Action T-9a Develop small off-road engine (SORE) guidelines in alignment with CARB’s requirements to encourage that at time of replacement, small off-road equipment (e.g., leaf blowers, lawn mowers) be zero emission starting in 2024 and portable generators be zero emission by 2028. Additionally, establish an electric lawn and garden equipment lending program to allow community members to test handheld and commercial-grade electric lawn and garden equipment.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1
Action T-9b Conduct an assessment of off-road equipment and vehicles in the community to identify fleets with high decarbonization potential, identify fleets that will require targeted support to decarbonize, and identify available electric/biofuel options for each equipment type. The assessment shall include direct outreach to fleet operators in the community.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1
Action T-9c Work with BAAQMD the Air District to review existing off-road replacement rebates for procedural equity and directly connect fleets requiring targeted support and fleets belonging to small and minority-owned businesses, and residents living on low and moderate incomes to the rebates.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-9d Work with BAAQMD the Air District to identify additional opportunities for community members to obtain co-funding to replace their off-road equipment (e.g., Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Program [CORE]) and provide support for grant applications.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2

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Packet Pg. 296
Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 93
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action T-9e Develop a multi-lingual Off-road Equipment Replacement Outreach Campaign that provides information to contractors, residents, and fleet operators in the community on equivalent alternatives to fossil fuel-powered off-road equipment; public health, noise, and safety benefits of alternative equipment technology; and funding opportunities available.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action T-9f Work with surrounding jurisdictions and BAAQMD the Air District to create an Off-road Equipment Replacement Program to work directly with fleets identified in the feasibility study to decarbonize their off-road equipment and vehicles. The program shall include free consultations with fleet operators to identify equivalent alternatives to fossil fuel-powered off-road equipment, direct support to obtain rebates and incentives, and connections to qualified local repair services to maintain the replaced equipment.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 2
Measure W-1 Reduce landfilled organic waste 75% by 2030 and 90% by 2045 Change (%) in landfilled organic waste 2030: 13,083 MT CO2e 2045: 19,144 MT CO2e Source: Waste hauler audits and GHG Inventories
Action W-1a Review the City’s existing waste hauler franchise agreement(s) with Alameda County Industries (ACI) and amend as needed to include SB 1383 organic waste diversion compliance and include a new SB 1383 fee to provide a sustainable revenue source for a new full- or part-time City staff person to manage organic waste diversion programs. This role would include monitoring implementation of commercial organics collection programs, monitoring communitywide progress on SB 1383 diversion goals, and coordinating with the waste hauler on education and outreach programs. Additionally, consider including weight sensors for real-time collection monitoring in negotiations with waste haulers. Additionally, install organic waste bins and signage at all existing waste stations at City-owned buildings and facilities, as well as properties and parks, to reduce landfilled municipal waste 75% by 2030 and 90% by 2045.

Public Works Department Phase 1-2
Action W-1b Work with the waste hauler to conduct annual community and municipal waste audits to determine organic waste landfill and diversion rates and track community and municipal progress on SB 1383 compliance. Consider opportunities and partnerships to divert organic waste for biofuel production.

Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action W-1c Directly connect with property owners and property managers of rental and multi-family housing units to distribute kitchen food scrap pails directly to housing units. Track the number of pails distributed annually.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action W-1d Devote City staff time to pursuing funding for organic waste diversion programs through CalRecycle.

Public Works Department Phase 2

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Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan 94
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action W-1e Implement a comprehensive education program to educate residents, businesses, school children, municipal employees, commercial generators, and community organizations (e.g., Homeowner Associations) on the City’s organic waste diversion requirements, resources, and programs to reduce landfilled organic waste communitywide. Include education on proper waste sorting methods to residents and distribute information through a variety of methods including social media campaigns, multi-lingual and culturally appropriate materials, and City pop-ups at community events (e.g., Farmers’ Market). Consider creating a community and youth ambassador program where the City partners with community-based organizations and schools to train residents and youth to educate their neighbors and classmates on organic waste diversion benefits and proper disposal methods.

Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action W-1f Partner with ACI or other waste hauler and community-based organizations to develop and distribute education material (including multi-lingual inserts in residential billing), distribute the kitchen food pails, and leverage the SB 1383-compliant franchise agreement to pursue funding from CalRecycle.

Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Measure W-2 Reduce the carbon footprint of the food system by reducing waste, promoting climate friendly diets, and getting excess food to communities in need.

Change (%) in landfilled edible food and meals donated (#)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: Waste hauler audits and edible food generators/distributors Action W-2a Continue to enforce the SB 1383 Checklist to support Tier 1 and Tier 2 edible food generators in diverting 20% of edible food from the landfill and to food insecure community members. Develop and adopt an ordinance to reduce food system waste through requirements vetted by the community (i.e., edible food generators) such as requirements for compostable food ware or a ban on single-use plastic food packaging. Develop a City policy encouraging or requiring City-funded food purchases (for events, meetings, etc.) to follow climate-friendly guidelines (e.g., less or no meat/dairy/animal products, more locally/California- produced fruits, vegetables, nuts, etc.).

Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action W-2b Partner with Contra Costa County or the Solano Food Bank to conduct an annual assessment of food insecurity and access to food recovery organizations and services in the community. Engage community members in the assessment to identify barriers that food insecure and vulnerable populations face in accessing food recovery organizations and services. Develop City partnerships, requirements, and funding opportunities to address these barriers.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action W-2c Assist small and low-income edible food generators in identifying and applying to available grant programs to help them train employees on organic waste diversion and acquire necessary organic waste infrastructure and signage via direct outreach.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3

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Packet Pg. 298
Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 95
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action W-2d Develop multi-lingual and culturally appropriate educational campaigns on the environmental and health benefits of climate-friendly diets. Include regular interactive community pop-ups (such as plant-based cooking demonstrations and water-wise gardening or gardening with carbon farming techniques) at community events (e.g., Farmers’ Markets), public schools, and community gardens.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action W-2e Partner with Contra Costa County, edible food generators, schools, and nonprofits such as the East Contra Costa Community Alliance to collaborate on assessments, funding, and educational campaigns. Additionally, establish partnerships with technology companies developing innovative ways to connect community members to edible food waste from Tier 1 and Tier 2 generators (e.g., Too Good to Go) and ways to optimize such technology for food insecure community members.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Measure W-3 Develop a communitywide composting program to achieve SB 1383 procurement requirements. Compost procured and applied to lands (tons)2030: 1,791 MT CO2e 2045: 2,080 MT CO2e
Source: Public Works Department
Action W-3a Establish a program to procure and provide organic waste products to City parks, recreation areas, public schools, community gardens, and residential and commercial landscapers within San Ramon and regional partners such as East Bay Parks. Require City departments to apply compost to the exterior of suitable facilities and open spaces as part of their operations.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action W-3b Complete an analysis to identify locations within the community to apply compost to meet the procurement target and increase carbon sequestration. Additionally, assess the feasibility of partnering with ACI to establish a local compost facility to compost San Ramon’s organic waste to close the loop for organic material within the community.

Public Works Department Phase 1
Action W-3c Through the composting program, provide free compost to residents living on low and moderate incomes and low-income and minority-owned landscaping businesses.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action W-3d Utilize CalRecycle grant funding to support the procurement and application of compost through the communitywide composting program.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action W-3e Using established education materials from StopWaste and other organizations, provide outreach and education to the City’s community gardens, residential groups, and landscapers on the benefits of using organic end products such as compost and mulch.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action W-3f Partners with Contra Costa County, the community’s waste hauler(s), local nonprofits, and regional partners such as East Bay Parks to develop the composting program, conduct educational campaigns, and identify opportunities for regional collaboration.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3

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Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan 96
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure WW-1 Coordinate with the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to increase purple pipe infrastructure in the community and increase recycled water supply.

Change (%) in recycled water consumption2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: GHG Inventories
Action WW-1a Support efforts by DSRSD and EBMUD to prioritize investments in strategies and projects to expand recycled water supply and increase purple pipe infrastructure in the community and for Bishop Ranch.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Action WW-1b Support DSRSD and EBMUD in conducting a feasibility study to identify opportunities to increase local recycled water supply (e.g., use of groundwater, inclusion of tertiary treated wastewater effluent) to supplement existing potable water supply and opportunities to expand purple pipe infrastructure (including analysis of specific projects that could switch from potable to recycled water with access to infrastructure).

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action WW-1c Work with DSRSD and EBMUD to evaluate potential impacts to cost of water service, identify ways to maintain or decrease costs of service, and identify ways to offset potential bill increases through non-discounted customers or grant funding for community members facing high utility bill burdens.Additionally, work with EBMUD to promote their Customer Assistance Program to lower water bills for qualified residents living on low incomes.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Action WW-1d Dedicate City staff time to collaborating with DSRSD and EBMUD and pursuing funding from state and federal sources such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Clean Water State Revolving Fund, and US Bureau of Reclamation's WaterSMART grants.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Action WW-1e Coordinate with DSRSD, EBMUD, and community-based organizations to implement a public education campaign that promotes and provides demonstrations of graywater and rainwater systems and information on available incentives for residential installation, with a focus on community members with high utility bill burdens. Include promotion of the environmental and cost saving benefits of recycled water.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Action WW-1f Partner with community-based organizations to understand community barriers to adopting use of recycled water.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3

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Packet Pg. 300
Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 97
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Measure WW-2 Reduce community water consumption 10% by 2030 and 20% by 2045, from 2019 levels. Change (%) in water consumption2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive
Source: GHG Inventories
Action WW-2a Continue enforcing the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance for new and renovated landscapes and enforcing requirements for all new construction/developments to use waterefficient fixtures and water-efficient irrigation systems.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-3
Action WW-2b Perform analysis to understand the feasibility and potential potable water savings of adopting a Dual Drainage Plumbing Ordinance to require new construction be dual plumbed for potable and recycled water systems for toilet flushing. Additionally, analyze the feasibility and benefits of including additional uses for recycled water under the ordinance and including requirements for rainwater harvesting. Additionally, engage with DSRSD and EBMUD to understand the feasibility of and advocate for public-facing software that allows customers to check real-time water consumption data and explore water conservation recommendations and incentives based on their water consumption history.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action WW-2c Review DSRSD’s and EBMUD’s water conservation incentives and rebates for procedural equity and provide targeted outreach to residents and businesses facing utility bill burdens to promote available funding opportunities.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Action WW-2d Continue to partner with DSRSD and EBMUD to provide water conservation rebates and accessible, easy-to-use portals for customers to track water usage in real-time and identify actions to reduce water bills.

Public Works Department Phase 2-3
Action WW-2e Implement a coordinated educational campaign targeted at homeowners, rental and multi-family property owners, schools, and businesses to promote the environmental and financial benefits of water conservation, strategies to conserve water (including efficient fixtures, appliances, and irrigation systems; leak detection strategies; and water-wise landscaping including compost application), and available incentives and rebates from DSRSD and EBMUD. Promote the information by distributing infographics with the information and QR codes to relevant resources to residents and businesses, including information on utility bills, hosting community events such as the Water Conservation Showcase, and including the information with links to relevant sources on the City’s website. Include community spotlights to share community members’ success stories and school children’s projects on water saving initiatives. Additionally, create a San Ramon Green Business Program to connect small- and medium-sized San Ramon businesses with technical assistance and incentives for water use reduction (along with commuting, energy, and waste initiatives) and recognize and promote businesses for their green accomplishments.

Public Works Department Phase 3

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Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan 98
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action WW-2f Partner with community-based organizations, DSRSD, and EBMUD to develop and implement the educational campaign.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Measure CS-1 Develop and implement programs to increase nature-based carbon sequestration within the community.

Trees planted (#)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive
Source: Public Works Department
Action CS-1a Continue to protect trees on private property through the City’s Tree Preservation and Protection ordinance and implement enforcement provisions on those who do not comply with the ordinance.

Community Development Department
Phase 1-3
Action CS-1b Conduct a Tree Canopy assessment and Tree Inventory assessment to assess the existing canopy cover in the community, including identifying areas with below average canopy coverage, and assess the tree management practices and systems in the community. Use the assessments to develop an Urban Forest Management Plan to design and implement a tree preservation, maintenance, and planting program with the goal of reinstating and maintaining San Ramon’s status as a Tree City USA. As part of the plan, establish a canopy coverage goal, a goal of having no significant difference in canopy coverage between census blocks in the community, and guidelines for drought- tolerant and fire-resistant trees and water-efficient irrigation methods.

Additionally, based on the Urban Forest Management Plan, Measure C-1’s natural lands carbon stock inventory and strategies, and Measure W-3’s compost application, develop a quantitative nature-based carbon sequestration target to be achieved by 2045.

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action CS-1c In the Urban Forest Management Plan and implementation prioritize tree implementation in areas with populations most at risk to extreme heat impacts (e.g., older adults, children, outdoor workers, individuals with disabilities, transit dependent individuals, and individuals with chronic health conditions).

Public Works Department Phase 2
Action CS-1d Establish a Tree Trust or Tree Endowment that can be used for purchasing trees in selected communities with below average tree canopy coverage and supporting staff resources for the Urban Forest Management Program. Additionally, identify and apply for applicable federal (e.g., USDA) and state (e.g., California ReLeaf, Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program (AHSC), Urban and Community Forestry Program) available grants for Tree Planting projects.

Public Works Department Phase 3

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Packet Pg. 302
Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring
Final Draft Climate Action Plan 99
Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action CS-1e Apply to be a City Tree USA to recognize and promote the City’s urban forest efforts.

Post the Urban Forest Management Plan and an interactive map showing the results of the tree canopy assessment along with areas identified for new tree canopy. Include a description of the climate benefits (e.g., carbon sequestration, urban heat island reduction) and co-benefits of urban trees (e.g., improved air quality, utility bill savings, stormwater management, mental health benefits). Additionally, promote restorative landscaping techniques including mulching, compost application, alley cropping, and prescribed grazing to help the community increase carbon sequestration on private lands, where economically and environmentally feasible.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Action CS-1f Partner with local nurseries, arborists, and nonprofits to conduct community tree planting events on Arbor Day and throughout the year to plant trees and teach community members about tree maintenance. Continue to partner with Alameda County Industries (ACI) of San Ramon to promote and fund tree plantings.

Public Works Department Phase 3
Measure IMP-1 Support the development of programs that educate and engage youths on climate change and envisioning a carbon neutral future.

Youth reached through events (#) 2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: City Manager’s Office
Action IMP-1a Establish a Climate Change Education Working Group focused on convening local and regional climate experts and organizations to develop climate change resources for educators (e.g., example lesson plans) for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District and host regular youth events on climate action.

City Manager’s Office Phase 2
Action IMP-1b Conduct an informal survey of San Ramon Valley Unified School District educators to gauge interest and existing comfort-level with educating students on climate change and equity to inform the Working Group’s efforts and inform the development of support resources/programs for educators.

City Manager’s Office; Parks and Community Services Department Phase 2
Action IMP-1c Incorporate environmental justice and equity (local and global) into the resources and youth events, utilizing existing resources including the California Coastal Commission’s Environmental Justice Resources for Educators and Students.

City Manager’s Office Phase 2
Action IMP-1d Work with BAAQMD the Air District to pursue funding for youth outreach programs such as Safe Routes to Schools and Spare the Air Youth.

City Manager’s Office, Public Works Department
Phase 2

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action IMP-1e Host interactive youth events outside of the classroom focused on helping youth envision a carbon neutral future such as workdays on organic farms practicing carbon farming, a Climate Jobs Fair, and an annual showcase where students can present climate project ideas and implementation to the community and City leaders. Additionally, encourage schools and youth groups to join the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge to empower youth to help their families reduce their emissions through personal choices.

City Manager’s Office, Parks and Community Services Department Phase 2-3
Action IMP-1f Work with local educators, youth leaders, and community-based organizations to develop and implement the resources and youth events.

City Manager’s Office, Parks and Community Services Department Phase 2-3
Measure IMP-2 Support the San Ramon climate action program with appropriate City staffing to implement, evaluate, and update the CAP though regular monitoring and a continued feedback loop with the community.

Community events hosted (#) and biennial reports published (#)2030: Supportive 2045: Supportive Source: City Manager’s Office
Action IMP-2a Create a full-time sustainability position(s) to oversee the implementation of the Climate Action Plan and sustainable initiatives at the City. This staff member(s) would serve as a key organizer for cross-departmental collaboration needed to implement climate action plan goals, the point person for public/community contact, and a key researcher for emerging technologies, sources of funding, and best practices in climate action. Additionally, identify a Sustainability Coordinator from each of the City’s main departments (e.g., City Manager, Community Development, Parks & Community, and Public Works) and applicable divisions to convene in quarterly sustainability peer-to-peer information sharing summits to discuss challenges, brainstorm solutions, and track progress towards reaching the City’s climate and sustainability Key Performance Indicators. Lastly, based on regular monitoring and the continued community feedback loop, update the CAP every four to eight years in alignment with General Plan 2040 Policy 12.9-I-3.

City Manager’s Office Phase 1-3
Action IMP-2b Conduct an annual survey of existing staff interest in leading sustainability initiatives to identify and reward internal champions. Additionally, throughout the CAP implementation, hold regular community events and conduct continued community engagement to inform community members (i.e., residents, businesses, and school children) of the City’s CAP implementation and progress towards the City’s 2030 and 2045 GHG targets; and receive continued feedback on the implementation and future CAP updates.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3

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Measure/ Action ID Measure/Action
Key Performance Indicator and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential/Responsible City Department(s) Key Performance Indicator Source/ Implementation Timeframe Action IMP-2c Host annual workshops to train staff and build internal capacity to prioritize equity in the City’s climate action planning, monitoring, and implementation. Model the workshops around California’s Capitol Collaborative on Race & Equity and include discussion and analysis of San Ramon-specific examples of best practices and lessons learned. Additionally, identify underserved groups in the community to reach via direct outreach during the CAP implementation and update process. Lastly, for all outreach events and educational material related to the CAP, translate the material into the top non-English languages spoken in San Ramon and format the material for accessibility.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action IMP-2d Identify and apply for sustainability staffing assistance through fellowship and internship programs including the Climate Corps Fellowship, Diablo Valley College, and CivicSpark to increase internal staff capacity for climate action and bring in innovative ideas. Additionally, designate staff time and municipal funds to hold regular community events and continue community engagement on the CAP implementation and future CAP updates.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1
Action IMP-2e Encourage and provide funding for City staff to attend and present at local and virtual events, conferences, and trainings dedicated to climate and sustainability topics including building decarbonization, fleet electrification, environmental justice, sustainable food systems, and climate resilience. Structure such efforts around the importance of establishing strong systems to share key findings and institute best practices in internal operations. Additionally, create and regularly update a climate dashboard to display the City’s progress towards 2030 and 2045 targets and progress on CAP implementation.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3
Action IMP-2f Build and maintain partnerships with community-based organizations to partner with on outreach events and community engagement to reach more community members in the implementation and future CAP update process. Maintain an active partnership database internally and list active partners with contact information on the climate dashboard.

City Manager’s Office, Community Development Department, Public Works Department Phase 1-3
MW = megawatts.1 Key Performance Indicators and GHG Emissions Reduction Potential are provided for each Measure. Responsible City Department(s) are provided for each Action. 12 U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables: S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Available at: https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2023.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378. 23 CARB and the CEC summarize and publish vehicle registration data by fuel technology type (e.g., battery electric, fuel cell, gasoline) from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. California Air Resources Board (CARB). EMFAC: Fleet Database. Available at: https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/fleet-db/fe433079e872816b8d48b10c5aa91eaa096986ce. California Energy Commission (CEC). Light-Duty Vehicle Population in California. Available at: https://www.energy.ca.gov/data-reports/energy-almanac/zero-emission-vehicle-and-infrastructurestatistics-collection/light.

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11.2 Ongoing Monitoring, Reporting, and Updating
The City will continue to monitor and re-evaluate progress towards the GHG emissions reduction targets as the CAP actions are implemented. As directed by Measure IMP-2’s actions, the City’s monitoring, reporting, and update processes will be complemented with ongoing community engagement to create a continued community feedback loop. The following subsections outline the City’s commitment to and frequencies for monitoring, reporting, and updating with community engagement.

Community Feedback Loop
Active and continuous engagement with residents, businesses, youth, and other interested parties will empower community members to take meaningful climate action and identify implementation hurdles so the City can create a plan that continuously works for the community. Through regular community events, accessible educational material, and partnerships with community-based organizations, we raise awareness of the CAP’s implementation and the new systems that enable more sustainable choices—such as a new, safe bicycle route that will enable additional community members to choose to bike to work rather than drive. Such events and partnerships will also foster a sense of collective responsibility that empowers active participation in the City's climate action goals.

Yet, one of the most significant benefits of ongoing community engagement is the ability to identify potential hurdles early on—whether they be logistical, financial, or social—that could hinder the effective adoption of climate actions and warrant refinements to the CAP’s implementation. By identifying and addressing these barriers head-on through targeted outreach to underserved groups in the community, broad feedback loops, and collaboration, we can tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of various groups in San Ramon. Such community engagement will inform the development of reach codes and programs included in the CAP and the refinement of actions for future CAP updates. This community feedback loop will be enabled by continued GHG inventory updates, biennial progress reports, and maintenance of the climate dashboard to keep the community informed on the CAP’s implementation.

GHG Inventory Updates
The City will regularly conduct reviews to assess the progress of CAP implementation. San Ramon 2040 General Plan Policy 12.9-I-3 requires biennial tracking and reporting on communitywide GHG emissions as well as updating the GHG emissions inventory and CAP every four to eight years, as needed. Future community GHG emissions inventories will follow the ICLEI Community Protocol and follow the methodologies established in the San Ramon 2019 community GHG emissions inventory to allow changes in GHG emissions to be tracked over time. See Appendix E for the San Ramon 2022 community GHG emissions inventory.

Additionally, the City will regularly update the natural lands carbon stock inventory after its initial completion in Phase 2.

Biennial Reporting and Climate Dashboard
The City will report publicly on its progress implementing the CAP’s measures and actions and its progress towards the GHG emissions reduction targets. Reports will be published no less than every two years and include changes in GHG emissions—as informed by the community GHG emissions inventories—and updates on Key Performance Indicators for each CAP measure.

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The City will also maintain a climate dashboard to display San Ramon’s progress towards the 2030 and 2045 GHG emissions reduction targets (i.e., changes in communitywide GHG emissions) and progress on CAP implementation (i.e., changes in Key Performance Indicators) in a visual and interactive way for the public. The dashboard will also list active community-based organization partnerships and contact information for those organizations.

Future CAP Updates
Because this CAP was developed to achieve the 2030 GHG emissions reduction target and make substantial progress towards the 2045 carbon neutrality target, a future, comprehensive CAP Update will be required to demonstrate full achievement of carbon neutrality. In 2029, It is expected that the City will commence the process to review and update the CAP to meet the 2045 carbon neutrality target. This update will allow the City to adjust the CAP for changes in state regulations and climate science as well as new assumptions about the trajectory of technology advancements, adoption rates, and technology costs. It will also be informed by the community feedback loop.

However, if through the regular monitoring and tracking of the CAP implementation, San Ramon identifies they are not making satisfactory advancements toward their 2030 GHG emissions reduction target before 2029, it may be necessary to revise the CAP ahead of schedule. This update would set new or revised measures and actions designed to increase reduction efforts and maintain the CAP’s status as a CEQA-qualified GHG emissions reduction plan.

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Climate Legislation and Executive Orders

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Climate Legislation and Executive Orders
As the impacts of climate change are being recognized, many strategies that address climate change have emerged at all levels of government. This section provides an overview of the regulatory context at the international, state, and local levels relative to the City of San Ramon’s actions toward reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

International Climate Action Guidance
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992) The primary international regulatory framework for GHG reduction is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Paris Agreement (UNFCCC). The UNFCCC is an international treaty adopted in 1992 with the objective of stabilizing atmospheric GHG concentrations to prevent disruptive anthropogenic climate change. The framework established non-binding limits on global GHG emissions and specified a process for negotiating future international climate-related agreements.59
Kyoto Protocol (1997)
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that was adopted in 1997 to extend and operationalize the UNFCCC. The protocol commits industrialized nations to reduce GHG emissions per countryspecific targets, recognizing that they hold responsibility for existing atmospheric GHG levels. The Kyoto Protocol involves two commitment periods during which emissions reductions are to occur, the first of which took place between 2008-2012 and the second of which has not entered into force.60 The Paris Agreement (2015)
The Paris Agreement is the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate agreement that was adopted in 2015 and has been ratified by 190 countries worldwide.61 The Paris Agreement establishes a roadmap to keep the world under 2° C of warming with a goal of limiting an increase of temperature to 1.5° C. The agreement does not dictate one specific reduction target, instead relying on individual countries to set nationally determined contributions (NDCs) or reductions based on GDP and other factors. According to the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) limiting global warming to 1.5° C will require global emissions be reduced through 2030 and hit carbon neutrality by mid-century.62 The United States (U.S.) recently announced its withdraw from the Paris Agreement, highlighting significant uncertainty regarding its future participation. This decision reflects broader political and administrative shifts that can impact international climate commitments. Despite this withdrawal, the Paris Agreement remains highly influential on both global and domestic levels. Many states, cities, businesses, and non-governmental organizations within the U.S. continue to uphold the agreement’s goals, ensuring its principles guide ongoing climate actions. Furthermore, the framework established 59 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. https://unfccc.int/files/essential_background/background_publications_htmlpdf/application/pdf/conveng.pdf 60 UNFCCC. What is the Kyoto Protocol? https://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol 61 UNFCCC. Paris Agreement - Status of Ratification. https://unfccc.int/process/the-paris-agreement/status-of-ratification 62 IPCC. Global Warming of 1.5 C. https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/

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by the Paris Agreement continues to shape international climate policies and collaborations, maintaining its relevance regardless of changes in U.S. federal participation.

Glasgow Climate Pact (2021)
The Glasgow Climate Pact63 (Pact) was adopted by nearly 200 nations in 2021 and builds on the 2015 Paris Agreement. The Pact includes an agreement to revisit the emissions reduction plans to keep the

1.5°C target achievable and is the first global climate agreement that commits to phasing down the use of unabated coal. Further, the Pact includes a commitment to provide climate finance to developing countries.

California Regulations and State GHG Targets
California remains a global leader in the effort to reduce GHG emissions and combat climate change through its mitigation and adaptation strategies. With the passage of Assembly Bill (AB) 32 in 2006, California became the first state in the United States to mandate GHG emission reductions across its entire economy. To support AB 32, California has enacted legislation, regulations, and executive orders (EO) that put it on course to achieve robust emission reductions and address the impacts of a changing climate. The following is a summary of executive and legislative actions most relevant to the City of San Ramon’s Climate Action Plan (CAP).

Senate Bill 1078 (2002)
In 2002, (Senate Bill) SB 1078 established the California Renewables Portfolio Standards (RPS) Program and was accelerated in 2006 by SB 107, requiring that 20 percent of retail electricity sales be composed of renewable energy sources by 2010. EO S-14-08 was signed in 2008 to further streamline California's renewable energy project approval process and increase the State's RPS to the most aggressive in the nation at 33 percent renewable power by 2020.

Assembly Bill 1493 (2002)
In 2002, the California State Legislature enacted Assembly Bill 1493 (aka “the Pavley Bill”), which directs CARB to adopt standards that will achieve "the maximum feasible and cost-effective reduction of GHG emissions from motor vehicles," considering environmental, social, technological, and economic factors. In September 2009, CARB adopted amendments to the “Pavley” regulations to reduce GHG emissions in new passenger vehicles from 2009 through 2016. The Pavley Bill is considered to be the national model for vehicle emissions standards. In January of 2012, CARB approved a new emissions control program for vehicle model years 2017 through 2025. The program combines the control of smog, soot, and GHGs and the requirement for greater numbers of zero emission vehicles into a single package of standards called Advanced Clean Cars.

Executive Order S-3-05 (2005)
EO S-3-05 was signed in 2005 establishing statewide GHG emissions reduction targets for the years 2020 and 2050. The EO calls for the reduction of GHG emissions in California to 2000 levels by 2010, 1990 levels by 2020, and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. The 2050 emission reductions target would put the State’s emissions in line with the worldwide reductions needed to reach long-term climate stabilization as concluded by the IPCC 2007 Fourth Assessment Report. 63 https://unfccc.int/documents/310475

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Assembly Bill 32 (2006)
California’s major initiative for reducing GHG emissions is outlined in AB 32, the “California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006,” which was signed into law in 2006. AB 32 codifies the statewide goal of reducing GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and requires CARB to prepare a Scoping Plan that outlines the main state strategies for reducing GHG emissions to meet the 2020 deadline. In addition, AB 32 requires CARB to adopt regulations to require reporting and verification of statewide GHG emissions.

Based on this guidance, CARB approved a 1990 statewide GHG baseline and 2020 emissions limit of 427 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MMT CO2e). The Scoping Plan was approved by CARB on December 11, 2008, and included measures to address GHG emission reduction strategies related to energy efficiency, water use, and recycling and solid waste, among other measures. Many of the GHG reduction measures included in the Scoping Plan (e.g., Low Carbon Fuel Standard, Advanced Clean Car standards,64 and Cap-and-Trade) have been adopted since approval of the Scoping Plan.

In May 2014, CARB approved the first update to the AB 32 Scoping Plan. The 2014 Scoping Plan update defined CARB’s climate change priorities for the next five years and set the groundwork to reach post2020 statewide goals. The update highlighted California’s progress toward meeting the “near-term” 2020 GHG emission reduction goals defined in the original Scoping Plan. It also evaluated how to align the State’s longer-term GHG reduction strategies with other State policy priorities, including those for water, waste, natural resources, clean energy, transportation, and land use.

Senate Bill 107 (2006)
SB 107 builds on SB 1078 and requires investor-owned utilities, energy service providers, and Community Choice Aggregations to procure an additional 1 percent of retail sales per year from eligible renewable sources until 20 percent is reached, no later than 2010. The California Public Utilities Commission and California Energy Commission are jointly responsible for implementing the program.

Executive Order S-1-07 (2007)
Also known as the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, EO S-1-07, issued in 2007, established a statewide goal that requires transportation fuel providers to reduce the carbon intensity of California’s transportation fuels by at least 10 percent by 2020. EO S-1-07 was readopted and amended in 2015 to require a 20 percent reduction in carbon intensity by 2030, the most stringent requirement in the nation. The new requirement aligns with California’s overall 2030 target of reducing climate changing emissions 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030, which was set by SB 32 and signed by the governor in 2016.
64 On September 19, 2019 the National Highway Traffic Safety Agency (NHTSA) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final action entitled the One National Program on Federal Preemption of State Fuel Economy Standards Rule. This action finalizes Part I of the Safer, Affordable, Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule. This rule states that federal law preempts State and local tailpipe greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards as well as zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates. The SAFE Rule withdraws the Clean Air Act waiver it granted to California in January 2013 as it relates to California’s GHG and zero emission vehicle programs.

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Senate Bill 97 (2007)
Signed in August 2007, SB 97 acknowledges that climate change is an environmental issue that requires analysis in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents. In March 2010, the California Natural Resources Agency adopted amendments to the State CEQA Guidelines for the feasible mitigation of GHG emissions or the effects of GHG emissions. The adopted guidelines give lead agencies the discretion to set quantitative or qualitative thresholds for the assessment and mitigation of GHG and climate change impacts.

Senate Bill 375 (2008)
SB 375, signed in August 2008, enhances the State’s ability to reach AB 32 goals by directing CARB to develop regional GHG emission reduction targets to be achieved from passenger vehicles by 2020 and 2035. In addition, SB 375 directs each of the State’s 18 major Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) to prepare a “sustainable communities strategy” (SCS) that contains a growth strategy to meet these emission targets for inclusion in the MPO’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).

Executive Order S-14-08 (2008)
EO S-14-08 was issued in 2008 and sets a statewide target of 33 percent renewable energy use by 2020.

California Green Building Code (2009)
The California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) is Part 11 of the California Building Standards Code or Title 24 and is the first statewide “green” building code in the nation. The purpose of CALGreen is to improve public health, safety, and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings. Enhancements include reduced negative impact designs, positive environmental impact designs, and encouragement of sustainable construction practices. The first CALGreen Code was adopted in 2009 and has been updated in 2013, 2016, and 2019. The CALGreen Code will have subsequent, and continually more stringent, updates every three years.

Senate Bill X7-7 (2009)
In 2009, SB X7-7, also known as the Water Conservation Act, was signed, requiring all water suppliers to increase water use efficiency. This legislation sets an overall goal of reducing per capita urban water use by 20 percent by 2020.

Senate Bill 2X (2011)
In 2011, SB 2X was signed, requiring California energy providers to buy (or generate) 33 percent of their electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020.

Assembly Bill 341 (2012)
AB 341 directed the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to develop and adopt regulations for mandatory commercial recycling. As of July 2012, businesses were required to recycle, and jurisdictions had to implement a program that includes education, outreach, and monitoring. AB 341 also set a statewide goal of 75 percent waste diversion by the year 2020.

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Assembly Bill 32 Scoping Plan Update (2014)
In 2014, CARB approved the first update to the Scoping Plan. This update defines CARB’s climate change priorities and sets the groundwork to reach the post-2020 targets set forth in EO S-3-05. The update highlights California’s progress toward meeting the near-term 2020 GHG emissions reduction target, defined in the original Scoping Plan. It also evaluates how to align California’s longer-term GHG reduction strategies with other statewide policy priorities, such as water, waste, natural resources, clean energy, transportation, and land use.

Assembly Bill 1826 (2014)
AB 1826 was signed in 2014 to increase the recycling of organic material. GHG emissions produced by the decomposition of these materials in landfills were identified as a significant source of emissions contributing to climate change. Therefore, reducing organic waste and increasing composting and mulching are goals set out by the AB 32 Scoping Plan. AB 1826 specifically requires jurisdictions to establish organic waste recycling programs by 2016, and phases in mandatory commercial organic waste recycling over time.

Senate Bill 350 (2015)
SB 350, the Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act of 2015, has two objectives: to increase the procurement of electricity from renewable sources from 33 percent to 50 percent by 2030 and to double the energy efficiency of electricity and natural gas end users through energy efficiency and conservation.

Executive Order B-30-15 (2015)
In 2015, EO B-30-15 was signed, establishing an interim GHG emissions reduction target to reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. The EO also calls for another update to the CARB Scoping Plan.

Senate Bill 32 (2016)
On September 8, 2016, the governor signed SB 32 into law, extending AB 32 by requiring the State to further reduce GHGs to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (the other provisions of AB 32 remain unchanged). The bill charges CARB to adopt the regulation so that the maximum technologically feasible emissions reductions are achieved in the most cost-effective way.

Senate Bill 1383 (2016)
Adopted in September 2016, SB 1383 requires CARB to approve and begin implementing a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants. The bill requires the strategy to achieve the following reduction targets by 2030:
 Methane – 40 percent below 2013 levels
 Hydrofluorocarbons – 40 percent below 2013 levels
 Anthropogenic black carbon – 50 percent below 2013 levels SB 1383 also requires CalRecycle, in consultation with the CARB, to adopt regulations that achieve specified targets for reducing organic waste in landfills. The bill further requires 20 percent of edible food disposed of at the time to be recovered by 2025.

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Scoping Plan Update (2017)
On December 14, 2017, CARB adopted the 2017 Scoping Plan, which provides a framework for achieving the 2030 goal set by SB 32. The 2017 Scoping Plan relies on the continuation and expansion of existing policies and regulations, such as the Cap-and-Trade Program, as well as implementation of recently adopted policies, such as SB 350 and SB 1383 .

The 2017 Scoping Plan also puts an increased emphasis on innovation, adoption of existing technology, and strategic investment to support its strategies. As with the 2014 Scoping Plan Update, the 2017 Scoping Plan does not provide project-level thresholds for land use development. Instead, it recommends that local governments adopt policies and locally appropriate quantitative thresholds consistent with statewide per capita goals of six metric tons (MT) CO2e by 2030 and two MT CO2e by 2050. As stated in the 2017 Scoping Plan, these goals may be appropriate for plan-level analyses (city, county, subregional, or regional level), but not for specific individual projects because they include all emissions sectors in the State (CARB 2017).

Senate Bill 100 (2018)
Adopted on September 10, 2018, SB 100 supports the reduction of GHG emissions from the electricity sector by accelerating the state’s RSP Program, which was last updated by SB 350 in 2015. SB 100 requires electricity providers to increase procurement from eligible renewable energy resources to 33 percent of total retail sales by 2020, 60 percent by 2030, and 100 percent by 2045.

Executive Order B-55-18 (2018)
On September 10, 2018, the governor issued Executive Order B-55-18, which established a new statewide goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 and maintaining net negative emissions thereafter. This goal is in addition to the existing statewide GHG reduction targets established by SB 375, SB 32, SB 1383, and SB 100.

Executive Order N-79-20 (2020)
In September 2020, EO N-79-20 requires that, by 2035, all new cars and passenger trucks sold in California be zero-emission vehicles. EO N-79-20 also requires that 100 percent of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in the State be zero-emission by 2045 for all operations where feasible and by 2035 for drayage trucks and notes that the State shall transition to 100 percent zero-emission offroad vehicles and equipment by 2035, where feasible.

Executive Order N-79-20 (2020)
On September 23, 2020, the governor issued EO N-79-20, which sets new statewide goals for phasing out gasoline-powered cars and trucks in California, which is applicable to state agencies. The EO requires 100% of in-state sales of new passenger cars and trucks to be zero-emission by 2035; 100% of in-state sales of medium- and heavy-duty trucks and busses to be zero-emission by 2045, where feasible; and 100% of off-road vehicles and equipment sales to be zero-emission by 2035, where feasible.

Senate Bill 27 (2021)
Adopted on September 23, 2021, SB 27 requires the state Natural Resources Agency to establish carbon sequestration goals for natural and working lands by July 2023. SB 27 also requires the Natural Resources Agency to create a registry of projects for public and private investment and track the

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carbon benefits of each project. The projects that would be part of this program may not generate compliance offsets under California’s Cap-and-Trade program. Additionally, as part of the next Scoping Plan Update, CARB is required to establish specific CO2 removal targets starting in 2030.

Senate Bill 379 (2022)
Adopted September 16, 2022, SB 379 requires cities and counties to implement an online, automated permitting platform to verify solar installation code compliance and issue permits in real time for residential solar energy systems no larger than 38.4 kilowatt hours.

Senate Bill 1020 (2022)
Adopted September 16, 2022, SB 1020 expedites the previous goals established by SB 100, by establishing a clean electricity goal for end-use customers of 90% by 2035, and 95% by 2040.

Additionally, SB 1020 requires 100% of all electricity procured to serve all state agencies to be clean energy by December 31, 2035.

Senate Bill 1063 (2022)
Adopted September 16, 2022, SB 1063 creates appliance efficiency standards set by the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission, which may now take effect sooner than one year after their adoption/revision. SB 1063 builds on Title 20 efficiency standards enforced through the California Energy Commission and first adopted in 1977.

Assembly Bill 1909 (2022)
Adopted September 16, 2022, AB 1909 removes prohibition of operating motorized electric bicycles or Class 3 bikes on bicycle paths or trails, bikeways, or bicycle lanes. However, the bill also includes an exemption for the Department of Parks and Recreation, which may prohibit these classes of bicycles on any bicycle path or trail within the department’s jurisdiction, where appropriate.

Assembly Bill 1857 (2022)
Adopted September 16, 2022, AB 1857 amends various sections of the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, which required jurisdictions to divert 50% of solid waste through source reduction, recycling, and composting activities, with no more than 10% through transformation. AB 1857 repeals the provision that jurisdictions may divert 10% through transformation (e.g., incineration). Additionally, AB 1857 requires the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery to establish the Zero-Waste Equity Grant Program to support targeted strategies and investments in communities transitioning to zero-waste circular economies.

Assembly Bill 1985 (2022)
Adopted September 16, 2022, AB 1985 establishes penalties applied to jurisdictions for not meeting SB 1383 requirements. Penalty will be based on the percentage of the target the jurisdiction was able to achieve.

Assembly Bill 1279 (2022)
In September 2022, AB 1279 (e.g., the California Climate Crisis Act) was approved, which established a legally binding requirement for California to achieve and maintain carbon neutrality no later than 2045. Assembly Bill 1279 also established the requirement to achieve a Statewide reduction in GHG

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emissions of 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2045. This indicates that the remaining 15 percent to achieve carbon neutrality can be achieved via carbon sequestration and other non-direct-GHGemissions-reductions techniques. 2022 Scoping Plan Update (2022)
In response to the passage of AB 1279 and the identification of the 2045 GHG reduction target, CARB adopted the Final 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan in November 2022. The 2022 Update builds upon the framework established by the 2008 Climate Change Scoping Plan and previous updates while identifying new, technologically feasible, cost-effective, and equity-focused paths to achieve California’s climate goals. The 2022 Update includes policies to achieve a significant reduction in fossil fuel combustion, further reductions in short-lived climate pollutants, support for sustainable development, increased action in natural working lands to reduce emissions and sequester carbon, and the capture and storage of carbon. The 2022 Update assesses the progress California is making toward reducing its GHG emissions by at least 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030, as called for in SB 32 and laid out in the 2017 Scoping Plan, addresses recent legislation and direction from Governor Newsom, extends and expands upon these earlier plans, and implements a goal of reducing anthropogenic emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2045, as well as taking an additional step of adding carbon neutrality as a science-based guide for California’s climate work.65 Advanced Clean Cars II (2022)
By 2035 all new passenger cars, trucks and SUVs sold in California will be zero emission vehicles. The Advanced Clean Cars II regulations take the state’s already growing zero-emission vehicle market and robust motor vehicle emission control rules and augments them to meet more aggressive tailpipe emissions standards and ramp up to 100% zero-emission vehicles.

Senate Bill 1020 (2022)
SB 1020, also known as the Clean Energy, Jobs, and Affordability Act of 2022, would build off of existing laws and require that eligible renewable energy resources and zero-carbon resources supply 90% of all retail sales of electricity to California end-use customers by December 31, 2035, 95% of all retail sales of electricity to California end-use customers by December 31, 2040, 100% of all retail sales of electricity to California end-use customers by December 31, 2045, and 100% of electricity procured to serve all state agencies by December 31, 2035, as specified.

City of San Ramon Sustainability Plans and Policies
The City of San Ramon has established initiatives related to increasing adaptive capacity and reducing GHG emissions and the potential impacts of climate change. These initiatives are primarily detailed in the General Plan – Open Space and Conservation Element, San Ramon Green Infrastructure Plan, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, San Ramon Capital Improvement Program, San Ramon Bicycle Master Plan, and San Ramon Walking District Master Plan, each of which is discussed in detail below. 65 CARB. 2022. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2022-12/2022-sp.pdf (accessed November 2023)

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San Ramon Climate Action Plan (2011)
The City of San Ramon’s 2011 Climate Action Plan (CAP) was the first CAP adopted by the City to address climate change locally and comply with the greenhouse gas reduction targets associated with AB 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. The CAP strategy is primarily based upon the land use, transportation, and conservation policies that are part of the General Plan 2030. The CAP demonstrates that through land use planning/density choices, reduction in vehicle miles traveled, and energy conservation measures such as increased energy efficiency for buildings, more efficient water use and recycling programs, the City can do its proportionate share to align with the State’s greenhouse gas reduction goals. In this CAP, the City establishes its own emission reduction target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15 percent below 2008 levels by 2020, consistent with the State’s goals established in AB 32. San Ramon achieved the 2011 CAP’s greenhouse gas reduction target by 2019, achieving a 15 percent emissions reduction below 2008 levels primarily due to the community’s switch from Pacific Gas and Electric’s high-emissions intensity electricity to Marin Clean Energy’s low-emissions intensity electricity.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory (2014)
The City of San Ramon updated the 2012 GHG emissions inventory (2012 Inventory). Establishing a consistent methodology and accurate baseline emissions inventory provides the City with an opportunity to track the success of their sustainability and climate action efforts and establish a pathway to reduce GHG emissions in accordance with the City’s and state’s goals. The analysis for San Ramon indicates that the majority of GHG generation is associated with Motor Vehicles (57%) and Energy Use (28% electricity and gas) and has directly influenced the policy focus of the CAP.

General Plan – Open Space and Conservation Element (2015) The City adopted a General Plan in 2015, which includes 12 chapters. Chapter 8, the Open Space and Conservation Element,66 encourages rural conservation through compatible development that preserves natural features, sensitive habitats, and natural resources. This chapter was developed to guide the preservation of San Ramon’s cherished open space resources, including its hills, ridges, creeks, and canyons, which are valued for their aesthetic, environmental, and recreational importance. The chapter outlines goals for protecting natural habitats, agricultural lands, and water quality while fostering rural conservation through compatible development. As outlined in the Open Space Element, careful land use planning is essential to achieving these goals. In accordance with Measure G, this chapter includes an open space action plan that prioritizes land acquisition, strengthens partnerships with agencies, secures funding, and establishes preservation priorities.

Additionally, this element emphasizes the preservation of water quality, archaeological, paleontological, and historic resources as integral to San Ramon’s environmental and cultural heritage.
66 San Ramon, City of. 2015. Open Space and Conservation Element of the General Plan (Chapter 8). (accessed December 2024) https://cdnsm5-
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City of San Ramon Bicycle Master Plan (2018)
The San Ramon Bicycle Master Plan67 outlines a vision for creating a safe, accessible, and connected bicycle network tailored to all ages and abilities. Building on an extensive existing network, including the regional Iron Horse Trail, the plan aims to address gaps and challenges to make biking a viable mode of transportation and recreation. It incorporates recommendations for infrastructure, programs, and policy improvements, focusing on lower-stress routes, enhanced safety, east-west connectivity, and integration of off-street and on-street bikeways. The plan details existing conditions, proposed networks, infrastructure enhancements, and implementation strategies. Despite challenges such as disconnected streets and high-speed arterials, San Ramon is well-positioned to improve its network by prioritizing protective bike lanes, conflict-area enhancements, and uniform wayfinding.

With a vision to encourage biking as a safe, convenient, and healthy alternative to driving, the plan reflects a collaborative effort to transform San Ramon into a model for suburban bicycling.

City of San Ramon Walking District Plan (2018)
The Walking District Plan68 outlines a vision for a pedestrian-centric City Core in San Ramon, inspired by a grassroots movement advocating for walkability and connectivity. Initially championed by local residents, this vision was adopted as a City Council priority in the 2019-2020 fiscal year. The Plan seeks to create a cohesive, pedestrian-friendly environment in the City Core, encompassing the area between Bollinger Canyon Road, Crow Canyon Road, Alcosta Boulevard, and the freeway. This Plan provides a comprehensive approach to improving infrastructure, leveraging both public and private developments to enhance accessibility and connectivity. By prioritizing walkability, the Plan aims to improve quality of life, foster a sense of place, and attract residents seeking a walking lifestyle. Key community destinations within the City Core include Central Park, City Center, the Iron Horse Trail, Bishop Ranch, dining and retail areas, and public amenities like the library, transit center, and schools.

By enhancing connections between these destinations, the Walking District aims to transform San Ramon’s City Core into an engaging, accessible, and vibrant pedestrian hub.

San Ramon Green Infrastructure Plan (2019)
The City’s Green Infrastructure Plan69 was developed to meet the requirements of the California Regional Water Quality Control Board for the San Francisco Bay Region’s (RWQCB’s) Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit (MRP), which mandates implementation of a comprehensive program of stormwater control measures and actions designed to limit contributions of urban runoff pollutants to San Francisco Bay. Specifically, MRP Provision C.3.j.i. requires the City to prepare a Green Infrastructure Plan. For the purposes of the plan, Green Infrastructure (GI) refers to the construction and retrofit of storm drainage to reduce runoff volumes, disperse runoff to vegetated areas, harvest and use runoff where feasible, promote infiltration and evapotranspiration, and use bioretention and other natural systems to detain and treat runoff before it reaches our creeks and Bay. As outlined under the Plan’s Objective and Vision, the Plan will guide a shift from conventional “collect and convey” storm drain infrastructure to more resilient, sustainable stormwater management systems that reduce runoff volumes, disperse runoff to vegetated areas, harvest and use runoff where 67 San Ramon, City of. April 2018. City of San Ramon Bicycle Master Plan. https://cdnsm5- hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10826046/File/Shared%20Documents/Transportation%20Documents/Fianl%20BMP.pdf 68 San Ramon, City of. January 2022. San Ramon Walking District Plan. https://cdnsm5- hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_10826046/File/Our%20City/Departments/Parks%20&%20Comm%20Srvs/Walking%20Distr ict/Walking%20District%20Master%20Plan%20including%20Errata.pdf. 69 San Ramon, City of. August 2019. City of San Ramon Green Infrastructure Plan. (accessed December 2024) https://cccleanwater.org/wpcontent/uploads/2024/04/GreenInfrastructurePlan-SanRamon.pdf

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feasible, promote infiltration and evapotranspiration, and use natural processes to detain and treat runoff.

San Ramon Capital Improvement Program (2024/25 – 2028/29) (2024) As outlined in the Capital Improvement Plan,70 it is a multi-year planning tool used to identify and implement the City’s capital needs over the upcoming five-year period. The CIP aligns the needs with appropriate funding, scheduling, and implementation. This document is a working blueprint for building and sustaining publicly funded physical infrastructure. Capital improvements refer to physical assets and include the design, purchase, construction, maintenance, or improvement of public resources (i.e. parks public infrastructure, equipment, public spaces). These improvements influence San Ramon’s built and natural environment and help guide the trajectory of future growth or change. 70 City of, San Ramon. June 25, 2024. San Ramon Capital Improvement Program (2024/25 – 2028/29). (accessed December 2024) https://cdnsm5-
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2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory

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2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory
Rincon Consultants, Inc. (Rincon) completed the 2019 community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory for the City of San Ramon (City). This community GHG emissions inventory serves as both 1) a progress update since the San Ramon 2011 Climate Action Plan (CAP) for tracking GHG emissions generated within the community and 2) an interim year for which a GHG emissions forecast and GHG reduction target aligning with Senate Bill 32 (SB 32) will be developed as part of the San Ramon CAP.

This community GHG emissions inventory was developed based on the Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) United States Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Community Protocol).71 This protocol identifies specific principles that serve to guide the measurement and reporting of GHG emissions related to relevance, completeness, consistency, transparency, and accuracy. The following memorandum provides a summary of the results of the San Ramon 2019 community GHG emissions inventory.

Prior to completion of this 2019 community GHG emissions inventory, Rincon completed a 2019 GHG Inventory Data Evaluation and Methodology Memorandum, dated February 7, 2022. This data evaluation provides a guide for the GHG emissions accounting of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory and intends to demonstrate a replicable pathway for future GHG emissions inventory analyses, including detailed documentation of the following:
 City-specific data used for GHG emissions calculation,  Review of data completeness,
 Community Protocol calculation methodologies used to calculate GHG emissions,  Geographical scope of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory,  Demonstration of alignment of GHG emissions reporting in the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory with California Air Resources Board’s 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan, and  Indication of where GHG emissions calculation methodologies and reporting of GHG emissions sources differs from those provided in the 2008, 2010, and 2014 GHG emissions inventories.

This GHG emissions inventory calculates the GHG emissions generated by the community in 2019 and acts as a mechanism to track progress with mitigating GHG emissions. The City completed a baseline GHG inventory using 2008 community data and completed subsequent community GHG emissions inventories for the years 2010 and 2014.

Since completing the previous GHG inventories, GHG emissions accounting best practices have evolved to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the GHG emissions sources that are influenced by activities in the City. This 2019 community GHG emissions inventory has been developed to reflect current best practices in GHG emissions accounting, and as such, the 2008, 2010, and 2014 community GHG emissions inventories include slightly different data sources and calculation methodologies that impact the direct comparability of the community emissions totals.

Any differences in reported GHG emissions sources and calculation methodologies in the 2019 GHG emissions inventory as compared to previous inventories are indicated in the 2019 GHG Inventory Data Evaluation and Methodology Memorandum. We understand that the City intends to update the previous inventories as part of the CAP to include the current best practices that guide development of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. These updates should align all of the City’s 71 ICLEI. July 2019. U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emission.

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inventories making them directly comparable so that tracking progress with GHG emissions mitigation in relation to the GHG reduction targets established in the San Ramon 2011 CAP can be done. The recommended updates for the 2008, 2010, and 2014 GHG inventories are detailed in Previous GHG Inventory Consistency and Analysis Approach Review Memorandum, dated January 10, 2022. 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Overview
The results of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory demonstrate the relative scale of GHG emissions generated by sources directly and indirectly influenced by activities occurring within the City of San Ramon’s City Limits boundary.72 These GHG emission sources have been categorized into emission sectors that align with those used in the San Ramon 2008, 2010, and 2014 GHG inventories,73 including:
 Natural Gas (residential, commercial, and transmission and distribution losses),  Electricity (residential, commercial, transmission and distribution losses, water transport, wastewater conveyance and treatment),
 On-road Motor Vehicles,
 Off-road Equipment,
 Waste, and
 Wastewater Treatment Processes.

The Community Protocol states that local governments should assess emissions of all six internationally recognized GHGs. These gases are outlined in Table 1 below, which also includes their sources and global warming potential (GWP).74 This inventory incorporates the 100-year GWP values published in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).75 The GWP refers to the ability of each gas to trap heat in the atmosphere. For example, one pound of methane has approximately 25 times more heat capturing potential than one pound of carbon dioxide. This report focuses on the three GHGs most relevant to local government policymaking: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases comprise a large majority of GHG emissions at the municipal and community level. The other gases such as hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluorides are emitted primarily in private sector manufacturing and electricity transmission and are the subject of regulation at the state level and therefore, have been omitted from this inventory. When dealing with an array of emissions, the gases are converted to their carbon dioxide equivalents for comparison purposes. In this memorandum, GHG emissions are reported in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e) units.
72 The City Limits boundary is specifically identified here to indicate that the 2019 GHG emissions inventory encompasses the geographical scope for which the City of San Ramon can make land use decisions and set policies to effectively reduce community-wide GHG emissions. 73 The 2011 Climate Action Plan GHG emissions accounting included High-Global Warming Potential Ozone Depleting Substance Substitutes, which are not included in the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. The 2019 community GHG emissions inventory also includes the addition of natural gas transmission and distribution losses and wastewater treatment processes emissions sources, which were not accounted for in the 2011 Climate Action Plan. See Attachment B for details on the inclusions/exclusion of these emissions sources based on current best practices.
74 The IPCC 4th Assessment report outlines GWP’s that CARB uses in their GHG inventory reporting. 75 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Fourth Assessment Report AR4, Chapter 2 Changes in Atmospheric Constituents and in Radiative Forcing. 2007. Available: <https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ar4-wg1-chapter2-1.pdf>. Accessed March 17, 2022.

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Table 1 Summary of Greenhouse Gas Emission
Greenhouse Gas Formula Primary Source(s) GWP (CO2e)
Carbon Dioxide CO2 Fuel combustion 1
Methane CH4 Fuel combustion, anaerobic decomposition of organic waste (landfills, wastewater treatment plants), fuel handling 25 Nitrous Oxide N2O Combustion and wastewater treatment 298 Hydrofluorocarbons Various Leaking refrigerants and fire suppressants 124 – 14,800 Perfluorocarbons Various Aluminum production, semiconductor manufacturing, HVAC equipment manufacturing
7,390 – 12,200
Sulfur Hexafluoride SF6 Transmission and distribution of power 22,800 GWP= global warming potential; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalent Source: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Fourth Assessment Report AR4, Chapter 2 Changes in Atmospheric Constituents and in Radiative Forcing. 2007. Available: <https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ar4-wg1-chapter2-1.pdf>.

Accessed March 17, 2022.
2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results
Summary
In 2019, San Ramon generated approximately 437,784 MT CO2e from community activities. On-road motor vehicles were the largest sources of GHG emissions within San Ramon, generating approximately 52% of total community GHG emissions. Natural gas was the second largest GHG emission source, generating approximately 27% of total community GHG emissions. Electricity consumption contributing only 10% of total community GHG emissions, with a significant proportion of San Ramon’s electricity consumption being generated by renewable sources through participation in MCE.76 Off-road equipment contributed 8% of total GHG emissions, while waste and wastewater treatment process represented the smallest GHG emissions sources at 3% and 1%, respectively. Table 2 and Figure 1 provide a summary of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory results by GHG emission sector.

Table 2 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector GHG Emissions Sector
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of
GHG Emissions Totals
On-road Motor Vehicles 226,484 52%
Natural Gas (residential, commercial, and transmission and distribution losses)
117,360 27%
Electricity (residential, commercial, transmission and distribution losses, water transport, wastewater conveyance and treatment)
42,031 10%
Off-road Equipment 33,415 8%
Waste 14,931 3%
Wastewater Treatment Processes 3,562 1%
Total 437,784 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Totals may not add due to rounding.
76 The City of San Ramon joined Marin Clean Energy in 2018, at which point electricity customers in the were automatically enrolled in the “Light Green” rate product, providing 50 precent renewable energy. As of 2019, the “Light Green” rate product had increased its renewable mix of electricity to 60 percent.

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Figure 1 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector On-road Motor Vehicles Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The on-road motor vehicle GHG emissions sector was the highest contributor to total GHG emissions in 2019, generating 226,484 MT CO2e. This GHG emission sector includes gasoline and diesel fuel combustion as part of operation of passenger and commercial on-road vehicles and buses, with calculation of GHG emissions based on vehicle miles traveled. GHG emissions from electricity used to fuel passenger and bus electric vehicles was also included as part of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. A breakdown of the contribution of passenger and commercial vehicles as well as buses to total motor vehicle GHG emissions is provided in Figure 2 and Table 3.

Table 3 2019 On-road Motor Vehicle Sector GHG Emissions Results GHG Emissions Source GHG Emissions (MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Passenger On-road Vehicles 170,946 75%
Commercial On-road Vehicles 53,471 24%
On-road Buses 1,848 1%
Electricity Used for Electric Vehicle Charging1 220 <1% Sector Total 226,484 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 Electricity Used for Electric Vehicle Charging includes electricity use for passenger electric vehicle and electric bus charging. There were no commercial electric vehicles in 2019.

On-road Motor
Vehicles, 52%
Natural Gas,
27%
Off-road
Equipment, 8%
Electricity, 10%
Waste, 3% Wastewater,
1%

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Figure 2 2019 Motor Vehicle Sector GHG Emissions Results Natural Gas Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The natural gas sector was the second largest contributor to total community GHG emissions in 2019, generating 117,360 MT CO2e. This sector includes GHG emissions from the combustion of natural gas in residential and commercial land uses and fugitive methane emissions from natural gas transmission and distribution losses. A breakdown of the contributions of each natural gas GHG emission source to the total natural gas sector GHG emissions is provided in Table 4 and Figure 3.

Table 4 2019 Natural Gas Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Residential Natural Gas Combustion 65,934 56%
Commercial Natural Gas Combustion 31,442 27%
Fugitive Methane from Transmission and Distribution Losses 19,984 17% Sector Total 117,360 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.

Passenger Onroad Vehicles
75%
Commercial Onroad Vehicles
24%
On-road Buses
1%
Electricity Used for
Electric Vehicle
Charging
<1%

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Figure 311 2019 Natural Gas Sector GHG Emissions Results Electricity Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The electricity sector was the third largest contributor to total community GHG emissions in 2019, generating 42,031 MT CO2e. This sector includes GHG emissions from the generation of electricity consumed by activities within San Ramon, with GHG emissions influenced by the amount of renewable energy in San Ramon’s electricity mix. In 2019, there were four electricity sources for residents and businesses of San Ramon, including:
 Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) standard rate product,  MCE Deep Green 100% renewable energy rate product,
 MCE Light Green 60% renewable energy rate product, and  Direct Access energy from the regional grid.

GHG emissions in the electricity sector include electricity consumption at end uses in residential and commercial buildings, transmission and distribution losses from direct electricity consumption, the energy required to treat and distribute potable and recycled water delivered to the City, and the energy required to collect and treat wastewater generated by residents and business in the City.77 The residential and commercial electricity consumption were adjusted to exclude electricity used to charge electric vehicles (i.e., passenger electric vehicles and electric buses). This adjusted avoids double counting with the on-road motor vehicle sector. A breakdown of the GHG emissions contribution of each these electricity-related GHG emission sources is provided in Table 5 and Figure 4.
77 Electricity used to for water treatment and delivery, and wastewater collection and treatment generally occur outside of San Ramon and are considered to be indirect GHG emissions; however, activities that occur within San Ramon that can be influenced by local policies are the driver of these electricity related GHG emissions.

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Table 5 2019 Electricity Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Residential Electricity 17,733 42%
PG&E Standard Rate Product1 121 <1%
MCE Light Green Rate Product1 17,611 42%
MCE Deep Green Rate Product1 0 0%
Commercial Electricity 22,187 53%
PG&E Standard Rate Product2 514 1%
MCE Light Green Rate Product 8,916 21%
MCE Deep Green Rate Product 0 0%
Direct Access 12,758 30%
Transmission and Distribution Losses 2,047 5%
Water Treatment and Distribution 48 <1%
Potable Water 37 <1%
Recycled Water 12 <1%
Wastewater Collection and Treatment 15 <1%
Sector Total 42,031 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent; PG&E = Pacific Gas and Electric; MCE = Marin Clean Energy.

Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 PG&E, MCE Light Green, and MCE Deep Green electricity consumption data and resulting emissions were adjusted to exclude electricity from the charging of passenger electric vehicles to avoid double counting. These emissions are instead included in the onroad motor vehicles sector. 2 PG&E electricity consumption data and resulting emissions were adjusted to exclude electricity from the charging of electric buses to avoid double counting. These emissions are instead included in the on-road motor vehicles sector.

Figure 412 2019 Electricity Sector GHG Emissions Results Residential
Electricity
42%
Commercial
Electricity
53%
Transmission and
Distribution
Losses
5%
Water Treatment
and Distribution
<1%
Wastewater
Collection and
Treatment
<1%

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Off-road Equipment Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The off-road sector contributed 33,415 MT CO2e to community GHG emissions totals in 2019 that included the combustion of diesel, gasoline, and natura gas/liquified petroleum gas in distinct types of commercial and personal off-road equipment that may operate in the City. A breakdown of the contributions of each fuel type to the total off-road sector GHG emissions is provided in Table 6 and Figure 5.

Table 6 2019 Off-road Equipment Sector GHG Emissions Results GHG Emissions Source
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Gasoline Fuel Combustion 10,056 56%
Diesel Fuel Combustion 21,811 27%
Natural Gas/Liquefied Petroleum Gas Fuel Combustion 1,548 17% Sector Total 33,415 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.

Figure 5 2019 Off-road Equipment Sector GHG Emissions Results Waste Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The waste sector contributed 14,931 MT CO2e to community GHG emissions totals in 2019. GHG emissions in this sector include methane generated from the decay of waste disposed of in landfills and process emissions associated with the landfilling of waste. The methane emissions presented here represent the “methane commitment” of waste that was generated by the community in the year 2019, meaning that these emissions will not occur directly during the year 2019 but will instead occur over decades as a result of waste disposal totals in the inventory year. Additionally, the majority of waste generated by the City was sent to landfills that have landfill gas capture systems in place, significantly reducing the methane emissions impact of disposed waste. A breakdown of the contributions of methane emissions from disposed waste and landfilling process GHG emissions is provided in Table 7 and Figure 6.

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Table 7 2019 Waste Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Solid Waste and ADC Sent to landfills with LFG Capture1 14,203 95% Solid Waste and ADC Sent to landfills without LFG Capture 38 <1% Landfilling Process Emissions 691 5%
Sector Total 14,931 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent; ADC = alternative daily cover; LFG = landfill gas.

Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 GHG emissions from solid waste and ADC sent to landfills with LFG capture accounts for the GHG emissions that are not captured through LFG capture systems and as such are released to the atmosphere.

Figure 6 2019 Waste Sector GHG Emissions Results
Wastewater Treatment Processes Sector GHG Emissions
Breakdown
The wastewater treatment processes sector contributed 3,562 MT CO2e to community GHG emissions totals in 2019. GHG emissions in this sector are generated from the treatment of wastewater at the regional wastewater treatment facilities operated by Central Contra Costa Sanitary District and the Dublin San Ramon Services District.78 Calculation of GHG emissions for these GHG emissions sources are population based and specific to the processes that occur at each of these facilities. The Central Contra Costa Sanitary District serves a larger portion of the City than the Dublin San Ramon Services District, at 84 percent and 16 percent of the total City population served, respectively. A breakdown of the attribution of GHG emissions to San Ramon in 2019 from each of the facilities that serve the San Ramon is provided in Table 8 and Figure 7.
78 Electricity required for the treatment of wastewater is accounted for separately under the electricity GHG emissions sector.

Solid Waste and
ADC Sent to
landfills with LFG
Capture1
95%
Solid Waste and
ADC Sent to
landfills without
LFG Capture
<1%
Landfilling Process
Emissions
5%

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Table 8 2019 Wastewater Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Facility 3,327 93% Natural Gas Combustion in Treatment Processes 2,912 82% Other Wastewater Treatment Processes 414 12%
Dublin San Ramon Services District Facility 235 7%
Digester Gas Combustion 1 <1%
Other Wastewater Treatment Processes 234 7%
Sector Total 3,562 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.

Figure 713 2019 Wastewater Sector GHG Emissions Results Conclusion
The San Ramon 2019 community GHG emissions inventory presented within this memorandum provides an assessment of recent conditions in San Ramon to inform development of the CAP and setting of updated GHG emissions reduction targets to align with SB 32. While the intent of an inventory update, such as this, is to monitor progress in reducing GHG emissions generated by San Ramon over time, the current 2019 inventory also utilizes current best practices that are not reflected in the previous GHG emissions inventories conducted by the City for the years 2008, 2010, and 2014.

We understand that the City’s intends to update the previous GHG emissions inventories to match the protocols and methods utilized in the 2019 GHG emissions inventory during development of the CAP to allow detailed progress tracking since adoption of the San Ramon 2011 CAP. Upon completion of updating the previous GHG emissions inventories, the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory would 1) provide insight related to the GHG emissions reductions achieved through implementation of successful programs in the 2011 CAP and 2) inform the targeting of new GHG reduction opportunities for the CAP.

Central Contra
Costa Sanitary
District Facility
93%
Dublin San
Ramon Services
District Facility
7%

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GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets

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GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction Targets
Rincon Consultants, Inc. (Rincon) has completed the San Ramon community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions forecasts and provisional GHG reduction targets development. The enclosed community GHG emissions forecasts have been developed to inform the San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update and serves as both 1) an assessment of how GHG emissions in San Ramon are expected to change and 2) a projection to help identify the GHG reduction gap needed to meet GHG emissions reduction targets. This community GHG forecast was developed based upon the guidance provided by the Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP) Forecasting Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Setting Reduction Targets,
79 which identifies specific principles that serve to guide the forecasting of GHG emissions based on community growth and the establishment of GHG emissions reduction targets based on previous GHG emissions inventories. This memorandum provides a summary of the results of the calculations used to develop the San Ramon community GHG emissions forecast and provisional GHG reduction targets. Detailed documentation for the 2025, 3030, 2035, 2040, and 2045 GHG emissions forecasting and provisional GHG emissions targets calculations will be provided as part of the GHG Forecast and Targets Technical Appendix to the inprogress CAP.

Prior to completion of this community GHG emissions forecast, Rincon completed a San Ramon 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. Additionally, Rincon completed updates to previously completed San Ramon GHG emissions inventories for the years 2008, 2010, and 2014. The updates to previous GHG emissions inventories provided consistent GHG emissions accounting over time.

These past inventories provide data that helps demonstrate San Ramon’s progress with GHG emissions reduction from the implementation of measures and actions included in the 2011 San Ramon CAP. This memorandum also provides an overview of the updated previous GHG emissions inventories and the progress in GHG emissions reductions between 2008 and 2019. Detailed documentation for the updated 2008, 2010, 2014, and 2019 GHG emissions inventories calculations will be provided as part of the GHG Inventories Technical Appendix to the in-progress CAP.

Previous GHG Emissions Inventories Updates
GHG Emissions Inventory Updates: 2008, 2010, and 2014
The results of the updated GHG emissions inventories for the years 2008, 2010, and 2014, as well as the most recent 2019 GHG emissions inventory are provided in Table 1 and Figure 1, demonstrating the percent change from 2008 to 2019 in GHG emissions for each of the key reporting sectors. 79 AEP. May 2012. Forecasting Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Setting Reduction Targets. Available:
<https://califaep.org/docs/Forecasting_and_Target_Setting.pdf>. Accessed June 29, 2022.

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Table 1 2008, 2010, 2014, and 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector
GHG Emissions Sector 2008 2010 2014 2019
Percent
Change
2008 to 2019
On-road Motor Vehicles 233,013 232,263 225,667 226,265 -3% Natural Gas1 110,166 111,085 95,269 117,360 7%
Electricity2 170,552 122,960 115,641 42,2513 -75%
Off-road Equipment 28,414 28,187 28,414 33,415 18%
Waste 17,352 18,967 12,436 14,931 -14%
Wastewater Treatment Processes 2,837 3,238 3,535 3,562 26% Total 562,335 516,700 480,963 437,784 -22%
All values are presented in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 The Natural Gas GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, as well as methane leakage from natural gas transmission and distribution.
2 The Electricity GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, electricity transmission and distribution losses, electricity embedded in the water supply, and electricity used for wastewater conveyance and treatment. 3 The significant drop in Electricity sector GHG emissions between 2014 and 2019 is a result of the City joining Marin Clean Energy, and the ability of Pacific Gas and Electric to provide primarily GHG-free electricity in 2019.

Figure 1 2008, 2010, 2014, and 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector
GHG Emissions Reduction Progress: 2008 to 2019
The community GHG emissions inventories completed to date for San Ramon demonstrate a substantial progress in climate action. The 2011 San Ramon CAP established a GHG reduction target for California Assembly Bill (AB) 32 compliance of reducing total community GHG emissions by 15 percent before the year 2020. The GHG emissions inventory for the year 2019 demonstrates that the City has exceeded this target, with a total GHG emissions reduction of 22 percent since 2008. This success can largely be attributed to the strong shift towards renewable electricity with the joining of

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Marin Clean Energy (MCE)80 and the ability of Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E)81 to provide primarily GHG-free electricity.

While there are areas of success, GHG emissions changes since 2008 for sources other than electricity have not had a major influence on the overall GHG emissions profile for San Ramon. Waste emissions have decreased by about 14 percent between 2008 and 2019, primarily driven by a reduced total tonnage of waste sent to landfill, even with increases in population in the same time period. On-road transportation emissions also decreased by about 3 percent, which was primarily driven by increases in fuel efficiency and electric vehicle adoption. Other GHG emissions source, including natural gas, off-road equipment and wastewater, saw increases in emissions since 2008; however, these increases did not notably contribute to San Ramon’s overall community GHG emissions.

GHG Emissions Forecasts: 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045 A GHG emissions inventory establishes a reference point for a single year; however, annual GHG emissions change over time due to factors such as changes in population and jobs as well as new technologies and legislation. The San Ramon GHG emissions forecast estimates future GHG emission changes by accounting for projected community growth accounted for in the San Ramon General Plan Update and 6th Cycle Housing Element Update. Calculating the difference between the GHG emissions forecast and GHG emissions reduction determines the gap in GHG emissions that needs to be closed through the implementation of local GHG reduction policies. This section includes an estimate of the future emissions for San Ramon in the years 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045 in a business-as-usual scenario (BAU) forecast and a legislative-adjusted scenario (ABAU) forecast, which are defined as follows:
 BAU Forecast: Forecast of how future GHG emissions would change if current activities continued as they did in 2019 and growth trends were to occur absent of any policies or legislation that would reduce local emissions. The BAU forecast is based on growth trends projected in population, housing, employment, and transportation activity over time, consistent with regional projections.
 Adjusted BAU forecast (ABAU). Forecast of how currently adopted legislation would reduce GHG emissions from the BAU forecast. The adjusted forecast represents the State’s contribution to reducing local GHG emissions to meet State goals without any additional contribution from local policies or actions.

The adjusted forecast incorporates the impact of State regulations that provide GHG emission reduction potential to offer a more accurate picture of future GHG emissions growth and the responsibility of the City for GHG emissions reduction. 80 MCE is the local clean electricity provider for 37 communities within Marin, Contra Costa, Napa, and Solano Counties. 81 In 2020, about 85% of the electricity PG&E supplied was GHG-free. More than 35% of delivered PG&E electricity came from renewable portfolio standard-eligible sources, including solar, wind, geothermal, small hydroelectric, and various forms of bioenergy.

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BAU Forecast
The BAU forecast provides an estimate of how GHG emissions would change in the forecast years if existing action continued as in 2019, absent any new regulations or actions which would reduce local GHG emissions.82 Future GHG emissions were calculated by multiplying projected activity data under the BAU forecast with baseline emission factors, established by the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. Several indicator growth rates were developed from 2019 activity data and GHG emission levels for GHG emission sectors and applied to demographic projections to estimate future year emissions. Demographic projections used to develop the BAU forecast included regional job growth projections and population projections83 and the most recent 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element Update Sites Inventory Assessment for San Ramon. Job and population estimates were revised to include redevelopment of land use parcels84 that would increase the number of residential dwelling units and the square footage of non-residential development, that was used to develop the Cityspecific 2040 General Plan and 2023-2031 Housing Element projections.85 These increases were then used to revise the jobs and population estimates for San Ramon upward by approximately 224 jobs and 7,061 residents over the 2020-2040 time-period. This results in an increased jobs estimate of 71,999, up from 71,775, and increased population estimate of 110,089, up from 103,028 by year 2040.

These new job and population growth estimates were used to project changes in emissions over time.

This update to the jobs and population projections resulted in an increase in the projected GHG emissions for San Ramon compared to the baseline regional projections. On-road transportation and off-road equipment GHG emissions were separately projected using modeled activity data for the forecast years.86 Emission factors for the BAU forecast remain constant for all forecast years, derived from the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory.

The results of the BAU forecast show an increase in GHG emissions in all reported GHG emissions sectors, which is directly influenced by growth in the City of San Ramon. Table 2 and Figure 2 provide a summary of the projected GHG emissions for each GHG emissions sector for 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045.
82 The adjusted forecast incorporates the impact of State regulations that provide GHG emission reduction potential to offer a more accurate picture of future GHG emissions growth and the responsibility of the City for GHG emissions reduction. 83 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), Plan Bay Area (PBA) 2040 job and population projections were used as the base projections in place of PBA 2050 projections, as the latter estimates do not disaggregate projections at the City level. 84 Potential redevelopment estimates were calculated for parcels east and west of the freeway in the North Camino Ramon Specific Plan (NCRSP) and San Ramon Village Specific Plan (SRVSP) planning areas that were expected to be redeveloped by 2040 according to the City of San Ramon planning department.
85 Source: San Ramon, City of. 2023. 2040 General Plan and 2023-2031 Housing Element Projections. May 12, 2023. 86 California Air Resources Board (CARB). Modeling Tools On-road and Off-road. 2022. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/mobilesource-emissions-inventory/msei-modeling-tools. Accessed June 14, 2022.

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Table 2 BAU GHG Emissions Forecast Results by Sector
GHG Emissions
Sector
2019 (GHG
Inventory) 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
Percent
Change
2019 - 2045
On-road Motor
Vehicles
226,484 247,109 264,423 281,736 299,049 307,114 36%
Natural Gas1 117,360 127,822 137,092 146,362 155,632 165,769 41% Electricity2 42,031 45,787 49,078 52,368 55,659 58,717 40% Off-road
Equipment
33,415 36,380 39,038 41,695 44,353 47,603 42%
Waste 14,931 16,256 17,444 18,631 19,819 21,271 42%
Wastewater
Treatment
Processes
3,562 3,880 4,161 4,442 4,724 5,030 41%
Total 437,784 477,235 511,235 545,236 579,236 605,504 38% All values are presented in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 The Natural Gas GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, as well as methane leakage from natural gas transmission and distribution.
2 The Electricity GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, electricity transmission and distribution losses, electricity embedded in the water supply, and electricity used for wastewater conveyance and treatment.

Figure 2 BAU GHG Emissions Forecast Results by Sector

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ABAU Forecast
Several federal and State regulations have been enacted that would reduce San Ramon’s GHG emissions in 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045. The impact of these regulations was quantified and incorporated into the adjusted forecast to project anticipated changes in future emissions once established State regulations have been implemented. The State legislation included in the adjusted forecast results in GHG emission reductions related to transportation, building efficiency and renewable electricity. These regulations include:
 Energy efficiency increases from 2019 Title 24 Building Code Cycle; increased renewable electricity Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) requirements through California Senate Bill (SB) 100
 Advanced Clean Truck Rule, SAFE Vehicle Rules and Actions, and Innovative Clean Transit Rule This adjusted forecast does not take into account waste or water reductions from legislation such as AB 341, SB 1383, or SB X7-7. The GHG emission reduction that would be achieved by these will be accounted for in the GHG reduction measures, as they require discreet actions the City must initiate, and therefore, the City will be able to take credit for the GHG reduction resulting from the future implementation.

With the regulations considered in the adjusted forecast, San Ramon’s GHG emissions are expected to decline significantly from GHG emissions level estimated in the BAU forecast. The adjusted forecast shows total community GHG emissions increasing by 1 percent from 2019 levels through 2045. The primary driver for the GHG emissions reductions in the adjusted forecast relative to the BAU forecast are transportation legislation, with a strong shift to electric vehicles in the commercial sector.

Increased availability of renewable energy through RPS requirements drives some GHG emissions reductions; however, these reductions are limited since San Ramon already receives a significant amount of GHG-free electricity through MCE and PG&E. Table 3 provides the GHG emissions reduction estimates from regulations considered in the adjusted scenario GHG emissions forecast.

Table 4 and Figure 3 provide the results for the adjusted scenario GHG emissions forecast for 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045.

Table 3 Legislative Reductions Considered in Adjusted GHG Emissions Forecast Regulation Category 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
2019 Title 24 Code Cycle 1,406 2,586 3,767 4,947 5,497
Renewable Portfolio Standards Requirements 13,989 27,245 36,376 46,287 57,160 Advanced Clean Truck Rule, SAFE Vehicle Rules
and Actions, and Innovative Clean Transit Rule
26,888 51,947 74,378 91,199 99,956
Total 42,284 81,778 114,521 142,433 162,613
All values are presented in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.

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Table 4 Adjusted GHG Emissions Forecast Results by Sector GHG Emissions
Sector
2019
(GHG
Inventory) 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
Percent
Change
2019 - 2045
On-road Motor
Vehicles
226,484 219,958 211,778 206,254 206,330 205,198 -9%
Natural Gas1 117,360 127,315 136,160 145,005 153,850 163,788 40% Electricity2 42,031 31,161 20,876 14,686 7,727 0 -100%
Off-road
Equipment
33,415 36,380 39,038 41,695 44,353 47,603 42%
Waste 14,931 16,256 17,444 18,631 19,819 21,271 42%
Wastewater
Treatment
Processes
3,562 3,880 4,161 4,442 4,724 5,030 41%
Total 437,784 434,951 429,457 430,715 436,803 442,891 1% All values are presented in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 The Natural Gas GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, as well as methane leakage from natural gas transmission and distribution.
2 The Electricity GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, electricity transmission and distribution losses, electricity embedded in the water supply, and electricity used for wastewater conveyance and treatment.

Figure 3 Adjusted GHG Emissions Forecast Results by Sector

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Provisional GHG Reduction Targets
The San Ramon 2011 CAP established 2020 GHG reduction targets consistent with California AB 32, using the 2008 baseline GHG emissions inventory to measure progress compared to the 1990 level.

The San Ramon 2008 GHG emissions inventory can continue to be used as the baseline for GHG emissions reduction target setting with the updates that were performed to the 2008 inventory to reflect year-over-year consistency and best practices in GHG emissions accounting. The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) General Plan Guidelines recommend using a GHG emissions inventory from the years 2005 to 2008 for comparison to State GHG emissions reduction goals, by estimating that GHG emissions levels from one of these years were 15 percent higher than 1990 levels.87 The GHG reduction targets setting below uses this as the basis for GHG reductions pathways.

GHG reduction targets can be set as either an efficiency target (MT CO2e per capita) or as a community-wide mass emissions target (total MT CO2e). With CARB’s 2017 Scoping Plan Update, the State recommends using efficiency metrics for local targets to not penalize cities which are growing at significant rates.88 Efficiency metrics continue to be used and are recommended in the 2022 Scoping Plan.

GHG Emissions Reduction Target Setting
Target setting is an iterative process which must be informed by the reductions that can realistically be achieved through the development of feasible GHG reduction measures. As such, the targets identified herein should remain provisional until the quantification and analysis of potential GHG reduction measures have been completed. The 2022 California Climate Change Scoping Plan prepared by CARB recommends that local agencies establish communitywide GHG reduction targets aligning with State goals to help the overall State achieve its GHG reduction goals, while considering local conditions and regional planning and coordination opportunities. The current State goals are:
 SB 32: reduce Statewide GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030.  AB 1279: codifies EO B-55-18 goal to achieve Statewide carbon neutrality as soon as possible and no later than 2045.

The purpose of target setting is to develop the trajectory toward achieving the SB 32 2030 goal and prepare for the deep decarbonization needed by 2045 in a cost-effective manner by setting an incremental path toward achieving the AB 1279 goals. CARB guidance recommends jurisdictions to first strive to exceed the SB 32 goal of reducing GHG emissions 40 below 1990 levels, while establishing a policy framework to achieve the longer-term target of carbon neutrality by 2045.

At this time, the State has developed and adopted a Scoping Plan (2022) to demonstrate how the State will achieve the 2030 target and make substantial progress toward the State’s longer-term GHG reduction goals. According to AEP, the feasibility of achieving carbon neutrality through local action alone is questionable given limitations on local municipality authority. AEP also states that no city or county is completely autonomous in matters of energy and transportation systems; and notes that a municipality can influence only certain matters. However, many decisions about the electricity and transportation systems are under the control of the State and federal government, and/or are controlled by market determinations. Achieving the established target will require major shifts in how 87 Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. 2017. General Plan Guidelines. Chapter 8: Climate Change. Available:
<https://opr.ca.gov/docs/OPR_C8_final.pdf>. Accessed June 26, 2022. 88 California Air Resources Board. 2017. California’s Climate Change Scoping Plan, p. 99-102.

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communities within California obtain and use energy, transport themselves and goods, and how the population lives and builds. These transformations would require implementation across all levels of the economy, not just what local jurisdictions have authority over. As such, placing the burden predominantly on local jurisdictions would thus be highly disproportional, costly, and potentially subject to litigation.89
Provisional Reduction Targets for 2030 and 2045
Table 5 provides a summary of the GHG emission reduction target pathways and gaps in mass emissions metrics. The table includes three target pathways—each of which are set in reference to 1990 levels. San Ramon’s 1990 levels are assumed to be 15 percent below San Ramon’s 2008 emissions levels.90 The target pathways are calculated using mass emissions targets or efficiency targets translated to mass emissions (i.e., multiplied by the expected City population in each target year).

Table 5 GHG Emission Reduction Targets and Gap Analysis Emissions Forecast or Pathway 19901 2008 2019 2030 2035 2040 2045 SB 32 & AB 1279 Mass Emissions Target Pathway Scenario
Adjusted Forecast (MT CO2e) 488,987 562,335 437,784 429,457 430,715 436,803 442,891 SB 32 & AB 1279 Mass Emissions
Target Pathway (MT CO2e)2
488,987 562,335 437,784 286,791 191,194 95,597 0
Remaining Emissions Gap (MT CO2e) 0 0 0 142,666 239,521 341,206 442,891 SB 32 & AB 1279 Efficiency Emissions Target Pathway Scenario Adjusted Forecast (MT CO2e) 488,987 562,335 437,784 429,457 430,715 436,803 442,891 Population N/A1 66,642 83,376 97,342 103,716 110,089 113,058 Per Capita Adjusted Forecast (MT
CO2e/person)

7.34 8.44 5.25 4.41 4.15 3.97 3.92
SB 32 & AB 1279 Efficiency Target
Pathway (MT CO2e/person)3

7.34 8.44 5.25 4.30 2.87 1.43 0.00
SB 32 & AB 1279 Efficiency Target
Pathway (MT CO2e)
488,987 562,335 437,784 418,908 297,558 157,922 0
Remaining Emissions Gap (MT CO2e) 0 0 0 10,549 133,157 278,881 442,891 89 AEP. Beyond Newhall and 2020: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets in California.

October 2016.
90 According to the Association of Environmental Professionals’ Beyond 2020 and Newhall final white paper, in the 2008 AB 32 Scoping Plan, the recommended target for local governments to meet 1990 levels was 15 percent below “current” levels by 2020, where “current” levels were construed as baseline years between 2005-2008.

Association of Environmental Professionals (2016). Final White Paper Beyond 2020 and Newhall: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California. Accessed January 2025 at: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California.

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Emissions Forecast or Pathway 19901 2008 2019 2030 2035 2040 2045 AB 1279 Efficiency Target Pathway Scenario
Adjusted Forecast (MT CO2e) 488,987 562,335 437,784 429,457 430,715 436,803 442,891 Population N/A1 66,642 83,376 97,342 103,716 110,089 113,058 Per Capita Adjusted Forecast
(MT CO2e/person)

7.34 8.44 5.25 4.41 4.15 3.97 3.92
AB 1279 Efficiency Target Pathway
(MT CO2e/person)4

7.34 8.44 5.25 3.42 2.28 1.14 0.00
AB 1279 Efficiency Target Pathway
(MT CO2e)
488,987 562,335 437,784 332,995 236,532 125,534 0.00
Remaining Emissions Gap (MT CO2e) 0 0 0 96,462 194,183 311,269 442,891 MT CO2e = Metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Mass emissions have been rounded to the nearest whole number and per capita emissions have been rounded to the nearest hundredth; therefore, sums may not match.
1 1990 mass and per capita emissions levels are estimated by reducing 2008 mass and per capita emissions by 15%. According to the Association of Environmental Professionals’ Beyond 2020 and Newhall final white paper, in the 2008 AB 32 Scoping Plan, the recommended target for local governments to meet 1990 levels was 15 percent below “current” levels by 2020, where “current” levels were construed as baseline years between 2005-2008. 2 The target pathway is calculated by reducing 1990 mass emissions by 40% in 2030 and to net zero emissions in 2045. This provisional target pathway is consistent with both SB 32 and a trajectory set forth to achieve AB 1279. 3 The target pathway is calculated by reducing 1990 per capita emissions by 40% in 2030 and to net zero emissions in 2045. This provisional target pathway is consistent with both SB 32 and a trajectory set forth to achieve AB 1279. 4 The target pathway is calculated by reducing 2008 per capita emissions in a linear trajectory to net zero emissions in 2045. This pathway is equivalent to reducing 1990 per capita emissions by about 53% in 2030. This provisional target pathway is consistent with both SB 32 and a trajectory set forth to achieve AB 1279.

Establishing a minimum 2030 GHG emissions target of 332,995 MT CO2e for 2030 (the SB 32 target year) and a longer-term target of net 0 MT CO2e, or carbon neutrality, for 2045 (the AB 1279 year) will demonstrate San Ramon’s commitment to contributing their fair share towards the State’s goals.

This 2030 target will maintain compliance with SB 32 by reducing per capita GHG emissions by 53 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. Likewise, this 2045 target will align with AB 1279’s goal for carbon neutrality. However, as noted at the beginning of this memorandum, the long-term reduction targets are provisional and may need to be adjusted based on the reductions that can realistically be achieved from feasible GHG reduction measures that will be identified during the CAP development process.

The intent of the CAP will be to demonstrate substantial progress toward the State’s long-term reduction goals. New opportunities are anticipated to emerge that could yield additional reductions beyond those identified in San Ramon’s forthcoming CAP. Another phase of local climate action planning will be needed to continue and expand the actions in future CAP updates and to explore new strategies to meet the 2045 GHG reduction target. Figure 4 provides a visual representation of the recommended target pathway (i.e., AB 1279 efficiency target pathway) compared to the adjusted forecast to show the remaining gap San Ramon will be responsible for to meet the GHG emission reduction targets through local action.

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Figure 4 Provisional Reduction Target Pathway and Emissions Gap Meeting the Provisional Targets
The 2030 and 2045 provisional targets identified above will be achieved through a combination of existing State measures and the implementation of local measures that will be identified in the inprogress San Ramon CAP. Local measures will be identified through a comprehensive assessment of existing local and regional policies, programs, and actions and by assessing any gaps and identifying additional opportunities. Additional measures will be developed from best practices of other similar and neighboring jurisdictions, as well as those recommended by organizations and agencies, such as the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, OPR, CARB, Bay Area Air Quality Management District, and AEP.

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CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence

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Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction Measures
Quantification and Substantial Evidence
prepared for
City of San Ramon
Planning Services Division
7000 Bollinger Canyon Rd.

San Ramon, California 94583
prepared by
Rincon Consultants, Inc.
66 Franklin Street, Suite 352 and 357
Oakland, California 94607
February 2025

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction................................................................................................................................D-1

1.1 GHG Emissions Reduction Targets..................................................................................D-1

1.2 Measures and Actions Organization ...............................................................................D-2

1.3 GHG Emissions Reduction...............................................................................................D-2 2 Strategy C: Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning..................................................................D-6 3 Strategy E: Building Energy.........................................................................................................D-7 4 Strategy T: Transportation........................................................................................................D-36 5 Strategy W: Waste ....................................................................................................................D-59 6 Strategy WW: Water & Wastewater ........................................................................................D-64 7 Strategy CS: Nature-based Carbon Sequestration....................................................................D-66 8 Strategy IMP: Implementation by City .....................................................................................D-68 Figures
Figure 1 San Ramon’s GHG Emissions Reduction Pathway (MT CO2e).........................................D-5 Figure 2 San Ramon’s Housing Stock Age ...................................................................................D-17 Tables
Table 1 San Ramon CAP Update GHG Emissions Reduction Summary by Measure ...................D-3 Table 2 San Ramon’s GHG Emissions Reduction Pathway ..........................................................D-5 Table 3 Strategy C: Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning GHG Emissions Reduction Summary .........................................................................................................................D-6 Table 4 Strategy E: Building Energy GHG Emissions Reduction Summary ..................................D-7 Table 5 Carbon-free and Renewable Electricity Parameters and Data Sources........................D-10 Table 6 Carbon-free and Renewable Electricity GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations .........D-11 Table 7 All-electric New Construction Parameters and Data Sources.......................................D-14 Table 8 All-electric New Construction GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations........................D-15 Table 9 All-electric Residential Significant Remodels Parameters and Data Sources ...............D-18 Table 10 All-electric Residential Significant Remodels GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations...................................................................................................................D-19 Table 11 Two-Way Residential Air Conditioning Reach Code Parameters and Data Sources.....D-22 Table 12 Two-Way Residential Air Conditioning Reach Code GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations...................................................................................................................D-24 Table 13 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Residential Water Heating Parameters and Data Sources..........................................................................................................................D-25 Table 14 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Residential Water Heating GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations..................................................................................................D-27

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Table 15 Measure E-3 Residential Natural Gas Reduction Summary by Action..........................D-27 Table 16 Two-Way Nonresidential AC Reach Code Parameters and Data Sources ....................D-29 Table 17 Two-Way Nonresidential AC Reach Code GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations......D-31 Table 18 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Nonresidential Water Heating Parameters and Data Sources..........................................................................................................................D-32 Table 19 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Nonresidential Water Heating GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations..................................................................................................D-33 Table 20 Measure E-4 Nonresidential Natural Gas Reduction Summary by Action....................D-34 Table 21 Strategy T: Transportation GHG Emissions Reduction Summary .................................D-36 Table 22 Active Transportation Mode Share Parameters and Data Sources..............................D-39 Table 23 Active Transportation Mode Share GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations................D-40 Table 24 Public Transit Mode Share Parameters and Data Sources ...........................................D-43 Table 25 Public Transit Mode Share GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations.............................D-44 Table 26 Publicly Accessible Electric Vehicle Charger Parameters and Data Sources.................D-47 Table 27 Publicly Accessible Electric Vehicle Charger Calculations.............................................D-48 Table 28 Passenger ZEV Adoption Parameters and Data Sources ..............................................D-49 Table 29 Passenger ZEV Adoption GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations................................D-50 Table 30 Commercial ZEV Adoption Parameters and Data Sources............................................D-52 Table 31 Commercial ZEV Adoption GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations.............................D-53 Table 32 Off-road Decarbonization Parameters and Data Sources.............................................D-56 Table 33 Off-road Decarbonization GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations ..............................D-58 Table 34 Strategy W: Waste GHG Emissions Reduction Summary .............................................D-59 Table 35 Landfilled Organics Reduction Parameters and Data Sources......................................D-60 Table 36 Landfilled Organics Reduction GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations .......................D-61 Table 37 Compost Procurement Parameters and Data Sources.................................................D-62 Table 38 Compost Procurement GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations...................................D-63 Table 39 Strategy WW: Water & Wastewater GHG Emissions Reduction Summary..................D-64 Table 40 Strategy CS: Nature-based Carbon Sequestration GHG Emissions Reduction Summary .......................................................................................................................D-66 Table 41 Strategy IMP: Implementation by City GHG Emissions Reduction Summary...............D-68

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1 Introduction
This technical report presents the quantification and substantial evidence that supports the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction potential of the San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update. This report also supports the CAP Update’s classification as a qualified GHG reduction plan.

The CAP Update is the City of San Ramon’s (San Ramon) updated plan to reduce communitywide GHG emissions and address climate change. It includes Measures with numeric targets to reduce GHG emissions and Actions under each Measure that San Ramon will implement through 2045 to reduce GHG emissions and make substantial progress towards the State’s carbon neutrality goal.

Section 15183.5(b)(1) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines establishes several criteria which a plan must meet to be considered a qualified GHG reduction plan and allow for programmatic CEQA streamlining of project GHG emissions. This report details the evidence substantiating the GHG emissions reduction associated with the CAP Update measures pursuant to Subsection (D) which requires measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that substantial evidence demonstrates, if implemented on a project-by-project basis, would collectively achieve the specified GHG emissions level. This report demonstrates the Measures in the CAP Update conservatively provide the GHG emissions reduction necessary to meet San Ramon’s 2030 GHG emissions reduction target, which aligns with the State’s GHG emissions reduction goal established by Senate Bill (SB) 32 and make substantial progress towards San Ramon’s 2045 target which is consistent with the State’s goal established Assembly Bill (AB) 1279. 1 Mechanisms to monitor the implementation of the CAP Update and San Ramon’s progress toward the GHG emissions reduction targets are included in the CAP Update, as required in CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(e). If the results of the tracking indicate that San Ramon is not on track to reach the 2030 GHG emissions reduction specified in this report, the CAP will be updated as a whole or specific Measures and Actions will be amended to redirect the GHG emissions reduction back in line with the adopted targets. All future CAP updates will include new or amended Measures and Actions, with evidence that their implementation can achieve San Ramon’s 2030 GHG emissions reduction target and make substantial progress towards or achieve San Ramon’s 2045 target.

1.1 GHG Emissions Reduction Targets
San Ramon’s GHG emissions reduction targets align with California’s goal to reduce per capita GHG emissions 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (SB 32) and California’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 (AB 1279) defined as reducing GHG emissions at least 85 percent below 1990 levels and removing or sequestering the remaining GHG emissions. The City has set targets to reduce per capita GHG emissions in a linear pathway through 2030 to carbon neutrality in 2045. San Ramon’s short- and long-term GHG emissions reduction targets are:
 Reduce per capita GHG emissions by 53 percent below 1990 levels by 2030; and,  Achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.
2 1 SB 32 established the State goal to reduce GHG emission 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. AB 1279 established the State goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. The State defines carbon neutrality as net zero carbon emissions, which is achieved by reducing GHG emissions at least 85 percent below 1990 levels and removing the remaining emissions. 2 For additional details on San Ramon’s GHG emissions reduction targets, see Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets of the CAP Update.

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The 2030 per capita target is equivalent to reducing GHG emissions to 332,995 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e) by 2030.

1.2 Measures and Actions Organization
As part of the CAP Update process, the City has developed a comprehensive set of Measures and Actions to reduce communitywide GHG emissions to achieve San Ramon’s 2030 GHG emissions reduction target and make substantial progress towards San Ramon’s 2045 target. The Measures are organized around a set of seven Strategies to reduce GHG emissions. Each Measure is then supported by a set of Actions. The structure of the Strategies, Measures, and Actions are as follows:
 Strategies: Strategies describe the overall sector category for reducing GHG emissions.  Measures: Measures are approaches measurable through a discrete performance metric to reduce GHG emissions by a quantifiable level within a specific time period.  Actions: Actions are the discrete steps supported by substantial evidence that the City will take to achieve the performance metric of the overarching Measure.

The Measures and Actions can be either quantitative or supportive, defined as follows:
 Quantitative: Quantitative measures and actions result in a quantifiable GHG emissions reduction when implemented. A GHG emissions reduction from these measures and actions are supported by case studies, scientific articles, calculations, or other third-party substantial evidence.
 Supportive: Supportive measures and actions may also be quantifiable and have substantial evidence to support their overall contribution to GHG reduction. However, due to one of several factors – including a low GHG emissions reduction effect, indirect GHG emissions reduction benefit, or potential for double-counting – such measures will not be quantified and do not contribute directly to the expected GHG emissions reduction target and consistency with the State goals. For example, municipal-specific measures are not quantified, as they represent a subset of communitywide emissions and as such could be characterized as double-counting.

Despite not being quantified, supportive measures/actions are nevertheless critical to the overall success of the CAP Update and provide support so that the quantitative measures and actions will be successfully implemented.

This report identifies both the quantitative and supportive Measures and provides a complete description of their contribution to achieving San Ramon’s 2030 GHG emissions reduction target and making substantial progress towards San Ramon’s 2045 target. This report, however, only details the quantitative Actions that enable each Measure. The supportive Actions are excluded from this report because they do not contribute directly to achieving and making progress towards San Ramon’s GHG emissions reduction targets. Detail on these supportive Actions can be found in the CAP Update.

1.3 GHG Emissions Reduction
Table 1 summarizes the Measures and the GHG emissions reduction San Ramon would achieve in 2030 and 2045 upon the implementation of the Measures and Actions.

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Table 1 San Ramon CAP Update GHG Emissions Reduction Summary by Measure Measure ID Measure Text
2030 GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential
(MT CO2e)
Strategy C: Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning
Measure C-1 Conserve and manage the existing open spaces, natural lands, and trail system in San Ramon to reinforce the
community’s defining characteristics and increase carbon sequestration on these lands.

Supportive Supportive
Strategy E: Building Energy
Measure E-1 Work with MCE to have 100% clean community power supply at least 94% of residential electricity and 65% of commercial electricity in the community by 2030.
14,213 01
Measure E-2 Decarbonize 100% of new residential and commercial construction by 2026.
6,195 32,741
Measure E-3 Electrify 14% of existing residential buildings by 2030 and 57% by 2045.
11,255 49,490
Measure E-4 Electrify 2% of existing commercial buildings by 2030 and 33% by 2045.
853 13,634
Measure E-5 Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy.

Supportive Supportive
Measure E-6 Monitor and maintain equitable implementation and benefits of energy strategies.

Supportive Supportive
Strategy T: Transportation
Measure T-1 Implement and update the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan as needed to reduce vehicle miles traveled and achieve an active transportation mode share of 3% by 2030 and 8% by 2045.
600 2,254
Measure T-2 Promote active transportation mode shift by enhancing 37 miles of vehicle roadways into active transportation
corridors by 2045 that extend safe active transportation routes from residential areas into the downtown core.

Supportive Supportive
Measure T-3 Implement a new zero-emission local microtransit service to connect commuters to major public transit and target a public transit mode share of 14% by 2030 and 16% by
2045.
3,191 4,904
Measure T-4 Reduce vehicle miles traveled by emphasizing increased affordable housing in higher density areas as established by the Housing Element Update.

Supportive Supportive
Measure T-5 Transition 100% the municipal vehicle fleet to zeroemission vehicles (ZEV) by 2045.Supportive Supportive Measure T-6 Increase passenger ZEV adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
33,038 155,696
Measure T-7 Increase commercial ZEV adoption to 25% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
9,478 42,335
Measure T-8 Work with Bishop Ranch to modify the Transportation Demand Management Program to achieve a 1.6 Average
Vehicle Ridership (AVR) among 30% of employers by 2030
and 60% by 2045.

Supportive Supportive
Measure T-9 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 12% of off-road equipment by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
4,840 10,082

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Measure ID Measure Text
2030 GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential
(MT CO2e)
Strategy W: Waste
Measure W-1 Reduce landfilled organic waste 75% by 2030 and 90% by 2045.
13,083 19,144
Measure W-2 Reduce the carbon footprint of the food system by reducing waste, promoting climate friendly diets, and
getting excess food to communities in need.

Supportive Supportive
Measure W-3 Develop a communitywide composting program to achieve SB 1383 procurement requirements.
1,791 2,080
Strategy WW: Water and Wastewater
Measure WW-1 Coordinate with the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to increase purple pipe infrastructure in the community and increase recycled water supply.

Supportive Supportive
Measure WW-2 Reduce community water consumption 10% by 2030 and 20% by 2045, from 2019 levels.

Supportive Supportive
Strategy CS: Nature-based Carbon Sequestration
Measure CS-1 Develop and implement programs to increase naturebased carbon sequestration within the community.Supportive Supportive Strategy IMP: Implementation by City
Measure IMP-1 Support the development of programs that educate and engage youths on climate change and envisioning a carbon neutral future.

Supportive Supportive
Measure IMP-2 Support the San Ramon climate action program with appropriate City staffing to implement, evaluate, and
update the CAP though regular monitoring and a
continued feedback loop with the community.

Supportive Supportive
Total 98,537 332,360
Notes: MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. 1 SB 100 requires the State’s electricity sector to achieve 100 percent renewable and zero-carbon electricity by 2045. By that time, the electricity emission factor will be 0 MT CO2e per kilowatt-hour (kWh), resulting in no additional reductions beyond the state-mandated baseline.

Together, the Measures and Actions in in the CAP Update provide San Ramon with the GHG emissions reduction necessary to achieve their 2030 GHG emissions reduction target (see Table 2).

However, the 2045 GHG emissions reduction quantified in this report are not currently enough to meet San Ramon’s 2045 target of carbon neutrality. Achieving carbon neutrality will require new technologies, new State regulations, and additional Measures and Actions that incorporate lessons learned from implementing the Measures and Actions of this CAP Update. Future CAP updates will account for these emerging technologies and new State regulations and include new Measures and Actions that the City will implement to close the remaining gap to achieve carbon neutrality.

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Table 2 San Ramon’s GHG Emissions Reduction Pathway
GHG Emission Forecast or Reduction Target
2030 GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Adjusted Forecast 429,457 442,891
GHG Emissions Reduction (from full implementation of Measures) 98,537 332,360 GHG Emissions Remaining (after Measure reductions) 330,920 110,530 GHG Emissions Reduction Target 332,995 0
GHG Emissions Gap (between remaining GHG emissions and target) (2,075) 110,530 Target Anticipated to be Met? Yes No
Notes: MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Numeric numbers donated in parathesis represent negative numbers.

Figure 1 shows San Ramon’s GHG emissions reduction targets in relation to San Ramon’s GHG emissions after implementation of the Measures and Actions included in the CAP Update. A complete description of each Measure and the quantitative Actions is included in the remainder of the report.

Figure 1 San Ramon’s GHG Emissions Reduction Pathway (MT CO2e)

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2 Strategy C: Cornerstone to Climate
Action Planning
San Ramon’s Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning Strategy focuses on conserving and managing San Ramon’s existing open spaces, natural lands, and trail system to reinforce the community’s defining characteristics while increasing carbon sequestration potential. By preserving these areas, San Ramon aims to limit urban sprawl, reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), enhance equitable access to green spaces, increase carbon sequestration, and contribute to climate resilience. The strategy emphasizes the importance of maintaining and expanding these natural resources, which not only support biodiversity and community well-being but also play a key role in achieving carbon sequestration goals. Through Actions such as conducting a natural lands carbon stock inventory, engaging vulnerable communities, and securing funding, the Strategy strives to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient community. Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning Strategy consists of the following Measure presented in Table 3.

The table also indicates the Measure is supportive (i.e., no GHG emissions reduction has been attributed) because a baseline (i.e., natural lands carbon inventory) has not yet been conducted to quantify existing and projected carbon sequestration. While this Measure is currently supportive, it provides a foundation for future actions that will enhance carbon sequestration within the community. As San Ramon continues to focus on natural resource conservation, this Measure will become increasingly important for addressing carbon sequestration and achieving long-term carbon neutrality goals.

Table 3 Strategy C: Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning GHG Emissions Reduction Summary
Measure ID Measure
2030 GHG Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy C: Cornerstone to Climate Action Planning
C-1 Conserve and manage the existing open spaces, natural lands, and trail system in San Ramon to reinforce the
community’s defining characteristics and increase
carbon sequestration on these lands.

Supportive Supportive
Total 0 0

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3 Strategy E: Building Energy
San Ramon’s Building Energy Strategy focuses on electrifying residential and commercial buildings to leverage the GHG reduction benefits associated with carbon-free and renewable electricity provided by Marin Clean Energy (MCE) along with the generation and storage of local communityscale renewable energy. 3 Electrifying the community’s building stock consists of transitioning natural gas stationary equipment—the equipment that heats the water we use and heats and cools the spaces where we live and work—to efficient electric alternatives. When coupled with renewable and zero-carbon electricity, all-electric buildings eliminate GHG emissions from natural gas consumption and transition to a zero-emission operational energy footprint. For this reason, the City will support MCE in providing carbon-free and renewable energy to the whole community. The City will also work to increase the generation and storage of community-scale renewable energy in the community to help meet the additional electricity demand resulting from building electrification. Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Building Energy Strategy consists of the Measures presented in Table 4. The table also indicates which Measures are quantitative and which Measures are supportive. The following subsections detail the substantial evidence and calculation methodologies of the quantitative Measures and the role of the supportive Measures.

Table 4 Strategy E: Building Energy GHG Emissions Reduction Summary Measure ID Measure
2030 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy E: Building Energy
E-1 Work with MCE to have 100% clean community power supply at least 94% of residential electricity and 65% of commercial electricity in the community by 2030.
14,213 01
E-2 Decarbonize 100% of new residential and commercial construction by 2026. 6,195 32,741 E-3 Electrify 14% of existing residential buildings by 2030 and 57% by 2045. 11,255 49,490 E-4 Electrify 2% of existing commercial buildings by 2030 and 33% by 2045. 853 13,634 E-5 Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy.

Supportive Supportive
E-6 Monitor and maintain equitable implementation and benefits of energy strategies.

Supportive Supportive
Total 32,517 95,865
1 SB 100 requires the State’s electricity sector to achieve 100 percent renewable and zero-carbon electricity by 2045. By that time, the electricity emission factor will be 0 MT CO2e per kilowatt-hour (kWh), resulting in no additional reductions beyond the state-mandated baseline.
3 Community-scale renewable energy provides electricity for community or commercial consumption rather than for a single home as residential rooftop solar does.

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E-1: Work with MCE to have 100% clean community power supply at least 94% of residential electricity and 65% of commercial electricity in the community by 2030.

Measure E-1 aims to increase MCE’s share of renewable electricity to provide all MCE customers in San Ramon with 100 percent clean power by 2030. MCE customers account for 94 percent of residential electricity consumption and 65 percent of commercial electricity consumption in the community. The primary Actions that enable this target include:
 Action E-1a which directs the City to adopt a resolution to automatically enroll all new and existing accounts into MCE’s 100 percent carbon-free and renewable electricity program by 2030;
 Action E-1b which directs the City to work with MCE to conduct an annual analysis of opt-out rates in the community;
 Action E-1d which directs the City to work with MCE to continue or expand funding for customers enrolled in the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) and Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs to switch to MCE’s Deep Green option; and  Action E-1e which directs the City to partner with MCE to build the capacity needed to meet San Ramon’s clean power goals and conduct educational campaigns to highlight the benefits of 100% renewable energy, promote the available incentives, and promote MCE’s Flex Market Programs as a cost savings strategy.

MCE currently offers an electricity option with a GHG emission rate lower than the other electricity options offered in the region. This electricity option, known as Deep Green, supplies electricity sourced 100 percent from solar and wind at a GHG emissions rate of zero.4 Currently, electricity customers in San Ramon are automatically enrolled in MCE’s Light Green electricity option (with a near-zero GHG emission factor) but are allowed to opt-up to MCE’s Deep Green electricity option, opt-out to receive electricity directly from PG&E, or opt-out to procure electricity at wholesale directly from electricity generators (i.e., direct access). Action E-1a directs the City to switch San Ramon’s automatic enrollment from MCE’s Light Green option to MCE’s Deep Green option—or similar option with 100 percent carbon-free and renewable electricity—to reduce MCE customers’ electricity GHG emissions to zero.

Automatic enrollment has shown to be an effective method of increasing the use of carbon-free and renewable energy. In January 2023, MCE completed a pilot project in the City of Pinole where all new move-ins across the service area were automatically enrolled in MCE’s Deep Green option as opposed to MCE’s Light Green service. The pilot increased the City of Pinole's Deep Green enrollment from three percent in January 2023, to over six percent in August 2023. Furthermore, the City of Encinitas automatically enrolled community members in San Diego Community Power’s Power100 service—a 100 percent renewable and carbon-free service. While no education or incentives were offered to support the initiative, the City of Encinitas still experienced only a seven percent opt-out rate from Power100 and has maintained it since—with increased costs cited as the primary reason for opt-out.5 These examples demonstrate the effectiveness of changing customers’ automatic enrollment to a carbon-free and renewable electricity option to increase renewable electricity in a community.
4 California Energy Commission. 2022 Power Content Label: MCE. Accessed at: https://www.energy.ca.gov/filebrowser/download/6043. 5 San Diego Community Power (SDCP). Presentation at the San Diego Regional Climate Collaborative’s Networking Meeting on October 17, 2023.

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The quantification conservatively assumes some of San Ramon’s customers will opt-down from MCE’s Deep Green to MCE’s Light Green option or opt-out of the service once automatically enrolled through Action E-1a’s implementation. The quantification assumes the community’s residential and commercial MCE participation rate will remain constant at 2019 levels through 2030 and 2045. In 2019, San Ramon residents sourced about 94 percent of their electricity from MCE and San Ramon businesses sourced about 65 percent of their electricity from MCE.6 The remaining electricity was sourced from PG&E, representing the electricity from customers who opted out of MCE. San Ramon’s 2022 community GHG inventory confirms this assumption is conservative.7 From 2019 to 2022, businesses increased their share of electricity consumption from MCE from 65 percent to 95 percent but the quantification conservatively excludes this increase in participation. 8 To maintain the community’s residential and commercial MCE participation rates at 2019 levels, Action E-1b, Action E-1d, and Action E-1e direct the City to work with MCE to monitor opt-out rates and deploy funding and education as necessary.

Due to the increase in commercial MCE participation and improvements MCE already made to their Light Green emissions factor, San Ramon has already achieved 22,924 MT CO2e in reduction towards Measure E-1’s goals as of 2022. While this reduction will be slightly offset by future electricity increases from Measure E-2, Measure E-3, and Measure E-4’s building electrification and Measure T-6 and Measure T-7’s vehicle electrification, this 2022 reduction demonstrates the feasibility of achieving this Measure’s estimated emissions reduction. The City also understands they will need to work directly with MCE to provide 100 percent carbon-free and renewable electricity at costeffective rates. Currently, MCE cannot yet determine if they have capacity to enroll all MCE customers in San Ramon in Deep Green by 2030 due to costs and procurement constraints. Thus, Action E-1e directs the City to work with MCE as they evaluate their service options and assumes MCE and the City will be able to supply all MCE customers in San Ramon with carbon-free and renewable electricity by 2030.

The quantification applies to the share of forecasted electricity usage from MCE customers. This share is based on the share seen in 2019 (i.e., 94 percent of residential electricity and 65 percent of commercial electricity). The quantification assumes the MCE electricity will be sourced from 100 percent renewable and carbon-free sources in 2030 producing an emissions reduction compared to MCE’s forecasted renewable mix. Table 5 shows the parameters and data sources that support these carbon-free and renewable electricity GHG emissions reduction and Table 6 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 1 through 1.3.

Carbon-free and Renewable Electricity Equations
Equation 1 CO2e ReductionElec,y,i=Total Elecchoice,y,i*(EFweighted-elec,y,i-EFelec,choice,y) Equation 1.1 Total Elecchoice,y,i=Total Elecforecasted,choice,y,i+(Elec UsageBE,y,i*Elec Allocchoice)+(Elec EV Usagey*EVbaseline)
Equation 1.2 Elec Allocchoice=Elecforecasted,choice,y,i / Total Elecy,i Equation 1.3 Total Elecforecasted,choice,y,i=Elecforecasted,choice,y,i*(1+LT&D)+(ElecEVy*EVbaseline) 6 These statistics are calculated from San Ramon’s 2019 community GHG inventory. The calculations exclude direct access electricity. 7 City of San Ramon. Climate Action Plan (2025). Appendix E: 2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory. 8 This statistic is calculated from San Ramon’s 2022 community GHG inventory. The calculation excludes direct access electricity.

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Table 5 Carbon-free and Renewable Electricity Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 1
CO2e
ReductionElec,y,i
Electricity GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 6 MT CO2e Calculated
Total Elecchoice,y,i Total MCE electricity
consumption
See Table 6 kWh Calculated
EFweighted-elec,y,i Weighted MCE electricity
emissions factor by sector
See Table 6 MT CO2e/kWh Calculated
EFelec,choice,y MCE Deep Green emission
factor
See Table 6 MT CO2e/kWh Calculated
Carbon Freeyear Year in which MCE is
carbon free
2030 year Measure E-1’s implementation
target
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Residential or
Nonresidential
— —
Equation 1.1
Total
Elecforecasted,choice,y,i
Forecasted MCE
electricity, including T&D
losses
See Table 6 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Elec UsageBE,y,i Electricity usage from CAP
Update Energy Measures,
including T&D losses
See Table 6 kWh Table 8, Table 10, Table 12,
Table 14, Table 17, and Table 19
Elec Allocchoice MCE electricity allocation See Table 6 percentage Calculated Elec EV Usagey EV electricity usage from
CAP Update
Transportation Measures
See below — —
2030, Residential 47,245,486 kWh Table 29
2045, Residential 240,886,819 kWh Table 31
EVbaseline Percentage of baseline
passenger EV from MCE
82% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Equation 1.2
Elecforecasted,choice,y,i Forecasted MCE electricity
usage
See below — —
2030, Residential 213,800,853 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
2030, Nonresidential 119,083,742 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
2045, Residential 231,359,575 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
2045, Nonresidential 155,891,510 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Total Elecy,i Total electricity
consumption (PG&E and
MCE)
See below — —
2030, Residential 227,759,382 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets

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Packet Pg. 359 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence Draft Climate Action Plan D-11
Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
2030, Nonresidential 183,112,889 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
2045, Residential 246,464,470 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
2045, Nonresidential 239,711,520 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Equation 1.3
LT&D Electricity transmission
and distribution loss
percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
ElecEVy Total forecasted EV
electricity
See below — —
2030, Residential 13,940,712 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
2045, Residential 21,635,272 kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows Table 6 Carbon-free and Renewable Electricity GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equation 1.3
Total
Elecforecasted,choice,y,i
Forecasted MCE electricity,
including T&D losses
kWh Residential 236,078,791 260,810,926
Nonresidential 125,157,013 163,841,977
Equation 1.2
Elec Allocchoice MCE electricity allocation kWh Residential 94% 94% Nonresidential 65% 65%
Equation 1.1
Elec UsageBE,y,i Electricity usage from CAP
Update Energy Measures,
including T&D losses
kWh Residential 25,873,510 107,458,969
Nonresidential 6,741,445 56,199,697
Total Elecchoice,y,i Total MCE electricity
consumption
kWh Residential 298,913,751 558,221,395
Nonresidential 129,541,174 200,390,307
Equation 1
EFweighted-elec,y,i Weighted MCE electricity
emissions factor by sector
MT CO2e/kWh Residential 0.000033 0.000000
Nonresidential 0.000033 0.000000
EFelec,choice,y MCE Deep Green emission
factor
MT CO2e/kWh Residential 0.000000 0.000000
Nonresidential 0.000000 0.000000
CO2e
ReductionElec,y,i
Electricity GHG emissions
reduction
MT CO2e Residential 9,960 0
Nonresidential 4,253 0

1. The calculations result in a 0 MT CO2e reduction in 2045 because the forecasted electricity emissions factor is already expected to be zero in 2045 due to California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard.

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Packet Pg. 360 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan
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E-2: Decarbonize 100% of new residential and commercial construction by 2026.

Measure E-2 commits San Ramon to electrify new construction in the community. The primary Action that enables this Measure is Action E-2a which directs the City to adopt a single margin source energy score or more stringent ordinance by 2026 to avoid new natural gas construction for residential and commercial buildings.

The City recognizes the need to discontinue new natural gas developments in the community, where feasible. However, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s decision to overturn the City of Berkeley’s natural gas regulation—the ordinance that prohibited the installation of natural gas piping within newly constructed buildings—limits the City’s ability to establish regulations to ban new natural gas construction.9 Through Action E-2a, the City will employ the most stringent regulation currently available to electrify all new construction in the community. Action E-2a’s ordinance will be designed to either strongly encourage electrification of new construction as a single margin energy score or specifically restrict the use of natural gas in new construction.

The ordinance would establish a low Energy Design Rating (EDR)—a scoring metric that determines a building’s compliance with California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards—for new residential and commercial buildings in San Ramon. While the EDR does not ban natural gas infrastructure, it would make electrification the easiest and most economical pathway to meet the standard.

Exceptions for natural gas infrastructure are expected to be minimal due to the cost effectiveness of new building electrification in San Ramon and the available incentives that will help continue the natural growth in electric space and water heater installations seen in California over the past decade and in San Ramon over the past couple years.

First, the ordinance works with a clear understanding of developer and consumer decision-making considerations to strongly encourage all-electric new building design through cost-effectiveness.

Studies show that developers often prioritize cost efficiency in their decision-making—as the financial feasibility of a project depends heavily on material and energy costs—10, 11 while consumers may be willing to pay almost a ten percent premium for sustainable goods, despite cost factors and inflation concerns for cost-of-living.12 These considerations indicate developers and consumers will prioritize all-electric new construction in San Ramon since it is already cost-effective for buildings. According to the California Energy Codes & Standards’ Cost Effectiveness Explorer, allelectric new construction of single-family homes, multi-family buildings, and medium retail buildings in San Ramon are more cost-effective than mixed fuel buildings under current gas utility rates.13 For other building types with data availability limitations, the ordinance will set an EDR that makes highGHG emission building designs more expensive to construct. Thus, the current cost-effectiveness of all-electric building designs in San Ramon coupled with the effect of a low EDR will support allelectric new construction in the community. 9 CRA V. City of Berkeley, No. 21-16278. Accessed at: https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca9/21-16278/21-16278- 2023-04-17.html. 10 DesignHorizons Team. 2024. Construction Pricing: Factors, Costs, and Methods Explained. Available at:
https://designhorizons.org/construction-pricing-factors-costs-and-methods-explained/ 11 Construction Management Association of America. Member Communications Experience, Construction Estimating: Everything You Need to Know. Available at: https://www.cmaanet.org/sites/default/files/resource/Construction%20Estimating_0.pdf 12 PwC. “Consumers willing to pay 9.7% sustainability premium, even as cost-of-living and inflationary concerns weigh: PwC 2024 Voice of the Consumer Survey” (2024). Available at: https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/news-room/press-releases/2024/pwc-2024-voice-of-consumersurvey.html 13 California Energy Codes & Standards. Cost Effectiveness Explorer (May 2024). Available at:
https://explorer.localenergycodes.com/jurisdiction/san-ramon-city/study-results/12-PGE?only_study_type=new-buildings.

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Packet Pg. 361 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence Draft Climate Action Plan D-13
Second, the prioritization of all-electric new construction can be seen through current market trends in California and San Ramon. According to a recent California market study, electric space heaters (including heat pumps and electric resistance heaters) have grown from a five percent market share in 2009 to a 20 percent market share in 2019. Likewise, electric water heaters (including heat pumps and electric heaters) have grown from a six percent market share in 2009 to an 11 percent market share in 2019.14 These market trends have been confirmed in San Ramon, as all new residential developments approvals since 2022 have been all-electric.15 This trend is expected to continue through 2030 due to escalating gas utility rates and the availability of funding for electric or heat pump space and water heating appliances in San Ramon.
16 While the total amount of funding
available will change with sunset dates and budget cycles, the currently available federal, state, regional, and local funding helps offset the upfront costs of electric appliances to increase the costeffectiveness of all-electric new buildings. 17 Despite the cost-effectiveness of new buildings (naturally and under the EDR), recent market trends, and robust amount of available incentives, the quantification for this Measure assumes only 95 percent of new buildings will go all-electric, conservatively assuming five percent may deviate from the evidence if they are hard to electrify. The quantification applies this electrification rate to forecasted residential and commercial building growth to calculate the GHG emissions reduction.

The quantification assumes all new construction (that is not hard-to-electrify) will comply with the ordinance because new construction permitting requires multiple rounds of review from multiple agencies including water and energy utilities and is conspicuous in nature. Table 7 shows the parameters and data sources that support the electrification ordinance GHG emissions reduction and Table 8 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 2 through 2.2.

All-electric New Construction Equations
Equation 2 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i=(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNG)+(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNGL)-(Elec Converty,i*EFelec,y,i)
Equation 2.1 Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i = (FuelNG,y,i-FuelNG,imp.yi )* %Impi Equation 2.2 Elecconvert,y,i = Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*(CFelec/Effelec)*(1+LT&D) 14 Opinion Dynamics. California Heat Pump Residential Market Characterization and Baseline Study (2022). Accessed at:
https://pda.energydataweb.com/#!/documents/2625/view. 15 From 2022 through August 2024, seven developments totaling 1,315 housing units were approved for future construction in San Ramon—all of which have all-electric designs. Data on residential development projects in San Ramon from 2020 to 2024 provided by City of San Ramon’s Community Development Department.
16 The California Energy Commission assumes gas utility rates will experience steep increases starting in 2030 under the 2025 building code.

California Energy Codes & Standards. 2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Single Family New Construction (2024). Available at:
https://explorer.localenergycodes.com/jurisdiction/san-ramon-city/summary.

California Energy Codes & Standards. 2022 Code: Nonresidential New Construction Reach Code Cost-effectiveness Study (2023). Available at: https://explorer.localenergycodes.com/jurisdiction/san-ramon-city/summary. 17 Current federal funding includes the High Efficiency Electric Home Rebate [HEEHRA], Homeowner Managing Energy Savings [HOMES] Rebate, and rebates and tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act. Current state funding includes rebates from TEHC Clean California.

Current regional funding includes rebates through the Bay Area Regional Energy Network [BayREN] Home+ Program and Bay Area Multifamily Building Enhancements [BAMBE] Program. Current local funding includes MCE’s rebates.

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Packet Pg. 362 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan
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Table 7 All-electric New Construction Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 2
CO2e
ReductionNG,y,i
Natural gas GHG
emissions reduction
See Table 8 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i Natural gas consumption
avoided
See Table 8 therms Calculated
EFNG Natural gas emission
factor

0.005310 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Fuel AvoidedNGL,y,i Natural gas leakage
avoided
See Table 8 therms Calculated
EFNGL Natural gas leakage
emission factor

0.001090 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Elec Convertedy,i Electricity usage from
conversion
See Table 8 kWh Calculated
Efelec,y,i Forecasted electricity
emission factor
See Table 8 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
LT&D Electricity transmission
and distribution loss
percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Residential or
Nonresidential
— —
Equation 2.1
FuelNGy,i Forecasted natural gas
consumption
See Table 8 therms Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
FuelNG,imp.y Forecasted natural gas in
implementation year
See Table 8 therms Calculated
imp.yi Ordinance
implementation year
See below year —
imp.yresidential Ordinance
implementation year
(residential)
2026 year Measure E-2
implementation target
imp.ycommercial Ordinance
implementation year
(commercial)
2026 year Measure E-2
implementation target
%Impi Effective percent of
ordinance
implementation
— % —

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Packet Pg. 363 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence Draft Climate Action Plan D-15
Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
%Impresidential Effective percent of
ordinance
implementation
(residential)
95% % Assumed due to electric
appliance market trends,
cost-effectiveness, and
incentives. Excludes hardto-electrify construction. %Impcommercial Effective percent of ordinance
implementation
(commercial)
95% %
Equation 2.2
CFelec Electricity to therms
conversion factor

29.3 kWh/therm Metric Conversions1
Effelec Efficiency factor of electric
equipment relative to
natural gas equipment
3 unitless European Copper
Institute2
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 Metric Conversions. Therms (US) to Kilowatt-hours.
2 European Copper Institute. Heat Pumps: Integrating technologies to decarbonise heating and cooling (2018). Accessed at:
https://www.ehpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/White_Paper_Heat_pumps-1.pdf.

Table 8 All-electric New Construction GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equation 2.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption
therms Residential 14,350,659 16,527,248
Nonresidential 6,924,456 9,064,746
FuelNG,imp Forecasted natural gas in
implementation year
therms Residential 13,647,290 13,647,290
Nonresidential 6,559,611 6,559,611
Fuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption
avoided
therms Residential 668,201 2,735,961
Nonresidential 346,603 2,379,879
Equation 2.2
Elec Converted Electricity usage from
conversion
kWh Residential 6,858,928 28,083,997
Nonresidential 3,557,801 24,428,902
Equation 2
EFelec Forecasted electricity
emission factor
MT CO2e/kWh Residential 0.0000316 0.00
Nonresidential 0.0000232 0.00
CO2e
ReductionNG
Natural gas GHG
emissions reduction
MT CO2e Residential 4,060 17,510
Nonresidential 2,136 15,231
E-3: Electrify 14% of existing residential buildings by 2030 and 57% by 2045.

Measure E-3 puts San Ramon on a path to reduce existing residential natural gas consumption 14 percent by 2030 and 57 percent by 2045 to reduce GHG emissions. The primary Actions that enable this level of adoption include:
 Action E-2a which commits the City to include significant residential remodels in the single margin source energy score (or more stringent ordinance on new construction) by 2027 buildings;

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Packet Pg. 364 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) City of San Ramon
San Ramon Climate Action Plan
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 Action E-3a which commits the City to adopt a reach code in 2026 requiring all new residential central air conditioning unit installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling with a single unit for residential buildings; and directs the City to enforce compliance with the reach code through a comprehensive permitting compliance program; and  Action E-3e which directs the City to educate homeowners on the upcoming requirements of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) zero-nitrogen oxides (zero-NOx) rules which will require the electrification of existing residential water heating appliances at the time of replacement in San Ramon.

Significant Remodels Requirements
Action E-2a expands the single margin source energy score (or more stringent ordinance on new construction) to apply to significant residential remodels in 2027. 18 Studies conducted by the
Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) using data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development show the prevalence of home improvement projects in California. According to the studies, about 17 percent of homes in San Ramon’s metropolitan statistical area (MSA) (i.e., the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward MSA) completed replacement projects (including water heater and HVAC replacements) in 2021. Likewise, the studies show about 12 percent of homes in San Ramon’s MSA completed kitchen and bathroom remodels or room additions in 2021.19 Because not all of these home improvement projects can be classified as a significant remodel, the quantification analyses San Ramon’s housing stock to develop a conservative estimate for the significant remodel rate. As shown in Figure 2, over 25 percent of San Ramon’s housing structures were built before 1979. This means about 25 percent of the housing structures in the community will be over 52 years old in 2030, having reached or soon reaching the point of needing significant remodels since the average lifespan of a house is 50 to 63 years.20 This quantification conservatively assumes one percent of homes will need significant remodels each year through 2045 so that only three percent of homes receive significant remodels cumulatively between 2027 and 2030, and 15 percent between 2027 and 2045.
18 The California Building Code, Title 24 defines significant remodels (aka. substantial improvements) as “Any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, alteration, addition, or other improvement of a building structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the improvement or repair is started.” San Ramon may adopt their own definition of significant remodels in the reach code.
19 Project percentages calculated from JCHS’ publicly available Excel data for the 2023 Improving America’s Housing report.

JCHS. Improving Americas Housing 2023. Available at: https://www.jchs.harvard.edu/improving-americas-housing-2023. 20 MIT Architecture. Architectural Longevity: What Determines a Building’s Lifespan? (2023). Accessed at:
https://architecture.mit.edu/news/architectural-longevity-what-determines-buildingslifespan#:~:text=Courtesy%20of%20the%20artists.&text=The%20average%20lifespan%20of%20a,years%2C%20from%20construction%20 to%20demolition.

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Packet Pg. 365 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence Draft Climate Action Plan D-17
Figure 2 San Ramon’s Housing Stock Age
Source: City of San Ramon. 2023-2031 Housing Element (2023). Figure 11.2-8: Year Structure Built (2019).

The EDR established under the single margin source energy score will make electric appliances the easiest pathway to meet the ordinance’s requirements. While the ordinance does not ban natural gas appliances outright, significant remodels built with natural gas appliances are expected to be minimal due to the cost effectiveness of existing building electrification and the available incentives that will help continue the natural growth in electric space and water heater installations seen in California over the past decade. According to the California Energy Codes & Standards’ Cost Effectiveness Explorer, replacing gas space heating systems with an electric-only heat pump system and gas water heaters with a heat pump water heater with an electric base both produce on-bill cost savings for customers in San Ramon’s single-family and multi-family homes built before 1978, which are the the homes that would be receiving significant remodels by 2030.21 Additionally, these cost-effectiveness conditions will be complemented with available incentives for replacing existing gas appliances with electric alternatives to continue growing shares of electric space and water heaters in the California market.22 While the total amount of funding available will change with sunset dates and budget cycles, the currently available federal, state, regional, and local (i.e., MCE’s rebates) funding support the cost-effectiveness of all-electric remodels.23 21 The California Energy Codes & Standards’ Cost Effectiveness Explorer considers estimated site energy usage and customer utility bill savings over the operating lifetime of the unit with natural gas cost escalation rates resulting from California’s 2025 Title 24 Building Energy Standards (the “2025 building code”). The 2025 building code analysis results were selected because the building code will formally take effect in 2026 making it the applicable building code when Action E-2a’s significant remodel requirement takes effect in San Ramon.

California Energy Codes & Standards. Cost Effectiveness Explorer (May 2024). Available at:
https://explorer.localenergycodes.com/jurisdiction/san-ramon-city/study-results/12-PGE?only_study_type=existing-buildings. 22 Opinion Dynamics. California Heat Pump Residential Market Characterization and Baseline Study (2022). Accessed at:
https://pda.energydataweb.com/#!/documents/2625/view. 23 See federal, state, and regional funding examples cited under Measure E-2.

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San Ramon Climate Action Plan
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The quantification is based on the share of homes receiving significant remodels each year (i.e., one percent). This share is applied to San Ramon’s forecasted natural gas consumption from existing homes such that after a remodel happens, the home (or the natural gas associated with that home) is removed from the stock to avoid double counting. Due to the ordinance requirements and costeffectiveness of existing building electrification, the quantification assumes most significant remodels will replace existing gas appliances with electric alternatives eliminating the natural gas usage of the remodeled home. The quantification conservatively assumes that some significant remodels each year (i.e., 12 percent) will not electrify despite the EDR, market trends, the costeffectiveness of electrification in older homes, and available incentives to remain conservative.

The results of this quantification indicate this Action will result in about a three percent reduction in existing residential natural gas usage by 2030 and 15 percent by 2045. Table 9 shows the parameters and data sources that support this Action’s GHG emissions reduction and Table 10 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 3 through 3.2.

All-electric Residential Significant Remodels Equations Equation 3 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i=(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNG)+(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNGL)-(Elec Convertedy,i*EFelec,y,i)
Equation 3.1 Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i=FuelNG,y,i-FuelNG,y,i*(1-MRi*(1-NCRi))(y-imp.y) Equation 3.2 Elecconvert,y,i = Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*(CFelec/Effelec)*(1+LT&D) Table 9 All-electric Residential Significant Remodels Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 3
CO2e ReductionNG Natural gas GHG
emissions reduction
See Table 10 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption
avoided
See Table 10 therms Calculated
EFNG Natural gas emission
factor

0.00531 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction Targets
EFNGL Natural gas leakage
emission factor

0.00109 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction Targets
Elec Converted Electricity usage from
conversion
See Table 10 kWh Calculated
EFelec Forecasted electricity
emission factor
See Table 10 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction Targets
LT&D Electricity transmission
and distribution loss
percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction Targets
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Residential — —
Equation 3.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption after new
building electrification
ordinance (Measure BE-1)
See Table 10 therms Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction Targets

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Packet Pg. 367 Attachment: A: San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), June 10, 2025 (2025-073 : Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update) CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence Draft Climate Action Plan D-19
Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
MR Annual percentage of
residential homes
receiving major
renovations
1% percentage Estimated based on San Ramon
house stock age (Figure 2) and
average lifespan of a house.1
NCR Ordinance noncompliance
rate
12% percentage Assumed due to electric
appliance market trends, costeffectiveness, and incentives. imp.y Ordinance
implementation year
2027 year Action E-2a’s implementation
target
Equation 3.2
CFelec Electricity to therms
conversion factor

29.3 kWh/therm Metric Conversions.2
Effelec Efficiency factor of electric
equipment relative to
natural gas equipment
3 unitless European Copper Institute3
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 MIT Architecture. Architectural Longevity: What Determines a Building’s Lifespan? (2023). 2 Metric Conversions. Therms (US) to Kilowatt-hours.
3 European Copper Institute. Heat Pumps: Integrating technologies to decarbonise heating and cooling (2018). Accessed at:
https://www.ehpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/White_Paper_Heat_pumps-1.pdf.

Table 10 All-electric Residential Significant Remodels GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations
Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equation 3.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption after new
building electrification
ordinance (Measure E-2)
therms Residential 13,647,290 13,647,290
nFuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption
avoided
therms Residential 357,127 2,007,378
Equation 3.2
Elec Converted Electricity usage from
conversion
kWh Residential 3,665,827 20,605,265
Equation 3
EFelec Forecasted electricity
emission factor
MT CO2e/kWh Residential 0.0000316 0.0000000
CO2e ReductionNG Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
MT CO2e Residential 2,170 12,847
Two-way Central Air Conditioning Reach Code
Action E-3a’s two-way residential central air conditioning reach code will work to require the electrification of central air conditioning replacements in San Ramon homes beginning in 2026. The reach code will apply to homes with central air conditioning units. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey, about 34 percent of homes in San Ramon’s MSA have central air

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conditioning units.24 The only technologies currently available that provide two-way central air conditioning are heat pumps. In San Ramon’s climate zone, heat pumps are a cost-effective and energy efficient way to provide both heating and cooling in most all single-family and multi-family homes. According to the California Energy Codes & Standards’ Cost Effectiveness Explorer, replacing gas space heaters at burnout with heat pump alternatives produce on-bill cost savings for San Ramon residents in most single-family and multi-family homes.25 This cost effectiveness is enabled by heat pumps’ 300 to 400 percent energy efficiency (resulting in lower operating costs compared to gas appliances) and furthered by heat pumps’ ability to replace the need for duplicative appliances (i.e., one heat pump space conditioning system can replace an air conditioning unit and a furnace) and the robust amount of available incentives. 26, 27 These heat pumps will serve to replace
central gas air conditioning units and gas furnaces with electric alternatives in about 34 percent of San Ramon homes under the two-way central air conditioning reach code.

This Action’s permitting compliance program will support compliance with the ordinance. Although permits are required for many energy efficiency improvements (e.g., water heaters, insulation, HVAC systems, duct replacement) many jurisdictions face permit evasion issues, with permitted HVAC systems only accounting for eight to about 30 percent of total HVAC system installations. 28, 29
This trend in permit evasion means jurisdictions face issues determining compliance with building ordinances and codes. Strategies that have proven effective at improving permit compliance in various states and local jurisdictions include streamlining the compliance process and providing advanced training for enforcement staff—actions the City’s permit compliance program will implement to enforce the two-way central air conditioning reach code.30 When implemented through an effective enforcement program (which the City will support through noncompliance fees), such strategies have been estimated to achieve a 90 percent compliance rate with building energy codes.31 This quantification conservatively assumes an 88 percent compliance rate with the reach code. The City will monitor permit numbers to estimate compliance rates and adjust the 24 San Ramon belongs to the U.S. Census Bureau’s San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward MSA. U.S. Census Bureau. American Housing Survey. 2021 San Francisco — Heating, Air Conditioning, and Appliances — All Occupied Units. Accessed at: https://www.census.gov/programssurveys/ahs/data/interactive/ahstablecreator.html?s_areas=41860&s_year=2021&s_tablename=TABLE3&s_bygroup1=1&s_bygroup2=1 &s_filtergroup1=1&s_filtergroup2=1. 25 According to the California Energy Codes & Standards’ Cost Effectiveness Explorer, heat pump space conditioning systems are costeffective for single-family and multi-family homes of all ages in San Ramon except for newer multi-family homes built from 1992 to 2005.

This analysis considers estimated site energy usage and customer utility bill savings over the operating lifetime of the unit with natural gas cost escalation rates resulting from the 2025 building code. The 2025 building code analysis results were selected because the building code will formally take effect in 2026 making it the applicable building code when Action E-2a’s significant remodel requirement takes effect in San Ramon.

California Energy Codes & Standards. Cost Effectiveness Explorer (May 2024). Available at:
https://explorer.localenergycodes.com/jurisdiction/san-ramon-city/study-results/12-PGE?only_study_type=existing-buildings. 26 Redwood Energy. A Pocket Guide to All-Electric Retrofits of Commercial Buildings (2022). Accessed at: https://assets-global.websitefiles.com/62b110a14473cb7777a50d28/6377e7c7fd6f8cc30f88afa7_Redwood%20Energy-s%20Pocket%20Guide%20to%20AllElectric%20Commercial%20Retrofits.pdf. 27 See federal, state, and regional funding examples cited under Measure E-2. 28 Alvarez, Emily and Mast, Bruce. BayREN Codes & Standards Program. Local Government Policy Calculator for Existing Single-Family Buildings – User Guide (2021). Accessed at: https://www.bayrencodes.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/BayREN-Policy-Calculator-UserGuide_10.29.2021.pdf. 29 California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Final Report: 2014-16 HVAC Permit and Code Compliance Market Assessment (Work Order 6) Volume I – Report (2017). Accessed at:
http://www.calmac.org/publications/HVAC_WO6_FINAL_REPORT_VolumeI_22Sept2017.pdf. 30 Meres, Ryan et al. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Successful Strategies for Improving Compliance with Building Energy Codes (2012). Accessed at: https://www.aceee.org/files/proceedings/2012/data/papers/0193-000112.pdf. 31 Institute for Market Transformation. “$810 Million Funding Needed to Achieve 90% Compliance with Building Energy Codes.” Available at: https://www.energy.gov/gc/articles/microsoft-word-energy-code-enforcement-funding-task-force-fact-sheetfinaldocx#:~:text=Strong%20building%20energy%20codes%20are,codes%20the%20most%20severely%20underfunded.

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permit compliance program strategies as needed to achieve this 88 percent compliance rate with the reach code.

The quantification applies to the share of San Ramon homes with central air conditioning (i.e., 34 percent)32 and is based on the percent of central air conditioning units being replaced each year after the reach code takes effect in 2026. The replacement rate is calculated based on the average lifespan of a residential air conditioning unit (i.e., 18 years). 33 The quantification assumes most
replacements (i.e., 88 percent) will comply with the reach code to install electric or heat pump appliances. The quantification applies this resulting replacement rate to the share of forecasted natural gas from existing homes used for space heating and cooling. The share of natural gas associated with residential space heating and cooling is estimated using the California average (i.e.,

39.1 percent).
34 To avoid double counting, the quantification assumes the reduction in residential natural gas consumption occurs after the implementation of the significant remodel requirements.

The results of the quantification indicate this Action will reduce existing residential natural gas consumption by about three percent by 2030 and ten percent by 2045. Table 11 shows the parameters and data sources that support the residential two-way central air conditioning ordinance GHG emissions reduction and Table 12 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 4 through 4.3.

Two-Way Residential Air Conditioning Reach Code Equations Equation 4 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i=(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNG)+(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNGL)-(Elec Convertedy,i*EFelec,y,i)
Equation 4.1 Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i=FuelNG,y,i*(EOLNG,HVAC,y,i*NG UsageHVAC,i) Equation 4.2 EOLNG,HVAC,y,i=1/LSPHVAC,i*(y-imp.yi)*(1-NCRi)*CAC ShareNG,i Equation 4.3 Elecconvert,y,i = Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*CFelec/Effelec*(1+LT&D) 32 U.S. Census Bureau. American Housing Survey: 2021 San Francisco — Heating, Air Conditioning, and Appliances — All Occupied Units.

Available at: https://www.census.gov/programssurveys/ahs/data/interactive/ahstablecreator.html?s_areas=41860&s_year=2021&s_tablename=TABLE3&s_bygroup1=1&s_bygroup2=1 &s_filtergroup1=1&s_filtergroup2=1. 33 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Final Staff Report: Proposed Amendments to Building Appliance Rules–Regulation 9, Rule 4:

Nitrogen Oxides from Fan Type Residential Central Furnaces and Rule 6: Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (2023). Available at: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/dotgov/files/rules/reg-9-rule-4-nitrogen-oxides-from-fan-typeresidential-central-furnaces/2021-amendments/documents/20230307_fsr_rules0904and0906-pdf.pdf?la=en. 34 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). Accessed at: https://www.synapseenergy.com/sites/default/files/Decarbonization-Heating-CA-Buildings-17-092-1.pdf.

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Table 11 Two-Way Residential Air Conditioning Reach Code Parameters and Data Sources
Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 4
CO2e ReductionNG Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 12 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption
avoided
See Table 12 therms Calculated
EFNG Natural gas emission factor 0.005310 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
EFNGL Natural gas leakage emission
factor

0.001090 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Elec Converted Electricity usage from
conversion
See Table 12 kWh Calculated
EFelec Forecasted electricity
emission factor
See Table 12 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Residential — —
Equation 4.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption after new
construction electrification
(Measure E-2) and significant
remodels electrification
See Table 12 therms Calculated from Table 10
EOLNG,HVAC Percent of HVAC units
reaching end-of-life
See Table 12 percentage Calculated
NG
UsageHVAC,Residential
NG usage that comes from
residential space
heating/cooling

39.1% percentage Hopkins, Asa S., PhD et al.

Decarbonization of Heating
Energy Use in California
Buildings (2018)1
Equation 4.2
LSPHVAC Average residential HVAC
unit lifespan
18 years BAAQMD. Final Staff
Report: Proposed
Amendments to Building
Appliance Rules–Regulation
9, Rule 4: Nitrogen Oxides
from Fan Type Residential
Central Furnaces and Rule 6:

Nitrogen Oxides Emissions
from Natural Gas-Fired
Boilers and Water Heaters
(2023).2
imp.y Ordinance implementation
year
2026 year Action E-3a’s
implementation target

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
CAC ShareNG Share of homes with central
air conditioning
34% percentage Calculated from the U.S.

Census Bureau’s 2021
American Housing Survey
for the San FranciscoOakland-Hayward MSA.
3 NCR Ordinance noncompliance
rate
12% percentage Estimate based on permit
evasion rates and strategies
to increase building code
compliance. 4, 5, 6
Equation 4.3
CFelec Electricity to therms
conversion factor

29.3 kWh/therm Metric Conversions7
Effelec Efficiency factor of electric
equipment relative to natural
gas equipment
3 unitless European Copper Institute8
LT&D Electricity transmission and
distribution loss percentage

5.1% percentage See references in Appendix
GHG Inventory, Forecast,
and Targets Technical
Report
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). Accessed at: https://www.synapseenergy.com/sites/default/files/Decarbonization-Heating-CA-Buildings-17-092-1.pdf. 2 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Final Staff Report: Proposed Amendments to Building Appliance Rules–Regulation 9, Rule 4: Nitrogen Oxides from Fan Type Residential Central Furnaces and Rule 6: Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (2023). Available at: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/dotgov/files/rules/reg-9-rule-4-nitrogen-oxides-from-fantype-residential-central-furnaces/2021-amendments/documents/20230307_fsr_rules0904and0906-pdf.pdf?la=en. 3 U.S. Census Bureau. American Housing Survey. 2021 San Francisco — Heating, Air Conditioning, and Appliances — All Occupied Units.

Accessed at: https://www.census.gov/programssurveys/ahs/data/interactive/ahstablecreator.html?s_areas=41860&s_year=2021&s_tablename=TABLE3&s_bygroup1=1&s_bygroup2= 1&s_filtergroup1=1&s_filtergroup2=1.
4 Alvarez, Emily and Mast, Bruce. BayREN Codes & Standards Program. Local Government Policy Calculator for Existing Single-Family Buildings – User Guide (2021). 5 California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Final Report: 2014-16 HVAC Permit and Code Compliance Market Assessment (Work Order 6) Volume I – Report (2017).
6 Meres, Ryan et al. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Successful Strategies for Improving Compliance with Building Energy Codes (2012).
7 Metric Conversions. Therms (US) to Kilowatt-hours.
8 European Copper Institute. Heat Pumps: Integrating technologies to decarbonise heating and cooling (2018).

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Table 12 Two-Way Residential Air Conditioning Reach Code GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations
Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equation 4.1
FuelNG,y,i Forecasted natural gas consumption
after new construction
electrification (Measure E-2) and
significant remodels electrification
therms Residential 13,290,162 11,639,912
Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i Natural gas consumption avoided therms Residential 345,175 1,360,415 Equation 4.2
EOLNG,HVAC Percent of HVAC units reaching endof-lifepercentage Residential 7% 30% Equation 4.3
Elec Converted Electricity usage from conversion kWh Residential 3,543,141 13,964,339 Equation 4
EFelec Forecasted electricity emission
factor
MT CO2e/kWh Residential 0.000032 0.000000
CO2e ReductionNG,y,i Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
MT CO2e Residential 2,097 8,707
BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule
Action E-3e will educate residents on BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rules to support local compliance. San Ramon is under BAAQMD’s jurisdiction and will be affected by the amendments adopted for BAAQMD’s Rule 9-6: Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters and Rule 9- 4: Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces. These amendments, referred to herein as ‘zero-NOx rules,’ govern point of sale emission standards for water heating systems starting January 1, 2027, and furnaces starting January 1, 2029. The updated rule applies to small water heaters first, which most homes employ.
35 The only technologies currently available that
meet the amended rule are electric water heating systems and furnaces. Although there are a range of electric alternatives (e.g. electric resistance space heating), heat pumps are the most costeffective option on the market due to their significantly higher efficiency (300 to 400 percent) and resulting lower operating costs. The City will support this rule with education on the requirements and what technologies (i.e., heat pumps) meet the requirements.

The quantification applies to all homes because most homes have small water heaters.35 The quantification is based on the percentage of gas water heaters being replaced each year after the rule takes effect on small water heaters in 2027. The replacement rate is calculated based on the average lifespan of a residential water heater (i.e., 13 years). 36 The quantification assumes all
replacements (i.e., 100 percent) will comply with the reach code to install electric or heat pump appliances due to the geographic span of the zero-NOx rule. As a regional rule on the sale of appliances, gas water heaters will not be available to purchase across the Bay Area. The 35 Rule 9-6 affects the future sale of NOx emitting water heaters and boilers with a rated heat capacity of 75,000 British thermal units per hour or less. This threshold equates to an upper limit of NOx emitting water heaters with a 75-gallon tank capacity. Water heaters of these size are typically found in single-family homes, duplexes, and low-rise multi-family homes. Higher capacity water heaters will be regulated starting January 1, 2031.
36 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Final Staff Report: Proposed Amendments to Building Appliance Rules–Regulation 9, Rule 4:

Nitrogen Oxides from Fan Type Residential Central Furnaces and Rule 6: Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (2023). Available at: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/dotgov/files/rules/reg-9-rule-4-nitrogen-oxides-from-fan-typeresidential-central-furnaces/2021-amendments/documents/20230307_fsr_rules0904and0906-pdf.pdf?la=en.

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quantification applies this resulting heat pump replacement rate to the share of forecasted natural gas from existing homes used for water heating. The share of natural gas associated with residential water heating is estimated using the California average (i.e., 37.5 percent). 37 To avoid double
counting, the quantification assumes the reduction in residential natural gas consumption occurs after the implementation of the significant remodel requirements. The quantification excludes the replacements of gas furnaces with heat pump space heating systems to avoid double counting the emissions reduction from the two-way air conditioning reach code.

The results of the quantification indicate this Action will reduce existing residential natural gas consumption by over eight percent by 2030 and 32 percent by 2045. Table 13 shows the parameters and data sources that support BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rule GHG emissions reduction and Table 14 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 5 through 5.3.

BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Residential Water Heating Equations Equation 5 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i=(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNG)+(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNGL)-(Elec Convertedy,i*EFelec,y,i)
Equation 5.1 Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i=FuelNG,y,i*( EOLNG,water heater,y,i*NG Usagewater heater,i) Equation 5.2 EOLNG,water heater,y,i=1/LSPwater heater,i*(y-imp.yi)*(1-NCR) Equation 5.3 Elecconvert,y,i = Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*CFelec/Effelec*(1+LT&D) Table 13 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Residential Water Heating Parameters and Data Sources
Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 5
CO2e ReductionNG Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 14 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption
avoided
See Table 14 therms Calculated
EFNG Natural gas emission factor 0.005310 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
EFNGL Natural gas leakage emission
factor

0.001090 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Elec Converted Electricity usage from
conversion
See Table 14 kWh Calculated
EFelec Forecasted electricity
emission factor
See Table 14 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Residential — —
37 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). Accessed at: https://www.synapseenergy.com/sites/default/files/Decarbonization-Heating-CA-Buildings-17-092-1.pdf.

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 5.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption
See Table 14 therms Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
EOLNG,water heater Percent of water heaters
reaching end-of-life
See Table 14 percentage Calculated
NG Usagewater
heater
Share of NG usage from
residential water heaters

37.5% percentage Hopkins, Asa S., PhD et al.

Decarbonization of Heating
Energy Use in California
Buildings (2018)2
Equation 5.2
LSPwh Average residential water
heater lifespan
13 years BAAQMD. Final Staff
Report: Proposed
Amendments to Building
Appliance Rules–Regulation
9, Rule 4: Nitrogen Oxides
from Fan Type Residential
Central Furnaces and Rule
6: Nitrogen Oxides
Emissions from Natural
Gas-Fired Boilers and
Water Heaters (2023).
1 imp.y Ordinance implementation
year
2027 year BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rule
implementation year for
small water heaters.

NCR Ordinance noncompliance
rate
0% percentage Full compliance assumed
because the zero-NOx rule
is a regional rule on the
sale of water heaters.

Equation 5.3
CFelec Electricity to therms
conversion factor

29.3 kWh/therm Metric Conversions3
Effelec Efficiency factor of electric
equipment relative to natural
gas equipment
3 unitless European Copper Institute4
LT&D Electricity transmission and
distribution loss percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Final Staff Report: Proposed Amendments to Building Appliance Rules–Regulation 9, Rule 4: Nitrogen Oxides from Fan Type Residential Central Furnaces and Rule 6: Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (2023). Available at: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/dotgov/files/rules/reg-9-rule-4-nitrogen-oxides-from-fantype-residential-central-furnaces/2021-amendments/documents/20230307_fsr_rules0904and0906-pdf.pdf?la=en. 2 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). 3 Metric Conversions. Therms (US) to Kilowatt-hours.
4 European Copper Institute. Heat Pumps: Integrating technologies to decarbonise heating and cooling (2018).

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Table 14 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Residential Water Heating GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations
Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equation 5.1
FuelNG,y,i Forecasted natural gas consumption
after new building and remodels
electrification ordinance is
implemented
therms Residential 13,290,162 11,639,912
Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i Natural gas consumption avoided therms Residential 1,150,110 4,364,967 Equations 5.2
EOLNG,water heater Percent of water heaters reaching
end-of-life
percentage Residential 9% 38%
Equation 5.3
Elec Converted Electricity usage from conversion kWh Residential 11,805,613 44,805,367 Equation 5
EFelec Forecasted electricity emission factor MT CO2e/kWh Residential 0.000032 0.000000 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i Natural gas GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e Residential 6,988 27,936 Together, Action E-2a, Action E-3a, and BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rule on water heaters (supported by Action E-3e) will reduce forecasted natural gas consumption by existing homes about 14 percent by 2030 and about 57 percent by 2045. Table 15 summarizes the natural gas reduction from each Action and the cumulative reduction of Measure E-3. The City will track the impact of these Actions and regulations through the permitting compliance program and through changes in residential natural gas consumption in future GHG inventory updates.

Table 15 Measure E-3 Residential Natural Gas Reduction Summary by Action Action Sector
2030 Natural
Gas Reduction
(therms)
2045 Natural
Gas Reduction
(therms)
2030 Percent
Reduction in Existing
Natural Gas (%)
2045 Percent
Reduction in Existing
Natural Gas (%)
Action E-2a: Significant
Remodels
Residential 357,127 2,007,378 3% 15%
Action E-3a: Two-way
Air Conditioning Reach
Code
Residential 345,175 1,360,415 3% 10%
Action E-3e: BAAQMD
Zero-NOx Rule
Residential 1,150,110 4,364,967 8% 32%
Measure E-3 Total Residential 1,852,412 7,732,759 14% 57% E-4: Electrify 2% of existing commercial buildings by 2030 and 33% by 2045.

Measure E-4 puts San Ramon on a path to reduce commercial natural gas consumption by two percent by 2030 and 33 percent by 2045 to reduce GHG emissions. The primary Actions that enable this level of adoption are:
 Action E-4a which commits the City to adopt a reach code in 2026 requiring all new commercial central air conditioning unit installations and replacements be two-way, providing both heating and cooling from a single unit for nonresidential buildings; and directs the City to enforce compliance with the reach code through the same comprehensive permitting compliance program developed under Action E-3a; and

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 Action E-4e which directs the City to educate commercial property owners on the upcoming requirements of the BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rules which will require the electrification of existing residential water heating appliances in San Ramon.

Two-way Central Air Conditioning Reach Code
First, Action E-4a’s two-way central air conditioning ordinance will work to require the electrification of central air conditioning replacements in San Ramon’s commercial buildings beginning in 2026. The reach code will apply to commercial buildings with central air conditioning units. Despite statewide and regional surveys showing that a greater share of commercial buildings has central air conditioning than residential buildings,38, 39 the quantification conservatively assumes commercial buildings in San Ramon have the same central air conditioning saturation rate as residential buildings (i.e., 34 percent).40 Like for residential buildings, the quantification assumes commercial buildings will replace air conditioning units and gas furnaces with electric alternatives under the reach code due to heat pumps’ cost-effectiveness and high energy efficiency. For evidence on this assumption, see the Two-way Central Air Conditioning Reach Code subsection under Measure E-3’s section. Likewise, this reach code will be enforced through the same permit compliance program as the residential reach code (Action E-3a), employing permit streamlining and advanced staff training to improve permit compliance to 88 percent. For evidence on the effectiveness of permit compliance programs, see the Two-way Central Air Conditioning Reach Code subsection under Measure E-3’s section. The City will monitor permit numbers to estimate compliance rates and adjust the permit compliance program strategies as needed to achieve this 88 percent compliance rate with the commercial reach code.

The quantification applies to the conservative share of San Ramon commercial buildings with central air conditioning (i.e., 34 percent). It is based on the percentage of central air conditioning units being replaced each year after the reach code takes effect in 2026. The replacement rate is calculated based on the average lifespan of a commercial air conditioning unit (i.e., 23 years). 41 The
quantification assumes most replacements (i.e., 88 percent) will comply with the reach code to install electric or heat pump appliances. The quantification applies this resulting replacement rate to the share of forecasted natural gas from existing commercial buildings used for space heating and cooling. The share of natural gas associated with residential space heating and cooling is estimated using the California average (i.e., 41.7 percent).
42 To avoid double counting, the quantification
assumes the reduction in commercial natural gas consumption occurs after the implementation of the new building requirements (i.e., Action E-2a).
38 Markley, John et al. University of California, Davis. HVAC Equipment Demographics and Capacity Analysis Tools Applicable to Multitenant Light Commercial Buildings (2013). Available at: https://wcec.ucdavis.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/MTLC-PreliminaryReport.pdf#:~:text=Packaged%20cooling%20equipment%20serves%20nearly%2070%%20of,HVAC%20systems%20(or%20RTUs)%20ubiqui tous%20in%20Multi%2D. 39 U.S. Census Bureau. American Housing Survey: 2021 San Francisco — Heating, Air Conditioning, and Appliances — All Occupied Units.

Available at: https://www.census.gov/programssurveys/ahs/data/interactive/ahstablecreator.html?s_areas=41860&s_year=2021&s_tablename=TABLE3&s_bygroup1=1&s_bygroup2=1 &s_filtergroup1=1&s_filtergroup2=1. 40 San Ramon belongs to the U.S. Census Bureau’s San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward MSA.

U.S. Census Bureau. American Housing Survey. 2021 San Francisco — Heating, Air Conditioning, and Appliances — All Occupied Units.

Accessed at: https://www.census.gov/programssurveys/ahs/data/interactive/ahstablecreator.html?s_areas=41860&s_year=2021&s_tablename=TABLE3&s_bygroup1=1&s_bygroup2=1 &s_filtergroup1=1&s_filtergroup2=1.
41 US Energy Information Administration (EIA). Updated Buildings Sector Appliance and Equipment Costs and Efficiencies (2023). 42 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). Accessed at: https://www.synapseenergy.com/sites/default/files/Decarbonization-Heating-CA-Buildings-17-092-1.pdf.

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The results of this quantification show this Action will reduce existing commercial natural gas consumption by about two percent by 2030 and about nine percent by 2045. Table 16 shows the parameters and data sources that support the commercial building electrification ordinance GHG emissions reduction and Table 17 shows the calculations as outlined in Equations 4 through 4.3.

Two-Way Nonresidential AC Reach Code Equations
Equation 4 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i=(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNG)+(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNGL)-(Elec Convertedy,i*EFelec,y,i)
Equation 4.1 Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i=FuelNG,y,i*( EOLNG,HVAC,y,i *NG UsageHVAC,i) Equation 4.2 EOLNG,HVAC,y,i=1/LSPHVAC,i*(y-imp.yi)*(1-NCRi)*CAC ShareNG,i Equation 4.3 Elecconvert,y,i = Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*CFelec/Effelec*(1+LT&D) Table 16 Two-Way Nonresidential AC Reach Code Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 4
CO2e ReductionNG Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 17 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption
avoided
See Table 17 therms Calculated
EFNG Natural gas emission factor 0.005310 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
EFNGL Natural gas leakage emission
factor

0.001090 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Elec Converted Electricity usage from conversion See Table 17 kWh Calculated EFelec Forecasted electricity emission
factor
See Table 17 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Nonresidential — —
Equation 4.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption
See Table 17 therms Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
EOLNG,HVAC Percent of HVAC units reaching
end-of-life
See Table 17 percentage Calculated
NG
UsageHVAC,Nonresidential
NG usage that comes from
nonresidential space
heating/cooling

41.7% percentage Hopkins, Asa S., PhD et al.

Decarbonization of
Heating Energy Use in
California Buildings (2018)1

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 4.2
LSPHVAC Average nonresidential HVAC
unit lifespan
23 years U.S. Energy information
Administration. Updated
Buildings Sector Appliance
and Equipment Costs and
Efficiencies (2023).2
imp.y Ordinance implementation year 2026 year Action E-4a’s implementation target
CAC
ShareNG,Nonresidential
Share of nonresidential buildings
with central air conditioning
34% percentage Conservatively assumed to
follow residential central
air conditioning data.

Calculated from the U.S.

Census Bureau’s 2021
American Housing Survey
for San Francisco.3
NCR Ordinance noncompliance rate 12% percentage Estimate based on permit evasion rates and
strategies to increase
building code compliance.4,
5, 6
Equation 4.3
CFelec Electricity to therms conversion
factor

29.3 kWh/therm Metric Conversions7
Effelec Efficiency factor of electric
equipment relative to natural
gas equipment
3 unitless European Copper Institute8
LT&D Electricity transmission and
distribution loss percentage

5.1% percentage Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous
Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). 2 US Energy Information Administration (EIA). Updated Buildings Sector Appliance and Equipment Costs and Efficiencies (2023). 3 U.S. Census Bureau. American Housing Survey. 2021 San Francisco — Heating, Air Conditioning, and Appliances — All Occupied Units.

Accessed at: https://www.census.gov/programssurveys/ahs/data/interactive/ahstablecreator.html?s_areas=41860&s_year=2021&s_tablename=TABLE3&s_bygroup1=1&s_bygroup2 =1&s_filtergroup1=1&s_filtergroup2=1.
4 Alvarez, Emily and Mast, Bruce. BayREN Codes & Standards Program. Local Government Policy Calculator for Existing Single-Family Buildings – User Guide (2021). 5 California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Final Report: 2014-16 HVAC Permit and Code Compliance Market Assessment (Work Order 6) Volume I – Report (2017).
6 Meres, Ryan et al. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Successful Strategies for Improving Compliance with Building Energy Codes (2012).
7 Metric Conversions. Therms (US) to Kilowatt-hours.
8 European Copper Institute. Heat Pumps: Integrating technologies to decarbonise heating and cooling (2018).

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Table 17 Two-Way Nonresidential AC Reach Code GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations
Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equations 4.1
FuelNG,y,i Forecasted natural gas consumption after
new construction electrification
(Measure E-2)
therms Nonresidential 6,387,956 5,594,758
Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i Natural gas consumption avoided therms Nonresidential 138,498 576,179 Equation 4.2
EOLNG,HVAC Percent of HVAC units reaching end-oflife since ordinance implementationpercentage Nonresidential 5% 25% Equation 4.3
Elec Converted Electricity usage from conversion kWh Nonresidential 1,421,653 5,914,343 Equation 4
EFelec Forecasted electricity emission factor MT CO2e/
kWh
Nonresidential 0.000023 0.000000
CO2e ReductionNG,y,i Natural gas GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e Nonresidential 853 3,688 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule
Lastly, Action E-4e will educate businesses and commercial building owners on BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rules to support local compliance. San Ramon’s commercial buildings will be affected by BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rules. While small water heaters will be affected beginning in 2027, large water heaters will be affected beginning January 1, 2031.43 This Measure’s quantification conservatively assumes all commercial buildings have large water heaters and will begin switching to heat pump water heaters (due to their energy efficiency and cost effectiveness) in 2031 rather than 2027. The City will support this rule with education on the requirements and what technologies (i.e., heat pumps) meet the requirements.

The quantification is based on the percentage of gas water heaters being replaced each year after the rule takes effect on large water heaters in 2031. The replacement rate is calculated based on the average lifespan of a commercial water heater (i.e., 10 years). 44 The quantification assumes all
replacements (i.e., 100 percent) will comply with the reach code to install electric or heat pump appliances due to the geographic span of the zero-NOx rule. As a regional rule on the sale of appliances, gas water heaters will not be available to purchase across the Bay Area. The quantification applies this resulting heat pump replacement rate to the share of forecasted natural gas from existing commercial buildings used for water heating. The share of natural gas associated with commercial water heating is estimated using the California average (i.e., 27.8 percent). 45 To
avoid double counting, the quantification assumes the reduction in commercial natural gas consumption occurs after the implementation of the new building requirements (i.e., Action E-2a).

The quantification excludes the replacements of gas furnaces with heat pump space heating systems to avoid double counting the emissions reduction from the two-way air conditioning reach code.
43 Rule 9-6 affects the future sale of NOx emitting water heaters and boilers with a rated heat capacity of 75,000 British thermal units per hour or less. This threshold equates to an upper limit of NOx emitting water heaters with a 75-gallon tank capacity. Higher capacity water heaters will be regulated starting January 1, 2031. Water heaters under the threshold are typically found in small commercial buildings and water heaters over the threshold are found in large commercial buildings. 44 US Energy Information Administration (EIA). Updated Buildings Sector Appliance and Equipment Costs and Efficiencies (2023). 45 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). Accessed at: https://www.synapseenergy.com/sites/default/files/Decarbonization-Heating-CA-Buildings-17-092-1.pdf.

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This rule will not impact existing commercial natural gas consumption by 2030, but the quantification results show the Action will reduce existing commercial natural gas consumption by about 24 percent by 2045. Table 18 shows the parameters and data sources that support BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rule GHG emissions reduction and Table 19 shows the calculations as outlined in Equations 5 through 5.3.

BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Nonresidential Water Heating Equations Equation 5 CO2e ReductionNG,y,i=(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNG)+(Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*EFNGL)-(Elec Convertedy,i*EFelec,y,i)
Equation 5.1 Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i=FuelNG,y,i*( EOLNG,water heater,y,i*NG Usagewater heater,i) Equation 5.2 EOLNG,water heater,y,i=1/LSPwater heater,i*(y-imp.yi)*(1-NCR) Equation 5.3 Elecconvert,y,i = Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i*CFelec/Effelec*(1+LT&D) Table 18 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Nonresidential Water Heating Parameters and Data Sources
Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 5
CO2e ReductionNG Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 19 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedNG Natural gas consumption avoided See Table 19 therms Calculated EFNG Natural gas emission factor 0.005310 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
EFNGL Natural gas leakage emission
factor

0.001090 MT CO2e/therm Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Elec Converted Electricity usage from conversion See Table 19 kWh Calculated EFelec Forecasted electricity emission
factor
See Table 19 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
i Subsector Nonresidential — —
Equation 5.1
FuelNG Forecasted natural gas
consumption
See Table 19 therms Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
EOLNG,water heater Percent of water heaters
reaching end-of-life
See Table 19 percentage Calculated
NG Usagewater heater Share of NG usage from
nonresidential water heaters

27.8% percentage Hopkins, Asa S., PhD et al.

Decarbonization of Heating
Energy Use in California
Buildings (2018).1

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 5.2
LSPwh Average nonresidential water
heater lifespan
10 years U.S. Energy information
Administration. Updated
Buildings Sector Appliance
and Equipment Costs and
Efficiencies (2023).2
imp.y Ordinance implementation year 2031 year BAAQMD’s zero-NOx implementation year for
large water heaters.

NCR Ordinance noncompliance rate 0% percentage Full compliance assumed because the zero-NOx rule is
a regional rule on the sale of
water heaters.

Equation 5.3
CFelec Electricity to therms conversion
factor

29.3 kWh/therm Metric Conversions3
Effelec Efficiency factor of electric
equipment relative to natural gas
equipment
3 unitless European Copper Institute4
LT&D Electricity transmission and
distribution loss percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 Hopkins, Asa S. et al. Decarbonization of Heating Energy Use in California Buildings (2018). 2 US Energy Information Administration (EIA). Updated Buildings Sector Appliance and Equipment Costs and Efficiencies (2023). 3 Metric Conversions. Therms (US) to Kilowatt-hours. 4 European Copper Institute. Heat Pumps: Integrating technologies to decarbonise heating and cooling (2018).

Table 19 BAAQMD Zero-NOx Rule for Nonresidential Water Heating GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations
Variable Definition Units Sector 2030 2045
Equation 5.1
FuelNG,y,i Forecasted natural gas
consumption after new building
electrification ordinance is
implemented
therms Nonresidential 6,387,956 5,594,758
Fuel AvoidedNG,y,i Natural gas consumption avoided therms Nonresidential 0 1,554,100 Equations 5.2
WH ReplacementNG Natural gas reduction percent percentage Nonresidential 0% 28% Equation 5.3
Elec Converted Electricity usage from conversion kWh Nonresidential 0 15,952,469 Equation 5
EFelec Forecasted electricity emission
factor
MT CO2e/kWh Nonresidential 0.000023 0.00
CO2e ReductionNG,y,i Natural gas GHG emissions
reduction
MT CO2e Nonresidential 0 9,946

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Together, Action E-4a and BAAQMD’s zero-NOx rule on water heaters (supported by Action E-4e) will reduce natural gas consumption by existing commercial building by just over two percent by 2030 and about 33 percent by 2045. While, Action E-2a expands the single margin source energy score (or more stringent ordinance on new construction) to apply to significant commercial remodels in addition to residential remodels, this Action is conservatively excluded from Measure E4’s quantification due to the young age of San Ramon’s commercial building stock. First developed in 1978, Bishop Ranch remains the center for businesses and commercial developments in San Ramon today. However, having reached ten million square feet in the 1990’s means the majority of Bishop Ranch will only be around 35 years old by 2030, not reaching the point of needing significant remodels since the average lifespan of a commercial building is 50 to 60 years.46 Measure E-4’s quantification thus excludes this supportive Action. Table 20 summarizes the natural gas reduction from each Action and the cumulative reduction of Measure E-4. The City will track the impact of these Actions and regulations through the permitting compliance program and through changes in commercial natural gas consumption through future GHG inventory updates.

Table 20 Measure E-4 Nonresidential Natural Gas Reduction Summary by Action Action Sector
2030 Natural Gas
Reduction
(therms)
2045 Natural Gas
Reduction
(therms)
2030 Percent
Reduction in
Existing Natural
Gas (%)
2045 Percent
Reduction in
Existing Natural
Gas (%)
Action E-2a: Significant
Remodels
Nonresidential 0 0 0% 0%
Action E-4a: Two-way
Air Conditioning Reach
Code
Nonresidential 138,498 576,179 2% 9%
Action E-4e: BAAQMD
Zero-NOx Rule
Nonresidential 0 1,554,100 0% 24%
Measure E-4 Total Nonresidential 138,498 2,130,279 2% 32% E-5: Increase generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy.

Measure E-5 directs the City to increase the generation and storage of local community-scale renewable energy in San Ramon. Community-scale renewable energy provides electricity for community or commercial consumption rather than for a single home as residential rooftop solar does. While this Measure may produce a GHG emissions reduction in the short-term (i.e., before the grid is decarbonized), it is not quantified in this CAP Update due to the high potential to double count the GHG emissions reduction with Measure E-1. This Measure does, however, directly support the transition to carbon-free and renewable electricity—and in turn supports the GHG emissions reduction from Measures E-2, Measure E-3, and Measure E-4—by providing flexible, carbon-free electricity.

Community solar can help support electrification and GHG emissions reduction in several ways. For many customers, community solar can make electricity bills less expensive, providing cost savings that are supportive of electrification when compared to grid electricity or gas bills. Community solar can also generate resilience and grid benefits, protecting customers who electrify from potential grid disturbances. Lastly, community solar can provide more customers access to these benefits 46 BCI Construction, Inc. “Which Factors Determine the Lifespan of a Building?” (2021). Available at: https://bciconstruction.us/whichfactors-determine-the-lifespan-of-abuilding/#:~:text=Finally%2C%20the%20use%20for%20which,for%20major%20repairs%20or%20renovations.

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through local renewable energy generation. Nearly 50 percent of households and businesses nationwide are unable to host rooftop solar systems due to rental limitations, roof conditions (e.g., too much shade, too small), and upfront costs. Community solar provides a way for such community members to experience the benefits—specifically the cost savings and resilience benefits—of local solar energy generation.47
E-6: Monitor and maintain equitable implementation and benefits of energy strategies.

Measure E-6 directs the City to monitor the equitable implementation of the energy strategies and prioritize support for low- and moderate-income residents and vulnerable communities. A focus on equity is crucial to sustain energy policy implementation because widespread community support will only be achieved if all community members have access to the policy benefits. This initiative includes establishing an Equitable Electrification Working Group, conducting outreach to engage impacted communities, and identifying neighborhoods for electrification pilot projects in partnership with utilities like MCE and PG&E. The City will also seek funding to support these efforts, collaborate with community organizations to educate residents on the benefits and impacts of electrification, and work with utilities to transition efficiently to carbon-neutral buildings while addressing equity concerns. While this Measure emphasizes equity and process-oriented actions, it is not quantified because it doesn’t directly reduce GHG emissions. The focus on enabling equitable implementation and community engagement lays the groundwork for emissions reduction but does not produce quantifiable reductions on its own.
47 Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. Community Solar Basics. Accessed at: https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/communitysolar-basics.

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4 Strategy T: Transportation
San Ramon’s Transportation Strategy aims to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and leverage renewable and carbon-free electricity (provided by Strategy E) to reduce GHG emissions from the transportation system. Reducing VMT consists of transitioning San Ramon residents and visitors out of single-occupancy vehicles and into active transportation mode options (i.e., walking and biking) and public and shared transit options (e.g., public buses, rail, carpools) by improving these modes and adopting policies to discourage single-occupancy vehicle commutes. The remaining VMT will then be decarbonized by increasing the adoption of zero-emission vehicles. When combined with renewable and carbon-free electricity, electric vehicles eliminate GHG emissions from fossil fuel combustion and transition commutes to a zero-emission operational footprint. Additionally, the Strategy targets off-road equipment and vehicles for decarbonization. Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Transportation Strategy consists of the following Measures presented in Table 21. The table also indicates which Measures are quantitative and which Measures are supportive. The following subsections detail the substantial evidence and calculation methodologies of the quantitative Measures and the role of the supportive Measures.

Table 21 Strategy T: Transportation GHG Emissions Reduction Summary Measure
ID Measure
2030 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy T: Transportation
T-1 Implement and regularly update the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan as needed to reduce vehicle miles traveled and achieve an active transportation mode share of 3% by 2030 and 8% by 2045. 600 2,254
T-2 Promote active transportation mode shift by enhancing 37 miles of vehicle roadways into active transportation corridors by 2040 that extend safe active transportation routes from residential areas into the downtown core.

Supportive Supportive
T-3 Implement a new zero-emission local microtransit service to connect commuters to major public transit and target a public transit mode share of 14% by 2030 and 16% by 2045.
3,191 4,904
T-4 Reduce vehicle miles traveled by emphasizing increased affordable housing in higher density areas as established by the Housing Element Update.

Supportive Supportive
T-5 Transition 100% the municipal vehicle fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2045.

Supportive Supportive
T-6 Increase passenger zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
33,038 155,696
T-7 Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption to 25% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
9,478 42,335
T-8 Work with Bishop Ranch to modify the Transportation Demand Management Program to achieve a 1.6 Average Vehicle Ridership (AVR) among 30% of employers by 2030 and 60% by 2045.

Supportive Supportive
T-9 Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 12% of off-road equipment by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
4,840 10,082
Total 51,146 215,272

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T-1: Implement and regularly update the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan as needed to reduce vehicle miles traveled and achieve an active transportation mode share of 3% by 2030 and 8% by 2045.

Measure T-1 aims to increase San Ramon’s active transportation mode share from 1.1 percent48 to 3 percent by 2030 and 8 percent by 2045, through implementation of a Bicycle Master Plan and a Walking District Master Plan. The primary Actions that enable this Measure include:
 Action T-1a which directs the City to implement the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan in order to add approximately 27 miles to the existing bicycle network by 2030 and implement at least 50 percent of the proposed improvements to the walking district by 2030. It also commits the City to update the plan every five years and consider including bicycle storage/parking infrastructure and facilities to charge electric micromobility devices; and,  Action T-1d which directs the City to pursue regional and state funding to implement both plans, as well as consider adopting an ordinance requiring development projects to pay fees that will be dedicated to implementing active transportation projects communitywide.

Currently, San Ramon has a low bicycle and walking mode shares. In 2019 (San Ramon’s baseline inventory year), San Ramon’s bicycle and pedestrian mode shares were approximately 0.22 percent and 0.88 percent, respectively.49,50 However, studies show that investments in active transportation infrastructure, such as those directed by this Measure, have demonstrated significant improvements in active transportation mode shifts and GHG emissions reduction.51 For example, urban cities that make a strong commitment to bicycle travel can see up to an 11 percent reduction in VMT and associated GHG emissions.52 Similar opportunities exist in San Ramon, where improved bike and pedestrian infrastructure could encourage shifts to active transportation for shorter trips.

In 2017, about 27 percent of vehicle trips made nationally were two miles or less—distances easily traveled by foot or bicycle.
53 Given San Ramon’s current low active transportation mode shares, investing in infrastructure improvements can help capture these shorter trips and reduce vehicle dependence.

Action T-1a supports this Measure by directing the City to implement plans that will improve local transportation networks. An improved, safer, and expanded pedestrian and bicycle network is the most effective and direct approach for shifting those shorter vehicle trips to walking, and studies show that distance to destinations is one of the strongest predictors of walking as a mode choice.54 Action T-1a also supports this Measure by aiming to implement the necessary active transportation infrastructure. Action T-1d supports the implementation of the Bicycle Master Plan and the Walking District Master Plan by directing the City to pursue regional and state funding, as well as creating a City fund. Through implementation of the Bicycle Master Plan, the City will add an additional 27 48 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 49 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 50 U.S. Census Bureau data includes ‘Work from home’ mode share. Mode share percentages were re-determined to exclude work from home mode share.
51 Glazener, Andrew and Khreis, Haneen. Transforming our Cities: Best Practices Towards Clean Air and Active Transportation (2019).

Accessed at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40572-019-0228-1 52 Jacob Mason et al., Institute for Transportation & Development Policy and the University of California, Davis. A Global High Shift Cycling Scenario (2015). Accessed at: https://itdpdotorg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/A-Global-High-Shift-Cycling-Scenario_Nov2015.pdf 53 National Household Travel Survey. Population Vehicle Trips Statistics (2021). Accessed at: https://nhts.ornl.gov/vehicle-trips 54 Durand CP, Tang X, Gabriel KP, et al. The Association of Trip Distance With Walking To Reach Public Transit: Data from the California Household Travel Survey. J Transp Health. 2016;3(2):154-160. Accessed at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27429905/

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miles of bike lanes, resulting in approximately 4.39 miles of bike lane per square mile of San Ramon.

The number of bike miles per square mile of San Ramon can be used as an indicator of connectivity of a community’s bike network.

Studies show that improved safety and connectively lead to greater mode shifts.55 To estimate the mode shift potential of implementing San Ramon’s Bicycle Master Plan, other communities’ bicycle and road networks were analyzed. The City of Davis leads the state with a 20 percent bicycle mode share56 and 9.2 miles of bike lane per square mile of the community. 57 The City of Berkeley has a 9.7
percent bicycle mode58with approximately 4.8 miles of bike lane per square mile of the community.
59 San Ramon’s current bicycle mode share is 0.22 percent according to U.S. Census data,60 and has approximately 2.94 miles of bike lane per square mile of the community. 61 Given
that San Ramon’s projected 4.39 miles of bike lane per square mile closely aligns with the bike lane networks in communities like Berkeley, where bicycle mode shares have reached 9.7 percent achieving a three percent active transportation mode share by 2030 is a realistic and attainable goal. Likewise, San Ramon’s goal for an eight percent active transportation mode share by 2045 falls within the maximum levels demonstrated by Berkeley and Davis. San Ramon’s active transportation increases are expected to come from increases in the bicycle mode share, while walking mode share is conservatively assumed to remain constant. San Ramon’s goals can be compared to these communities because San Ramon is in a similar region with a warm Mediterranean climate and comparable topography. Both characteristics are conducive to year-round active transportation.

The quantification is based on the passenger VMT reduction expected from the Measure’s active transportation mode share increase (supported by Action T-1a and Action T-1d). The quantification calculates the active transportation mode share increase that these targets will achieve by comparing them to baseline levels seen during 2019 from the U.S. Census Bureau (i.e., 0.22 percent bicycle mode share and 0.88 percent pedestrian mode share). 62 The number of vehicle trips and
associated miles are calculated by applying this mode share increase to forecasted passenger VMT using forecasted data on vehicle trip lengths and the assumption that bicycle trips in San Ramon will reflect California’s average (i.e., 1.5 miles).63 The quantification applies emission factors from the forecast to estimate GHG emissions reduction from the VMT reduction.

Table 22 shows the parameters and data sources that support the GHG emissions reduction from active transportation mode shifts and Table 23 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 6 through 6.2.
55 California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA). Handbook for Analyzing Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions, Assessing Climate Vulnerabilities, and Advancing Health and Equity (2024). Accessed at:
https://www.airquality.org/ClimateChange/Documents/2024%20Handbook%20Update_AB434.pdf 56 The Guardian. Davis, California – the American city which fell in love with the bicycle (2015). Accessed at:
https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2015/aug/03/davis-california-the-american-city-which-fell-in-love-with-the-bicycle 57 City of Davis. Accessed at: https://www.cityofdavis.org/city-hall/public-works-engineering-and-transportation/bike-pedestrianprogram/davis-bike-and- pedestrianinfrastructure#:~:text=4%20miles%20of%20buffered%20bike,and%20twenty%2Done%20underpass%20crossings 58 City of Berkeley. City of Berkeley Bicycle Plan (2017). Accessed at:
https://www.cityofberkeley.info/uploadedFiles/Public_Works/Level_3_-_Transportation/Berkeley-Bicycle-Plan-2017- Executive%20Summary.pdf
59 Visit Berkeley. Fact Sheet. Accessed at: https://www.visitberkeley.com/media-press/press-kit/fact-sheet/ 60 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 61 Per San Ramon’s Bicycle Master Plan, San Ramon currently has 55 miles of bike lanes. San Ramon land area in square miles is 18.69, according to US Census data. Accessed at: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/sanramoncitycalifornia/PST040223 62 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex, San Ramon (2019). Available at: https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 63 CARB. Quantifying Reductions in Vehicle Miles Traveled from New Bike Paths, Lanes, and Cycle Tracks: Technical Documentation (2019).

Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/auction-proceeds/bicycle_facilities_technical_041519.pdf.

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Active Transportation Mode Share Equations
Equation 6 CO2e Reductioni,y= VMT Reducedi,y*VMT EFi,y
Equation 6.1 VMT Reducedi,y=(( VMTi,y*TPMi,y)/MSpass,by)*TLi*MS IncreaseBike,y Equation 6.2 MS IncreaseBike,y=MS TargetActive,y -MSBike,by Table 22 Active Transportation Mode Share Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 6
CO2e Reduction VMT GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 23 MT CO2e Calculated
VMT Reduced VMT reduced See Table 23 miles Calculated
VMT EF VMT emission factor See Table 23 MT CO2e/mile Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Equation 6.1
VMTi,y Forecasted VMT See Table 23 miles Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
TPMi,y Forecasted trips per
mile
See Table 23 trips/mile Calculated from CARB’s EMFAC2021 model used in Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
MSpass,by Passenger vehicle trip
mode share in
baseline year

88.91% percentage U.S. Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year
Estimates Subject Tables1
TLi Average bicycle trip
length

1.5 miles CARB Quantifying Reductions in Vehicle
Miles Traveled from New Bike Paths,
Lanes, and Cycle Tracks: Technical
Documentation2
MS IncreaseBike,y Bicycle mode share
increase
See Table 23 percentage Calculated
i VMT type Passenger — —
y Target year 2030 or 2045 — —
Equation 6.2
MS TargetActive,y Active transportation
mode share target by
year
See below percentage —
Active transportation
mode share target for
2030
3% percentage Measure T-1’s implementation target.

Conservative target based on bicycle
mode shares currently seen in Davis
and Berkeley.3,4
Active transportation
mode share target for
2045
8% percentage Measure T-1’s implementation target.

Conservative target based on bicycle
mode shares currently seen in Davis
and Berkeley.3,4
MSBike,by Bicycle mode share in
baseline year

0.22% percentage US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year
Estimates Subject Tables. 1 Assumed
constant through 2045.

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
MSWalk,by Walking mode share in
baseline year

0.88% percentage US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year
Estimates Subject Tables1
by Baseline year 2019 year Appendix B 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex, San Ramon (2019). Available at: https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 2 CARB. Quantifying Reductions in Vehicle Miles Traveled from New Bike Paths, Lanes, and Cycle Tracks: Technical Documentation (2019). Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/auction-proceeds/bicycle_facilities_technical_041519.pdf. 3 US Census Bureau. ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex, Davis (2022). Available at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2022.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0618100 4 US Census Bureau. ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex, Berkeley (2022). Available at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2022.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0606000 Table 23 Active Transportation Mode Share GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units VMT Type 2030 2045
Equation 6.2
MS IncreaseBike Bicycle mode share increase percentage MS IncreaseBike 1.90% 6.90% Equation 6.1
VMT Forecasted VMT miles VMT 558,630,336 648,821,162
TPM Forecasted trips per mile trips/mile TPM 0.118613 0.118861 VMT Reduced VMT reduced miles VMT Reduced 2,126,482 8,980,141 Equation 6
VMT EF VMT emission factor MT CO2e/VMT VMT EF 0.000282 0.000251 CO2e Reduction VMT GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e Passenger 600 2,254 T-2: Promote active transportation mode shift by enhancing 37 miles of vehicle roadways into active transportation corridors by 2045 that extend safe active transportation routes from residential areas into the downtown core.

Measure T-2 directs the City to promote a shift to active transportation by converting 37 miles of vehicle roadways into safe active transportation corridors by 2045. This measure supports the longterm development of safe, accessible routes between residential areas, schools, and the downtown core. While Measure T-1 focuses on implementing the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan through 2030, Measure T-2 complements these efforts by identifying additional corridors not addressed in the existing plans to inform future updates to the plans. As a long-term Measure with Actions extending beyond 2030, Measure T-2 is supportive of achieving San Ramon’s long-term goal of an eight percent active transportation mode shift by 2045 (Measure T-1).

Key Actions include conducting a study to identify roadways for conversion, engaging with community-based organizations to assess equity impacts, and pursuing funding for implementation.

The study will consider GHG reduction potential, demand for active transportation, and the economic benefits of these changes. Additionally, Measure T-2 emphasizes community engagement through car-free events, interactive maps to promote active transportation routes, and partnerships with transportation organizations. By improving San Ramon's active transportation infrastructure and safety, Measure T-2 directly supports the goals of Measure T-1 by providing studies, data, and education efforts to guide updates to the Bicycle Master Plan and Walking District Master Plan.

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Although this measure is not quantified in the CAP Update due to the potential for double counting GHG emissions reduction with Measure T-1, it plays a critical role in creating the infrastructure necessary to achieve VMT reduction and enhance sustainable transportation options.

T-3: Implement a new zero-emission local microtransit service to connect commuters to major public transit and target a public transit mode share of 14% by 2030 and 16% by 2045.

Measure T-3 aims to increase San Ramon’s public transit mode share to 14 percent by 2030 and 16 percent by 2045 through the implementation of a microtransit service. The primary Actions that enable this Measure are:
 Action T-3a which directs the City to partner with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) to implement a zero-emission microtransit service in San Ramon that is connected to both the active transportation infrastructure and public transit system;  Action T-3b which directs the City to conduct a study to identify the routes and frequencies for a new microtransit service that will maximize equitable access to the Dublin/Pleasanton Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Station, as well as pilot the microtransit service to determine effective routes and frequencies to maximize use; and,
 Action T-3d which directs the City to pursue funding for the microtransit service through local and state programs.

In 2019 (i.e., San Ramon’s baseline inventory year), San Ramon’s public transit mode share was 9.99 percent.
64 Cities looking to increase public transportation mode share have employed strategies such as expanding transit service lines and schedules and improving transit coverage to decrease headways. However, microtransit services have emerged as a complementary solution to traditional transit expansions, particularly to connect commuters to major public transit by addressing “firstmile” and “last-mile” gaps, which are often cited as barriers to increasing transit mode share.65 The first- and last-mile gaps refer to the challenge commuters face in getting to a transit hub from their starting place and getting to their final destination from a transit hub. As a community with a BART station in an adjacent city, San Ramon has identified the first- and last-mile gap as a barrier to increased public transit use by community members.

Studies demonstrate that addressing the first- and last-mile gaps can increase public transit use. A study conducted for the Utah Transit Authority found that implementing strategies (including carsharing or microtransit solutions) to address first- and last-mile gaps could increase their rail ridership by three to six percent.66 Studies also demonstrate the specific effectiveness of microtransit services in addressing first- and last-mile gaps to improve public transit use in California. A study by San Jose State University analyzing first- and last-mile infrastructure and services at rail stations in the San Francisco Bay Area found that shuttle service had the largest impact on ridership at BART and Caltrain stations.67 Similarly, Via, a mircrotransit company that 64 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 65 Tilahun, Nebiyou et. al. 2016. “Transit use and the work commute: Analyzing the role of last mile issues.” Accessed at:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0966692316303532#:~:text=Last%20mile%20problems%2C%20particularly%20p hysical,critical%20factor%20affecting%20transit%20use. 66 Fehr and Peers (2015). First/Last Mile Strategies Study. Accessed at: https://www.nrel.gov/transportation/secure-transportationdata/assets/pdfs/transit-onboard-origin-2018-ut-report.pdf. 67 Slater, Benjamin. San Jose State University (2019). Getting There: The Effect of First and Last Mile Infrastructure and Services on Rail Ridership. Accessed at: https://www.sjsu.edu/urbanplanning/docs/honors-reports/Getting%20There.pdf.

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services cities including the City of Cupertino, found that their on-demand, microtransit service achieved significant VMT reductions by providing riders shared, demand-responsive transit options.

In 2022, they found that nationwide over 40 percent of their microtransit rides replaced singleoccupancy vehicle trips, reducing GHG emissions from such trips by over 35 percent. In California communities with fixed transit routes and single-occupancy vehicles as the primary mode share, Via found that their services reduced emissions from related trips by over 50 percent in 2022. These studies demonstrate that by improving connectivity to transit hubs, microtransit reduces dependency on personal vehicles and supports increases in transit ridership.

Measure T-3 focuses on the establishment of a zero-emission, microtransit service to bridge existing gaps in transit coverage and enhance connectivity by addressing the last-mile challenge. These mobility improvements will improve equitable access to major transit hubs near San Ramon like the Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station.

Other cities in the Bay Area, including Oakland, Berkeley, and San Francisco, have implemented similar strategies and achieved public transit mode shares of approximately 17 percent, 18 percent, and 24 percent, respectively.68, 69, 70 These successes demonstrate that targeted investments in public transit, including the implementation of a microtransit service, can drive substantial increases in transit ridership. San Ramon is adopting a comparable approach through Action T-3a, which focuses on creating a more connected and reliable transit network through microtransit, and Action T-3b, which directs the City to study routes and frequencies to maximize use. San Ramon is wellpositioned to achieve its public transit mode share goals, as microtransit has been shown to serve as a bridge to increasing service coverage and providing flexible, demand-driven transit solutions.

These efforts, combined with Action T-3d’s emphasis on leveraging local and state funding opportunities to support transit infrastructure and operations, position San Ramon to achieve measurable increases in transit mode share. Specifically, these actions are expected to result in approximately a two percent reduction in passenger VMT, driven by a projected four percent increase in public transit mode share. Based on other similar cities within the region (see above), a realistic target set forth by this Measure is to achieve a public transit mode share of 14 percent by 2030 and 16 percent by 2045.

The quantification is based on the passenger VMT reduction expected from the Measure’s increase in public transit mode share. The quantification calculates the public transit mode share increase that the targets will achieve by comparing them to baseline levels seen during 2019 from the U.S.

Census Bureau (i.e., 9.99 percent public transit mode share).71 The number of vehicle trips and associated miles with this increase are calculated by applying this mode share increase to forecasted passenger VMT using forecasted data on vehicle trip lengths and the conservative assumption that public transit trips in San Ramon will reflect California’s average bus trip (i.e., 3.8 miles) rather than longer transit trip lengths.
72 To avoid double counting, it is assumed that the active transportation VMT reductions of Measure T-1 occur before this Measure’s implementation. The forecasted passenger VMT used in this quantification is first reduced to reflect the active transportation VMT 68 US Census Bureau. 2022: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2022.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0653000 69 US Census Bureau. 2022: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2022.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0606000 70 US Census Bureau. 2022: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex. Accessed at:
https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2022.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0667000 71 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex, San Ramon (2019). Accessed at: https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 72 American Public Transportation Association. Public Transportation Fact Book (2018). Accessed at: https://www.apta.com/wpcontent/uploads/Resources/resources/statistics/Documents/FactBook/2018-APTA-Fact-Book.pdf

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reduction. The quantification applies emission factors from the forecast to estimate the GHG emissions reduction from the VMT reduction.

Table 24 shows the parameters and data sources that support the GHG emissions reduction associated with reducing vehicle miles traveled through public transit mode share and Table 25 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 7 through 7.2.

Public Transit Mode Share Equations
Equation 7 CO2e Reductioni,y= VMT Reducedi,y*VMT EFi,y
Equation 7.1 VMT Reducedi,y= (((VMTi,y-VMTactive,y)*TPMi,y)/MSpublic,by)*TLi*MS Increasepublic,y Equation 7.2 MS Increasepublic,y=MS Targetpublic,y-MSpublic,by Table 24 Public Transit Mode Share Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 7
CO2e Reduction VMT GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 25 MT CO2e Calculated
VMT Reduced VMT reduced See Table 25 miles Calculated
VMT EF VMT emission factor See Table 25 MT CO2e/mile Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
Equation 7.1
VMT Forecasted VMT See Table 25 miles Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and
Reduction Targets
VMTactive,y VMT reduction from
active transportation
targets
See Table 25 miles Calculated from Table 23
TPM Forecasted trips per
mile
See Table 25 trips/mile Calculated from CARB’s EMFAC2021 model used in Appendix C: GHG
Emissions Previous Inventories
Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
MSpass,by Passenger trip mode
share in baseline year

88.91% percentage US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year
Estimates Subject Tables1
TL Average public transit
trip length

3.8 miles Used regular bus trip to remain
conservative from American Public
Transportation Association’s Public
Transportation Fact Book2
MS Increasepublic Public Transit mode
share increase
See Table 25 percentage Calculated
i VMT type Passenger — —
y Target year 2030 or 2045 — —
Equation 7.2
MS Targetpublic,y Public transit mode
share target
See below — —
Public transit mode
share target for 2030
14% percentage Measure T-3’s implementation target

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Public transit mode
share target for 2045
16% percentage Measure T-3’s implementation target
MSpublic,by Public transit mode
share in baseline year

9.99% percentage US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year
Estimates Subject Tables1
by Baseline year 2019 year Appendix B 2019 Community GHG Emissions Inventory
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 US Census Bureau. 2019: ACS 5-Year Estimates Subject Tables. S0801|Commuting Characteristics by Sex, San Ramon (2019). Available at: https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST5Y2019.S0801?t=Commuting&g=160XX00US0668378 2 American Public Transportation Association. Public Transportation Fact Book (2018). Accessed at: https://www.apta.com/wpcontent/uploads/Resources/resources/statistics/Documents/FactBook/2018-APTA-Fact-Book.pdf Table 25 Public Transit Mode Share GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units VMT Type 2030 2045
Equation 7.2
MS Targetpublic,y Public transit mode share
target
percentage Passenger 14.00% 16.00%
MS Increasepublic Public Transit mode share
increase
percentage Passenger 4.01% 6.01%
Equation 7.1
VMT Forecasted VMT after active
transportation reductions
miles Passenger 556,503,854 639,841,021
TPM Forecasted trips per mile trips/mile Passenger 0.118613 0.118861 VMT Reduced VMT reduced miles Passenger 11,315,339 19,537,702 Equation 7
VMT EF VMT emission factor MT CO2e/mile Passenger 0.000282 0.000251 CO2e Reduction VMT GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e Passenger 3,191 4,904 T-4: Reduce vehicle miles traveled by emphasizing increased affordable housing in higher density areas as established by the Housing Element Update.

Measure T-4 directs the City to reduce VMT in the community by emphasizing the development of affordable housing in higher-density, transit-rich areas as identified in the Housing Element.

Although this measure is not quantified in the CAP Update due to the potential to double-count the GHG emissions reduction with other transportation measures (i.e., T-1 and T-2), it plays a critical role in supporting VMT reduction goals. By increasing affordable housing in walkable areas with robust transit access, Measure T-4 creates opportunities for residents to live closer to jobs, services, and public transportation, reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicle trips.

Key Actions include streamlining the approval process for affordable housing projects, identifying suitable sites in high-density areas, and partnering with organizations like East Bay Housing Organizations to integrate housing developments with active transportation and transit networks.

The measure also includes community outreach to increase understanding of affordable housing benefits and promote equitable and sustainable development. By focusing on compact, transitoriented development, Measure T-4 supports a shift toward sustainable transportation options and aligns with San Ramon’s broader VMT reduction strategies.

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T-5: Transition 100% of the municipal vehicle fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2045.

Measure T-5 aims to transition 100 percent of the City’s municipal vehicle fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2045, in line with the State’s Advanced Clean Fleet Rule. This measure will reduce GHG emissions from municipal operations and demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of transitioning to clean transportation technologies. This Measure not only helps reduce municipal emissions but also helps San Ramon lead by example to demonstrate to the community the availability, ease, and success of transitioning to ZEVs. The visible shift to ZEVs in municipal operations serves to showcase the practical benefits and feasibility of ZEV adoption, which is a key strategy for supporting the broader goals outlined in Measure T-6, which targets increasing passenger ZEV adoption to 30 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045. This direct example from San Ramon will help foster broader community awareness and confidence in ZEVs, ultimately contributing to achieving the City’s ambitious adoption goals.

While the strategies to increase ZEVs in San Ramon’s municipal fleet will reduce GHG emissions, emissions from municipal transportation are included as a subset of the commercial transportation sector in San Ramon’s 2019 inventory. This means the associated GHG emissions reduction is included in Measure T-6 (see below). Thus, to avoid double counting, this municipal implementation measure emissions reduction is not counted towards the 2030 and 2045 targets.

T-6: Increase passenger zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption to 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

Measure T-6 aims to increase passenger ZEV adoption in San Ramon to 30 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045. The primary Actions that are designed to drive investments and enable this ZEV adoption include:
 Action T-6a which directs the City to adopt an EV reach code requiring new multifamily construction to install the minimum number of EV chargers based on Tier 2 CalGreen requirements (20 percent of total parking spaces), as well as implement the Electric Vehicle Readiness Plan and install 700 additional public EV chargers in San Ramon by 2030;  Action T-6d which directs the City to work with organizations such as MCE and PG&E to incentivize EV charger installations; and,
 Action T-6f which commits the City to partnering with local organizations such as BayRen, the County’s Charge Up Contra Costa program, etc. to provide education on available ZEV rebates and public charger locations.

San Ramon is already ahead of statewide ZEV adoption trends. In 2023, 21 percent of vehicles registered in San Ramon were ZEVs (i.e., electric and hydrogen vehicles) while only seven percent of vehicles registered statewide were ZEVs.73 San Ramon expects to maintain ZEV adoption rates ahead of the State through 2030 through focused public and private investments in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and EV incentives. While the State is anticipated to reach a 26 percent ZEV adoption rate by 2030,74 the City plans to exceed this goal through implementation of Action T73 ZEV registration rates calculated from California Department of Motor Vehicles vehicle registration data downloaded from CARB’s Fleet Database.

CARB. EMFAC: Fleet Database. Accessed at: https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/fleet-db/958f068549bea40aa219188cd30e0c4b1f618d75. 74 Based on the zero-emission vehicle goals for passenger vehicles established by Executive Order N-79-20, eight million zero-emission vehicles are anticipated statewide by 2030. Pinole calculated that these eight million zero-emission vehicles represent 26 percent of the

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6a, Action T-6d, and Action T-6f to install EV chargers and provide the community with funding for ZEVs and chargers.

Action T-6a directs the City to install the number of publicly accessible EV chargers needed to support San Ramon’s ZEV adoption target. This Action focuses on public EV chargers because studies have consistently found that limited charging infrastructure is one of the primary barriers to electric vehicle adoption.75, 76 Publicly accessible EV chargers make owning an EV convenient for all drivers— including those who cannot charge at home or drive daily distances longer than their EV battery range—such that it is expected that 20 percent of EV charging nationally will occur at publicly accessible chargers in 2030.77
The number of publicly accessible EV chargers needed to be installed through this Action (to support a 30 percent ZEV adoption by 2030 and 100 percent adoption by 2045) was calculated using the U.S.

Department of Energy’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool outputs for San Ramon’s MSA (i.e., the San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley Metropolitan Area). 78 The quantification assumes all ZEVs
will be EVs to remain conservative in the plan for EV chargers. The quantification uses the model to estimate how many public EV chargers will be needed across the MSA to support Measure T-6’s ZEV adoption goals (assuming all ZEVs are EVs). The quantification scales the regional outputs down to San Ramon by applying San Ramon’s share of vehicles within the MSA to the outputs. Based on a desired EV adoption rate of 30 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045, the quantification shows 700 publicly accessible chargers will be needed by 2030 and 7,104 chargers will be needed by 2045 in San Ramon. Existing EV charging infrastructure in cities across California demonstrates the feasibility of these installation goals. Cities including San Jose, San Francisco, San Diego, and Irvine already having over 900 public chargers installed while Los Angeles already has over 6,600 chargers installed.79 Table 26 shows the parameters and data sources used to calculate the publicly accessible EV chargers needed in 2030 and 2045 with the Department of Energy’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool and Table 27 shows the calculations as outlined in Equations 8 through 8.2.

Publicly Accessible Electric Vehicle Chargers Equation
Equation 8 EV Chargersy = Region EV Chargersy*(EVsy/(Region EVsy))-Existing EV Chargersby Equation 8.1 EVsy=Populationy*(Vehiclesby/Populationby)*EV TargetPass,y Equation 8.2 Region EVsy=Region Vehiclesy* EV TargetPass,y total passenger vehicles expected statewide by 2030 (based on statewide passenger car and light-duty truck counts in 2016 and population estimates for 2016 and 2030).

Crisostomo, Noel et al. Assembly Bill 2127 Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Assessment: Analyzing Charging Needs to Support ZeroEmission Vehicles in 2030. Accessed at: Calmatters.org/environment/2023/03/california-electric-carsdemographics/?utm_id=91724&sfmc_id=4863450. 75 Kumar, Rajeev Ranjan and Kumar Alok. Adoption of Electric Vehicle: A Literature Review and Prospects for Sustainability (2020).

Accessed at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095965261934781X. 76 Winjobi, Olumide and Kelly, Jarod. Used Plug-in Electric Vehicles as a Means of Transportation Equity in Low-Income Households (2021).

Accessed at: https://www.osti.gov/biblio/1658592.
77 Kampshoff, Philipp et al. Building the Electric-Vehicle Charging Infrastructure America Needs (2022). Accessed at:
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/building-the-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-america-needs. 78 U.S. Department of Energy. Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool (EVI-Pro) Lite. Accessed at: https://afdc.energy.gov/evi-prolite. 79 PlugShare. Best EV Charging Cities in California. Accessed at: https://www.plugshare.com/directory/us/california.

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Table 26 Publicly Accessible Electric Vehicle Charger Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 8
PEV
Chargersy
New publicly accessible
electric vehicle chargers
needed
See Table 27 chargers Calculated
Region PEV
Chargersy
Regional electric vehicle
chargers needed
See below — —
Regional electric vehicle
chargers needed in 2030
43,785 electric vehicles Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool for San
Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley1
Regional electric vehicle
chargers needed in 2045
286,225 electric vehicles Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool for San
Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley1
EVsy Electric vehicles targeted See Table 27 electric vehicles Calculated Region EVsy Regional electric vehicles
targeted
See Table 27 electric vehicles Calculated
Existing PEV
Chargersby
Existing publicly accessible
electric vehicle chargers
272 chargers City of San Ramon
y Target year 2030 or 2045 year —
by Baseline year 2019 year —
Equation 8.1
Populationy Forecasted population See Table 27 people See references in Appendix GHG Inventory, Forecast, and
Targets Technical Report
Vehiclesby Vehicles in baseline year 66,528 vehicles California Department of Motor Vehicles2
Populationby Population in baseline year 83,376 people See references in Appendix GHG Inventory, Forecast, and
Targets Technical Report
EV TargetPass,y Passenger electric vehicle
adoption target
See below — —
Electric vehicle adoption
target (2030)
30% percentage Measure T-6’s
implementation target
Electric vehicle adoption
target (2045)
100% percentage Measure T-6’s
implementation target
Equation 8.2
Region
Vehicles
Regional vehicles 3,500,500 vehicles Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool value for the
San Francisco-OaklandBerkeley Metropolitan Area1
Notes: “—“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows. 1 U.S. Department of Energy. Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Projection Tool (EVI-Pro) Lite. 2 California Department of Motor Vehicles. Fuel Type by County as of 1/1/2020. Accessed at:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2020/09/MotorVehicleFuelTypes_City_01012020.pdf.

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Table 27 Publicly Accessible Electric Vehicle Charger Calculations Variable Definition Units 2030 2045
Equation 8.2
ZEV Adoption Zero-emission vehicle adoption target percentage 30% 100% Region EVs Regional electric vehicles targeted electric vehicles 1,050,150 3,500,500 Equation 8.1
Population Forecasted population in San Ramon people 97,342 113,058 EVs Electric vehicles targeted in San Ramon electric vehicles 23,302 90,212 Equation 8
PEV Chargers New publicly accessible electric vehicle chargers needed in San Ramon
chargers 700 7,104
Through public-private funding and partnerships, the City will faciliate the installation of Action T6a’s 700 publicly accessible EV chargers by 2030 and 7,104 publicly accessible EV chargers by 2045 at prioritized locations on City-owned properties and across the community to support the Measure’s passenger ZEV adoption goals. While the City will play a key role in identifying strategic sites and providing support, the majority of these installations will be carried out by private companies, which will also maintain the chargers.
80 The City will focus on installing chargers in
locations not well served by market forces and areas with low, but increasing, EV adoption.

The ZEV adoption will also be supported by private electric vehicle chargers in new developments and existing buildings. Action T-6a commits the City to adopting the Tier 2 voluntary measures of the California Green Building Standards Code—Part 11, Title 24, California Code of Regulations— known as CALGreen. Once adopted through a reach code in 2026, these Tier 2 requirements will be mandatory for new multifamily construction in San Ramon and require such buildings to install the minimum number of EV chargers based on the requirements (i.e., 20 percent of total parking spaces). This Action will work to increase private EV chargers at new multifamily buildings.

Additionally, Action T-6d directs the City to work with MCE and PG&E to expand their incentive programs for EV chargers through on-bill financing and rebates, and Action T-6f commits the City to partnering with local organizations to raise awareness and provide education on available ZEV rebates for residents and public EV charger locations. The local funding from Action T-6d along with new federal and state funding (e.g., Inflation Reduction Act) will help cover the upfront costs to purchasing an EV and installing the equipment or infrastructure upgrades needed to charge the EV at home as high costs are one of the barriers to EV adoption for low-income households.81 These Actions will enable the City to install as many privately owned EV chargers in new and existing buildings as practical to support a 30 percent passenger ZEV adoption by 2030 and a 100 percent passenger ZEV adoption by 2045.
80 Public-private funding and partnerships are expected due to the large amount of state and federal funding available to support California’s need for over one million public and shared chargers by 2030 to meet Executive Order B-48-18’s ZEV goals.

Office of Governor Gavin Newsom. California Building Bigger, Better Zero-Emission Charging Network. Accessed at:
http://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/02/14/california-building-bigger-better-zero-emission-charging-network/.

Caltrans. California Investing in EV Charging Reliability Statewide with $63 Million in Federal Funding (2024). Accessed at:
https://dot.ca.gov/news-releases/news-release-2024-002.

California Energy Commission (CEC). Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Assessment-AB 2127. Accessed at:
https://www.energy.ca.gov/data-reports/reports/electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-assessment-ab-2127. 81 Gaillard, Isa. Ingredients for Equitable Electrification: Analyzing Equity in Statewide Electric Vehicle Rebate Programs (2022). Accessed at: https://greenlining.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Greenlining-Ingredients-Equitable-Transportation-WebFINAL.pdf.

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The quantification is based on the internal combustion engine passenger VMT replaced with the ZEV adoption increases. The quantification calculates the ZEV adoption increase that the Measure’s targets will achieve by comparing them to baseline levels expected in the forecast. From this increase, the calculations assume a one-for-one replacement of ICE VMT with ZEV VMT rather than linking VMT reductions directly to charger installations. This approach ensures adequate infrastructure planning while maintaining conservative estimates on VMT impacts. To avoid double counting, it is assumed that the active transportation and public transit VMT reductions of Measure T-1 and Measure T-3 occur before this Measure’s implementation. The forecasted passenger VMT used in this quantification is first reduced to reflect these prior VMT reductions. The quantification applies emission factors from the forecast to estimate the GHG emissions reduction from the ICE passenger VMT replaced with ZEV passenger VMT.

Table 28 shows the parameters and data sources that support the GHG emissions reduction from the ZEV adoption and Table 29 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 9 through

9.2. Passenger ZEV Adoption Equations
Equation 9 CO2e ReductionVMT,i,y=(VMT ReducedICE,i,y*EFVMT,i,y)-(Elec Convertedi,y*EFelec,i,y) Equation 9.1 Elec Convertedi,y =VMT ReducedICE,i,y*EPMZEV,i,y*(1+LT&D) Equation 9.2 VMT ReducedICE,i,y=(VMTi,y)*(ZEV Adoptioni,y-ZEV Adoption Baselinei,y) Table 28 Passenger ZEV Adoption Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 9
CO2e
ReductionVMT
VMT GHG emissions reduction See Table 29 MT CO2e Calculated VMT ReducedICE Internal combustion engine VMT
reduced
See Table 29 miles Calculated
EFVMT,I,y Forecasted VMT emission factor See Table 29 MT CO2e/mile Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Elec
Convertedi,y
Electricity from electric vehicle
conversion
See Table 29 kWh Calculated
EFelec,i,y Forecasted residential electricity
emission factor
See Table 29 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
LT&D Electricity transmission and
distribution loss percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
i VMT type Passenger — —
y Target year 2030 or 2045 — —
Equation 9.1
EPMZEV,i,y Forecasted electricity usage per
mile of electric vehicles
See Table 29 kWh/mile Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 9.2
VMTi,y Forecasted VMT after Measure T1 and T-3 reductionsSee Table 29 miles Table 23 and Table 25 ZEV Adoptioni,y Electric vehicle adoption target — percentage — Electric vehicle adoption target
for 2030
30% percentage Measure T-6’s
implementation target
enabled by the installation of
700 public EV chargers
Electric vehicle adoption target
for 2045
100% percentage Measure T-6’s
implementation target
enabled by the installation of
7,104 public EV chargers
ZEV Adoption
Baselinei,y
Electric vehicle adoption baseline See Table 29 percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Notes: “—“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows.

Table 29 Passenger ZEV Adoption GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units VMT Type 2030 2045
Equation 9.2
VMTi,y Forecasted VMT after Measure T-1 and
T-2 reductions
miles Passenger 545,188,515 620,303,319
ZEV Adoptioni,y Electric vehicle adoption target percentage Passenger 30.00% 100.00% ZEV Adoption
Baselinei,y
Electric vehicle adoption baseline percentage Passenger 7.65% 10.10% VMT ReducedICE,I,y Internal combustion engine VMT
reduced
VMT Passenger 121,849,633 620,303,319
Equation 9.1
EPMZEV,i,y Forecasted electricity usage per mile of
electric vehicles
kWh/mile Passenger 0.368921 0.3695
Elec Convertedi,y Electricity from electric vehicle
conversion
kWh Passenger 47,245,486 240,886,819
Equation 9
EFelec,i,y Forecasted residential electricity
emission factor
MT
CO2e/kWh
Passenger 0.000028 0.0000
EFVMT,I,y Forecasted VMT emission factor MT
CO2e/mile
Passenger 0.0002820 0.0002510
CO2e
ReductionVMT
VMT GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e Passenger 33,038 155,696

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T-7: Increase commercial zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption to 25% by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

Measure T-7 aims for San Ramon to increase commercial ZEV adoption to 25 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045. The primary Actions that are designed to enable this Measure include:
 Action T-7a which directs the City to adopt an EV reach code requiring new commercial construction to install the minimum number of EV chargers based on Tier 2 CalGreen requirements (20 percent of total parking spaces);
 Action T-7d which commits the City to work with MCE and PG&E to coordinate and promote available commercial ZEV rebates and funding for ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure;  Action T-7e which directs the City to provide commercial fleet operators with educational material on the environmental and financial benefits of a ZEV fleet and the technical steps and resources for transitioning to a ZEV fleet; and,
 Action T-7f which directs the City to implement public-private partnerships with local businesses to site ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure for commercial and public use across the community.

Commercial VMT includes medium- and heavy-duty (MDHD) vehicles and trucks as well as buses.

These commercial VMT targets are in line with the State’s goals and regulations for MDHD vehicles and buses. California is working towards achieving Executive Order (EO) N-79-20, which aims to reach a 100 percent zero-emission drayage truck population by 2035 and 100 percent zero-emission MDHD vehicle population by 2045. To reach these goals, CARB has adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks regulation which regulates the sale of MDHD vehicles in California with an increasing requirement of sales to be ZEV and the Advanced Clean Fleets regulation which mandates that fleets transition to ZEVs. For example, by 2030, the Advanced Clean Fleets regulation requires 10 percent of sleeper cab tractors and specialty vehicles, 25 percent of pickup trucks and day cab tractors, and 50 percent of box trucks, vans, and package delivery vehicles in a fleet to be zeroemission. Additionally, the State has adopted zero-emission regulations for transit buses including the Innovative Clean Transit which requires 100 percent of new transit bus purchases to be to be zero-emission starting in 2029 and 100 percent of transit bus fleets to be zero-emission by 2040.

Overall, it is estimated that compliance with these zero-emission regulations for MDHD vehicles in San Ramon will equate to a 25 percent commercial ZEV adoption—82 this ZEV adoption rate is about 18 percent above the rate expected in San Ramon’s adjusted GHG emissions forecast for 2030 because the state models used in the forecast do not account for emissions reduction from the Advanced Clean Fleets regulation and account for added emissions from the federal Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule which is no longer in effect in California.83 To support this compliance, Measure T-7 includes Action T-7a which focuses on implementing a reach code that supports the State’s regulations, Action T-7d and Action T-7f which focus on funding, and Action T-7e which focuses on education of commercial ZEVs and these regulations. 82 For example, the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) completed a Zero-Emission Vehicle Readiness Plan in 2024. The plan assessed their existing MDHD vehicle fleet and estimated over 30 percent of their fleet would need to be zero-emission by 2030 to comply with the Advanced Clean Fleets regulation.

IEUA. Draft Zero-Emission Vehicle Readiness Plan (2024). 83 See Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets for details on San Ramon’s adjusted GHG emissions forecast and CARB’s EMFAC2021 Volume III Technical Document for details on the regulations included in the State’s transportation emissions models.

California Air Resources Board (CARB). EMFAC2021 Volume III Technical Document (2021). Version 1.0.1. Available at:
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2021-08/emfac2021_technical_documentation_april2021.pdf.

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The quantification is based on the internal combustion engine commercial VMT replaced with the ZEV adoption increases. The quantification calculates the ZEV adoption increase that the Measure’s targets will achieve by comparing them to baseline levels expected in the forecast. From this increase, the calculations assume a one-for-one replacement of ICE VMT with ZEV VMT. The quantification applies emission factors from the forecast to estimate GHG emissions reduction from the ICE commercial VMT replaced with ZEV commercial VMT. Table 30 shows the parameters and data sources that support the GHG emissions reduction associated with commercial ZEVs and Table 31 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equations 9 through 9.2.

Commercial ZEV Adoption Equations
Equation 9 CO2e ReductionVMT,i,y=(VMT ReducedICE,i,y*EFVMT,i,y)-(Elec Convertedi,y*EFelec,i,y) Equation 9.1 Elec Convertedi,y =VMT ReducedICE,i,y*EPMZEV,i,y*(1+LT&D) Equation 9.2 VMT ReducedICE,i,y=(VMTi,y)*(ZEV Adoptioni,y-ZEV Adoption Baselinei,y) Table 30 Commercial ZEV Adoption Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 9
CO2e
ReductionVMT
VMT GHG emissions reduction See Table 31 MT CO2e Calculated VMT ReducedICE Internal combustion engine VMT
reduced
See Table 31 miles Calculated
EFVMT,I,y Forecasted VMT emission factor See Table 31 MT CO2e/mile Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Elec
Convertedi,y
Electricity from electric vehicle
conversion
See Table 31 kWh Calculated
EFelec,i,y Forecasted nonresidential
electricity emission factor
See Table 31 MT CO2e/kWh Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
LT&D Electricity transmission and
distribution loss percentage

5.10% percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
i VMT type Commercial — —
y Target year 2030 or 2045 — —
Equation 9.1
EPMZEV,i,y Forecasted electricity usage per
mile of electric vehicles
See Table 31 kWh/mile Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Equation 9.2
VMTi,y Forecasted VMT after Measure T1 and T-3 reductions See Table 31 miles Table 23 and Table 25

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
ZEV Adoptioni,y Electric vehicle adoption target See below percentage — Electric vehicle adoption target
(2030)
25% percentage Measure T-7’s
implementation target
Electric vehicle adoption target
(2045)
100% percentage Measure T-7’s
implementation target
ZEV Adoption
Baselinei,y
Electric vehicle adoption baseline See Table 31 percentage Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Notes: “—“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows.

Table 31 Commercial ZEV Adoption GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units VMT Type 2030 2045
Equation 9.2
VMTi,y Forecasted VMT after Measure T-1 and
T-2 reductions
miles Commercial 50,685,616 58,868,805
ZEV Adoption
Baselinei,y
Electric vehicle adoption baseline percentage Commercial 7.29% 35.66% VMT ReducedICE,I,y Internal combustion engine VMT
reduced
VMT Commercial 8,977,205 58,868,805
Equation 9.1
EPMZEV,i,y Forecasted electricity usage per mile of
electric vehicles
kWh/mile Commercial 1.030662 0.9913
Elec Convertedi,y Electricity from electric vehicle
conversion
kWh Commercial 9,724,338 61,335,326
Equation 9
EFelec,i,y Forecasted nonresidential electricity
emission factor
MT CO2e/
kWh
Commercial 0.000005 0.0000
EFVMT,I,y Forecasted VMT emission factor MT CO2e/
mile
Commercial 0.0010614 0.0007191
CO2e
ReductionVMT
VMT GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e Commercial 9,478 42,335 T-8: Work with Bishop Ranch to modify the Transportation Demand Management Program to achieve a 1.6 Average Vehicle Ridership (AVR) among 30% of employers by 2030 and 60% by 2045.

Measure T-8 aims to work with Bishop Ranch to enhance the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Program, targeting an AVR of 1.6 among 30% of employers by 2030 and 60% by 2045. This includes conducting annual AVR surveys, using results to address barriers to sustainable commuting, and directing TDM fee revenues to expand transit and active transportation infrastructure. The Measure also involves educating businesses and employees about sustainable commuting options, hosting events like commuter fairs, and establishing partnerships to implement the program effectively.

Bishop Ranch is the center for commercial activity in San Ramon, home to the majority of employers in San Ramon. It serves as a key site for implementing and enhancing the TDM Program. By modifying and expanding the TDM program at Bishop Ranch, the City can encourage sustainable

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commuting practices—such as carpooling, biking, and public transit—which will help meet the target AVR and support broader transportation goals. Given Bishop Ranch’s significant size and business activity, Bishop Ranch offers a strategic location for piloting and scaling these TDM strategies, which can have a substantial impact on San Ramon's overall GHG reduction efforts.

This Measure is not quantified because it focuses on enabling policies and strategies that influence commuting behavior rather than delivering an immediate, measurable emissions reduction.

Additionally, quantifying the GHG reductions from this measure risks double counting, as it overlaps with other transportation Measures targeting VMT reduction, ZEV adoption, and active transportation mode shifts. By addressing commuter behavior indirectly, this measure supports broader transportation goals without producing standalone, quantifiable reductions.

T-9: Electrify or otherwise decarbonize 12% of off-road equipment by 2030 and 100% by 2045.

Measure T-9 aims for San Ramon to decarbonize 12 percent of off-road vehicle and equipment use in the community by 2030 and 100 percent by 2045. The primary Actions that enable this Measure include:
 Action T-9a which commits the City to develop small off-road engines (SORE) guidelines in alignment with CARB’s requirements to encourage that at time of replacement, SORE (e.g., leaf blowers, lawn mowers) be zero-emission starting in 2024 and portable generators be zeroemission by 2028;  Action T-9d which directs the City to work with BAAQMD to identify opportunities for funding off-road equipment replacement (e.g., Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Program [CORE]) and provide support for grant applications; and,  Action T-9f which directs the City to work with surrounding jurisdictions and BAAQMD to create an Off-road Equipment Replacement Program to work directly with fleets to decarbonize their off-road equipment and vehicles.

Action T-9a directs the City to align with and support CARB’s regulations requiring that new sales of SORE be zero-emission by 2024, in compliance with AB 1346. As defined by CARB, SORE are those equipment types with rated power at or below 19 kilowatts (i.e., 25 horsepower). Typical off-road vehicle and equipment types that use these engines include lawn and garden equipment, portable generators, and pressure washers.84 In 2030, it is projected that gasoline and diesel used by these SOREs will comprise over 21 percent of the off-road vehicle and equipment fuel used throughout the community.
85 By promoting the State’s regulations for limiting the sale of gasoline- and dieselpowered SORE, and providing resources (i.e. information and incentives) for residents and businesses to replace their existing SORE equipment, Action T-9a and Action T-9b have the potential to reduce approximately 21 percent of the community’s off-road fuel usage. However, the quantification targets only 45 percent of the community’s applicable SORE fuel consumption, rather than the full 21 percent that SORE comprises, to reflect that Action T-9a focuses solely on sales and not the operation of SORE in San Ramon. The majority of SORE has a median lifespan of five years or less, which means that most SORE in San Ramon would need to be replaced between now and 84 California Air Resources Board (CARB). (2021) SORE Applicability Fact Sheet. Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/factsheets/sore-applicability-fact-sheet. 85 San Ramon’s SORE fuel usage in 2030 was estimated by filtering CARB OFFROAD2021 model outputs (for Contra Costa County in 2030) for horsepower ratings less than or less than 25 and attributing the resulting County-level annual fuel usage to San Ramon based on the attribution methodology used in the GHG inventory and forecast. The results were divided by the total estimated off-road fuel usage in San Ramon in 2030 to estimate the share, or percentage, of fuel usage attributable to SOREs.

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2030.86 Based on this assumption, the quantification conservatively assumes that 45 percent of total SORE in San Ramon will be replaced by 2030.

In 2022, CARB also approved amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation that incorporates new requirements to use renewable diesel. Beginning January 1, 2024, all California fleets subject to this regulation are required to procure and only use R99 or R100 renewable diesel fuel in all vehicles subject to the Off‑Road Regulation, with some limited exceptions. This regulation applies to all self-propelled off-road diesel vehicles 25 horsepower or greater used in California and applies to vehicles that are rented or leased. Exceptions to the regulation include locomotives, commercial marine vessels, marine engines, recreational offhighway vehicles, combat and tactical support equipment, stationary equipment, portable engines, equipment used exclusively for agricultural operations, implements husbandry, and off-road diesel vehicles owned and operated by an individual for personal, non-commercial and non-governmental purposes.
87 Taking into account these exceptions, with full compliance, this regulation would effectively replace 83 percent of applicable fossil diesel consumption by off-road equipment with renewable diesel by 2030.88 However, to remain conservative, the quantification accounts for just eight percent of non-SORE off-road diesel being replaced with renewable diesel by 2030. Renewable diesel that meets the required standards has an emissions factor that is approximately 70 percent lower than fossil-fuel diesel.89 As renewable diesel has a lower emissions factor, the increased use required by CARB will further help drive down off-road emissions in the community. This renewable diesel quantification applies to non-SORE diesel fuel usage to avoid double counting the emissions reduction.

Together, the emissions reduction from these regulations accounts for about a 12 percent reduction in total offroad fuel consumption and GHG emissions by 2030. Action T-9d and Action T-9f will raise awareness of the regulations, provide information to community members and businesses regarding the benefits of electrifying equipment or using renewable diesel, identify funding opportunities for offroad decarbonization (e.g., CARB’s Clean Off-road Equipment Voucher Incentive Program), and provide information on local fuel suppliers with renewable diesel for sale.

Table 32 shows the parameters and data sources that support the off-road decarbonization GHG emissions reduction and Table 33 shows the calculations as outlined in Equations 10 through 10.3. 86 CARB. 2020 Emissions Model for Small Off-Road Engines – SORE2020 (2020). Table 16. Accessed at:
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/SORE2020_Technical_Documentation_2020_09_09_Final_Cleaned_ADA.pdf 87 California Air Resources Board (CARB). (2022). Final Regulation Order Amendments to Sections 2449, 2449.1, and 2449.2 Title 12, California Code of Regulations. Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/barcu/regact/2022/off-roaddiesel/froa-1.pdf 88 The regulation’s impact on San Ramon’s 2030 off-road diesel fuel consumption was estimated by filtering CARB OFFROAD2021 model outputs (for Contra Costa County in 2030) for horsepower ratings greater than 25 and for equipment types applicable under the regulation (i.e., filtered out fuel usage by exempt equipment types); and attributing the resulting County-level annual diesel fuel usage to San Ramon based on the attribution methodology used in the GHG inventory and forecast. The results were divided by the total estimated off-road diesel fuel usage in San Ramon in 2030 to estimate the share, or percentage, of diesel fuel usage applicable under CARB’s In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation amendments. The quantification assumes full compliance with the regulation, since the use of renewable diesel does not require new equipment, but rather availability of the renewable diesel fuel. 89 CARB staff has reached out to several renewable diesel fuel producers and as of February 2023, is aware that renewable diesel produced by Neste meets the regulatory requirements and standards. Estimates in GHG emissions reduction based on emission factors provided by Neste accessed at: https://www.neste.com/en-us/products-and-innovation/neste-my-renewable-diesel/product-information

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Off-road Decarbonization Equations
Equation 10
CO2e Reductiony = (Fuel AvoidedSORE,y * Weighted EFy) + (Fuel ReplacedDiesel,y*(Weighted EFDiesel - EFRDiesel))
Equation 10.1 Weighted EFy = CO2e Emissionsy/(FuelGas, y + FuelDiesel, y + FuelNG, y) Equation 10.2 Fuel AvoidedSORE,y = (FuelGas, y + FuelDiesel, y + FuelNG, y) *PropSORE*TargetSORE,y Equation 10.3 Fuel ReplacedDiesel,y = FuelDiesel, y *(1-PropSORE)*TargetRenewable Diesel,y Table 32 Off-road Decarbonization Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 10
CO2e Reductionoffroad,y Offroad fuel GHG emissions
reduction
See Table 33 MT CO2e Calculated
Fuel AvoidedSORE,y Off-road fuel avoided from
applicable SORE equipment
(≤ 25 hp)
See Table 33 gallons Calculated
Weighted EFy Weighted emission factor
for all off-road fuels
See Table 33 MT
CO2e/gallon
Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Fuel ReplacedDiesel,y Off-road diesel replaced
from applicable non-SORE
diesel equipment (>25 hp)
See Table 33 gallons Calculated
EFRDiesel Emissions factor of
renewable diesel

0.00308 MT
CO2e/gallon
Neste (as recommended by
CARB)6
Weighted EFDiesel Emissions factor of fossil
fuel diesel

0.01047 MT
CO2e/gallon
Inventory
y Target year 2030 or 2045 — —
Equation 10.1
CO2e Emissionsy Forecasted off-road GHG
emissions
See Table 33 MT CO2e Appendix C: GHG Emissions
Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
FuelGas,y Forecasted gasoline use See Table 33 gallon Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
FuelDiesel,y Forecasted diesel use See Table 33 gallon Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
FuelNG,y Forecasted natural gas use See Table 33 gallon Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates,
Forecasts, and Reduction
Targets
Equation 10.2
PropSORE Proportion of fuel
attributable to SORE
equipment (≤ 25 hp)
21% percentage CARB’s OFFROAD20211,2

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Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
TargetSORE,y Fuel use reduction target
for all SORE off-road fuels
See below – –
Fuel use reduction target
for all SORE off-road fuels
(2030)
45% percentage OFFROAD20211,2 and direction
of state goals (i.e., EO N-79-
20).3
Fuel use reduction target
for all SORE off-road fuels
(2045)
100% percentage Based on compliance with
state goals established by EO
N-79-20.

Equation 10.3
TargetRenewable Diesel,y Renewable diesel target for
non-SORE diesel off-road
fuels
See below – –
Renewable diesel target for
non-SORE diesel off-road
fuels (2030)
8% percentage OFFROAD20211,4 and CARB
applicable regulations
requiring renewable diesel fuel
use (i.e., In-Use Off-Road
Diesel-Fueled Fleets
Regulation)5
Renewable diesel target for
non-SORE diesel off-road
fuels (2045)
0% percentage Based on compliance with
state goals established by EO
N-79-20.

Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows

1. California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2024. Off-Road Emissions Inventory (OFFROAD2021). Available at:
https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/offroad/emissions-inventory/3f377c1f45fef7c154509eac6354b9086be9cdd9

2. San Ramon’s SORE fuel usage in 2030 was estimated by filtering CARB OFFROAD2021 model outputs (for Contra Costa County in 2030) for horsepower ratings less than or less than 25 and attributing the resulting County-level annual fuel usage to San Ramon based on the attribution methodology used in the GHG inventory and forecast. The results were divided by the total estimated offroad fuel usage in San Ramon in 2030 to estimate the share, or percentage, of fuel usage attributable to SOREs.

3. California Air Resources Board (CARB). SORE Applicability Fact Sheet (2021). Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/factsheets/sore-applicability-fact-sheet.

4. San Ramon’s diesel fuel usage in 2030 was estimated based on attributions established in the San Ramon 2019 GHG inventory and by filtering CARB OFFROAD2021 model outputs for horsepower ratings greater than or equal to 25 and for equipment categories subject to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation. The results were divided by the total estimated off-road diesel usage in San Ramon in 2030 to estimate the share, or percentage, of fuel usage subject to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulation which accounted for 35% of all diesel fuel use.

5. California Air Resources Board (CARB). (2022). Final Regulation Order Amendments to Sections 2449, 2449.1, and 2449.2 Title 12, California Code of Regulations. Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/barcu/regact/2022/off-roaddiesel/froa1.pdf

6. Neste. My Renewable Diesel. Accessed at: https://www.neste.us/neste-my-renewable-diesel

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Table 33 Off-road Decarbonization GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units 2030 2045
Equation 10.1
CO2e Emissionsy Forecasted off-road GHG emissions MT CO2e 39,038 47,603 FuelGas,y Forecasted gasoline use gallons 1,298,592 1,583,526 FuelDiesel,y Forecasted diesel use gallons 2,506,676 3,056,685 FuelNG,y Forecasted natural gas use gallons 310,466 378,587 Weighted EFy Weighted fuel emission factor MT CO2e/gallon 0.009485 0.009485 Equation 10.2
PropSORE Proportion of fuel attributable to SORE
equipment (≤ 25 hp)
percentage 21% 21%
TargetSORE,y Fuel use reduction target for all SORE offroad fuels percentage 45% 100%
Fuel AvoidedSORE,y Off-road fuel avoided from applicable SORE equipment (≤ 25 hp)
gallons 392,271 1,062,981
Equation 10.3
TargetRenewable Diesel,y Renewable diesel target for non-SORE diesel off-road fuels
percentage 8% 0%
Fuel ReplacedDiesel,y Non-SORE off-road fuel replaced from applicable diesel equipment (>25 hp)
gallons 158,061 0
Equation 10
CO2e ReductionFuel Fuel GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e 4,840 10,082

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5 Strategy W: Waste
San Ramon’s Waste Strategy focuses on increasing diversion to reduce the amount of organic waste sent to the landfill and effectively using those diverted resources across the community. The Strategy aims to accomplish these goals by focusing on organic materials, along with the final compost product. In the landfill, organic waste decays without access to light or oxygen and produces methane (CH4) gas. Diverting organic waste from the landfill reduces the occurrence of this anaerobic decomposition, providing San Ramon with an important opportunity to reduce GHG emissions associated with solid waste generated by the community. After diverting and processing this organic waste, the compost product can be applied to lands in the community to sequester carbon. Thus, managing organic waste provides an important opportunity to employ circular economy methods to reduce GHG emissions and sequester carbon. Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Waste Strategy consists of the Measures presented in Table 34. The table also indicates which Measures are quantitative and which Measures are supportive. The following subsections detail the substantial evidence and calculation methodologies of the quantitative Measures and the role of the supportive Measures.

Table 34 Strategy W: Waste GHG Emissions Reduction Summary Measure
ID Measure
2030 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy W: Solid Waste
W-1 Reduce landfilled organic waste 75% by 2030 and 90% by 2045. 13,083 19,144 W-2 Reduce the carbon footprint of the food system by reducing waste, promoting climate friendly diets, and getting excess food to communities in need.

Supportive Supportive
W-3 Develop a communitywide composting program to achieve SB 1383 procurement requirements.
1,791 2,080
Total 14,874 21,224
W-1: Reduce landfilled organic waste by 75% by 2030 and 90% by 2045.

Measure W-1 aims for San Ramon to meet SB 1383 requirements to recover 20 percent of disposed edible food for human consumption and reduce landfilled organic waste—and the associated GHG emissions—75 percent by 2030, compared to 2014 levels. The primary Actions that enable this Measure include:
 Action W-1a which commits the City to review and amend waste hauler agreements to include SB 1383 organic waste diversion compliance;
 Action W-1d which directs the City to devote City staff time to pursuing funding for organic waste diversion programs through CalRecycle;
 Action W-1e which commits the City to implement a comprehensive education program to educate the community on the City’s organic waste diversion requirements, resources, and programs to reduce landfilled organic waste communitywide; and,

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 Action W-1f which directs the City to partner with Alameda County Industries or other waste hauler and community-based organizations to develop and distribute education materials and kitchen food pails, and pursue funding from CalRecycle.

These Actions encompass the activities the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) requires jurisdictions to conduct to comply with SB 1383.90 Continuing and completing these activities is thus expected to provide the levels of diversion, composting, and food donations needed to reduce San Ramon’s landfilled organic waste by 75 percent by 2030, from 2014 levels. This reduction in landfilled organic waste is expected to directly reduce solid waste disposal GHG emissions 75 percent below 2014 because nearly all GHG emissions from the natural decay of solid waste in landfills come from organic waste.91 To remain conservative, the quantification, calculates the emissions reduction associated with a 75 percent reduction below 2030 levels rather than 75 percent below 2014 levels—which are lower than the expected 2030 levels and would thus result in a higher emissions reduction.92
Table 35 shows the parameters and data sources that support the landfilled organic waste reduction GHG emissions reduction and Table 36 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equation 11.

Landfilled Organic Waste Reduction Equations
Equation 11 CO2e ReductionLOW,y = CO2e Emissionsy*Reduction TargetLOW, y Table 35 Landfilled Organics Reduction Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 11
CO2e ReductionLOW,y Landfilled organic waste
GHG emissions reduction
See Table 36 MT CO2e Calculated
CO2e Emissionsy Landfilled organic waste
GHG emissions
See Table 36 MT CO2e Calculated
Reduction TargetLOW, y Landfilled organic waste
reduction target
See Table 36 percentage –
Landfilled organic waste
reduction target (2030)
75% percentage Measure W-1’s implementation target
based on compliance with CalRecycle’s
required activities for SB 1383
compliance and GHG emission factors
for solid waste.1, 2
Landfilled organic waste
reduction target (2045)
90% percentage Measure W-1’s implementation target
y Target year 2030 or 2045 – –
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 CalRecycle. SB 1383 Jurisdiction Responsibilities. 2 According to the ICLEI U.S. Community Protocol, Appendix E, GHG emissions are generated by non-biologic wastes only if they are combusted.
90 CalRecycle. SB 1383 Jurisdiction Responsibilities. Accessed at:
https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/Docs/Web/119160#:~:text=Beginning%20in%202022%2C%20SB%201383,is%20automatically%20provide d%20the%20service.
91 According to the Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Appendix E – Solid Waste Emission Activities and Sources, GHG emissions are generated by non-biologic wastes only if they are combusted.
92 A 75 percent reduction below 2030 solid waste emissions levels results in 13,083 MT CO2e as shown in Table X. A 75 percent reduction below 2014 solid waste emissions levels would result in a higher reduction—13,711 MT CO2e. A summary of the 2014 GHG emissions inventory results can be found in Appendix E: 2022 Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory of the CAP Update.

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Table 36 Landfilled Organics Reduction GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units 2030 2045
Equation 11
CO2e Emissionsy Landfilled organic waste GHG emissions MT CO2e 17,444 21,271 Reduction TargetLOW, y Landfilled organic waste reduction target percentage 75% 90% CO2e ReductionLOW,y Landfilled organic waste GHG emissions reduction MT CO2e 13,083 19,144 W-2: Reduce the carbon footprint of the food system by reducing waste, promoting climate friendly diets, and getting excess food to communities in need.

Measure W-2 aims to reduce food-related emissions through strategies that minimize waste, encourage climate-friendly diets, and redirect excess food to communities in need. The GHG emissions reduction associated with this Measure are not quantified because the emissions impacts of food system changes—such as shifts to climate-friendly diets or food recovery—are indirect and difficult to estimate at the local level. The variability in individual behavior, dietary choices, and food system dynamics makes it challenging to reliably predict the emissions reduction. Instead, the Measure focuses on qualitative benefits, equity outcomes, and co-benefits like food security and waste reduction. Since the GHG emissions reduction is not under the jurisdictional control of the City, this Measure cannot be counted towards San Ramon’s 2030 and 2045 targets.

W-3: Develop a communitywide composting program to achieve SB 1383 procurement requirements.

Measure W-3 puts San Ramon on a path to meet their SB 1383 procurement target by developing a communitywide composting program. SB 1383 requires each jurisdiction in California to procure recovered organics waste products to meet annual procurement targets developed by CalRecycle.93 Recovered organic waste products include compost, mulch, renewable energy generated from anaerobic digestion (e.g., transportation fuel, electricity, and gas for heating), and electricity generated from biomass conversion. While a jurisdiction has the option to procure any combination of recovered organic waste products to fulfill 100 percent of the procurement target, San Ramon aims to meet their procurement target primarily through the procurement of compost to leverage the carbon sequestration benefits it provides when applied to community lands. The primary Actions that enable this Measure include:
 Action W-3a which directs the City to establish a program to procure and provide organic waste products to City parks, recreation areas, public schools, community gardens, and residential and commercial landscapers within San Ramon;
 Action W-3b which directs the City to complete an analysis to identify locations within the community to apply compost to meet the procurement target and increase carbon sequestration;
 Action W-3d which directs the City to utilize CalReycle grant funding to support the procurement and application of compost through the communitywide composting program;  Action W-3e which commits the City to provide outreach and education to community gardens, residential groups and landscapers on the benefits of using compost and mulch; and, 93 CalRecycle. Procurement Targets and Recovered Organic Waste Products. Accessed at:
https://calrecycle.ca.gov/organics/slcp/procurement/recoveredorganicwasteproducts/.

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 Action W-3f which directs the City to partner with Contra Costa County, the community’s waste hauler(s), local nonprofits, and regional partners such as East Bay Parks to develop the composting program, conduct educational campaigns, and identify opportunities for regional collaboration.

These Actions will allow San Ramon to establish the supply, procurement, and application of compost to meet their annual procurement targets and comply with SB 1383. San Ramon has a variety of potential application sites to support ongoing compost use, including parks, sports fields, medians, public schools, community gardens, public landscaping, and existing open spaces.

Additionally, partnerships and outreach efforts will help expand compost application areas over time as demand and program participation grow.

Table 37 shows the parameters and data sources that support the annual procurement targets and the landfilled organic waste reduction GHG emissions reduction associated with this Action.

Table 38 shows the results and calculations as outlined in Equation 12 through 12.1.

Compost Procurement Equations
Equation 12 CO2e Sequestrationy = (Composty/CFOW to compost* CSFCompost) * Compliance Targety Equation 12.1 Composty = Populationy * (Ratioprocure * CFOW to compost) Table 37 Compost Procurement Parameters and Data Sources Variable Definition Value Unit Data Source
Equation 12
CO2e Sequestrationy Carbon sequestered from
compost procurement and
application
See Table 38 MT CO2e Calculated
Composty Compost procurement
required to meet organic
waste procurement target
See Table 38 tons Calculated
CFOW to compost Conversion factor to convert
organic waste procurement
target into compost quantity

0.58 compost
tons/organic
waste tons
CalRecycle’s Procurement
Calculator Tool1
CSFcompost Carbon sequestration factor
for mixed organic compost
application

0.23 MT CO2e/
organic waste
ton
CARB’s Method for Estimating
Greenhouse Gas Emission
Reductions from Diversion Of
Organic Waste from Landfills to
Compost Facilities2
Compliance Targety Compliance target with
procurement requirement
(2030 and 2045)
100% percentage Estimated based on compliance
with CalRecycle’s required
activities for SB 1383 compliance.3
y Target year 2030 or 2045 Year –
Equation 12.1
Populationy Forecasted population See Table 38 people See references in Appendix GHG Inventory, Forecast, and Targets
Technical Report
Ratioprocure Organic waste procurement
required per capita

0.08 compost
tons/people
CalRecycle’s Procurement
Calculator Tool1
Notes: “-“ means either reference not applicable or see references for disaggregated parameter in the following table rows 1 CalRecycle. Procurement Calculator Tool. Accessed at: https://calrecycle.ca.gov/organics/slcp/reporting/. 2 CARB. Method for Estimating Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions from Diversion Of Organic Waste from Landfills to Compost Facilities (2017). Accessed at: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/classic/cc/waste/cerffinal.pdf. 3 CalRecycle. SB 1383 Jurisdiction Responsibilities.

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Table 38 Compost Procurement GHG Emissions Reduction Calculations Variable Definition Units 2030 2045
Equation 12.1
Populationy Forecasted population people 97,342 113,058 Composty Compost procurement required to meet
organic waste procurement target
ton 4,517 5,246
Equation 12
Compliance Targety Compliance target with procurement
requirement
percentage 100% 100%
CO2e Sequestrationy Carbon sequestered from compost
procurement and application
MT CO2e 1,791 2,080

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6 Strategy WW: Water & Wastewater
San Ramon’s Water and Wastewater Strategy aims to enhance water sustainability by expanding recycled water use and reducing overall community water consumption. Through partnerships with Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), San Ramon plans to increase purple pipe infrastructure94 and boost recycled water supply. Increasing recycled water use can reduce the GHG emission impact of upstream water processes. Increasing recycled water use can reduce GHG emissions by lowering the energy required for upstream water processes. Compared to extracting, pumping, and delivering new water, recycling water is more energy-efficient and generates fewer emissions. This relationship, known as the water-energy nexus, highlights how reducing potable water consumption also decreases energy use and the associated emissions.

Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Water and Wastewater Strategy consists of the following Measures presented in Table 39. Each Measure is supportive due to the potential for an indirect GHG emissions reduction and the potential to double count GHG emissions with Measure E-1. The following subsections detail the role of these supportive Measures.

Table 39 Strategy WW: Water & Wastewater GHG Emissions Reduction Summary Measure
ID Measure
2030 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy WW: Water & Wastewater
WW-1 Coordinate with the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to increase purple pipe infrastructure in the community and increase recycled water supply.

Supportive Supportive
WW-2 Reduce community water consumption 10% by 2030 and 20% by 2045, from 2019 levels.

Supportive Supportive
Total 0 0
WW-1: Coordinate with the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to increase purple pipe infrastructure in the community and increase recycled water supply.

Measure WW-1 aims to increase the community’s purple pipe infrastructure, as well as the use, supply, and access to recycled water. A study by the University of California, Los Angeles Field of Public Health found that increasing the use of recycled water in California would have the greatest potential to reduce energy use and GHG emissions when compared to other water resilience options such as banning landscape irrigation.95 While this demonstrates how increasing recycled water use in Sam Ramon can reduce the electricity used to extract and transport water to San Ramon, this GHG emissions reduction are not quantified due to the potential to double count with 94 Purple pipe infrastructure is a dedicated piping system used to distribute recycled or reclaimed water for non-potable purposes, such as landscape irrigation, industrial processes, and toilet flushing. It is distinguishable by its purple color, which helps prevent crossconnections with potable water systems and promotes water conservation by reducing the demand for treated drinking water. 95 Sokolow, Sharona et al. Impacts of Urban Water Conservation Strategies on Energy, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Health. Accessed at: https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/full/10.2105/AJPH.2016.303053.

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the State’s transition to renewable and carbon-free electricity that is already captured in San Ramon’s adjusted GHG emissions forecast.

WW-2: Reduce community water consumption 10% by 2030 and 20% by 2045, from 2019 levels.

Measure WW-2 aims to reduce community water consumption by 10 percent by 2030 and 20 percent by 2045 from 2017 levels. The Center for Water-Energy Efficiency has begun demonstrating the quantifiable value of water conservation for GHG emissions reduction. Specifically, the Center found that during the Governor’s Mandate (i.e., between June 2015 and May 2016), California saved 524,000 million gallons of water which translated to 1,830 gigawatt hours of electricity savings and 521,000 MT CO2e of GHG emissions reduction.96 While this demonstrates how reducing water consumption can reduce the electricity used to distribute and treat water in San Ramon, this GHG emissions reduction is not quantified under this Measure due to the high potential to double count with Measure E-1’s GHG emissions reduction for renewable and carbon-free electricity. This Measure does still, however, directly support Measure E-1 by reducing the amount of energy used to distribute water and treat wastewater.
96 Center for Water-Energy Efficiency, University of California, Davis. Impact of Water Conservation on Electricity Consumption and GHG Emissions. Accessed at:
https://cwee.ucdavis.edu/research/waterconservation_energyghg/#:~:text=The%20study%20showed%20the%20state,tons%20of%20car bon%20dioxide%20equivalents.

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7 Strategy CS: Nature-based Carbon
Sequestration
San Ramon’s Nature-based Carbon Sequestration Strategy aims to increase nature-based carbon sequestration within the community. While most of San Ramon’s strategies focus on reducing GHG emissions, the Nature-based Carbon Sequestration Strategy focuses on the physical removal of carbon from the atmosphere to store it in long-term forms. This Strategy plays an important role in achieving San Ramon’s 2045 target for carbon neutrality. While San Ramon will reduce GHG emissions across all sectors to achieve as close to zero GHG emissions as possible, some GHG emissions are expected to remain under the City’s jurisdiction in 2045. These GHG emissions are expected to be from hard-to-decarbonize sectors, such as long-haul transportation, that have technological limitations or are costly to decarbonize. They can also be expected from sectors that require significant behavior change to decarbonize, such as VMT reduction, because it takes time to normalize new behaviors. Carbon sequestration will offset these remaining GHG emissions to help San Ramon achieve carbon neutrality. This strategy specifically focuses on the additional planting of trees within the community by implementing an Urban Forest Management Plan. It directly supports the CAP Update’s Cornerstone Strategy, which focuses on conserving and managing San Ramon’s existing open spaces and natural lands. While these strategies are not quantified in this CAP Update, they are important to implement now to begin setting the foundation and building the capacity for San Ramon to sequester carbon for long-term carbon neutrality. Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Nature-based Carbon Sequestration Strategy consists of the Measure presented in Table 40. The Measure is supportive due to data limitations. The following subsection details the role of this supportive Measure.

Table 40 Strategy CS: Nature-based Carbon Sequestration GHG Emissions Reduction Summary
Measure
ID Measure
2030 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy CS: Nature-based Carbon Sequestration
CS-1 Develop and implement programs to increase nature-based carbon sequestration within the community.

Supportive Supportive
Total 0 0
CS-1: Develop and implement programs to increase nature-based carbon sequestration within the community.

Measure CS-1 aims to increase San Ramon’s capacity for nature-based carbon sequestration.

Although this Measure is not counted towards San Ramon’s 2030 and 2045 targets due to the potential for indirect carbon sequestration, it is an important Measure to build future carbon sequestration capacity. Establishing nature-based carbon sequestration opportunities will require upfront inventories, plans, and partnerships to identify environments for projects and design projects. The Measure directs the City to develop an Urban Forest Management Plan with clear canopy goals, funding mechanisms, and strategies to support vulnerable populations while fostering

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community engagement through partnerships and education. These actions will help reduce carbon emissions, mitigate urban heat, and provide co-benefits like improved air quality and mental health.

Establishing this plan now will pave the way for future carbon sequestration and quantification.

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8 Strategy IMP: Implementation by City
San Ramon’s Implementation by City Strategy focuses on building the City’s internal capacity to implement, monitor, and update the CAP Update while engaging the community and fostering climate awareness among youths. This strategy emphasizes decarbonizing municipal operations and creating the necessary institutional and community frameworks to achieve San Ramon's climate and sustainability goals and serve as an example for the broader community. It includes measures such as creating a full-time sustainability position, hosting interactive youth events, and developing partnerships with educators and community organizations to amplify climate action efforts. While the strategy includes actions that will directly reduce GHG emissions, these reductions are already accounted for under other strategies focused on building energy, transportation and waste. To avoid double counting, the GHG emissions reduction from the Implementation by City Strategy are not quantified, though they play a crucial supportive role in achieving San Ramon’s 2030 and 2045 climate targets. Based on this approach, the CAP Update’s Implementation by City Strategy consists of the following Measures presented in Table 41. The table indicates that all Measures are supportive.

Table 41 Strategy IMP: Implementation by City GHG Emissions Reduction Summary Measure
ID Measure Text
2030 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
2045 GHG
Emissions
Reduction
(MT CO2e)
Strategy IMP: Implementation by City
IMP-1 Support the development of programs that educate and engage youths on climate change and envisioning a carbon neutral future.

Supportive Supportive
IMP-2 Support the San Ramon climate action program with appropriate City staffing to implement, evaluate, and update the CAP though regular monitoring and a continued feedback loop with the community.

Supportive Supportive
Total 0 0
IMP-1: Support the development of programs that educate and engage youths on climate change and envisioning a carbon neutral future.

Measure IMP-1 aims to educate and engage youths on climate change and help them envision a carbon-neutral future through programs and interactive events that foster climate action. Key actions include establishing a Climate Change Education Working Group, conducting surveys of educators to tailor resources, and incorporating environmental justice into educational materials and events. This Measure also emphasizes partnerships with local organizations and funding opportunities to support outreach and programs like Safe Routes to Schools. Although this Measure's GHG reduction potential is not directly quantifiable due to the focus on education and behavioral change, it is crucial for building long-term community engagement and empowering future generations to take climate action. By equipping youth with the knowledge and tools to address climate challenges, the Measure indirectly supports an emissions reduction and fosters widespread support for climate goals.

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IMP-2: Support the San Ramon climate action program with appropriate City staffing to implement, evaluate, and update the CAP though regular monitoring and a continued feedback loop with the community.

Measure IMP-2 focuses on ensuring that the City has adequate staffing and resources to support the effective implementation, evaluation, and updating of the CAP Update. Key actions include creating a full-time sustainability position, establishing a cross-departmental sustainability network, and conducting regular community engagement to inform and gather input on CAP implementation. The Measure also prioritizes equity through targeted outreach and staff training, as well as securing funding to enhance staff capacity for sustainability initiatives. While the GHG reduction impact of this Measure is not directly quantifiable, it is essential for ensuring the long-term success of climate actions and meeting future targets. By fostering internal capacity, collaboration, and continuous community involvement, this Measure lays the foundation for achieving and sustaining San Ramon’s climate and sustainability goals.

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2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory

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2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory
Rincon Consultants, Inc. (Rincon) has completed the 2022 community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory for the City of San Ramon (City). The results of this inventory are intended to provide detail on how GHG emissions have changed over time relative to the 2019 community GHG emissions baseline inventory included in the ongoing San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update.

The CAP is intended for consideration and adoption in 2025.

This 2022 community GHG emissions inventory was developed based on the Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) United States Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Community Protocol)91 consistent with the data sources and methodology used for the 2019 GHG inventory.92
The City’s first CAP, adopted in 2011, included a 2008 GHG inventory used as the baseline for the 2011 CAP. Subsequently, the City completed GHG inventories for the years 2010 and 2014 to track progress towards achieving the 2011 CAP goals. The City developed the 2019 GHG inventory as the baseline for the ongoing CAP. The 2019 community GHG emissions inventory was developed reflecting best practices in GHG emissions accounting, and the 2008, 2010, and 2014 community GHG emissions inventories were updated to align with the best practice methodology as detailed in the Previous GHG Inventory Consistency and Analysis Approach Review Memorandum, dated January 10, 2022. These updates aligned all the City’s inventories making them directly comparable, so that it is possible to track progress in terms of community GHG emissions across inventory years. This memorandum provides a summary of the results of the San Ramon 2022 community GHG emissions inventory and compares the results to the 2019 GHG inventory.
2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Overview
Pursuant to the Community Protocol, the 2022 community GHG emissions inventory includes the relevant emissions sources within the City of San Ramon’s City Limits boundary.93 The inventory thereby reflects emissions sectors resulting from San Ramon community activities over which the City has some level of control or influence. The Community Protocol recommends reporting GHG emissions from five basic reporting activities in a community inventory, which include:
 Use of electricity by the community
 Use of fuel in residential and commercial buildings
 On-road passenger and freight motor vehicle travel
 Use of energy in potable water and wastewater treatment and distribution  Generation of solid waste by the community
91 ICLEI. July 2019. U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emission. 92 The 2022 GHG inventory followed the same methodology as the 2019 GHG inventory as detailed in the 2019 GHG Inventory Data Evaluation and Methodology Memorandum, dated February 7, 2022 and 2019 GHG Inventory Results Memorandum, dated March 17, 2022, unless otherwise noted in the below sections.
93 The City Limits boundary is specifically identified here to indicate that the 2022 GHG emissions inventory encompasses the geographical scope for which the City of San Ramon can make land use decisions and set policies to effectively reduce community-wide GHG emissions.

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Consistent with the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) annual statewide GHG inventories, GHG emissions from off-road equipment fuel combustion and wastewater treatment processes are also included in community GHG emissions inventories. These recommended GHG emission sources have been recategorized into emission sectors that align with those used in the San Ramon 2008, 2010, 2014, and 2019 GHG inventories,94 including:
 Natural Gas (residential, commercial, and transmission and distribution losses),  Electricity (residential, commercial, transmission and distribution losses, water transport, and wastewater electricity),
 On-road Motor Vehicles,
 Off-road Equipment,
 Waste, and
 Wastewater Treatment Processes.

The Community Protocol states that local governments should assess emissions of all six internationally recognized GHGs. These gases are outlined in Table 1, which also includes their sources and global warming potential (GWP).95 This inventory incorporates the 100-year GWP values published in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report (AR4)96. Subsequent IPCC reports (e.g., the Fifth Assessment Report, AR5) have been published with updated GWPs; however, this GHG inventory uses the GWPs from AR4 to maintain consistency with the 2019 GHG inventory and CARB’s statewide GHG emission inventories. The GWP refers to the ability of each gas to trap heat in the atmosphere. For example, one pound of methane has approximately 25 times more heat capturing potential than one pound of carbon dioxide.

This report focuses on the three GHGs most relevant to local government policymaking: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases comprise a large majority of GHG emissions at the municipal and community level. The other gases such as hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluorides are emitted primarily in private sector manufacturing and electricity transmission and are the subject of regulation at the state level and therefore, have been omitted from this inventory. When dealing with an array of emissions, the gases are converted to their carbon dioxide equivalents for comparison purposes. In this memorandum, GHG emissions are reported in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e) units. The data and calculations are included in the GHG Inventory 2022_City San Ramon emissions calculation workbook, dated June 21, 2024.
94 The 2011 Climate Action Plan GHG emissions accounting included High-Global Warming Potential Ozone Depleting Substance Substitutes, which are not included in the 2022 community GHG emissions inventory. The 2022 community GHG emissions inventory also includes the natural gas transmission and distribution losses and wastewater treatment processes emissions sources, which were not accounted for in the 2011 Climate Action Plan.
95 The IPCC 4th Assessment report outlines GWP’s that CARB uses in their GHG inventory reporting. 96 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Fourth Assessment Report AR4, Chapter 2 Changes in Atmospheric Constituents and in Radiative Forcing. 2007. Available: <https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ar4-wg1-chapter2-1.pdf>. Accessed June 1, 2024.

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Table 1 Summary of Greenhouse Gas Emission
Greenhouse Gas Formula Primary Source(s) GWP (CO2e)
Carbon Dioxide CO2 Fuel combustion 1
Methane CH4 Fuel combustion, anaerobic decomposition of organic waste (landfills, wastewater treatment plants), fuel handling 25 Nitrous Oxide N2O Combustion and wastewater treatment 298 Hydrofluorocarbons Various Leaking refrigerants and fire suppressants 124 – 14,800 Perfluorocarbons Various Aluminum production, semiconductor manufacturing, HVAC equipment manufacturing
7,390 – 12,200
Sulfur Hexafluoride SF6 Transmission and distribution of power 22,800 GWP= global warming potential; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalent Source: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Fourth Assessment Report AR4, Chapter 2 Changes in Atmospheric Constituents and in Radiative Forcing. 2007. Available: <https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ar4-wg1-chapter2-1.pdf>.

Accessed June 7, 2024.
2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results
Summary
In 2022, the City of San Ramon generated approximately 413,628 MT CO2e from community activities.

On-road motor vehicles were the largest sources of GHG emissions within San Ramon, generating approximately 57 percent of total community GHG emissions. Natural gas was the second largest GHG emission source, generating approximately 26 percent of total community GHG emissions. Off-road equipment was the third largest GHG emission source contributing about eight percent of total GHG emissions. Electricity consumption contributed only five percent of total community GHG emissions, due to a significant proportion of San Ramon’s electricity consumption being generated by renewable sources through participation in Marin Clean Energy (MCE).97 Lastly, solid waste and wastewater treatment process represented the smallest GHG emissions sources at three percent and one percent, respectively. Table 2 and Figure 1 provide a summary of the 2022 community GHG emissions inventory results by GHG emission sector.
97 The City of San Ramon joined Marin Clean Energy in 2018, at which point electricity customers in the were automatically enrolled in the “Light Green” rate product, providing 50 precent renewable energy. As of 2022, the “Light Green” rate product had increased its renewable mix of electricity to 60 percent. A small proportion of San Ramon MCE customers have enrolled in the “Deep Green” rate product which provides 100% renewable electricity.

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Table 2 2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector GHG Emissions Sector
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of GHG
Emissions Totals
On-road Motor Vehicles 235,529 57%
Natural Gas (residential, commercial, and transmission and distribution losses) 109,079 26% Off-road Equipment 32,969 8%
Electricity (residential, commercial, transmission and distribution losses, water transport, and wastewater)
20,388 5%
Solid Waste 11,505 3%
Wastewater Treatment Processes (stationary, process, and fugitive) 4,158 1% Total 413,628 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Totals may not add due to rounding.

Figure 14 2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector On-road Motor Vehicles Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The on-road transportation GHG emissions sector was the highest contributor to total GHG emissions in 2022, generating 235,529 MT CO2e. This GHG emission sector includes fossil fuel combustion (i.e., gasoline, diesel, and compressed natural gas) as part of operation of passenger and commercial onroad vehicles and buses, with the calculation of GHG emissions based on vehicle miles traveled (VMT).

The sector also includes GHG emissions from electricity consumption by electric vehicles (EVs), with the calculation of GHG emissions based on electricity consumption attributable to these EVs.

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The Community Protocol recommends the use of regional travel demand models to differentiate passenger and commercial VMT activity data attributed to the community. This assessment utilizes VMT data provided by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) travel demand model using Plan Bay Area 2050 data.98 MTC generates attributable daily average passenger and commercial VMT for participating communities in the Bay Area. It is worth noting that the VMT data provided by MTC is not the result of actual, measured VMT in San Ramon. Rather it is the output of a regional model that simulates transportation activities of average households in the nine-county Bay Area to produce jurisdiction-specific estimates of VMT. MTC’s model and the resulting VMT estimates are informed by MTC's Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy. Therefore, the VMT estimates are consistent with the data used to prepare regional plans to address transportation and land use, air quality, and greenhouse gases.99 MTC’s jurisdiction-specific VMT estimates are intended for use in developing and updating GHG inventories and other climate and general planning activities. MTC’s model outputs forecasted daily VMT estimates for the years 2015 and 2025. MTC recommends interpolating the VMT estimates between these model output years to estimate VMT for the needed inventory year. The San Ramon community inventory interpolates the VMT estimates between 2015 and 2025 to estimate daily VMT data for 2022.

For passenger VMT, MTC provides VMT estimates based on the Regional Targets Advisory Committee (RTAC) recommended origin-destination methodology for use in greenhouse gas assessments. MTC’s model provides daily passenger VMT from trips occurring within San Ramon city limits (internalinternal), traversing city limits (internal-external), and trips which are entirely outside city limits (external-external). Per Community Protocol equation TR.1.A, 100 percent of the internal-internal passenger trips and 50 percent of the internal-external trips are attributed to San Ramon’s passenger daily VMT. For commercial VMT, MTC’s model provides daily commercial VMT pursuant to the boundary method. MTC’s model provides aggregated daily commercial VMT data representative of all travel on the roads, regardless of trip origin and inclusive of passthrough trips. For bus VMT, MTC’s model does not provide specific activity data. To estimate bus VMT, this inventory applied the ratio of daily passenger VMT to bus VMT from California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) 2021 EMission FACtor (EMFAC2021)100 model (version 1.0.2) for Contra Costa County to MTC’s daily passenger VMT activity data for San Ramon. Daily passenger, commercial, and bus VMT estimates were annualized based on a factor (i.e., 353.04) provided by MTC’s model to determine annual VMT activity data for San Ramon.

In the 2019 GHG inventory, GHG emissions from electricity used to fuel EVs were estimated; however, these electricity emissions were not added to the transportation GHG emissions totals, since they were assumed to already be included in the electricity sector (i.e., within residential and commercial electricity consumption). To more accurately reflect trends in transportation, the 2022 GHG inventory reports emissions associated with passenger, commercial, and bus EV electricity use within the transportation sector rather than the electricity sector as was done in the 2019 inventory. 98 MTC. VMT Data Portal 2.0. Available at http://capvmt.mtcanalytics.org/. 99 MTC VMT Data Portal VMT Calculation and Methodology. Available at https://vmtdataportal.mtcanalytics.org/about. 100 The EMFAC emissions model is developed and used by CARB to assess emissions from on-road vehicles including cars, trucks, and buses in California, and to support CARB's regulatory and air quality planning efforts. Accessible at: https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/emissionsinventory/5e0cb7d6006cc10661f4b3ffb9c120a486d46ea6

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The inventory methodology uses on-road transportation emission factors and EV share data from CARB’s EMFAC2021 model.101 EMFAC2021 provides estimates on the county-wide level and does not differentiate estimates according to cities. This assessment assumes county-wide data reported by EMFAC2021 is representative of city-level on-road transportation emission factors and EV penetration rates. County-specific emissions factors, in units of MT CO2e/mile, for passenger and commercial vehicles are calculated based on EMFAC2021 model outputs for the year 2022. The GHG emission factor is calculated by summing all on-road vehicle emissions in Contra Costa County and dividing by county-wide VMT from the model output, disaggregated by passenger and commercial vehicles. This is consistent with current best practice and the methodology used for the 2019 GHG inventory and detailed in the 2019 GHG Inventory Data Evaluation and Methodology Memorandum, dated February 7, 2022, except where otherwise noted.

A breakdown of the contribution of passenger and commercial vehicles as well as buses to total onroad transportation GHG emissions is provided in Table 3 below.

Table 3 2022 On-road Motor Vehicle Sector GHG Emissions Results GHG Emissions Source Activity Data
Emission Factor
(MT CO2e/mile)
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of
Sector GHG
Emissions Total
Passenger On-road Vehicles 450,596,320 VMT 0.000370 166,535 71% Commercial On-road Vehicles 48,904,288 VMT 0.001372 67,105 28% On-road Buses 1,094,625 VMT 0.001620 1,774 1%
Passenger On-road EVs 5,664,882 kWh 0.000020 115 <1%
Commercial On-road EVs 0 kWh 0.000087 0 0%
On-road Bus EVs 9,913 kWh 0.000087 1 <1%
Sector Total 235,529 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent; EV = electric vehicle Totals may not add due to rounding.

Natural Gas Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The natural gas sector was the second largest contributor to total community GHG emissions in 2022, generating 109,079 MT CO2e. Data for this sector is provided by PG&E in their community inventory report and is organized by residential, commercial, and industrial subsectors and city, district, and nongovernmental uses. This sector includes GHG emissions from the combustion of natural gas in residential and commercial uses and fugitive methane emissions from natural gas leakage that occurs during delivery to buildings in the community. Industrial use of natural gas is regulated by the State and is considered to be outside of the City’s influence. Therefore, industrial natural gas is excluded from the GHG inventory. A breakdown of the contributions of each natural gas GHG emission source to the total natural gas sector GHG emissions is provided in Table 4. 101 California Air and Resources Board. 2023. Emission FACtor (EMFAC2021 v1.0.1) Model. Available at: https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/emissionsinventory/5e0cb7d6006cc10661f4b3ffb9c120a486d46ea6

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Table 4 2022 Natural Gas Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
Activity Data
(therms)
Emission Factor
(MTCO2e/therm)
GHG
Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions
Total
Residential Natural Gas Combustion 12,386,383 0.005311 65,790 60% Commercial Natural Gas Combustion 4,653,830 0.005311 24,719 23% Fugitive Methane from Leakage 391,925 0.047381 18,570 17% Sector Total 109,079 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Totals may not add due to rounding.

Off-road Equipment Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The off-road transportation sector was the third largest contributor to total community GHG emissions, generating 32,969 MT CO2e in 2022. Data for the off-road transportation sector was pulled from CARB’s OFFROAD transportation model.102 The model provides data on fuel use across various commercial and personal use off-road equipment categories at the County level. The countywide fuel usage for each off-road equipment category that may operate in San Ramon is attributed to the City based on population, employment, and service population.103 GHG emissions are calculated from fuel usage by applying a fuel-specific (i.e., diesel, gasoline, and natural gas/liquified petroleum gas) emission factor to the San Ramon-attributed usage. A breakdown of the contributions of each fuel type to the total off-road sector GHG emissions is provided in Table 5.

Table 5 2022 Off-road Equipment Sector GHG Emissions Results GHG Emissions Source
Activity
Data
(gallons)
Emission Factor
(MT CO2e/gallon)
GHG
Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of
Sector
GHG Emissions
Total
Gasoline Fuel Combustion 937,033 0.009224 8,643 26%
Diesel Fuel Combustion 2,159,682 0.010496 22,668 69%
Natural Gas/Liquefied Petroleum Gas Fuel
Combustion
281,871 0.005882 1,658 5%
Sector Total 32,969 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Totals may not add due to rounding.

Electricity Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The electricity sector was the fourth largest contributor to total community GHG emissions in 2022, generating 20,388 MT CO2e. This sector includes GHG emissions from the generation of electricity consumed by activities within San Ramon, as well as transmission and distribution losses. Electricity activity data were provided by PG&E in the San Ramon community inventory report, and by MCE. The GHG emissions are influenced by the amount of renewable energy in San Ramon’s electricity mix. In 2022, there were four electricity sources for residents and businesses of San Ramon, including:
102 CARB OFFROAD2021 (v1.0.5). 2024. Accessible: https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/offroad/emissionsinventory/3f377c1f45fef7c154509eac6354b9086be9cdd9 103 Service population is the sum of population and employment.

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 Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E),
 MCE Deep Green 100% renewable energy rate product,
 MCE Light Green 60% renewable energy rate product, and  Direct Access energy from the regional grid.

Utility data reported by PG&E is subject to the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) 15/15 Rule104 reporting restrictions which can result in utility data being either failed and dropped from the report (i.e., excluded) or aggregated into another sector (e.g., combining commercial and industrial consumption). For data provided by PG&E, the nongovernment commercial category of electricity customers failed the 15/15 Rule and therefore, was excluded from the inventory. It is anticipated that emissions associated with this category are minimal as a majority of customers in San Ramon receive electricity from MCE and PG&E’s emission factor is relatively low, as detailed in Table 6.

GHG emissions in the electricity sector include electricity consumption at end uses in residential and commercial buildings, transmission and distribution losses from direct electricity consumption, the electricity required to treat and distribute potable and recycled water delivered to San Ramon as well as the electricity required to collect and treat wastewater generated by San Ramon residents and business.105 It was assumed that the PG&E standard rate electricity was used for potable and recycled water related processes as well as wastewater collection and treatment processes and the associated PG&E electricity emission factor was used to estimate those GHG emissions. Electricity use associated with water and wastewater are included in the electricity sector, and not in the wastewater sector, to align with the 2019 inventory. A breakdown of the GHG emissions contribution of each these electricity-related GHG emission sources is provided in Table 6. The Activity data shows the total electricity in kWh used in San Ramon. The EV Adjusted Activity Data column shows the total kWh of electricity used minus the electricity used to fuel EVs, since the associated EV emissions were moved to the transportation sector of the GHG inventory.

Table 6 2022 Electricity Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
Activity Data
(kWh)
EV Adjusted
Activity Data
(kWh)
Emission
Factor (MT
CO2e/kWh)
GHG
Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of
Sector
GHG Emissions
Total
Residential Customer Electricity 153,638,018 147,973,136 3,018 15% PG&E 13,546,748 13,047,258 0.000026 344 2%
MCE Light Green Rate Product 139,055,620 134,925,879 0.000020 2,675 13% MCE Deep Green Rate Product 1035,650 0 0 0%
Commercial Customer Electricity 186,441,882 186,431,969 16,208 80% PG&E 5,935,526 5,935,210 0.000026 156 1%
MCE Light Green Rate Product 119,869,660 120,200,979 0.000020 2,392 12% MCE Deep Green Rate Product 337,710 0 0 0%
Direct Access 60,298,986 60,295,780 0.000227 13,660 67% 104 The 15/15 Rule is a policy put in place by the California Public Utilities Commission which protects the privacy of energy users. Aggregated energy information must have more than 15 customers, with no one customer representing 15 percent of the aggregated energy consumption.
105 Electricity used to for water treatment and delivery, and wastewater collection and treatment generally occur outside of San Ramon and are considered to be indirect GHG emissions; however, activities that occur within San Ramon that can be influenced by local policies are the driver of these electricity-related GHG emissions.

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GHG Emissions Source
Activity Data
(kWh)
EV Adjusted
Activity Data
(kWh)
Emission
Factor (MT
CO2e/kWh)
GHG
Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of
Sector
GHG Emissions
Total
Transmission and Distribution
Losses
17,344,075 N/A1 0.000057 986 5%
Water Treatment and Distribution 5,063,338 N/A 133 1%
Potable Water 3,725,527 N/A 0.000026 98 <1%
Recycled Water 1,337,810 N/A 0.000026 35 <1%
Wastewater Collection and
Treatment
1,673,178 N/A 0.000026 44 <1%
Sector Total 364,160,491 358,485,696 0.000057 20,388 100% MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent; PG&E = Pacific Gas and Electric; MCE = Marin Clean Energy; N/A = not applicable; Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 Transmission and distribution losses include losses associated with electricity consumption by EVs and are therefore not adjusted to exclude EV electricity consumption.

Waste Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown
The waste sector contributed 11,505 MT CO2e to community GHG emissions totals in 2022. GHG emissions in this sector include methane generated from the decay of waste disposed of in landfills and process emissions associated with the landfilling of waste. The methane emissions presented here represent the “methane commitment” of waste that was generated by the community in the year 2022, meaning that these emissions will not occur directly during the year 2022 but will instead occur over decades as a result of waste disposal totals in the inventory year. Although the 2019 GHG inventory calculated solid waste emissions differentiated by the tonnage of waste that went to landfills with or without landfill gas (LFG) capture systems, the CalRecycle report that provides disposal by landfill facility is only available through 2021. As nearly all of San Ramon’s waste went to facilities with LFG capture in the 2019 GHG inventory, Rincon assumed that all waste was sent to landfills that have LFG capture for 2022. Landfills that have LFG capture systems in place reduce the methane emissions impact of disposed waste. A breakdown of the contributions of methane emissions from disposed waste and landfilling process GHG emissions is provided in Table 7.

Table 7 2022 Waste Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
Activity Data
(tons)
Emission Factor
(MT CO2e/ton)
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of
Sector
GHG Emissions
Total
Solid Waste and ADC Sent to Landfills with
LFG Capture1
32,508 0.337500 10,971 95%
Landfilling Process Emissions 32,508 0.016400 533 5%
Sector Total 11,505 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent; ADC = alternative daily cover; LFG = landfill gas Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 GHG emissions from solid waste and ADC sent to landfills with LFG capture accounts for the GHG emissions that are not captured through LFG capture systems and as such are released to the atmosphere.

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Wastewater Treatment Processes Sector GHG Emissions Breakdown The wastewater treatment processes sector contributed 4,158 MT CO2e to community GHG emissions totals in 2022. GHG emissions in this sector are generated from the treatment of wastewater at the regional wastewater treatment facilities operated by Central Contra Costa Sanitary District and the Dublin San Ramon Services District.106 Calculation of GHG emissions for these GHG emissions sources are generally population-based and specific to the processes that occur at each of these facilities. In previous years, data provided for the inventories relied on population data. However, for the 2022 inventory the wastewater treatment facilities were able to provide facility specific data for some treatment processes. The Dublin San Ramon Services District provided data regarding the volume of digester gas produced as a result of San Ramon wastewater customers, as well as the approximate methane content of the digester gas. This allowed for use of the Community Protocol equation WW.1a and WW.2a instead of WW.1(alt) and WW.2(alt) that were used in previous years when only population data was available. Both facilities serve the greater region and their total emissions are attributed to San Ramon based on the proportion of their service population that is in San compared to their total service population. The Central Contra Costa Sanitary District serves a larger portion of San Ramon’s population than the Dublin San Ramon Services District, at about 75 percent and 25 percent, respectively. A breakdown of the 2022 San Ramon GHG emissions from each of the facilities that serve the community is provided in Table 8. Because process specific equations were used for each facility and results were aggregated, activity data and emissions factors are not provided in this results table. Electricity use associated with water and wastewater are included in the electricity sector, and not the wastewater sector, to align with the 2019 GHG inventory Table 8 2022 Wastewater Sector GHG Emissions Results
GHG Emissions Source
GHG Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Percent of Sector
GHG Emissions Total
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Facility 3,944 95% Natural Gas Combustion in Treatment Processes 3,399 82% Biosolids and Sludge Combustion 218 5%
Other Wastewater Treatment Processes 327 8%
Dublin San Ramon Services District Facility 214 5%
Digester Gas Combustion 14 <1%
Other Wastewater Treatment Processes 200 5%
Sector Total 4,158 100%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent; ADC = alternative daily cover; LFG = landfill gas Totals may not add due to rounding.
2019 and 2022 GHG Emissions Inventories Comparison
Total community GHG emissions decreased by about six percent between 2019 and 2022 from 437,784 MT CO2e to 413,628 MT CO2e despite increases in on-road motor vehicles and wastewater treatment processes. The largest decrease was seen in the electricity sector, which decreased by about 52 percent during the period. The primary reason for this decrease in electricity GHG emissions was a 25 percent reduction in total residential and commercial electricity during the period (i.e., 28 percent reduction in residential electricity consumption and a 19 percent reduction in nonresidential 106 Electricity required for the treatment of wastewater is accounted for separately under the electricity GHG emissions sector.

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electricity consumption). The sector also experienced a shift among utility providers within each subsector (i.e., residential and commercial). Residential electricity consumption saw a small decrease in the share of electricity obtained from MCE (i.e., 94 percent in 2019 and 91 percent in 2022) while commercial electricity consumption saw a significant increase in the share of electricity obtained from MCE (i.e., 65 percent in 2019 and 95 percent in 2022). The majority of MCE usage remains with the Light Green 60% renewable energy rate product. This share remained consistent for residential MCE electricity consumption and increased for nonresidential MCE electricity consumption with almost 100 percent of nonresidential MCE electricity consumption coming from Light Green (i.e., from two percent in 2019). The other sources within the electricity sector (i.e., electricity consumption by direct access users, water, and wastewater) experienced relatively small increases. It is worth nothing that a small portion of the electricity sector’s overall decrease is due to the removal of EV electricity emissions (i.e., 116 MT CO2e) from the electricity sector to increase the accuracy of the transportation sector. Additionally, the sector’s overall decrease is also due in a small part to the missing nongovernmental commercial PG&E electricity usage, because of the CPUC’s 15/15 Rule. These factors, however, are expected to be insignificant within the sector.

The San Ramon community also saw a reduction in natural gas usage. Total natural gas usage decreased by about seven percent. Nonresidential natural gas consumption decreased by about 21 percent while residential natural gas consumption saw a small decrease of less than one percent. The community also saw a 23 percent decrease in GHG emissions from solid waste. This decrease can be attributed to a proportional decrease (i.e., 23 percent) in the amount of solid waste sent to the landfill.

Off-road equipment also saw a small decrease in GHG emissions during the period (i.e., about one percent).

Conversely, on-road motor vehicles and wastewater treatment processes saw increases in GHG emissions during the period. Total GHG emissions from on-road motor vehicles increased by about four percent. Within the sector, emissions from commercial vehicles increased by about 25 percent while emissions from passenger vehicles decreased by about three percent and emissions from buses decreased by about four percent. While emissions factors (i.e., effected by fuel efficiencies and EV shares) for all vehicle types increased slightly during the period, the on-road motor vehicle emissions increase is primarily attributable to a 16 percent increase in commercial VMT. Passenger VMT and buses saw a six percent and 11 percent decrease, respectively. The overall decrease in on-road emissions is slightly offset by the addition of emissions from the electricity use by EVs although these emissions (i.e., 116 MT CO2e) are minimal for 2022. Moreover, GHG emissions from wastewater treatment increased by about 17 percent between 2019 and 2022. While the Dublin San Ramon Services District facility saw a slight increase in emissions from digester gas combustion (due to the methodology change for accuracy), the sector’s increase is primarily due to an increase in emissions from the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District facility.

A comparison of the GHG emissions for each sector from the 2019 and 2022 GHG inventories is included in Table 9 and Figure 2, below.

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Table 9 2019 and 2022 Community GHG Emissions Comparison by Sector GHG Emissions Sector
2019 GHG
Emissions
(MT CO2e)
2022 GHG
Emissions
(MT CO2e)
Difference
(MT CO2e)
Percent
Change
On-road Motor Vehicles 226,265 235,529 9,264 +4%
Natural Gas (residential, commercial, and
transmission and distribution losses)
117,360 109,079 -8,281 -7%
Off-road Equipment 33,415 32,969 -446 -1%
Electricity (residential, commercial, transmission
and distribution losses, water transport, and
wastewater)
42,251 20,388 -21,863 -52%
Solid Waste 14,931 11,505 -3,426 -23%
Wastewater Treatment Processes (non-electricity
emissions)
3,562 4,158 596 +17%
Total 437,784 413,628 -24,156 -6%
MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Totals may not add due to rounding.

Figure 2 2019 and 2022 Community GHG Emissions Comparison by Sector GHG Emissions Across All Inventories
The previous GHG emissions inventories conducted by the City for the years 2008, 2010, and 2014 have been updated to match the protocols and methods utilized in the 2019 and 2022 GHG emissions inventories during development of the CAP. These updated inventories along with the San Ramon 2022 community GHG emissions inventory presented within this memorandum provide an overview of historical and recent conditions in San Ramon to assess progress towards GHG emissions reduction targets in accordance with Senate Bill (SB) 32 and Assembly Bill (AB) 1279 as described in the GHG Forecasts, Targets, Inventories Update Memo, dated May 31, 2023, developed as part of the ongoing CAP. Table 10 and Figure 3 provide the previous and most recent inventory results and the percent change from 2008 to 2022 in GHG emissions for each of the key reporting sectors. 0 50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
On-road Motor
Vehicles
Natural Gas Electricity Off-road
Equipment
Waste Wastewater
Treatment
Processes
MT CO2e
2019 2022

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Table 10 2008, 2010, 2014, 2019, and 2022 Community GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector
GHG Emissions Sector 2008 2010 2014 2019 2022
Percent
Change 2008
to 2022
On-road Motor Vehicles 233,013 232,263 225,667 226,265 235,529 1% Natural Gas1 110,166 111,085 95,269 117,360 109,079 -1% Electricity2 170,552 122,960 115,641 42,2513 20,388 -88% Off-road Equipment 28,414 28,187 28,414 33,415 32,969 16% Waste 17,352 18,967 12,436 14,931 11,505 -34%
Wastewater Treatment Processes 2,837 3,238 3,535 3,562 4,158 47% Total 562,335 516,700 480,963 437,784 413,628 -26%
All values are presented in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent Totals may not add due to rounding.
1 The Natural Gas GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, as well as methane leakage from natural gas transmission and distribution.
2 The Electricity GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, electricity transmission and distribution losses, electricity embedded in the water supply, and electricity used for wastewater conveyance and treatment. 3 The significant drop in Electricity sector GHG emissions between 2014 and 2019 is a result of the City joining Marin Clean Energy, and the ability of Pacific Gas and Electric to provide primarily GHG-free electricity in 2019.

Figure 3 2008, 2010, 2014, 2019, and 2022 GHG Emissions Inventory Results by Sector The community GHG emissions inventories completed to date for San Ramon demonstrate progress in GHG emissions reduction with a 26 percent overall reduction of community emissions between 2008 and 2022. The 2011 San Ramon CAP established a GHG reduction target in alignment with California AB 32 compliance of reducing total community GHG emissions by 15 percent from 2008 before the year 2020, which the City had exceeded by 2019 with a total GHG emissions reductions of 22 percent between 2008 and 2019. The 2022 GHG inventory continues to show progress in GHG reductions, mostly attributable to the strong shift towards renewable electricity. The trends in -
100,000
200,000
300,000
400,000
500,000
600,000
2008 2010 2014 2019 2022
GHG Emissions (MT CO2e)
Year
On-road Motor Vehicles Natural Gas
Electricity Off-road Equipment
Waste Wastewater Treatment Processes

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emissions are discussed in more depth in the previous section comparing the 2019 and 2022 community GHG inventories.

CAP GHG Reduction Targets
As further described in Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets to the CAP, San Ramon’s GHG emissions reduction targets are:
 2030: 332,995 MT CO2e (SB 32)
 2045: Net 0 MT CO2e, or carbon neutrality (AB 1279)
The 2030 target and 2045 carbon neutrality will demonstrate San Ramon’s commitment to meeting State GHG reduction goals. With these GHG emission reduction targets, the emissions reduction gap that San Ramon will be responsible for through local action was calculated utilizing the 2019 inventory, to assess the GHG reductions required based on the difference between the forecasted emissions and the GHG emissions reduction targets. The estimated 1990 levels, 2008 GHG inventory results, 2019 baseline inventory results, 2022 GHG inventory update results, and gap analysis are shown in Table 11, below. The 2022 GHG Inventory is 63,533 MT CO2e below the target pathway.

To reach the SB 32 aligned 2030 target (332,995 MT CO2e), San Ramon would have to further reduce emissions by 80,633 MT CO2e.

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Final Draft Climate Action Plan E-15 Table 11 GHG Emissions Reduction Targets and Gap Analysis Emissions Forecast or Pathway 19901
2008
(GHG Inventory)
2019
(GHG Inventory)
2022
(GHG Inventory) 2030 2035 2040 2045
GHG Emissions/ Adjusted Forecast (MT CO2e)
488,987 562,335 437,784 413,628 429,457 430,715 436,803 442,891 Emissions Reduction Target Pathway (MT CO2e)2
488,987 562,335 494,379 477,161 332,995 236,532 125,534 0 Remaining Emissions Gap Compared to Targets (MT CO2e)
0 0 -56,595 -63,533 96,462 194,183 311,269 442,891
MT CO2e = Metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Emissions have been rounded to the nearest whole number and therefore sums may not match. 1 1990 levels are estimated by reducing 2008 emissions by 15%. According to the Association of Environmental Professionals’ Beyond 2020 and Newhall final white paper, in the 2008 AB 32 Scoping Plan, the recommended target for local governments to meet 1990 levels was 15 percent below “current” levels by 2020, where “current” levels were construed as baseline years between 2005-2008. See CAP Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets for additional information. 2 The target pathway is calculated by reducing 2008 per capita emissions in a linear trajectory to net zero emissions in 2045. This pathway is equivalent to reducing 1990 per capita emissions by about 53% in 2030. This provisional target pathway is consistent with both SB 32 and a trajectory set forth to achieve AB 1279. See CAP Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets for additional information.

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San Ramon Climate Action Plan
E-16
Conclusion
The 2022 GHG inventory utilizes best practices and was conducted in a methodologically consistent manner with the 2019 GHG inventory. The 2022 community GHG emissions inventory now 1) provides insight related to the GHG emissions reductions achieved through implementation of successful programs in the 2011 CAP, 2) assess progress towards the CAP GHG emission reduction targets and 3) inform the targeting of GHG reduction opportunities for the ongoing CAP.

The intent of the CAP is to demonstrate substantial progress toward the longer-term State reduction goals. New opportunities are expected to emerge that could yield additional reductions beyond those identified in CAP. Additional phases of local climate action planning will likely be needed to continue and expand the actions in the CAP and to explore new strategies to meet the 2045 GHG reduction target.

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Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions
Thresholds and Guidance
Final Report
prepared by
City of San Ramon
Community Development Department
Planning Services Division
7000 Bollinger Canyon Road
San Ramon, California 94583
Contact: Ryan Driscoll, Associate Planner
prepared with assistance from
Rincon Consultants, Inc.
66 Franklin Street, Suite 352 and 357
Oakland, California 94607
April June 10, 2025

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Final Report i
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................1

1.1 GHG Emissions Analyses Under CEQA ................................................................................1

1.2 Qualified GHG Emissions Reduction Plan ...........................................................................2 2 CAP Summary .................................................................................................................................5

2.1 Communitywide GHG Emissions Inventory ........................................................................5

2.2 GHG Emissions Reduction Strategy.....................................................................................5

2.3 GHG Emissions Forecast ......................................................................................................8 3 Regulatory and Legal Setting ....................................................................................................... 11

3.1 Relevant CEQA Guidelines Sections ................................................................................. 11

3.2 Relevant State and Regional GHG Reduction Targets ..................................................... 15

3.3 Relevant GHG Emissions Analysis Case Law .................................................................... 17 4 Determining Consistency with the San Ramon CAP .................................................................... 20 5 Utilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG Thresholds .............................................................................. 24

5.1 Threshold Calculation Methodology ................................................................................ 24

5.2 GHG Thresholds and Use ................................................................................................. 27

5.3 Justification for Thresholds .............................................................................................. 28 6 Quantifying GHG Emissions ......................................................................................................... 32

6.1 Construction GHG Emissions ........................................................................................... 32

6.2 Operational GHG Emissions ............................................................................................. 33

6.3 Modeling GHG Emissions from Existing Land Use ........................................................... 35 7 Moving into the Future ................................................................................................................ 37 Tables
Table 1 CAP Consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1) for 2030 ...........................4 Table 2 San Ramon 1990 and 2019 Communitywide GHG Emissions Levels ..................................5 Table 3 San Ramon Per Capita GHG Emissions Reduction by 2030 ................................................7 Table 4 San Ramon Mass GHG Emissions Reduction by 2030 .........................................................7 Table 5 San Ramon GHG Emissions Forecast Through 2045 ...........................................................9 Table 6 Allowable GHG Emissions for 2030 by Type of Development (MT of CO2e) ................... 26 Table 7 San Ramon Demographic Projections .............................................................................. 26 Table 8 San Ramon 2030 CAP-Adjusted Emissions and Communitywide GHG Thresholds ......... 26 Table 9 GHG Emissions Thresholds Adopted by Other California Bay Area Jurisdictions ............ 27 Table 10 San Ramon Locally Applicable Plan/Project CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds ............... 28

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ii
Figures
Figure 1 San Ramon 2030 and 2045 Mass GHG Emissions Forecast ................................................8 Figure 2 Determining Consistency with the San Ramon CAP ........................................................ 21 Figure 3 Allowable GHG Emissions from Existing and New Development in 2030 ....................... 25 Figure 4 San Ramon GHG Efficiency Thresholds ............................................................................ 28 Appendices
Appendix A Overview of GHG Emissions and Climate Change Appendix B GHG Threshold Calculations
Appendix C US Green Building Council Building Area per Employee by Business Type Rates

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1 Introduction

1.1 GHG Emissions Analyses Under CEQA
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires discretionary plans and projects to undergo an environmental review process, which includes an evaluation of plan- or project-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.1
Section 15183.5 of the CEQA Guidelines establishes a framework for developing a qualified2
GHG reduction plan to cumulatively reduce GHG emissions and allow lead agencies to analyze and mitigate the effects of plan- and project-level GHG emissions. This GHG Emissions Thresholds and Guidance Document is intended to provide methodological guidance and quantitative thresholds of significance for use by City planners, applicants, consultants, agencies, and members of the public in the preparation of GHG emissions analyses under CEQA for plans and projects located within the City of San Ramon.

The City’s GHG reduction plan, titled the San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP), is consistent with the CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5. The CAP sets the targets of achieving a 53 percent reduction below 1990 per capita GHG emissions levels annually by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2045.3 For ease of
context and tracking GHG emissions reduction progress, the per capita emissions targets are converted to and discussed in this report as mass emissions. The per capita emissions targets are equivalent to reducing GHG emissions to 332,995 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT of CO2e) annually by 2030 and net zero MT of CO2e by 2045. While the City Council, City staff, and community will continue to develop an approach to the longer-term goal of carbon neutrality, the San Ramon CAP includes specific measures and actions to achieve the shorter-term per capita emissions reduction target of 53 percent below 1990 emissions by 2030 (or 332,995 MT of CO2e), which is consistent with California’s goal of reducing GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030, pursuant to Senate Bill (SB) 32. The City has also adopted a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, aligning with California’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2045, pursuant to Assembly Bill (AB) 1279.

The San Ramon CAP includes procedures to evaluate San Ramon’s GHG emissions in light of the trajectory of the GHG reduction targets to assess “substantial progress” toward achieving long-term reduction targets identified in the San Ramon CAP and State legislation. The San Ramon CAP also includes commitments and mechanisms to adopt additional policies to achieve the GHG emissions reduction necessary and make substantial progress toward long-term San Ramon targets and California goals. This approach is important, because these targets have been set at levels that achieve California’s fair share of international emissions reduction goals that would stabilize global climate change effects and avoid the adverse environmental consequences of climate change.

To support progress toward San Ramon’s longer-term carbon neutrality target, plans and projects within San Ramon that undergo CEQA review will need to demonstrate consistency with targets in the San Ramon CAP, which is a qualified GHG Emissions Reduction Plan (consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5) upon adoption of this CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds and Guidance Document, and approval of the San Ramon CAP consistent with General Plan 2040 Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Mitigation Measure GHG-1. Chapter 2, CAP SummaryCAP Summary, provides an 1 Refer to Appendix A for an overview of GHG emissions and climate change. 2 To be a qualified CAP, a CAP must meet the requirements of CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, as further discussed in Section 1.2. 3 Carbon neutrality is defined as net zero carbon emissions, which is achieved either by balancing carbon emissions with carbon removal or by completely eliminating carbon emissions.

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2 overview of the San Ramon CAP and the associated GHG emissions inventories, reduction measures, and forecasts included therein. In addition, Chapter 3, Regulatory and Legal SettingRegulatory and Legal Setting, offers an overview of relevant regulations and case law pertaining to the analysis of GHG emissions consistent with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.

Plans and projects that are consistent with the San Ramon CAP demographic (i.e., residents and employees) projections and land use assumptions,4
would be able to tier from the adopted San
Ramon CAP and CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5 with regard to CEQA GHG emissions analysis. To streamline this CEQA GHG emissions analysis process, the City has prepared a CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist that can be utilized in planand project-level CEQA review documents to determine whether proposed plans and projects are consistent with the San Ramon CAP GHG emissions reduction strategy. Chapter 4, Determining Consistency with the San Ramon CAP, includes guidance on how to navigate this consistency determination process.

For plans or projects that are not consistent with the San Ramon CAP demographic projections and land use assumptions or are not consistent with the CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist, a different methodology and assessment utilizing quantitative thresholds of significance would be necessary to evaluate GHG emissions impacts. Chapter 5, Utilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG ThresholdsUtilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG Thresholds, includes guidance on how to utilize the quantitative thresholds that were developed for purposes of evaluating the level of significance of GHG emissions impacts.5
Furthermore, Chapter 6, Quantifying GHG EmissionsQuantifying GHG Emissions, provides direction regarding how to quantify a plan or project’s GHG emissions for comparison to the applicable threshold of significance.

The San Ramon CAP acknowledges that additional actions beyond those identified in the plan will be required to achieve the long-term target of carbon neutrality by 2045. As a result, the plan provides a mechanism for monitoring CAP implementation progress, publishing public CAP progress reports every two years, conducting GHG emissions inventories every four to eight years, and preparing a new CAP every four to eight years (with opportunities to adjust as needed based on CAP progress).

Chapter 7, Moving Into the Future, offers further explanation of how CEQA review of plans and projects could be affected by future updates and/or iterations of the San Ramon CAP.

1.2 Qualified GHG Emissions Reduction Plan
According to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, project-specific environmental documents can tier from, or incorporate by reference, the existing programmatic review of a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan. This process allows for project-level evaluation of GHG emissions through the comparison of a project’s consistency with the GHG emissions reduction strategy included in the respective qualified GHG emissions reduction plan. To meet the requirements of CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan must include the following:

1. Quantify existing and projected GHG emissions within the plan area;

2. Establish a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution to GHG emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable;

3. Identify and analyze sector specific GHG emissions within the plan’s geographic area; 4 Demographic projections used in the San Ramon CAP are based on demographic data contained in Plan Bay Area 2040 and the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Sites Inventory Assessment for San Ramon. 5 In compliance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(b), this guidance document and the quantitative thresholds contained herein will be presented to the City Council for formal adoption, which includes a public input opportunity.

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4. Specify measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that if implemented, would collectively achieve the specified emissions level;

5. Establish a tool or mechanism to monitor progress and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving specified levels; and

6. Be adopted in a public process following environmental review.

Development projects can demonstrate consistency with a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan if they are consistent with the plan’s assumptions regarding future growth projections and consistent with the plan’s GHG emissions reduction measures.6
Projects consistent with the qualified GHG
reduction plan, including conformance with performance measures applicable to the project, would not require additional GHG emissions analysis or mitigation under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15064(h) and 15183.5(b)(2). The City has developed the CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist to assist with determining project consistency with the San Ramon CAP. The checklist is intended to provide individual projects the opportunity to demonstrate that they are minimizing GHG emissions while ensuring new developments achieves their proportion of emissions reduction consistent with the assumptions of the San Ramon CAP. Project consistency with a GHG emissions reduction plan can also be demonstrated through a quantitative analysis that demostrates the project would not impede (or would facilitate) San Ramon’s ability to meet the GHG emissions reduction targets.

Table 1Table 1 summarizes the consistency of the San Ramon CAP with these requirements for year 2030 (the next California milestone target year for GHG emissions reduction). As shown in Table 1Table 1, upon adoption of the CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds and approval of the San Ramon CAP by City Council, the San Ramon CAP will meet the requirements of a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan per CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1) for projects through 2030. 6 CAPs typically utilize growth projections from the local jurisdiction’s General Plan or applicable Metropolitan Planning Organization’s regional demographic forecast.

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4 Table 1 CAP Consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1) for 2030 CEQA Guidelines Section
15183.5(b)(1) Requirement1 Climate Action Plan Update/Game Plan 2028 Consistency Quantify GHG emissions, both
existing and projected over a
specified time period, resulting
from activities within a defined
geographic area.

Consistent. The San Ramon CAP includes a communitywide GHG emissions inventory for 2019 and forecasts GHG emissions for years 2030 and 2045.

Establish a level, based on
substantial evidence, below
which the contribution to GHG
emissions from activities
covered by the plan would not
be cumulatively considerable.

Consistent. A key aspect of a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan is substantial evidence that the identified GHG emissions reduction target establishes a threshold where GHG emissions are not cumulatively considerable. The AEP (2016) Beyond Newhall and 2020 white paper identifies this threshold as being a local target that aligns with the State legislative goals. The San Ramon CAP establishes a long-term target of carbon neutrality by 2045, and as discussed in Section 2.3, GHG Emissions Forecast, implementation of the plan would slightly exceed San Ramon’s 2030 target of a 53 percent reduction in per capita 1990 emissions levels by 2030 by resulting in 330,920 MT of CO2e annually. Therefore, this local target meets the State goal of a 40 percent emissions reduction in 1990 levels by 2030.

Identify and analyze the GHG
emissions resulting from
specific actions or categories of
actions anticipated within the
geographic area.

Consistent. The San Ramon CAP breaks down San Ramon’s inventory and forecasts into six sectors (natural gas, on-road motor vehicles, off-road equipment, solid waste, electricity, and wastewater treatment processes).

Specify measures or a group of
measures, including
performance standards, that
substantial evidence
demonstrates, if implemented
on a project-by-project basis,
would collectively achieve the
specified emissions level.

Consistent. The San Ramon CAP specifies measures and actions that the City will enact and implement between 2025 and 2030 to meet the 2030 GHG emissions reduction target. As discussed in Section 2.3, GHG Emissions Forecast, implementation of the plan would slightly exceed San Ramon’s 2030 target of a 53 percent reduction in per capita 1990 GHG emission levels by 2030 by resulting in 330,920 MT of CO2e annually, which aligns with the State goal of a 40 percent emissions reduction in 1990 levels by 2030 and demonstrates substantial progress by 2030 toward achieving San Ramon’s longer-term target of carbon neutrality by 2045.

Establish a mechanism to
monitor the plan’s progress
toward achieving the level and
to require amendment if the
plan is not achieving specified
levels.

Consistent. The San Ramon CAP includes a process to complete community GHG emissions inventories every four to eight years. The inventories will allow the City to measure progress towards meeting the San Ramon CAP targets. If an inventory indicates that San Ramon is not on track to meet the San Ramon CAP GHG emissions reduction targets, additional updates may be required at that time to increase emissions reduction measures and actions and maintain the San Ramon CAP’s status as a CEQA qualified GHG emissions reduction plan.

Be adopted in a public process
following environmental
review.

Consistent. The City prepared the San Ramon CAP, in response to General Plan 2040 EIR Mitigation Measure GHG-1, which was made available for public review and comment and adopted prior to approval of the San Ramon CAP and CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds by City Council.

Source: San Ramon, City of. 2025. Draft Climate Action Plan Update. January 2025.

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2 CAP Summary
The following sections provide an overview of the San Ramon CAP, including the 2019 communitywide GHG emissions inventory, the communitywide GHG emissions forecast through 2045, and the proposed GHG emissions reduction strategy.

2.1 Communitywide GHG Emissions Inventory
The City has completed a communitywide GHG emissions inventory for 2019, which is summarized in Table 2Table 2. Table 2Table 2 also provides estimated 1990 emissions levels for informational purposes. As shown therein, communitywide GHG emissions declined by approximately 10 percent between 1990 and 2019.

Table 2 San Ramon 1990 and 2019 Communitywide GHG Emissions Levels Sector
1990 1
(MT of CO2e)
2019
(MT of CO2e)
Percent Change from
1990 to 2019
On-road Motor Vehicles N/A 226,299 N/A
Natural Gas (residential,
commercial, and transmission
and distribution losses)
N/A 117,360 N/A
Electricity (residential,
commercial, transmission and
distribution losses, and water
transport)
N/A 42,249 N/A
Off-road Equipment N/A 33,415 N/A
Waste N/A 15,376 N/A
Wastewater Treatment
Processes
N/A 3,369 N/A
Total 488,987 438,067 -10%
MT of CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents; N/A = not applicable.

Note: Numbers are rounded to the nearest ten.
1 1990 GHG emissions were estimated to be 15 percent below 2008 emissions (i.e., 562,335 MT of CO2e)—the year of San Ramon’s first GHG emission inventory. According to the Association of Environmental Professionals’ Beyond 2020 and Newhall final white paper, in the 2008 AB 32 Scoping Plan, the recommended target for local governments to meet 1990 levels was 15 percent below “current” levels by 2020, where “current” levels were construed as baseline years between 2005 to 2008.

Association of Environmental Professionals (2016). Final White Paper Beyond 2020 and Newhall: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California. Accessed January 2025 at: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California.

Source: San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets

2.2 GHG Emissions Reduction Strategy
To achieve San Ramon’s long-term target of carbon neutrality by 2045, the San Ramon CAP includes a series of measures and actions that are intended to slightly exceed San Ramon’s 2030 target of a 53 percent reduction in per capita 1990 GHG emission levels by 2030 by resulting in 330,920 MT of CO2e annually, which provides substantial progress toward meeting San Ramon’s longer-term carbon neutrality target while also meeting the State’s 2030 goal. The San Ramon CAP acknowledges that

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6 additional measures and actions beyond those identified in the plan will be necessary to achieve the long-term target of carbon neutrality and, thus, provides a mechanism for monitoring progress and regularly updating and adopting CAPs to incorporate new technologies that will further San Ramon toward meeting the long-term target of carbon neutrality.

As part of the San Ramon CAP process, the City has developed a set of strategies to reduce GHG emissions across various sectors to achieve the San Ramon 2030 GHG emissions reduction target and make substantial progress towards the San Ramon 2045 target. Each strategy is supported by a set of measures and actions that provide a measurable GHG emissions reduction that is supported by substantial evidence. The structure of the Strategies, Measures, and Actions is as follows:
 Strategies: Overall sector category for reducing GHG emissions.  Measures: Approach measurable through a discrete performance metric to reduce GHG emissions by a quantifiable level within a specific time period.  Actions: Discrete step San Ramon will take and supported by substantial evidence to achieve the performance metric of the overarching measure.

The Measures and Actions can be either quantitative or supportive, defined as follows:
 Quantitative. Quantitative measures and actions result in quantifiable GHG emissions reduction when implemented. GHG emissions reduction from these measures and actions are supported by case studies, scientific articles, calculations, or other third-party substantial evidence.  Supportive. Supportive measures and actions may also be quantifiable and have substantial evidence to support their overall contribution to GHG reduction. However, due to one of several factors—including a low GHG emissions reduction effect, indirect GHG emissions reduction benefit, or potential for double-counting—such measures will not be quantified and do not contribute directly to the expected GHG emissions reduction target and consistency with the State goals. For example, municipal-specific measures are not quantified, as they represent a subset of communitywide emissions and as such could be characterized as double-counting.

Despite not being quantified, supportive measures/actions are nevertheless critical to the overall success of the CAP and provide support so that the quantitative measures and actions will be successfully implemented.

Table 4Table 4 summarizes the per capita GHG emissions reduction that is anticipated to be achieved by 2030 by the identified measures and actions in the San Ramon CAP, in addition to State laws and programs. As shown therein, implementation of State laws and programs as well as the San Ramon CAP would slightly exceed San Ramon’s 2030 target of a 53 percent reduction in per capita 1990 GHG emission levels by 2030. San Ramon’s GHG emissions reduction targets were set using per capita GHG emissions in accordance with guidance from California’s 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan (2017 Scoping Plan).7
The 2017 Scoping Plan allows jurisdictions to use per capita GHG emissions when setting targets to avoid penalizing cities which are growing at significant rates. A per capita approach provides San Ramon with an emissions reduction pathway that are fair and scalable by pacing reductions with the significant population and economic growth projected. To provide consistency with the GHG threshold calculations presented in Chapter 5, Utilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG ThresholdsUtilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG Thresholds, the 1990 per capita GHG emissions baseline, per capita GHG emissions reductions, and remaining per capita GHG emissions presented within Table 3Table 3 are translated to mass GHG emissions. Table 4Table 4 shows the resulting mass GHG 7 California Air Resources Board (CARB) (2017). California’s 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan, p. 99-102. Accessed January 2025 at:
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/classic/cc/scopingplan/scoping_plan_2017.pdf.

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emissions reduction. As shown therein, implementation of State laws and programs as well as the San Ramon CAP would result in 330,920 MT of CO2e annually in 2030.

Table 3 San Ramon Per Capita GHG Emissions Reduction by 2030 Source
Annual Per Capita GHG
Emissions
(MT of CO2e/capita)
1990 Baseline Emissions1 7.34
Business-as-Usual 2030 Emissions 5.25
State Laws/Programs 0.84
Buildings & Energy Strategy 0.33
Transportation Strategy 0.53
Waste Strategy 0.15
Total Emissions Reduction (from BAU) 1.85
Remaining 2030 Emissions 3.40
Percent Reduction below 1990 Per Capita GHG Emissions 53% ( ) denotes a negative number; numbers in table may not add to the total exactly due to rounding; N/A = not applicable.

MT = metric tons; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents
1 1990 per capita GHG emissions were estimated to be 15 percent below 2008 per capita GHG emissions (i.e., 8.44 MT of CO2e/capita)—the year of San Ramon’s first GHG emission inventory. According to the Association of Environmental Professionals’ Beyond 2020 and Newhall final white paper, in the 2008 AB 32 Scoping Plan, the recommended target for local governments to meet 1990 levels was 15 percent below “current” levels by 2020, where “current” levels were construed as baseline years between 2005 to 2008.

Association of Environmental Professionals (2016). Final White Paper Beyond 2020 and Newhall: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California. Accessed January 2025 at: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California.

Sources: San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets.

Table 4 San Ramon Mass GHG Emissions Reduction by 2030
Source
Annual Mass GHG
Emissions
(MT of CO2e)
1990 Baseline Emissions1 488,987
Business-as-Usual 2030 Emissions2 511,235
State Laws/Programs (81,778)
Buildings & Energy Strategy (32,517)
Transportation Strategy (51,146)
Waste Strategy (14,874)
Total Emissions Reduction (from BAU) (180,315)
Remaining 2030 Emissions 330,920
( ) denotes a negative number; numbers in table may not add to the total exactly due to rounding; N/A = not applicable.

MT = metric tons; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents
1 See Table 2Table 2.
2 See Figure 2Figure 2 and Figure 3Figure 3
3 San Ramon’s 2030 target is based on per capita levels.

Sources: San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets.

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8 2.3 GHG Emissions Forecast
Figure 1Figure 1 and Table 5Table 5 summarize the communitywide GHG emissions forecast under three scenarios:

1. Business-as-usual (BAU),

2. Implementation of State laws and programs (or adjusted forecast), and

3. Implementation of State laws and programs and the San Ramon CAP.

As shown therein, under the BAU scenario, communitywide GHG emissions are forecasted to increase by approximately 38 percent between 2019 and 2045 based on economic and population growth.

However, with implementation of State laws and programs, communitywide GHG emissions would increase by only approximately 1 percent between 2019 and 2045. Full implementation of the San Ramon CAP alongside State laws and programs would reduce communitywide GHG emissions by approximately 24 percent below 2019 levels by 2030 and by approximately 75 percent below 2019 levels by 2045.

Figure 1 San Ramon 2030 and 2045 Mass GHG Emissions Forecast 2019 Emissions
437,784 MT CO2e
2030 Target
MT CO2e
2045 Target
0 MT CO2e
-
100,000
200,000
300,000
400,000
500,000
600,000
700,000
2019 2030 2045
GHG Emissions (MT CO2e)
GHG Emissions Reduction Gap Business-as-Usual (BAU) Forecast GHG Emissions Reduction Targets Adjusted Forecast
1990 Emissions Adjusted Forecast and CAP Update Measures

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Table 5 San Ramon GHG Emissions Forecast Through 2045
Sector
2019
(MT of CO2e)
2030
(MT of CO2e)
2045
(MT of CO2e)
Business-as-Usual (BAU) GHG Emissions
On-road Motor Vehicles 226,484 264,423 307,114
Natural Gas1 117,360 137,092 165,769
Electricity2 42,031 49,078 58,717
Off-road Equipment 33,415 39,038 47,603
Waste 14,931 17,444 21,271
Wastewater Treatment Processes 3,562 4,161 5,030
Total 437,784 511,235 605,504
GHG Emissions After Implementation of State Laws/Programs (Adjusted Forecast)3 On-road Motor Vehicles 226,484 211,778 205,198
Natural Gas1 117,360 136,160 163,788
Electricity2 42,031 20,876 0
Off-road Equipment 33,415 39,038 47,603
Waste 14,931 17,444 21,271
Wastewater Treatment Processes 3,562 4,161 5,030
Total 437,784 429,457 442,891
GHG Emissions After Implementation of State Laws/Programs (Adjusted Forecast) and CAP Measures On-road Motor Vehicles 226,484 165,472 9
Natural Gas1,4 117,360 116,924 67,924
Electricity2,5 42,031 7,596 0
Off-road Equipment 33,415 34,198 37,521
Waste 14,931 4,361 2,127
Wastewater Treatment Processes 3,562 4,161 5,030
Carbon Sequestration6 N/A (1,791) (2,080)
Total 437,784 330,920 110,530
( ) denotes a negative value; MT = metric tons; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents; N/A = not applicable. 1 The Natural Gas GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, as well as methane leakage from natural gas transmission and distribution.
2 The Electricity GHG emissions sector includes residential and non-residential consumption, electricity transmission and distribution losses, electricity embedded in the water supply, and electricity used for wastewater conveyance and treatment. 3 State laws and programs include State vehicle fuel efficiency standards, the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), and triennial updates of Title 24.
4 The GHG emissions reduction from the CAP Measures in the natural gas sector include the natural gas emissions reduction from Measure E-2, Measure E-3, and Measure E-4. The reduction excludes added emissions from these Measures’ converted electricity in 2030.
5 The GHG emissions reduction from the CAP Measures in the electricity sector include the electricity emissions reduction from Measure E-1 and are slightly offset by the added emissions from Measure E-2, Measure E-3, and Measure E-4’s converted electricity in 2030.
6 The 2019 inventory and emissions forecasts did not include emissions from carbon sequestration. The CAP Measures include the GHG emissions reduction from Measure W-3’s compost application.

Sources: San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets; San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix D: CAP GHG Reduction Measures Quantification and Substantial Evidence.

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10 At this time, the State has codified a goal of reducing emissions to 40 percent below 1990 emissions levels by 2030 (SB 32) and has developed the 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan to demonstrate how the State will achieve the 2030 goal and make substantial progress toward the 2045 goal of carbon neutrality established by AB 1279.

While State and regional regulations related to energy and transportation systems, along with the State’s Cap and Trade program, are designed to achieve the State’s long-term GHG emissions reduction goals, local governments can do their fair share toward meeting the State’s goals by siting and approving projects that accommodate planned population growth and projects that are GHGefficient. The Association of Environmental Professional (AEP) Climate Change Committee recommends that CEQA GHG analyses evaluate project emissions given the trajectory of State climate change legislation and assess their “substantial progress” toward achieving long-term reduction targets.

San Ramon has adopted a longer-term target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 and has proposed the San Ramon CAP as a pathway to make progress toward this target. Implementation of the San Ramon CAP would achieve an approximately 53 percent reduction in per capita GHG emissions below 1990 levels by 2030, meeting the GHG emissions reduction required by SB 32. Because SB 32 is considered an interim goal toward meeting the State long-term goals, implementation of the San Ramon CAP would make substantial progress toward meeting the State’s long-term 2045 goal. Making substantial progress toward, these long-term State goals is important, because these goals have been set at levels that achieve California’s fair share of international emissions reduction targets that would stabilize global climate change effects and avoid the adverse environmental consequences described in Appendix A.

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3 Regulatory and Legal Setting
The following regulations, executive orders, and case law pertain to the analysis of GHG emissions consistent with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.

3.1 Relevant CEQA Guidelines Sections
Pursuant to the requirements of SB 97, the California Natural Resources Agency has adopted amendments to the CEQA Guidelines for the feasible mitigation of GHG emissions or the effects of GHG emissions. The adopted CEQA Guidelines, which were last updated in December 2018, provide general regulatory guidance on the analysis and mitigation of GHG emissions in CEQA documents, while giving lead agencies the discretion to set quantitative or qualitative thresholds for the assessment and mitigation of GHG emissions and climate change impacts.

Based on Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, impacts related to GHG emissions generated by a proposed plan/project would be significant if the plan/project would:
 Generate GHG emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment; and/or
 Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGs.

The vast majority of individual projects do not generate sufficient GHG emissions to directly influence climate change. However, physical changes caused by a plan/project can contribute incrementally to cumulative effects that are significant, even if individual changes resulting from a plan/project are limited. The cumulative effects of GHG emissions are significant, as discussed in Appendix A. These adverse enviornmental impacts, including sea level rise, increased average temperatures, more drought years, and more large forest fires, are already occurring. As a result, cumulative impacts related to GHG emissions and climate change are significant. Therefore, per CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.4(b), the analysis of GHG emissions under CEQA typically involves an analysis of whether a plan or project’s contribution towards an impact would be cumulatively considerable. “Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of an individual project are significant when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, other current projects, and probable future projects (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064[h][1]).

The following sections of the CEQA Guidelines pertain to the creation of significance thresholds and the analysis of a plan/project’s GHG emissions.

CEQA Guidelines Section 15064(b)
(1) The determination of whether a project may have a significant effect on the environment calls for careful judgment on the part of the public agency involved, based to the extent possible on scientific and factual data. An ironclad definition of significant effect is not always possible because the significance of an activity may vary with the setting. For example, an activity which may not be significant in an urban area may be significant in a rural area.

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12 (2) Thresholds of significance, as defined in Section 15064.7(a), may assist lead agencies in determining whether a project may cause a significant impact. When using a threshold, the lead agency should briefly explain how compliance with the threshold means that the project’s impacts are less than significant. Compliance with the threshold does not relieve a lead agency of the obligation to consider substantial evidence indicating that the project’s environmental effects may still be significant.8
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.4
(a) The determination of the significance of GHG emissions calls for a careful judgment by the lead agency consistent with the provisions in section 15064. A lead agency shall make a good-faith effort, based to the extent possible on scientific and factual data, to describe, calculate or estimate the amount of GHG emissions resulting from a project. A lead agency shall have discretion to determine, in the context of a particular project, whether to (1) Quantify GHG emissions resulting from a project; and/or (2) Rely on a qualitative analysis or performance-based standards. (b) In determining the significance of a project’s GHG emissions, the lead agency should focus the analysis on the reasonably foreseeable incremental contribution of the project’s emissions to the effects of climate change. A project’s incremental contribution may be cumulatively considerable even if it appears relatively small compared to statewide, national, or global emissions. The agency’s analysis should consider a timeframe that is appropriate for the project. The agency’s analysis also must reasonably reflect evolving scientific knowledge and State regulatory schemes. A lead agency should consider the following factors, among others, when determining the significance of impacts from GHG emissions on the environment:
(1) The extent to which the project may increase or reduce GHG emissions as compared to the existing environmental setting.
(2) Whether the project emissions exceed a threshold of significance that the lead agency determines applies to the project.
(3) The extent to which the project complies with regulations or requirements adopted to implement a statewide, regional, or local plan for the reduction or mitigation of GHG emissions (see, e.g., section 15183.5[b]). Such requirements must be adopted by the relevant public agency through a public review process and must reduce or mitigate the project’s incremental contribution of GHG emissions. If there is substantial evidence that the possible effects of a particular project are still cumulatively considerable notwithstanding compliance with the adopted regulations or requirements, an EIR must be prepared for the project. In determining the significance of impacts, the lead agency may consider a project’s consistency with the State’s long-term climate goals or strategies, provided that substantial evidence supports the agency’s analysis of how those goals or strategies address the project’s incremental contribution to climate change and conclude that the project’s incremental contribution is not cumulatively considerable.
8 Association of Environmental Professionals. 2024 CEQA Statute and Guidelines. https://www.califaep.org/docs/2024_CEQA_Statute_and_Guidelines_Handbook.pdf

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(c) A lead agency may use a model or methodology to estimate GHG emissions resulting from a project. The lead agency has discretion to select the model or methodology it considers most appropriate to enable decision makers to intelligently take into account the project’s incremental contribution to climate change. The lead agency must support the selection of a model or methodology with substantial evidence. The lead agency should explain the limitations of the particular model or methodology selected for use.9 CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7
(a) A threshold of significance is an identifiable quantitative, qualitative or performance level of a particular environmental effect, non-compliance with which means the effect will normally be determined to be significant by the agency and compliance with which means the effect normally will be determined to be less than significant. (b) Each public agency is encouraged to develop and publish thresholds of significance that the agency uses in the determination of the significance of environmental effects. Thresholds of significance to be adopted for general use as part of the lead agency’s environmental review process must be adopted by ordinance, resolution, rule, or regulation, and developed through a public review process and be supported by substantial evidence. Lead agencies may also use thresholds on a case-by-case basis as provided in Section 15064(b)(2). (c) When adopting or using thresholds of significance, a lead agency may consider thresholds of significance previously adopted or recommended by other public agencies or recommended by experts, provided the decision of the lead agency to adopt such thresholds is supported by substantial evidence.
(d) Using environmental standards as thresholds of significance promotes consistency in significance determinations and integrates environmental review with other environmental program planning and regulation. Any public agency may adopt or use an environmental standard as a threshold of significance. In adopting or using an environmental standard as a threshold of significance, a public agency shall explain how the particular requirements of that environmental standard reduce project impacts, including cumulative impacts, to a level that is less than significant, and why the environmental standard is relevant to the analysis of the project under consideration. For the purposes of this subdivision, an “environmental standard” is a rule of general application that is adopted by a public agency through a public review process and that is all the following:
(1) a quantitative, qualitative or performance requirement found in an ordinance, resolution, rule, regulation, order, plan or other environmental requirement; (2) adopted for the purpose of environmental protection; (3) addresses the environmental effect caused by the project; and, (4) applies to the project under review.10
CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5
(a) Lead agencies may analyze and mitigate the significant effects of GHG emissions at a programmatic level, such as in a general plan, a long-range development plan, or a separate plan to reduce GHG emissions. Later project-specific environmental documents may tier from and/or incorporate by reference that existing programmatic review. Project-specific 9 Ibid.
10 Ibid.

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14 environmental documents may rely on an EIR containing a programmatic analysis of GHG emissions as provided in section 15152 (tiering), 15167 (staged EIRs) 15168 (program EIRs), 15175–15179.5 (Master EIRs), 15182 (EIRs Prepared for Specific Plans), and 15183 (EIRs Prepared for General Plans, Community Plans, or Zoning). (b) Plans for the Reduction of GHG Emissions. Public agencies may choose to analyze and mitigate significant GHG emissions in a plan for the reduction of GHG emissions or similar document. A plan to reduce GHG emissions may be used in a cumulative impacts analysis as set forth below. Pursuant to sections 15064(h)(3) and 15130(d), a lead agency may determine that a project’s incremental contribution to a cumulative effect is not cumulatively considerable if the project complies with the requirements in a previously adopted plan or mitigation program under specified circumstances. (1) Plan Elements. A plan for the reduction of GHG emissions should:
(A) Quantify GHG emissions, both existing and projected over a specified time period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area; (B) Establish a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution to GHG emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable;
(C) Identify and analyze the GHG emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area;
(D) Specify measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that substantial evidence demonstrates, if implemented on a project-by-project basis, would collectively achieve the specified emissions level; (E) Establish a mechanism to monitor the plan’s progress toward achieving the level and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving specified levels; (F) Be adopted in a public process following environmental review. (2) Use with Later Activities. A plan for the reduction of GHG emissions, once adopted following certification of an EIR or adoption of an environmental document, may be used in the cumulative impacts analysis of later projects. An environmental document that relies on a GHG reduction plan for a cumulative impacts analysis must identify those requirements specified in the plan that apply to the project, and, if those requirements are not otherwise binding and enforceable, incorporate those requirements as mitigation measures applicable to the project. If there is substantial evidence that the effects of a particular project may be cumulatively considerable, notwithstanding the project’s compliance with the specified requirements in the plan for the reduction of GHG emissions, an EIR must be prepared for the project. (c) Special Situations. As provided in Public Resources Code sections 21155.2 and 21159.28, environmental documents for certain residential and mixed use projects, and transit priority projects, as defined in section 21155, that are consistent with the general use designation, density, building intensity, and applicable policies specified for the project area in an applicable sustainable communities strategy or alternative planning strategy need not analyze global warming impacts resulting from cars and light duty trucks. A lead agency should consider whether such projects may result in GHG emissions resulting from other sources, however, consistent with these Guidelines.11
11 Ibid.

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CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(c)
Consistent with section 15126.4(a), lead agencies shall consider feasible means, supported by substantial evidence and subject to monitoring or reporting, of mitigating the significant effects of GHG emissions. Measures to mitigate the significant effects of GHG emissions may include, among others:
(1) Measures in an existing plan or mitigation program for the reduction of emissions that are required as part of the lead agency’s decision;
(2) Reductions in emissions resulting from a project through implementation of project features, project design, or other measures, such as those described in Appendix F; (3) Off-site measures, including offsets that are not otherwise required, to mitigate a project’s emissions;
(4) Measures that sequester GHGs;
(5) In the case of the adoption of a plan, such as a general plan, long range development plan, or plans for the reduction of GHG emissions, mitigation may include the identification of specific measures that may be implemented on a project-by-project basis. Mitigation may also include the incorporation of specific measures or policies found in an adopted ordinance or regulation that reduces the cumulative effect of emissions.12

3.2 Relevant State and Regional GHG Reduction
Targets
Executive Order S-03-05
On June 1, 2005, the governor issued EO S-03-05, which established a statewide goal of reducing GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and created the Climate Action Team. The 2020 GHG reduction goal contained in EO S-03-05 was later codified by Assembly Bill (AB) 32.

Assembly Bill 32
California’s major initiative for reducing GHG emissions is outlined in AB 32, the “California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006,” which was signed into law in 2006. AB 32 codifies the State’s goal of reducing statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and requires the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to prepare a Scoping Plan that outlines the main State strategies for reducing GHG emissions to meet the 2020 deadline. In addition, AB 32 requires CARB to adopt regulations to require reporting and verification of statewide GHG emissions. Based on this guidance, CARB approved a 1990 statewide GHG level and 2020 limit of 427 million metric tons (MMT) of CO2e. The Scoping Plan was approved by CARB on December 11, 2008 and included measures to address GHG emissions reduction strategies related to energy efficiency, water use, and recycling and solid waste, among other measures. Many of the GHG reduction measures included in the Scoping Plan (e.g., Low Carbon Fuel Standard, Advanced Clean Car standards, and Cap-and-Trade) have been adopted since approval of the Scoping Plan.13
12 Ibid.
13 CARB. 2008. Climate Change Scoping Plan. December 2008. https://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/document/adopted_scoping_plan.pdf.

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16 In May 2014, CARB approved the first update to the AB 32 Scoping Plan. The 2013 Scoping Plan update defined CARB’s climate change priorities for the next five years and set the groundwork to reach post2020 statewide goals. The update highlighted California’s progress toward meeting the “near-term” 2020 GHG emissions reduction goals defined in the original Scoping Plan. It also evaluated how to align the State’s longer-term GHG reduction strategies with other State policy priorities, including those for water, waste, natural resources, clean energy, transportation, and land use. 14 Senate Bill 32
On September 8, 2016, the governor signed SB 32 into law, extending AB 32 by requiring the statewide reduction of GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (the other provisions of AB 32 remain unchanged). On December 14, 2017, CARB adopted the 2017 Scoping Plan, which provides a framework for achieving the 2030 target. The 2017 Scoping Plan relies on the continuation and expansion of existing policies and regulations, such as the Cap-and-Trade Program, as well as implementation of recently adopted programs and policies, such as SB 350 and SB 1383. The 2017 Scoping Plan also puts an increased emphasis on innovation, adoption of existing technology, and strategic investment to support the strategies. As with the 2013 Scoping Plan update, the 2017 Scoping Plan does not provide project-level thresholds for land use development. Instead, it recommends that local governments adopt policies and locally appropriate quantitative thresholds consistent with statewide per capita goals. It also recommend the use of locally appropriate per capita GHG emissions reduction targets to account for population growth. As stated in the 2017 Scoping Plan, the statewide goals may be appropriate for plan-level analyses (city, county, subregional, or regional level), but not for specific individual projects because they include all emissions sectors in the State.15
Senate Bill 375
SB 375, signed in August 2008, enhances the state’s ability to reach AB 32 goals by directing CARB to develop regional GHG emissions reduction targets to be achieved from passenger vehicles by 2020 and 2035. SB 375 aligns regional transportation planning efforts, regional GHG reduction targets, and affordable housing allocations. Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are required to adopt a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS), which allocates land uses in the MPO’s Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). Qualified projects consistent with an approved SCS or Alternative Planning Strategy categorized as “transit priority projects” would receive incentives to streamline CEQA processing.

On March 22, 2018, CARB adopted updated regional targets for reducing GHG emissions from 2005 levels by 2020 and 2035. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) was assigned targets of a 7 percent reduction in GHGs from transportation sources by 2020 and a 15 percent reduction in GHGs from transportation sources by 2035. ABAG adopted the 2050 RTP (Plan Bay Area 2050) in October 2021, which includes the region’s SCS and meets the requirements of SB 375.16 Assembly Bill 1279
AB 1279, signed in September 2022, builds upon EO B-55-18, which originally established California’s 2045 goal of carbon neutrality and tasked CARB with including a pathway toward the EO B-55-18 carbon neutrality goal in the 2022 Scoping Plan. AB 1279 codified the statewide carbon neutrality goal 14 CARB. 2014. First Update to the Climate Change Scoping Plan. May 15, 2014. https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/2013_update/first_update_climate_change_scoping_plan.pdf. 15 CARB. 2017. 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/classic/cc/scopingplan/scoping_plan_2017.pdf. 16 Association of Bay Area Governments. October 2021. Plan Bay Area 2050. https://planbayarea.org/digital-library/plan-bay-area-2050

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into a legally binding requirement for California to achieve carbon neutrality no later than 2045 and ensure 85 percent17 GHG emissions reduction under that goal. This goal is in addition to the existing statewide GHG emissions reduction goals established by SB 375, SB 32, and SB 1383.

Senate Bill 1020
Established in 2002 under SB 1078, and accelerated by SB 107 (2006), SB X 1-2 (2011), SB 100 (2018), and SB 1020, California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) obligates investor-owned utilities, energy service providers, and community choice aggregators to transition the electricity supply to renewable resources. The RPS requires energy service providers to supply renewable energy as follows: 90 percent of retail sale electricity and 100 percent of electricity procured to serve state agencies by 2035, 95 percent by 2040, and 100 percent by 2045. The CPUC and the CEC are jointly responsible for implementing the program.

Senate Bill 1383
Adopted in September 2016, SB 1383 (Lara, Chapter 395, Statutes of 2016) requires CARB to approve and begin implementing a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants. SB 1383 requires the strategy to achieve the following reduction targets by 2030:
 Methane – 40 percent below 2013 levels
 Hydrofluorocarbons – 40 percent below 2013 levels
 Anthropogenic black carbon – 50 percent below 2013 levels SB 1383 also requires the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle), in consultation with CARB, to adopt regulations that achieve specified targets for reducing organic waste in landfills.

3.3 Relevant GHG Emissions Analysis Case Law
Friends of Oroville v. City of Oroville (Case No. 070448) The Third District Court of Appeal decision in the Friends of Oroville v. City of Oroville case was published on August 19, 2013. This decision evaluated the methodology used to analyze GHG emissions in an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) prepared for a Wal-Mart Supercenter development project that included replacing an existing Wal-Mart store with a Wal-Mart Supercenter in Oroville in Butte County. The EIR used consistency with the AB 32 emissions reduction target as the significance threshold for evaluating the project’s GHG emissions and compared the magnitude of the proposed project’s emissions to statewide 2004 emission levels as part of the analysis. The Court found that EIR applied “a meaningless, relative number to determine insignificant impact” rather than evaluating the project’s emissions in light of the AB 32 emissions reduction target. The Court also found that the EIR “misapplied the [AB] 32 threshold-of-significance standard by [1] failing to calculate the GHG emissions for the existing Wal-Mart and [2] failing to quantitatively or qualitatively ascertain or estimate the effect of the Project’s mitigation measures on GHG emissions.” The Court determined that the EIR could and should have performed these quantifications to adequately evaluate the project’s GHG emissions using the AB 32 emissions reduction target. 17 To achieve carbon neutrality, the remaining 15 percent of GHG emissions would be achieved through carbon capture and sequestration efforts.

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18 Sierra Club v. County of San Diego (Case No. 37-2018-00043084-CU-TT-CTL) The Fourth District Court of Appeal decision in the Sierra Club v. County of San Diego case was published on October 29, 2014. This decision evaluated the adequacy of the CAP prepared by the County of San Diego to satisfy Mitigation Measure CC-1.2 of the program EIR prepared for the 2011 General Plan. To reduce GHG emissions impacts of the 2011 General Plan to a less-than-significant level, Mitigation Measure CC-1.2 required the preparation of a CAP that would include “more detailed GHG emissions reduction targets and deadlines” and that would “achieve comprehensive and enforceable GHG emissions reduction of 17 percent (totaling 23,572 MT of CO2e) from County operations from 2006 by 2020 and 9 percent reduction (totaling 479,717 MT of CO2e) in community emissions from 2006 by 2020.” The Court found the CAP did not include enforceable and feasible GHG emissions reduction measures that would achieve the necessary emissions reduction; therefore, the CAP did not meet the requirements of Mitigation Measure CC-1.2 and would not ensure that the mitigation measure would reduce GHG emissions to a less-than-significant impact. In addition, the Court found that the County failed to evaluate the environmental impacts of the CAP and the associated thresholds of significance under CEQA.

Center for Biological Diversity v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Case No. 217763)
The California Supreme Court’s decision in the Center for Biological Diversity v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife case was published on November 30, 2015. This decision evaluated the methodology used to analyze GHG emissions in an EIR prepared for the Newhall Ranch development project that included approximately 20,885 dwelling units with 58,000 residents on 12,000 acres of undeveloped land in Los Angeles County. The EIR used a business-as-usual approach to evaluate whether the project would be consistent with the AB 32 Scoping Plan. The Court found there was insufficient evidence in the record of that project to explain how a project that reduces GHG emissions by the same percentage as the business-as-usual reduction identified for the State to meet statewide goals supported a conclusion that project-level impacts were below the level of significance.

The California Supreme Court suggested regulatory consistency as a pathway to compliance by stating that a lead agency might assess consistency with the State’s GHG reduction goals by evaluating for compliance with regulations designed to reduce GHG emissions. This approach is consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.4(b), which provides that a determination of an impact is not cumulatively considerable to the extent to which the project complies with regulations or requirements implementing a statewide, regional, or local plan to reduce or mitigate GHG emissions.

The Court also found that a lead agency may rely on numerical and efficiency-based thresholds of significance for GHG emissions, if supported by substantial evidence.

Golden Door Properties, LLC v. County of San Diego/Sierra Club, LLC v.

County of San Diego (Case No. 072406)
The Fourth District Court of Appeal decision in the Golden Door Properties, LLC v. County of San Diego case (published on September 28, 2018) evaluated the County of San Diego’s 2016 Guidance Document’s GHG efficiency metric, which establishes a generally applicable threshold of significance for proposed projects. The Court held that the County of San Diego is barred from using the 2016 Guidance Document’s threshold of significance of 4.9 MT of CO2e per service person per year for GHG analysis. The Court stated that the document violated CEQA because it was not adopted formally by ordinance, rule, resolution, or regulation through a public review process per CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(b). The Court also found that the threshold was not supported by substantial evidence that

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adequately explained how a service population threshold derived from statewide data could constitute an appropriate GHG metric to be used for all projects in unincorporated San Diego County.

Nevertheless, lead agencies may make plan- or project-specific GHG emissions threshold determinations.

Climate Action Campaign v. City of San Diego (Case No. 37-2022-00036430-

CU-TT-CTL)
The Superior Court of California in the Climate Action Campaign v. City of San Diego case is currently evaluating the City of San Diego’s compliance with CEQA as part of their Climate Action Plan (the case was filed on September 12, 2022). The Climate Action Campaign alleges that the City of San Diego failed to comply with CEQA because the City of San Diego failed to adequately analyze or mitigate significant impacts and failed to specify criteria or standards to ensure the Climate Action Plan’s emissions reduction would be achieved. The Climate Action Campaign accordingly requested that the Superior Court of California issue a writ of mandate under California Code of Civil Procedure sections 1085 and 1094.5 directing the City of San Diego to vacate and set aside the previous approvals as part of the Climate Action Plan. A verified petition for writ of mandate was filed in 2022, and in February 2024 the parties agreed to a settlement. The settlement agreement provided that the City would take certain steps to monitor progress toward the Climate Action Plan’s GHG emissions reduction targets for 2030 and 2035 based on a model linear trajectory of annual reductions. Beginning in 2026, if the annual emissions target is not met within a 12.5 percent margin of error, then the City must prepare an amendment to the Climate Action Plan. The settlement agreement also set a schedule for annual reporting and established requirements for public sharing of information related to implementation of the Climate Action Plan.18
18 San Diego, City of. 2024. Resolution Number R-315368. February 15, 2024. https://docs.sandiego.gov/council_reso_ordinance/rao2024/R-315368.pdf

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20 4 Determining Consistency with the San
Ramon CAP
As discussed in Chapter 2, CAP Summary, upon public adoption of the CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds and approval of the San Ramon CAP by City Council, the San Ramon CAP will be a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan per the requirements of CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5 for the year 2030. Therefore, the San Ramon CAP can be utilized to streamline the CEQA GHG emissions analysis for plans and projects through 2030. Projects and plans that are consistent with the demographic projections and land use assumptions in the San Ramon CAP can utilize the San Ramon CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist to demonstrate consistency with the San Ramon CAP GHG emissions reduction strategy, and if consistent, can streamline the GHG analysis (i.e., conduct a qualitative analysis) utilizing CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds and the San Ramon CAP which is consistent with General Plan 2040 EIR Mitigation Measure GHG-1. In doing so, these projects would result in less-than-significant GHG emissions and not result in a cumulatively considerable GHG emissions impact. The following process (see Figure 3) shows how to demonstrate a plan/project’s consistency with the San Ramon CAP GHG emissions reduction strategy and, thereby, streamline the CEQA GHG emissions analysis. This approach is consistent with the recommendations of the AEP Climate Change Committee for using qualified GHG reduction plans to demonstrate substantial progress toward meeting the next milestone statewide planning reduction goal (i.e., a 40 percent reduction below 1990 levels by 2030 as set forth by SB 32).

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Figure 2 Determining Consistency with the San Ramon CAP Step 1: Consistency with Demographic Forecasts and Land Use Assumptions The demographic projections in the San Ramon CAP are based on regional job growth and population projections from ABAG’s Plan Bay Area 2040 projections,19 and the most recent 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element Update Sites Inventory Assessment for San Ramon. Job and population estimates were revised to include redevelopment of land use parcels20 that would increase the number of residential dwelling units and the square footage of non-residential development, that was used to develop the City-specific 2040 General Plan and 2023-2031 Housing Element projections.21, 22 If a plan/project is consistent with the existing (2023) San Ramon General Plan land use and zoning designation(s) of the plan area/project site, then the plan/project is consistent with the demographic projections and land use assumptions of the San Ramon CAP and can move on to Step 2. In this case, the plan/project’s associated GHG emissions were accounted for in the GHG emissions forecasts 19 ABAG’s Plan Bay Area 2040 job and population projections were used as the base projections in place of Plan Bay Area 2050 projections, as the latter estimates do not disaggregate projections at the City-level. 20 Potential redevelopment estimates were calculated for parcels east and west of the freeway in the North Camino Ramon Specific Plan (NCRSP) and San Ramon Village Specific Plan (SRVSP) planning areas that were expected to be redeveloped by 2040 according to the City of San Ramon planning department.
21 San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets 22 Source: San Ramon, City of. 2023. 2040 General Plan and 2023-2031 Housing Element Projections. May 12, 2023.

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22 included in the San Ramon CAP and are within the scope of this plan’s analysis of communitywide GHG emissions. Accordingly, the analysis of the plan/project’s GHG emissions in the CEQA document should include a reference to the plan/project’s consistency with the existing (2023) General Plan land use and zoning designation(s) of the plan area/project site and should explain the aforementioned connection between the existing (2023) General Plan land use and zoning designation(s) and the GHG emissions forecasts in the San Ramon CAP. Then, proceed to Step 2.

If a plan/project is not consistent with the existing (2023) General Plan land use and zoning designation(s) of the plan area/project site but would result in equivalent or fewer GHG emissions as compared to existing on-site development or the development anticipated for the site under the existing (2023) General Plan, then the plan/project would still be within the demographic projections and land use assumptions of the San Ramon CAP and can move on to Step 2. To provide substantial evidence for this determination, GHG emissions generated under existing conditions/existing (2023) General Plan buildout and the proposed project need to be quantified and included in the CEQA analysis. See Chapter 6, Quantifying GHG EmissionsQuantifying GHG Emissions, for guidance on quantifying GHG emissions for existing conditions/existing (2023) General Plan buildout and the proposed plan/project. In this case, the analysis of the plan’s/project’s GHG emissions in the CEQA document should include a quantitative comparison of the proposed plan’s/project’s GHG emissions and GHG emissions generated by existing on-site development or the development anticipated for the site under the existing (2023) General Plan. The analysis should clearly explain how the plan/project’s emissions are equivalent or less than those generated by existing on-site development or the development anticipated for the site under the existing (2023) General Plan. Then, proceed to Step 2.

If a plan/project is not consistent with the existing (2023) General Plan land use and zoning designation(s) of the plan area/project site and would result in either new development of undeveloped land or redevelopment with higher GHG emissions than existing on-site development or than the development anticipated for the site under the existing (2023) General Plan, the plan/project cannot use a San Ramon CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist to streamline CEQA GHG analysis. Instead, the plan/project’s GHG emissions can be evaluated using the quantitative GHG thresholds described in Chapter 5, Utilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG ThresholdsUtilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG Thresholds, to evaluate the significance of the plan/project’s GHG emissions.

Step 2: Consistency with CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist The City has prepared the San Ramon CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist for plans and projects to demonstrate that they are consistent with the measures and actions of the San Ramon CAP. A project applicant can utilize the checklist to show that the plan/project includes applicable measures and actions of the San Ramon CAP. Projects that use and are consistent with the checklist are not required to quantify reductions from the measures and actions included in the checklist, because the reductions from applicable measures and actions have already been quantified at a programmatic level in the San Ramon CAP.

If a plan/project is consistent with the applicable measures and actions in the San Ramon CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist, then the plan/project can tier from the programmatic GHG emissions environmental review included in the adopted CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds for the San Ramon CAP, which is consistent with General Plan 2040 EIR Mitigation Measure GHG-1, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1).

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A plan/project that is consistent with all applicable measures and actions of the San Ramon CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist would result in less-than-significant GHG emissions and would not result in a cumulatively considerable impact related to GHG emissions and climate change.

In this case, the analysis of a plan or project’s GHG emissions in the respective CEQA review document should include a summary of the plan/project’s consistency with applicable measures and actions of the checklist and an explanation with substantial evidence of why any measures and actions in the checklist are not applicable to the plan/project.

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24 5 Utilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG
Thresholds
As discussed in Chapter 4, Determining Consistency with Determining Consistency with the San Ramon CAP, if a plan/project is not consistent with the existing (2023) General Plan land use and zoning designation(s) of the plan area/project site, then a plan/project cannot use the San Ramon CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist to tier from the adopted CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds for the San Ramon CAP. Instead, the significance of a plan/project’s GHG emissions can be evaluated using quantitative GHG thresholds derived from the assumptions of the San Ramon CAP. If a plan’s/project’s emissions are at or below the applicable threshold, a plan/project can tier from the existing programmatic environmental review contained in the adopted CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds for the San Ramon CAP if it is approved before the end of 2030. In doing so, such a plan/project would result in less-than-significant GHG emissions and would not result in a cumulatively considerable impact related to GHG emissions and climate change. For a plans/project post-2030, emissions at or below the thresholds for 2045 that equate to net zero MT of CO2e per year would be considered less-than-significant, and such a plans/project would not result in a cumulatively considerable GHG emissions impact. The following sections provide an explanation of the methodology used to calculate the thresholds, guidance on how to utilize the thresholds, and justification for use of these thresholds.

5.1 Threshold Calculation Methodology
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.4 does not establish a specific quantitative threshold of significance for evaluating GHG emissions associated with a proposed plan or project. Lead agencies have the discretion to establish significance thresholds for their respective jurisdictions, and in establishing those thresholds, a lead agency may appropriately look to thresholds developed by other public agencies, or suggested by other experts, as long as the threshold chosen is supported by substantial evidence (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7[c]). The following methodology is consistent with guidance provided by the AEP Climate Change Committee in 2016 for establishing GHG emissions efficiency thresholds using the local jurisdictional GHG inventory and demographic forecasts.23 An efficiency threshold is a threshold expressed as a per-person metric (e.g., per resident, per employee, or per service person). Efficiency thresholds are calculated by dividing the allowable GHG emissions inventory in a selected calendar year by the resident, employee, or service population in that year. The efficiency threshold identifies the quantity of GHG emissions that can be generated on a per-person basis without significantly impacting the environment.

Locally appropriate, plan- and project-specific GHG emissions efficiency thresholds were derived from the GHG emissions forecasts calculated for the San Ramon CAP. These thresholds were created to comply with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines and interpretive GHG emissions analysis case law, which are summarized in Chapter 3, Regulatory and Legal Setting. The San Ramon GHG emissions efficiency thresholds were calculated using the emissions forecasts with all emissions sectors included, because plans and projects would generate vehicle and transit trips, consume energy and water, and produce wastewater and solid waste, thereby generating emissions in all categories. Efficiency thresholds 23 AEP. 2016. Final White Paper Beyond 2020 and Newhall: A Field Guide to New CEQA Greenhouse Gas Thresholds and Climate Action Plan Targets for California. https://califaep.org/docs/AEP-2016_Final_White_Paper.pdf.

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were calculated for the year 2030 to provide GHG emissions thresholds for new development in line with the State’s next milestone target, which is for the year 2030.

GHG emissions efficiency thresholds would be used during the CEQA review process for new residential, non-residential, and mixed-use plans and projects. Therefore, forecasted GHG emissions in the San Ramon CAP were disaggregated into existing development and new development for each threshold year. Furthermore, forecasted GHG emissions for new development were further disaggregated into residential and non-residential development for each threshold year for the purpose of calculating thresholds specific to new residential, non-residential, and mixed-use projects.

The results of the disaggregation of the GHG emissions forecast are presented in Figure 3Figure 3 and Table 6Table 6, which summarizes the total amount of GHG emissions expected to be generated by existing, new residential, and new non-residential development for threshold year 2030.

Figure 3 Allowable GHG Emissions from Existing and New Development in 2030 289,233
20,752
20,935
-
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
350,000
GHG Emissions (MT of CO2e)
Existing New Residential New Nonresidential

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26 Table 6 Allowable GHG Emissions for 2030 by Type of Development (MT of CO2e) Source
2030
Existing
Development
New Development
Residential Non-Residential
Business-as-Usual 2030 Emissions 437,784 39,251 34,200
State Laws/Programs (67,772) (8,083) (5,923)
CAP Energy Measures (24,276) (5,489) (2,752)
CAP Transportation Measures (43,771) (3,631) (3,744)
CAP Solid Waste Measures (12,732) (1,296) (846)
CAP-Adjusted Emissions 289,233 20,752 20,935
( ) denotes a negative value.

See Appendix B for calculations.

Table 7Table 7 summarizes the demographic projections for San Ramon that were used in calculating GHG efficiency thresholds for year 2030. As shown therein, the number of residents, employees, and service persons are all anticipated to increase between 2019 and 2030.

Table 7 San Ramon Demographic Projections
Metric 2019 Estimate 2030 Forecast
Net Increase from New
Development
(2019-2030)
Residents 83,376 97,342 13,966
Employees 53,807 62,925 9,118
Service Population1 137,183 160,267 23,084
1 The service population is equal to the residential population plus the number of employees.

Source: San Ramon, City of. 2025. CAP, Appendix C: GHG Emissions Previous Inventories Updates, Forecasts, and Reduction Targets.

Table 8Table 8 shows how the remaining emissions for new development after implementation of the CAP Measures are used with the demographic projections from Table 7Table 7 to create communitywide GHG emissions thresholds for 2030. The resulting GHG thresholds and allowable emissions are specified in Table 8Table 8.

Table 8 San Ramon 2030 CAP-Adjusted Emissions and Communitywide GHG Thresholds
2030 (New Development)
Residential Non-Residential Mixed-Use
CAP -Adjusted 2030 Emissions
(MT of CO2e per year)1
20,752 20,935 41,687
Demographic Metric2 13,966 new residents 9,118 new employees 23,084 new service people GHG Efficiency Threshold
(MT of CO2e per year)

1.49 per resident 2.30 per employee 1.81 per service person MT = metric tons; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents
1 See Table 6Table 6.
2 Demographic estimates are for new plans or projects only and were calculated using the forecasts in Table 7Table 7.

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As shown in Table 9Table 9, San Ramon’s resulting GHG thresholds are in line with those adopted by other jurisdictions in the California Bay Area. This consistency demonstrates the feasibility of the GHG thresholds.

Table 9 GHG Emissions Thresholds Adopted by Other California Bay Area Jurisdictions 2030 Development
Jurisdiction New Residential New Non-Residential New Mixed-Use1 City of Cupertino 0.97 per resident 2.16 per employee 1.82 per service person2 City of Hayward 1.99 per resident 2.62 per employee 2.18 per service person City of Pinole 0.86 per resident 1.45 per employee 1.05 per service person City of Pleasanton 1.72 per resident 2.93 per employee 2.26 per service person City of Sunnyvale 0.32 per resident 0.57 per employee 0.38 per service person Notes: MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent 1 GHG emissions from new mixed-use development would count against the total remaining GHG emissions budget for both new residential and new non-residential development rather than as a function of the number of new service people expected in 2030. This avoids double counting.
2 The service population is equal to the residential population plus the number of employees.

5.2 GHG Thresholds and Use
The GHG efficiency thresholds for residential, non-residential, and mixed-use projects built prior toapproved by December 31, 2030 are presented in Figure 4Figure 4 and Table 10Table 10. If a plan’s or project’s emissions do not exceed the applicable threshold, then it is considered consistent with the San Ramon CAP and the GHG emissions impacts (both project- and cumulative-level) would not result in a cumulatively considerable impact related to GHG emissions and climate change and would, therefore, be less than significant. If a plan’s or project’s emissions exceed the applicable threshold, then mitigation measures must be identified and respective GHG emissions reduction calculations included within the respective CEQA review document in order to reduce plan or project GHG emissions to at or below the applicable threshold level. These thresholds are applicable to the following plan and project types proposed in San Ramon:
 Residential. Single-family dwellings, multi-family dwellings, boarding house, caretaker quarters, fraternities and sororities, high-occupancy residential uses, continuing care communities, mobile-home parks, residential care facilities, supportive and/or transitional housing, or any combination of these uses.
 Non-residential. All commercial uses (including office and retail uses), all lodging uses, all public and quasi-public uses, elderly and long-term care, hospice in-patient facilities, family day cares, residential care facilities, supportive and/or transitional housing, sports and entertainment assembly facilities, all industry, manufacturing and processing, and wholesaling uses that are not subject to Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMDAir District) stationary source permitting or the State’s Cap-and-Trade program, or any combination of these uses.  Mixed-use. A combination of at least one residential and at least one non-residential land use specified above.

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28 Figure 4 San Ramon GHG Efficiency Thresholds
Table 10 San Ramon Locally Applicable Plan/Project CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds 2030 (New Development)
Residential Non-Residential Mixed-Use
GHG Efficiency Threshold
(MT of CO2e per year)

1.49 per resident 2.30 per full-time
equivalent employee

1.81 per service
person
MT = metric tons; CO2e = carbon dioxide equivalents
See Table 8Table 8 for the calculation methodology of the thresholds.

5.3 Justification for Thresholds
Per CEQA Guidelines Section 15064(b)(1), “the determination of whether a project may have a significant effect on the environment calls for careful judgment on the part of the public agency involved, based to the extent possible on scientific and factual data.” In addition, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064(b)(2) states, “When using a threshold, the lead agency should briefly explain how compliance with the threshold means that the project’s impacts are less than significant.” Furthermore, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(b) states “Thresholds of significance to be adopted for general use as part of the lead agency’s environmental review process must be adopted by ordinance, resolution, rule, or regulation, and developed through a public review process and be supported by substantial evidence.” Therefore, the key considerations when developing thresholds of significance are 1) the thresholds’ basis on scientific and factual data; 2) demonstration of how compliance with the thresholds reduces project impacts to a less-than-significant level; 3) support of the thresholds by substantial evidence; and 4) adoption of the thresholds by ordinance, resolution, rule, or regulation, and developed through a public review process. The following subsections address these four key considerations.

1.49 2.30

1.81 -

0.50 1.00

1.50 2.00

2.50 New Residential
(per resident)
New Nonresidential
(per full-time equivalent
employee)
New Mixed-Use
(per service person)
GHG Emissions Thresholds (MT CO2e/unit)

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Basis of Scientific and Factual Data
As discussed in Section 5.1, Threshold Calculation Methodology, the quantitative thresholds were developed using data from the San Ramon 2019 communitywide GHG inventory and the GHG emissions forecasts for year 2030. These inventory and forecasts were developed by the City in compliance with all relevant protocols and guidance documents, including the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Local Government Operations Protocol, the Global Protocol for Community Scale GHG Emissions, and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Guidelines for National GHG Inventories. Furthermore, the inventory and forecasts are based on locally appropriate data for San Ramon provided by Marin Clean Energy, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Metropolitan Transportation Commission, California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle), CARB, East Bay Municipal Utility District, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, and Dublin-San Ramon Services District.24 Therefore, the emission inventory and forecast data underlying the thresholds is both scientific and factual.

As discussed in Section 2.3, GHG Emissions Forecast, implementation of San Ramon CAP would achieve a 53 percent reduction below 1990 per capita emissions levels by 2030. Therefore, this local target is more stringent than the State’s goal of a 40 percent emissions reduction in 1990 levels by 2030 and makes substantial progress toward achieving the State’s long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2045. The quantitative thresholds are tied directly to the level of GHG emissions anticipated for new development in the San Ramon CAP for year 2030. As a result, because the San Ramon CAP is consistent with the State’s 2030 GHG emission goal, the quantitative thresholds are also consistent with the next State milestone GHG emissions reduction goal for 2030. The State’s GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045 are set at the levels scientists say are necessary to meet the Paris Agreement goals to reduce GHG emissions and limit global temperature rise below two degrees Celsius by 2100 to avoid dangerous climate change (AB 1279).25 Therefore, the San Ramon GHG emissions reduction targets that inform the San Ramon CAP and the associated quantitative thresholds are based on scientific and factual data on the level of emissions reduction necessary to ensure San Ramon does not have a cumulatively considerable contribution to the cumulative impact of climate change.

Reduction of Plan or Project Impacts to a Less-than-Significant Level As shown in Table 6Table 6 in Section 5.1, Threshold Calculation Methodology, implementation of the San Ramon CAP would reduce annual per capita GHG emissions levels by 53 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. The quantitative thresholds are tied directly to the level of GHG emissions anticipated for new development in San Ramon for year 2030. The thresholds are consistent with San Ramon’s local emissions reduction target, which is consistent with the State’s GHG emissions reduction goals.

Therefore, the quantitative thresholds are set at the level necessary to ensure San Ramon does not have a cumulatively considerable contribution to the cumulative impact of climate change. As a result, plans and projects with GHG emissions at or below the quantitative thresholds would also not have a cumulatively considerable contribution to the cumulative impacts of climate change, and plan/project impacts would be less than significant.
24 San Ramon, City of. 2022. 2019 GHG Inventory Data Evaluation and Methodology Memorandum. 25 California Air Resources Board. 2022. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023- 04/2022-sp.pdf

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30 Support of Substantial Evidence
Substantial evidence regarding the calculation of the quantitative GHG emissions thresholds is provided in Section 5.1, Threshold Calculation Methodology. The following subsections provide additional evidence of how the GHG emissions thresholds are locally appropriate and plan- or projectspecific and how the thresholds distinguish between existing and new development.

Use of Local Data
The quantitative thresholds were developed using the San Ramon communitywide GHG emissions forecast for year 2030 and are, thus, specific to the City of San Ramon. The thresholds are directly tied to the population and job growth anticipated for San Ramon by ABAG’s Plan Bay Area 2040 projections and the most recent 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element Update Sites Inventory Assessment for San Ramon as well as to the City-specific GHG emissions reduction strategies, measures, and actions that the City has proposed to reduce communitywide emissions. In addition, the magnitude of local GHG emissions reduction achieved by State legislation/policies (i.e., vehicle fuel efficiency standards, the RPS, and Title 24) was estimated based on City-specific growth, vehicle miles travelled (VMT), and off-road equipment and vehicle fuel usage forecasts. As a result, these locally appropriate thresholds directly address the concerns raised in the Golden Door Properties, LLC v. County of San Diego/Sierra Club, LLC v. County of San Diego (2018) case, because they are based on local GHG emissions data rather than statewide GHG emissions data.

Disaggregation of Existing versus New Development
The quantitative thresholds were developed by disaggregating San Ramon’s BAU GHG emissions forecasts for year 2030 into emissions forecasts for existing and new development, which are shown in Table 6Table 6 in Section 5.1, Threshold Calculation Methodology. The emissions reduction specific to new development achieved by State legislation/policies and the San Ramon CAP were then subtracted from the BAU scenario forecast to determine GHG emissions “caps” for new residential and new non-residential development for year 2030. These “caps” were then divided by the numbers of residents, employees, and service persons forecasted for new development to determine efficiency thresholds for residential, non-residential, and mixed-use development, respectively. As a result, these thresholds directly address the concerns raised in the Center for Biological Diversity v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (2015) case regarding the different rates of GHG emissions reduction anticipated for new development as compared to existing development to meet the specified GHG reduction target.

Selection of Sector-Specific Thresholds
The quantitative thresholds are separated into three categories – residential, non-residential, and mixed-use – which are intended to apply to the three main types of development projects in San Ramon. These thresholds were calculated by disaggregating San Ramon’s BAU GHG emissions forecast for new development in year 2030 into emissions forecasts for new residential and new nonresidential development, which are shown in Table 6Table 6 in Section 5.1, Threshold Calculation Methodology. The emissions reduction specific to new residential and new non-residential development achieved by State legislation/policies and the San Ramon CAP were then subtracted from the BAU forecast to determine “caps” of emissions for new residential and new non-residential development for year 2030. These emissions “caps” were then divided by the numbers of residents and employees forecast for new development in year 2030 to determine efficiency thresholds for residential and non-residential projects, respectively. For mixed-use development, the residential and

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non-residential emissions “caps” were summed, then divided by the service population forecast for new development in year 2030 to determine an efficiency threshold for mixed-use projects. As a result, these project-specific thresholds directly address the concerns raised in the Center for Biological Diversity v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (2015) case, because they are specific to each development project type.

Adoption via Public Review Process
In compliance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(b), this guidance document and the quantitative thresholds contained herein will be presented to the City Council for formal adoption through a public review process, which will include an opportunity for public input. The public review process for these City of San Ramon CEQA GHG Thresholds and Guidance will specifically occur via public review of and comment on a joint San Ramon CAP and CEQA GHG Emissions Thresholds document. The opportunity for public comment will also be available at a public hearing (i.e., City Council meeting) considering adoption of the San Ramon CAP and CEQA GHG Thresholds.

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32 6 Quantifying GHG Emissions
There are a variety of analytical tools available to estimate project-level GHG emissions, including the California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod),26 which is a free, publicly available computer model developed for the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) in collaboration with various air quality districts throughout the State. Alternative tools may be used to quantify emissions if they can be substantiated. In general, the most current version of CalEEMod should be used to calculate total emissions for discretionary development projects. The analysis should focus on carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), because these are the GHGs that most development projects would generate in the largest quantities. Fluorinated gases, such as hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluorides, should also be considered for the analysis. Emissions of all GHGs should be converted into their equivalent global warming potential in terms of CO2 (CO2e). Calculations should be based on the current methodologies recommended by CAPCOA and the Air DistrictBAAQMD.
27, 28

6.1 Construction GHG Emissions
Construction activities emit GHGs primarily though combustion of fuels (mostly diesel) in the engines of off-road construction equipment and in on-road construction vehicles and in the commute vehicles of the construction workers. Smaller amounts of GHGs are emitted indirectly through the energy required for water used for fugitive dust control and lighting for the construction activity. Every phase of the construction process, including demolition, grading, paving, and building, emits GHG emissions in volumes proportional to the quantity and type of construction equipment used. Heavier equipment typically emits more GHGs per hour than lighter equipment because of the engine design and greater fuel consumption.

BAAQMD The Air District recommends quantifying and disclosing construction-related GHG emissions for informational purposes.29 CalEEMod generates a default construction schedule and equipment list based on the plan-/project-specific information, including land use type, project size, location, and construction timeline.30 In general, if specific applicant-provided information is unknown, the default construction equipment list and phase lengths are the most appropriate inputs. However, if more detailed site-specific equipment and phase information (i.e., data from the project applicant) is available, the model’s default values can (and should) be overridden.31 26 The most current available version of CalEEMod should be used. As of January 2025, CalEEMod version 2022.1 is the most current version and should be used to quantify project-level emissions. 27 California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2008. CEQA and Climate Change: Addressing Climate Change through California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). January 2008.
28 BAAQMDBay Area Air District. 2022. “CEQA Thresholds and Guidelines Update.” https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/californiaenvironmental-quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa-guidelines. 29 Ibid 30CAPCOA. 2022. California Emissions Estimator Model User Guide: Version 2022.1. https://www.caleemod.com/documents/userguide/01_User%20Guide.pdf. 31Ibid.

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6.2 Operational GHG Emissions
CalEEMod estimates operational emissions of CO2, N2O, and CH4 generated by area sources, energy use, vehicle trips (i.e., mobile sources), waste generation, and water use and conveyance. Operational emissions should be calculated for year 2030, rather than the plan/project buildout year, in order to provide an appropriate comparison of project emissions to the year 2030 threshold.

Area Source Emissions
Area sources include GHG emissions that would occur from the use of landscaping equipment, hearths, and woodstoves that emit GHGs associated with the equipment’s fuel combustion. The landscaping equipment emission values in CalEEMod are derived from CARB’s Small Off-Road Engines Model v1.1 (SORE2020).32 Emission rates for combustion of wood and natural gas for wood stoves and fireplaces are based on those published by the U.S. EPA. Typically, no adjustments to landscaping equipment inputs are necessary. The number of hearths and woodstoves should be adjusted in CalEEMod to reflect the project design.

Energy Use Emissions
GHGs are emitted on-site during the combustion of natural gas for cooking, space and water heating, and decorative uses and off-site during the generation of electricity from fossil fuels in power plants.

CalEEMod estimates GHG emissions from energy use by multiplying average rates of residential and non-residential energy consumption by the quantities of residential units and non-residential square footage entered in the land use module to obtain total projected energy use. This value is then multiplied by electricity and natural gas GHG emission factors applicable to the plan/project location and utility provider. Building energy use is typically divided into energy consumed by the built environment and energy consumed by uses that are independent of the building, such as plug-in appliances. Non-building energy use, or “plug-in energy use,” can be further subdivided by specific end-use (refrigeration, cooking, office equipment, etc.). In California, Title 24 governs energy consumed by the built environment, mechanical systems, and some types of fixed lighting.

Electricity emissions are calculated by multiplying the energy use by the carbon intensity of the utility district per kilowatt hour.33 Projects would generally be served by Pacific Gas & Electric or East Bay Municipal Utility District. The specific energy intensity factors (i.e., the amount of CO2, CH4, and N2O per kilowatt-hour) for the applicable utility should be used in the calculations of GHG emissions.

As of publication of this guidance document, the current iteration of Title 24 includes the 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards. In accordance with Section 150.1(b)14 of the 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, all new residential uses three stories or less must install photovoltaic (PV) solar panels that generate an amount of electricity equal to the expected electricity usage. The calculation method contained in Section 150.1(b)14 of the California 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards should be utilized to estimate the number of kilowatts of PV solar panels that would be required for a residential project three stories or less. In addition, modeling should account for local regulations pertaining to mandatory solar provisions. Online resources can be used to determine the kilowatt-hours that would be generated per year by the required solar PV system.34 The energy reduction achieved by on-site PV solar panels should be included in CalEEMod. Future updates to Title 32Ibid.
33Ibid.
34 Lane, Catherine. 2023.” How much electricity does a solar panel produce?” Last updated: December 2024. https://www.solarpowerrocks.com/solar-basics/how-much-electricity-does-a-solar-panel-produce/.

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34 24 as they relate to the Building Energy Efficiency Standards should be incorporated into CalEEMod as applicable.

Mobile Source Emissions
CalEEMod quantifies mobile source emissions generated by vehicle trips associated with the proposed plan/project. If available, plan/project-specific trip generation rates or VMT data should be input in CalEEMod.

Water and Wastewater Emissions
The amount of water used, and the amount of wastewater generated by a plan/project generate indirect GHG emissions. These emissions are a result of the energy used to supply, convey, and treat water and wastewater. In addition to the indirect GHG emissions associated with energy use, the wastewater treatment process can directly emit both CH4 and N2O.

CalEEMod calculates indoor residential water consumption based on per capita daily water use rates from the Residential End Uses of Water published by the Water Research Foundation in 2016. For non-residential land uses, indoor water use comes from the Pacific Institute’s (2003) Waste Not, Want Not: The Potential for Urban Water Conservation in California. 35 Outdoor water use is based on the
Maximum Applied Water Allowance Method established under the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Wastewater generation is based on a reported percentage of total indoor water use.

Future updates to Title 24 as they relate to CALGreen water efficiency requirements should be incorporated into CalEEMod as applicable.

Solid Waste Emissions
The disposal of solid waste produces GHG emissions from the transportation of waste, anaerobic decomposition in landfills, and incineration. To calculate the GHG emissions generated by solid waste disposal, the total volume of solid waste is calculated using waste disposal rates identified by CalRecycle. The methods for quantifying GHG emissions from solid waste are based on the IPCC method, using the degradable organic content of waste. Users should contact the City to obtain the City’s most recent solid rate diversion rate (if available) to be included in the calculation of solid waste GHG emissions.

Plan or Project Design Features
CEQA GHG emissions analysis preparers should use the “Mitigation” tabs to include project design features applicable to the plan/project.36 These features often include increased density, improved destination accessibility, proximity to transit, integration of below market rate housing, unbundling of parking costs, provision of transit subsidies, implementation of alternative work schedules, use of energy- and/or water-efficient appliances, use of reclaimed and/or grey water, and installation of water-efficient irrigation system. Such preparers should also consider the applicability of these features to the plan/project and review the CAPCOA Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation 35CAPCOA. 2022. California Emissions Estimator Model User Guide: Version 2022.1. Prepared by ICF in collaboration with Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, Fehr & Peers, STI, and Ramboll. http://www.aqmd.gov/caleemod/user's-guide. 36 “Mitigation” is a term of art for the modeling input and is not equivalent to mitigation measures that may apply to the CEQA impact analysis.

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Measures (2010) publication to ensure that the chosen features are relevant and feasible in light of the plan/project.37
Residents, Employees, and Service Populations
The quantitative thresholds presented in Chapter 5, Utilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG ThresholdsUtilizing Quantitative CEQA GHG Thresholds, are expressed in terms of per resident for residential projects, per employee for non-residential projects, and per service person for mixed-use projects. Estimates of the resident, employee, or service population for a plan/project should be based on substantial evidence. Data provided by the applicant as well as the following resources may be utilized in estimating resident and employee populations:
 Persons per Household. The California Department of Finance website (https://www.dof.ca.gov/Forecasting/Demographics/Estimates/e-5/) should be referenced for the most recent estimate of persons per household in San Ramon. This estimate can be multiplied by the number of proposed residential units to estimate a plan/project’s resident population.
 Proposed Number of Beds. For projects such as group homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or similar uses, the number of beds can be used to determine the resident population.  United States Green Building Council. The United States Green Building Council has published a summary of building area per employee by business type. These rates, which are expressed in terms of square feet per employee, can be utilized to estimate the number of employees a plan/project would require. This document is included as Appendix G. If more locallyappropriate estimates for employee generation rates by type of commercial use are available, those may also be utilized.

6.3 Modeling GHG Emissions from Existing Land Use
For a plan/project that would result in a change in the plan area/project’s site General Plan land use designation, emissions anticipated for the San Ramon existing (2023) General Plan land use designation must be calculated in conjunction with emissions for the proposed plan/project to demonstrate whether the plan/project would be more or less GHG-intensive than development anticipated for the existing (2023) General Plan land use designation for the site. In this case, GHG emissions should be reported for both the existing and proposed scenarios. If there is a land use designation that allows multiple uses, the project could model the most intensive permitted use from the GHG perspective and compare the project to that as the baseline.

Emissions anticipated for the existing land use should be quantified using the methods described in Section 6.1, Construction Emissions, and Section 6.2, Operational Emissions with consistent assumptions between the two scenarios as applicable. Any emissions reduction credits applied to the proposed plan/project scenario that are related to State legislation/policies (e.g., the RPS, vehicle standards, Title 24) or the plan area/project site location (e.g., proximity to transit, destination accessibility, etc.) should also be applied to the existing scenario.

Emissions reduction credits that are specific to the proposed plan/project (e.g., use of recycled water, increased density, installation of energy and/or water-efficient appliances, integration of below market rate housing, etc.) should only be included for the proposed plan/project scenario. In addition, 37 CAPCOA. 2010. Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. August 2010. http://www.capcoa.org/wpcontent/uploads/2010/11/CAPCOA-Quantification-Report-9-14-Final.pdf.

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7 Moving into the Future
Full implementation of the San Ramon CAP would reduce communitywide per capita GHG emissions by approximately 53 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 to 330,920 MT of CO2e annually. Full implementation of the San Ramon CAP would leave a gap of approximately 110,530 MT of CO2e per year in 2045 that would need to be addressed to achieve carbon neutrality. This gap represents emissions that could be addressed by laws, regulations, policies, programs, and ordinances set forth by the federal and State governments, regional agencies, and local partners. The gap also represents the uncertainty that the City of San Ramon faces in taking a leadership role in addressing a challenge that has not been previously solved.

The San Ramon CAP acknowledges that additional actions beyond those identified in the plan would be necessary to achieve carbon neutrality and, thus, provides a mechanism for updating and adopting a new CAP every four to eight years to incorporate new measures and technologies that will further San Ramon toward meeting the target of carbon neutrality. As the San Ramon CAP is updated, the associated CEQA GHG Emissions Analysis Compliance Checklist will also be updated as needed to incorporate new strategies, measures, and/or actions that discretionary development projects would need to incorporate, as applicable, to demonstrate consistency with the latest CAP. At the time at which the City identifies strategies, measures, and/or actions to achieve the carbon neutrality target in totality, the City will adopt those collective strategies, measures, and actions in a public process following CEQA review, at which time that updated CAP would become a qualified GHG emissions reduction plan for post-2030 projects. However, the quantitative thresholds included in this guidance document will not need to be updated, because residential, non-residential, and mixed-use projects post-2030 will still need to achieve GHG emissions equivalent to net zero MT of CO2e per year to demonstrate consistency with the San Ramon CAP.

Finally, if future amendments or updates of the San Ramon General Plan Land Use Element occur, then such amendments or updates will be incorporated into future updates of the CAP to ensure that project planners and applicants can continue to utilize the CEQA GHG emissions analysis streamlining process detailed in this document, given that this process is partly dependent on a plan’s/project’s consistency with the demographic projections and land use assumptions of the San Ramon General Plan.

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Overview of GHG Emissions and Climate
Change
Climate Change and Greenhouse Gases
Climate change is the observed increase in the average temperature of Earth’s atmosphere and oceans along with other substantial changes in climate (such as wind patterns, precipitation, and storms) over an extended period. The term “climate change” is often used interchangeably with the term “global warming,” but “climate change” is preferred to “global warming” because it helps convey other changes in addition to rising temperatures. The baseline against which these changes are measured originates from historical records identifying temperature changes that have occurred in the past, such as during previous ice ages. The global climate changes continuously, as evidenced by repeated episodes of substantial warming and cooling documented in the geologic record. The rate of change has typically been incremental, with warming or cooling trends occurring over the course of thousands of years. The past 10,000 years have been marked by a period of incremental warming, as glaciers have steadily retreated across the globe. However, scientists have observed substantial acceleration in the rate of warming during the past 150 years. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) expressed that the rise and continued growth of atmospheric CO2 concentrations is unequivocally due to human activities in the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report from 2021. Human influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean, and land, which has led the climate to warm at an unprecedented rate in the last 2,000 years. It is estimated that between the period of 1850 through 2019, that a total of 2,390 gigatonnes of anthropogenic CO2 was emitted. It is likely that anthropogenic activities have increased the global surface temperature by approximately 1.07 degrees Celsius between the years 2010 through 2019.38 Furthermore, since the late 1700s, estimated concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxides (N2O) in the atmosphere have increased by over 43 percent, 156 percent, and 17 percent, respectively, primarily due to human activity.39 Emissions resulting from human activities are thereby contributing to an average increase in Earth’s temperature.

Gases that absorb and re-emit infrared radiation in the atmosphere are called GHGs. The gases widely seen as the principal contributors to human-induced climate change include CO2, CH4, N2O, fluorinated gases such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). Water vapor is excluded from the list of GHGs because it is short-lived in the atmosphere, and natural processes, such as oceanic evaporation, largely determine the atmospheric concentrations.

GHGs are emitted by natural processes and human activities. Of these gases, CO2 and CH4 are emitted in the greatest quantities from human activities. Emissions of CO2 are usually by-products of fossil fuel combustion, and CH4 results from off-gassing associated with agricultural practices and landfills. 38 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). 2021. Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, A. Pirani, S. L.

Connors, C. Péan, S. Berger, N. Caud, Y. Chen, L. Goldfarb, M. I. Gomis, M. Huang, K. Leitzell, E. Lonnoy, J.B.R. Matthews, T. K. Maycock, T.

Waterfield, O. Yelekçi, R. Yu and B. Zhou (eds.)] Cambridge University Press. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_Full_Report.pdf 39 United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). 2021. Climate Change Indicators: Atmospheric Concentrations of Greenhouse Gases. Last updated April 2021. https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/climate-change-indicators-atmosphericconcentrations-greenhouse-gases

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Human-made GHGs, many of which have greater heat-absorption potential than CO2, include fluorinated gases and SF6.
40 Different types of GHGs have varying global warming potentials (GWP). The GWP of a GHG is the potential of a gas or aerosol to trap heat in the atmosphere over a specified timescale (generally, 100 years). Because GHGs absorb different amounts of heat, a common reference gas (CO2) is used to relate the amount of heat absorbed to the amount of the gas emitted, referred to as “carbon dioxide equivalent” (CO2e), which is the amount of GHG emitted multiplied by the specific GWP. Carbon dioxide has a 100-year GWP of one. By contrast, CH4 has a GWP of 30, meaning the global warming effect is 30 times greater than CO2 on a molecule per molecule basis.41, 42 The accumulation of GHGs in the atmosphere regulates the earth’s temperature. Without the natural heat-trapping effect of GHGs, the earth’s surface would be about 33 degrees Celsius (°C) cooler.43 However, since 1750, estimated concentrations of CO2, CH4, and N2O in the atmosphere have increased by 36 percent, 148 percent, and 18 percent, respectively, primarily due to human activity.44 GHG emissions from human activities, particularly the consumption of fossil fuels for electricity production and transportation, are believed to have elevated the concentration of these gases in the atmosphere beyond the level of concentrations that occur naturally.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventories
Global Emissions Inventory
In 2015, worldwide anthropogenic GHG emissions totaled 47,000 MMT of CO2e, which is a 43 percent increase from 1990 GHG levels. The largest source of GHG emissions were energy production and use (includes fuels used by vehicles and buildings), which accounted for 75 percent of the global GHG emissions. Agriculture uses and industrial processes contributed 12 percent and six percent, respectively. Waste sources contributed three percent. These sources account for approximately 96 percent.45
United States Emissions Inventory
United States GHG emissions were 6,343.2 MMT of CO2e in 2022 (or 5,489.0 MMT CO2e after accounting for sequestration), a 1.3 percent increase from 2021 emissions. The increase from 2021 to 2022 was driven by an increase in CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion which increased 1 percent relative to previous years and is primarily due to the economic rebounding after the COVID40 U.S. EPA. 2021. Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2019. April 2021. https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-02/us-ghg-inventory-2022-main-text.pdf 41 The IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report from 2021 determined that methane has a GWP of 30. However, the 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan published by the California Air Resources Board uses a GWP of 25 for methane, consistent with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Fourth Assessment Report from 2007. Therefore, this analysis utilizes a GWP of 25. 42 IPCC. 2021. Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, A. Pirani, S. L. Connors, C. Péan, S. Berger, N. Caud, Y. Chen, L.

Goldfarb, M. I. Gomis, M. Huang, K. Leitzell, E. Lonnoy, J.B.R. Matthews, T. K. Maycock, T. Waterfield, O. Yelekçi, R. Yu and B. Zhou (eds.)] Cambridge University Press. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_Full_Report.pdf 43 World Meteorological Organization. 2020. “Greenhouse Gases.” https://public.wmo.int/en/our-mandate/focusareas/environment/greenhouse%20gases 44 Forster, P., V. Ramaswamy, P. Artaxo, T. Berntsen, R. Betts, D.W. Fahey, J. Haywood, J. Lean, D.C. Lowe, G. Myhre, J. Nganga, R. Prinn, G.

Raga, M. Schulz and R. Van Dorland. 2007. Changes in Atmospheric Constituents and in Radiative Forcing. Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Solomon, S., D. Qin, M. Manning, Z. Chen, M. Marquis, K.B. Averyt, M.Tignor and H.L. Miller (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ar4-wg1-chapter2-1.pdf 45 U.S. EPA. 2025. Climate Change Indicators: Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions. https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/climate-changeindicators-global-greenhouse-gas-emissions

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19 pandemic. In 2022, the energy sector (including transportation) accounted for 83 percent of nationwide GHG emissions while agriculture, industrial and waste accounted for approximately 9 percent, 6 percent, and 3 percent respectively.46
California Emissions Inventory
Based on a review of the CARB California Greenhouse Gas Inventory for the years between 2000- 2020, California produced 369.2 MMT of CO2e in 2020, which is 35.3 MMT of CO2e lower than 2019 levels. The 2019 to 2020 decrease in emissions is likely due in large part to the impacts of the COVID19 pandemic. The major source of GHG emissions in California is the transportation sector, which comprises 37 percent of the state’s total GHG emissions. The industrial sector is the second largest source, comprising 20 percent of the state’s GHG emissions while electric power accounts for approximately 16 percent. The magnitude of California’s total GHG emissions is due in part to the State’s large size and large population compared to other states. However, a factor that reduces California’s per capita fuel use and GHG emissions as compared to other states is the relatively mild climate. In 2016, the state of California achieved the 2020 GHG emissions reduction target of reducing emissions to 1990 levels as emissions fell below 431 MMT of CO2e.47 The annual 2030 statewide target emissions level is 260 MMT of CO2e.48
Potential Effects of Climate Change
Globally, climate change has the potential to affect numerous environmental resources through potential impacts related to future air temperatures and precipitation patterns. Scientific modeling predicts that continued GHG emissions at or above current rates would induce more extreme climate changes during the 21st century than were observed during the 20th century. Long-term trends have found that each of the past four decades has been warmer than all the previous decades in the instrumental record and the decade from 2011 through 2020 has been the warmest. The observed global mean surface temperature (GMST) for the decade from 2011 to 2020 was approximately 1.09°C (0.95°C to 1.20°C) higher than the average GMST over the period from 1850 to 1900. Due to past and current activities, anthropogenic GHG emissions are increasing global mean surface temperature at a rate of 0.2°C per decade. In addition to these findings, the latest IPCC report states that “humaninduced climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe.”49 These climate change impacts include climate change sea level rise, increased weather extremes, and substantial ice loss in the Arctic over the past three decades.

According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, statewide temperatures from 1986 to 2016 were approximately 0.6 to 1.1°C higher than those recorded from 1901 to 1960. Potential impacts of climate change in California may include reduced water supply from snowpack, sea level rise, more extreme heat days per year, more large forest fires, and more drought years.50 In addition to statewide projections, California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment includes regional reports 46 U.S. EPA. 2024. Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks 1990-2022. https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024- 04/us-ghg-inventory-2024-main-text_04-18-2024.pdf
47 CARB. 2022. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/2022-sp.pdf 48 CARB. 2017. California’s 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/classic/cc/scopingplan/scoping_plan_2017.pdf 49 IPCC. 2021. Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, A. Pirani, S. L. Connors, C. Péan, S. Berger, N. Caud, Y. Chen, L.

Goldfarb, M. I. Gomis, M. Huang, K. Leitzell, E. Lonnoy, J.B.R. Matthews, T. K. Maycock, T. Waterfield, O. Yelekçi, R. Yu and B. Zhou (eds.)] Cambridge University Press. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_Full_Report.pdf 50 California, State of. 2018. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment Statewide Summary Report. August 27, 2018. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/Statewide_Reports-SUM-CCCA4-2018-013_Statewide_Summary_Report_ADA.pdf

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that summarize climate impacts and adaptation solutions for nine regions of the State and regionallyspecific climate change case studies.51 However, while there is growing scientific consensus about the possible effects of climate change at a global and statewide level, current scientific modeling tools are unable to predict what local impacts may occur with a similar degree of accuracy. A summary follows of some of the potential effects that could be experienced in California as a result of climate change.

Hydrology and Sea Level Rise
Climate change could affect the intensity and frequency of storms and flooding.52 Furthermore, climate change could induce substantial sea level rise in the coming century. Rising sea level increases the likelihood of and risk from flooding. The rate of increase of global mean sea levels between 1993 to 2024, observed by satellites, is approximately 3.3 millimeters per year.53 The rate of global mean sea level rise in the past ten years (2014–2023) is more than twice the rate of sea level rise in the first decade of the satellite record (1993–2002).54 Sea levels are rising faster now than in the previous two millennia, and the rise will probably accelerate, even with robust GHG emission control measures.

The most recent IPCC report predicts a mean sea level rise of 11 to 21.5 inches by 2100 under the lowest emissions scenario and a rise of 25 to 40 inches by 2100 under the very high emissions scenario.55
A rise in sea levels could erode 31 to 67 percent of California beaches and cause flooding of approximately 370 miles of coastal highways during 100-year storm events. This would also jeopardize California’s water supply due to saltwater intrusion and induce groundwater flooding and/or exposure of buried infrastructure.56 Furthermore, increased storm intensity and frequency could affect the ability of flood-control facilities, including levees, to handle storm events.

Air Quality
Scientists project that the annual average maximum daily temperatures in California could rise by 2.4 to 3.2°C in the next 50 years and by 3.1 to 4.9°C in the next century.57 Higher temperatures are conducive to air pollution formation, and rising temperatures could therefore result in worsened air quality in California. As a result, climate change may increase the concentration of ground-level ozone, but the magnitude of the effect, and therefore the indirect effects, are uncertain. In addition, as temperatures have increased in recent years, the area burned by wildfires throughout the State has increased, and wildfires have occurred at higher elevations in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.58 If higher temperatures continue to be accompanied by an increase in the incidence and extent of large wildfires, air quality could worsen. Severe heat accompanied by drier conditions and poor air quality 51 Ibid.
52 Ibid.
53 National Aeronautics and Space Administration. 2024. “Global Climate Change – Vital Signs of the Planet – Sea Level.” https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/sea-level/ 54 World Meteorological Organization. 2024. Climate change indicators reached record levels in 2023. https://wmo.int/news/mediacentre/climate-change-indicators-reached-record-levels-2023- wmo#:~:text=The%20WMO%20report%20confirmed%20that%202023%20was,%C2%B1%200.12%20%C2%B0C)%20above%20the%20pre %2Dindustrial%20baseline.&text=The%20global%20mean%20near%2Dsurface%20temperature%20in%202023,0.12%20%C2%B0C%20abo ve%20the%20pre%2Dindustrial%201850%E2%80%931900%20average. 55 IPCC. 2021. Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, A. Pirani, S. L. Connors, C. Péan, S. Berger, N. Caud, Y. Chen, L.

Goldfarb, M. I. Gomis, M. Huang, K. Leitzell, E. Lonnoy, J.B.R. Matthews, T. K. Maycock, T. Waterfield, O. Yelekçi, R. Yu and B. Zhou (eds.)] Cambridge University Press. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_Full_Report.pdf 56 California, State of. 2018. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment Statewide Summary Report. August 27, 2018. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/Statewide_Reports-SUM-CCCA4-2018-013_Statewide_Summary_Report_ADA.pdf 57 Ibid. 58 Ibid.

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could increase the number of heat-related deaths, illnesses, and asthma attacks throughout the State.

However, if higher temperatures are accompanied by wetter, rather than drier conditions, the rains could tend to temporarily clear the air of particulate pollution, which would effectively reduce the number of large wildfires and thereby ameliorate the pollution associated with them.59 Water Supply
Analysis of paleoclimatic data (such as tree-ring reconstructions of stream flow and precipitation) indicates a history of naturally and widely varying hydrologic conditions in California and the west, including a pattern of recurring and extended droughts. Uncertainty remains with respect to the overall impact of climate change on future precipitation trends and water supplies in California. Yearto-year variability in statewide precipitation levels has increased since 1980, meaning that wet and dry precipitation extremes have become more common.60 This uncertainty regarding future precipitation trends complicates the analysis of future water demand, especially where the relationship between climate change and the potential effect on water demand is not well understood. The average early spring snowpack in the western U.S., including the Sierra Nevada Mountains, decreased by about 10 percent during the last century. During the same period, sea level rose over 0.15 meter along the central and southern California coasts.61 The Sierra snowpack provides the majority of California's water supply as snow that accumulates during wet winters is released slowly during the dry months of spring and summer. A warmer climate is predicted to reduce the fraction of precipitation that falls as snow and the amount of snowfall at lower elevations, thereby reducing the total snowpack.62 Projections indicate that average spring snowpack in the Sierra Nevada and other mountain catchments in central and northern California will decline by approximately 66 percent from the historical average by 2050.63
Agriculture
California has an over $59 billion annual agricultural industry that produces over a third of the country’s vegetables and three-quarters of the country’s fruits and nuts.64 Higher CO2 levels can stimulate plant production and increase plant water-use efficiency. However, if temperatures rise and drier conditions prevail, certain regions of agricultural production could experience water shortages of up to 16 percent, which would increase water demand as hotter conditions lead to the loss of soil moisture. In addition, crop yield could be threatened by water-induced stress and extreme heat waves, and plants may be susceptible to new and changing pest and disease outbreaks. Temperature increases could also change the time of year certain crops, such as wine grapes, bloom or ripen, and thereby affect their quality.65
Ecosystems and Wildlife
Climate change and the potential resultant changes in weather patterns could have ecological effects on the global and local scales. Soil moisture is likely to decline in many regions as a result of higher 59 California Natural Resources Agency. 2009. 2009 California Climate Adaptation Strategy. March 2009. http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/Statewide_Adaptation_Strategy.pdf 60 California Department of Water Resources. 2018. Indicators of Climate Change in California. May 2018. https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloads/climate-change/report/2018caindicatorsreportmay2018.pdf 61 California, State of. 2018. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment Statewide Summary Report. August 27, 2018. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/Statewide_Reports-SUM-CCCA4-2018-013_Statewide_Summary_Report_ADA.pdf 62 Ibid. 63 Ibid.
64 California Department of Food and Agriculture. 2024. California Agricultural Production Statistics. https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/Statistics/ 65 California Climate Change Center (CCCC). 2006. Climate Scenarios for California.