HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 14891 (2)
City of Palo Alto (ID # 14891)
City Council Staff Report
Meeting Date: 12/5/2022 Report Type: Action Items
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Title: Staff and the Council Sustainability and Climate Action (S/CAP) Ad Hoc
Committee Recommend That Council Review and Provide Feedback to Staff
on the Draft 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan and Direction on Governance of the
Work Plan
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Utilities
Recommendation
Staff and the Council Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Ad Hoc Committee
recommend that Council:
1. Review and provide feedback to staff on the draft 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan
(Attachments A and B)
2. Provide direction on governance of the 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan
Executive Summary
On October 3, 2022, the City Council accepted the Sustainability and Climate Action
Plan (S/CAP) Goals and Key Actions (Staff Report 146061). That document lists the
detailed actions needed to achieve the City’s 80x30 goal,2 but does not provide
guidance on task prioritization or implementation timeline. The 2023-2025 S/CAP Work
Plan is meant to guide staff efforts on the S/CAP over the next three years by
prioritizing and providing more detail on implementation of the Key Actions accepted by
Council on October 3, 2022. The Work Plan is contingent on completion of
environmental review, which is underway and expected to come to Council for action in
spring 2023.
The draft 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan is split between a Climate Action section, which
focuses on work items that achieve the City’s 80x30 goal, and a Sustainability section,
which focuses on improving the City’s environmental impact in ways that are not
primarily focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but focus on critically
important co-benefits that contribute to overall climate action.
1 Staff Report 14606 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-
minutes/city-council-agendas-minutes/2022/20220927/20220927pccsmlinked-amended-v2.pdf#page=79
2 Achieving 80% reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by 2030.
City of Palo Alto Page 2
The Climate Action section focuses on launching higher potential, lower cost emissions
reduction programs, building community confidence in the S/CAP, and laying the
foundation for post-2025 work. The Sustainability section focuses on reducing waste,
creating a sustainable and holistically managed water system, adapting to a changing
climate, and enhancing the City’s thriving urban canopy.
Included in the draft 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan are:
• Priorities for 2023-2025 Climate Action work (Attachment A, Section 2.I, pg 3)
• 51 Climate Action work items (Attachment A, Section 2.III, pp 5-17) and 27
Sustainability work items (Attachment A, Section 3, pp 18-23)
• Policy guidelines for development of a Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan
(Attachment A, Appendix C, pg 29)
Policy guidelines for development of an Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan (Attachment A,
Appendix D, pg 30)
Background
Attachment C provides a detailed history of the S/CAP to date. Staff began California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review of the S/CAP upon Council’s October 3, 2022
acceptance of the S/CAP Goals and Key Actions, with the goal of formally adopting the
full S/CAP report in early 2023. The 2023-2025 Work Plan will guide staff work after
adoption, and there is a great deal of staff work included in the 2023-2025 S/CAP Work
Plan that can proceed even before formal adoption.
Discussion
There are two sections to the draft 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan: Climate Action and
Sustainability.
Climate Action
P1. Complete grid modernization plan and begin construction to increase reliability
and transformer capacity for electrification
P2. Launch effective programs for emissions reductions with the highest impact and
lowest cost, including single-family electrification, strategic promotion of electric
vehicles (EVs), commercial rooftop heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC), and expanded transportation alternatives
P3. Build community awareness and confidence in electrification through
engagement, addressing concerns, and program results
P4. Identify an additional 9% in emissions reduction opportunities to achieve the
80x30 goal
P5. By 2024, identify funding needed and potential funding sources for full scale
implementation of highest impact emissions reductions
Table 1 below summarizes how these priorities are implemented in 2023-2025. Staff will
City of Palo Alto Page 3
focus on increasing electric grid capacity while launching high potential, lower cost
programs focused on residential heat pump water heaters (HPWH), commercial
packaged rooftop heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), and previously
funded transportation programs. Funding needs and sources for these high potential
programs will be evaluated. Studies on accelerating EV charger penetration in multi-
family buildings (including affordable housing) and providing EV chargers in workplaces
and business districts will be completed. Publicly-owned EV charging may also be part
of the solution; and the Bicycle/Pedestrian Plan will be updated. A study of potential
multi-family and non-residential electrification opportunities will be completed. This
work will be performed with the intent of building community confidence in the City’s
emissions reduction efforts, which will require results, engagement, and some focus on
electric system reliability and resiliency.
Table 1: Climate Action Priorities: Summary of Work Items and Timeline
Priority 2023 (after certification of
environmental review)3
2024 2025
P1
(Modernize
grid)
• Grid modernization study
completion, hire contractor
• Reliability/Resiliency
Strategic Plan
• Begin a 5-7 year construction effort to increase
reliability and transformer capacity
• Implement Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan
P2 (Launch
programs)
Design and launch programs:
• Full-scale HPWH program
• Pilot commercial HVAC
• Municipal electrification
• Downtown parking
management program
• On-demand transit pilot
• Single-family whole home
• Full-scale commercial HVAC
• Full-scale multi-family EV
charger
• Design and launch
additional programs
based on the 2024
studies (See P4 for
other studies that may
result in new
programs) and the EV
Strategic Plan
Studies to guide program launches:
• EV Strategic Plan
• Multi-family and income-
qualified EV charging plan
•
• Bicycle/Pedestrian Plan
update
• Commuter emissions
reduction strategic plan
• Workplace and visitor EV
charger strategic plan
• Vision Zero program
P3 (Build Continued public engagement and marketing. Report results from new and existing
programs:
3 It may be possible for some work to proceed prior to certification of environmental review, but other items may
need environmental review to be completed prior to Council action (e.g. hiring a contractor for grid modernization
work)
City of Palo Alto Page 4
Priority 2023 (after certification of
environmental review)3
2024 2025
awareness
and
confidence)
• New program: HPWH pilot
• Existing programs:
• Existing Mobility
programs
• Multi-family EV charger
• New programs: Full-scale
HPWH program,
commercial HVAC pilot
• Continuation of existing
programs
• New programs; Full-
scale HVAC, multi-
family EV charger
• Continuation of
existing programs
To address reliability and resiliency concerns, implement “Next Steps” from 8/16/21
Energy Storage report (Staff Report 121944) as time permits
P4
(Additional
emissions
reductions)
• Seek ideas from community
members and other experts
• Multi-family and non-
residential electrification
study
P5
(Funding
needs and
sources)
• Evaluate costs for full scale
implementation of high
potential/lower cost
emissions reductions
• Preliminary evaluations of
potential funding sources
• Decisions on how to fund
priority electrification areas
Sustainability
The Sustainability section of the draft work plan implements the S/CAP goals for a
sustainable natural environment (including reducing waste, creating a sustainable and
holistically managed water system, and a thriving urban canopy) by:
• Reducing water consumption while exploring ways to capture and store water,
and increase the availability and use of recycled water
• Developing and adopting a multi-year Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
• Minimizing wildland fire hazards through Foothills Fire Management Plan
implementation, zoning, and collaborating with Fire agencies
• Increasing Palo Alto’s Tree Canopy and reducing pesticide usage in parks and
open space preserves
• Supporting the Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Plan and incorporating it
in municipal projects
• Encouraging food waste reduction, prevention, and recovery and providing waste
prevention technical assistance
• Eliminating single-use disposable containers and prioritizing domestic processing
4 Staff Report 12194 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-
minutes/city-council-agendas-minutes/2021/08-august/20210816/20210816pccsm-final.pdf
City of Palo Alto Page 5
of recyclable materials
The Sustainability section Key Actions were prioritized based on the co-benefits analysis
conducted by the City’s consultant, AECOM.
The draft 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan implements the direction of the S/CAP Ad Hoc
Committee as put forth in the October 3rd City Council Motion (October 3 Action
Minutes, page 45) to refer to S/CAP Ad Hoc committee to begin work on the following
and present to the City Council by yearend an outline of:
1. Identification of community partner organizations and how they can help support
the S/CAP moving forward
2. Preliminary committee review of a prospective commercial HVAC electrification
program (E2)
3. An EV strategic plan (EV1-10)
It does this by creating a work plan and timeline for taking action on the items listed
above.
Governance
There is a range of oversight work involved in the development and implementation of
S/CAP programs. Staff has identified three main categories:
• Policy-level strategic guidance: These are highly visible decisions with significant
policy or political implications. For example, the Council S/CAP Ad Hoc Committee
provided guidance on where to focus the City’s initial efforts on emissions
reduction, resulting in the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program
approved October 3, 2022, the S/CAP Goals and Key Actions, and the 2023-2025
draft S/CAP Work Plan.
• Oversight of ongoing work: As S/CAP work efforts or programs are launched an
oversight body or bodies will need to be available to receive progress updates
and make ongoing policy decisions as they arise. An example might be reports
on various S/CAP key performance indicators (KPIs) or periodic status updates
on the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program after it launches.
• Operational-level strategic guidance: These are decisions with significant
operational impacts that require in-depth technical discussions. An example is
the discussions of low-wattage EV charging solutions and how they relate to grid
modernization undertaken by the S/CAP Committee. The in-depth detailed level
of these discussions can be overwhelming to a body with a broad set of
oversight responsibilities instead of a narrow set of responsibilities.
At its April 19, 2021 meeting Council directed the Mayor to convene an S/CAP Ad Hoc
Committee which has provided recommendations to Council on S/CAP-related policy
5 October 3 Action Minutes, page 4 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-
reports/agendas-minutes/city-council-agendas-minutes/2022/20221003/20221003amccsm.pdf#page=4
City of Palo Alto Page 6
decisions and prioritization. Staff is requesting that Council provide direction on
continuing governance in 2023 as staff completes the S/CAP Update work and begins
work on implementation. Some alternatives include:
• Managing with the full Council
• Delegating to the Council Finance or Policy and Services Committee
• Forming another Council Ad Hoc Committee
• Delegating to an existing Board or Commission
• Developing a new Commission
1. Full Council or Council Committee
Staff recommends against attempting to manage the entire S/CAP with the full
Council or even a standing Council committee, since the complexity of the effort
could potentially be overwhelming given the volume of other business. Certain
issues might lend themselves to delegation to specific standing committees. For
example, discussion of funding sources and needs might be appropriate to the
Finance Committee.
2. Council Ad Hoc Committee
A new ad hoc committee, while temporary in nature, could provide policy direction
while a longer-term governance structure is being established. If a new ad hoc
committee were established, staff would recommend clearly stating the expected
term and scope of responsibilities. Establishing a new ad hoc could also facilitate the
continuation of involvement and input from community members who have been
involved as Working Group and Working Group Team contributors over the past
year. Designating a member of the new ad hoc committee as the Utilities Advisory
Commission liaison could also be an effective means to connect the related work of
the two bodies. Staff would also recommend establishing ways for the Council to
delegate some work to other bodies with feedback from the ad hoc committee to
ensure coherence of the overall work plan. Once the work plan is approved
(anticipated mid-2023), there will be a high volume of work to be reviewed and
discussed, and an ad hoc committee may not be able to keep up on its own.
3. Existing Board or Commission
The other existing bodies with expertise relevant to the S/CAP are the Utilities
Advisory Commission (UAC), the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC),
and the Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC). Although all of these bodies have
some responsibilities relevant to the S/CAP, the UAC’s role reviewing utility
programs, utility finances, and utility infrastructure is by far the most relevant to
much of the core work in the work plan. Additionally, the PTC reviews transportation
policy and zoning code provisions that can affect how electrified equipment is
installed, and the PRC serves in an advisory role on implementation of Urban
Forestry programs relevant to the S/CAP’s Natural Environment goals. Oversight of
the entire S/CAP would represent a very significant expansion of oversight
City of Palo Alto Page 7
responsibilities for any of the bodies, but each could make recommendations to
Council or a Council Ad Hoc Committee on specific issues.
4. Climate Action Commission
In the longer-term, Council could consider a new Commission with responsibility for
S/CAP oversight. At its October 3, 2022 meeting, Council directed staff to bring
information on the design of a Climate Action Commission that would include
student members when returning with the draft work plan. A Climate Action
Commission may need to coordinate closely with other Commissions such as the
UAC or PTC on specific issues, and potentially eliminate certain issues from those
commissions’ areas of responsibility in order to avoid duplication and provide clarity.
This would be necessary to provide a single body for oversight of the S/CAP Climate
Action programs. Staff’s initial estimate is that support of the new Commission
would require an additional 0.25 to 0.33 FTE of admin time not currently budgeted.
Table 2 provides staff’s initial assessment of the design parameters for a Climate
Action Commission.
Table 2: Design Parameters of a Potential Climate Action Commission
Appointees 5 or 7 members, including 1 or 2 student members
Meeting Frequency Monthly or Semi-monthly during more intensive S/CAP
program development in next 2-3 years; less frequently
during ongoing implementation activities thereafter
Meeting
Requirements
Subject to Brown Act; all meetings publicly noticed and
including public participation
Role Forum for discussion and recommendations to Council on
S/CAP program development and implementation; requires
analysis and definition to avoid overlap with advisory roles of
other Boards and Commissions
Implementation
Steps
Council decisions on size and scope; update to Municipal
Code to codify new Commission; address staffing
requirements; Commissioner application process; Council
interviews and Commission selection; commence Commission
activity
Likely Minimum
Time to Commence
1 – 1 ½ years
Given the emphasis on strategic studies and program development during the first one
to two years of the work plan, it is most important to obtain Council guidance on S/CAP
governance over that initial timeframe.
Timeline
The timeline for this draft work plan is calendar years 2023 through 2025. Many
elements of the work plan are contingent on certification of environmental review,
City of Palo Alto Page 8
expected in spring 2023. A more detailed timeline for individual work items is included
in Attachment B.
Resource Impact
Subject to certification of the S/CAP environmental review, the FY 2023 work items in
the 2023-2025 draft S/CAP Work Plan can proceed with the actions approved in the FY
2023 Adopted Budget. Staff expects to submit additional resource requests as part of
the annual budget process in subsequent years as the work plan proceeds for the
following areas:
• Funding for newly-launched programs: As new programs are proposed for
launch, funding for third-party program operators, rebates, and other expenses
may be recommended to manage the programs.
• Program sales and marketing: Additional resources (consultants and/or staffing)
may be needed for sales and marketing of future programs. Council partially
approved these resources along with its October 3, 2022 approval of the
Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater pilot program (Staff Report 146066).
• Permit review: Permit activity associated with new programs will create a need
for permit review staff and/or consultants. Council approved permit review
resources for the Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program (Staff Report
146067), but not for future programs. These resource requests will be
recommended to be funded by increased permit revenue.
• Capital budgets for grid modernization: Additional engineering staffing has
already been approved for grid modernization work, but capital budgets for
design and construction work have not yet been proposed. Staff will recommend
projects as part of the development of the 2024-2028 five-year Capital
Improvement Plan.
• Consulting budgets: Consulting budgets for calendar year 2023 and 2024 studies
may be proposed in the FY 2024 budget if needed.
Some items in other work plans are also relevant to the S/CAP Work Plan. The Utilities
Strategic Plan, for example, includes workforce development and advanced metering
infrastructure (AMI) work items that are directly relevant to the S/CAP. Some of these
may involve future budget requests as well.
Policy Implications
The 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan aligns with one of the top four Council Priorities for CY
2022: “Climate Change - Protection and Adaptation.”
Stakeholder Engagement
6 Staff Report 14606 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-
minutes/city-council-agendas-minutes/2022/20220927/20220927pccsmlinked-amended-v2.pdf#page=79
7 Staff Report 14606 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-
minutes/city-council-agendas-minutes/2022/20220927/20220927pccsmlinked-amended-v2.pdf#page=79
City of Palo Alto Page 9
Wide-reaching and coordinated public engagement was done as part of the S/CAP
Update prior to acceptance of the proposed S/CAP Goals and Key Actions. Feedback
from these engagement processes informed development of the draft 2023-2025 S/CAP
Work Plan. For a summary, please see the Stakeholder Engagement section of Staff
Report 146068, packet page 101. Additional engagement on the 2023-2025 S/CAP Work
Plan included a meeting with the Council S/CAP Ad Hoc Committee’s Working Group on
November 4, 2022. Staff incorporated the Working Group’s feedback and are
developing an overall set of guiding principles that will be included in the S/CAP Report.
These principles will guide implementation of the S/CAP.
Environmental Review
Staff commenced CEQA evaluation of the S/CAP, including the Work Plan elements
described in this staff report, upon Council’s October 3, 2022 acceptance of the
proposed S/CAP Goals and Key Actions. Once CEQA review concludes, staff will bring a
complete S/CAP report and a formal Work Plan to Council for adoption. Any formal
government actions stemming from work items in the S/CAP 2023-2025 Work Plan that
occur prior to completion of the S/CAP’s CEQA review will be independently evaluated
on a project by project basis.
Attachments:
• Att A: 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan
• Att B: 2023-2025 S/CAP Work Plan Timeline
• Att C - Background on Sustainability and Climate Action Plan
8 Staff Report 14606 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-
minutes/city-council-agendas-minutes/2022/20220927/20220927pccsmlinked-amended-v2.pdf#page=101
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
1 of 32
DRAFT
City of Palo Alto Sustainability and Climate Action Plan
Implementation Work Plan (2023 through 2025)
Table of Contents:
1. Executive Summary
2. 2023-2025 Climate Action Section Work Plan: Making Progress on the 80x30 Goal
i. Climate Action 2023-2025 Priorities
ii. Summary Timeline, 2023-2025
iii. Climate Action 2023-2025 Work Plan
3. 2023-2025 Sustainability Section Work Plan: Creating a More Sustainable Natural Environment
Appendix A: Detailed Implementation Timeline
Appendix B: How Climate Action Priorities were Prioritized
Appendix C: Policy Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan Development
Appendix D: Policy Guidelines for Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan Development
Appendix E: Index of S/CAP Key Actions and the Work Plan Items that Implement them
1. Executive Summary
This work plan implements the City’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP). In November 2016 the Council
adopted the S/CAP Framework, which has served as the road map for achieving Palo Alto’s sustainability goals. On
October 3, 2022, the City accepted an updated set of Goals and Key Actions and is performing CEQA review with the goal
of formally adopting the S/CAP in spring of 2023. This work plan implements this updated set of Goals and Key Actions.
The Goals and Key Actions are divided into eight areas, four of which are climate-focused and include actions to achieve
the City’s “80x30”1 and carbon neutrality2 goals (Climate Action, Mobility, Electric Vehicles, and Buildings) and four of
which are focused on actions that create a sustainable natural environment and adapting to a warming climate but do
not contribute significantly to the 80x30 goal (Natural Environment, Zero Waste, Water, and Sea Level Rise).
Based on Council’s acceptance of the S/CAP Goals and Key Actions, staff and the Ad Hoc Subcommittee developed five
Climate Action priorities for 2023 through 2025, which are listed in Section 2.i below:
It includes a variety of work items for achieving these priorities, including:
• Promoting electric vehicles (EVs) for residents, commuters, visitors, and other users (e.g. deliveries, rideshare)
and regionally, including micromobility (e-bikes, e-scooters, and other small EVs).
• Reducing vehicle miles traveled through citywide Mobility programs, including parking management, piloting on-
demand transit, implementing the City’s Housing Element, and updating the Bicycle Plan
• Launching an Advanced Heat Pump Water Heater Pilot Program and scaling it up
1 The 80x30 goal is to reduce Palo Alto greenhouse gas emissions 80% from 1990 levels by 2030
2 Carbon neutrality means that all GHG emissions emitted into the atmosphere are balanced in equal measure by GHGs that are removed from the
atmosphere, either through carbon sinks or carbon capture and storage
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
2 of 32
• Beginning a strategic upgrading of capacity in the residential areas of the electric grid and promoting whole
home electrification in the upgraded areas
• Expanding access to EV charging in multi-family buildings (including affordable housing) and exploring ways to
electrify those buildings as well
• Electrifying commercial rooftop packaged heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
• Partnering with major employers on emissions reduction plans, including commuter emissions
• Electrifying City buildings and vehicles where feasible
• Engaging City operations to support these goals
• Exploring additional emissions reduction opportunities by surveying multi-family and non-residential building
equipment and exploring other ideas from the community (e.g. shuttles, shared vehicles)
• Evaluating funding and resource needs of the above programs and identifying viable funding sources.
This work plan implements the S/CAP goals for a sustainable natural environment (including reducing waste, creating a
sustainable and holistically managed water system, and a thriving urban canopy) by:
• Reducing water consumption while exploring ways to capture and store water, as well as to increase the
availability and use of recycled water
• Developing and adopting a multi-year Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
• Minimizing wildland fire hazards through Plan implementation, zoning, and collaborating with Fire agencies
• Increasing Palo Alto’s Tree Canopy and reducing pesticide use in parks and open space preserves
• Supporting the Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Plan and incorporating GSI in municipal projects
• Encouraging food waste reduction, prevention, and recovery and providing waste prevention technical
assistance
• Eliminating single-use disposable containers and prioritizing domestic processing of recyclable materials
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
3 of 32
2. 2023-2025 Climate Action Section Work Plan: Making Progress on the 80x30 Goal
The Climate Action section of the S/CAP focuses on achieving the City’s 80x30 goal, and includes goals and key actions
primarily focused on reducing emissions in transportation and buildings. The climate action sections of the S/CAP itself
are divided into four topic areas (Climate Action, Mobility, EVs, and Energy), but this work plan is intended to prioritize
and organize those key actions, so work plan items are organized according to five 2023-2025 Climate Action section
priorities.
2.i 2023-2025 Climate Action Section Priorities
The following five priorities are intended to focus the City’s efforts on the highest potential and lowest cost emissions
reduction actions and supporting efforts to enable the City’s programs in these areas to be as impactful as possible.
Appendix B outlines how the highest priority emissions reduction actions were chosen (single-family residential
electrification, expanding EV charging access, commercial rooftop packaged HVAC, and Mobility). EV charging is a
complex topic with a variety of different types of vehicle owner needs and potential electric grid impacts and benefits,
and Appendix C outlines the guiding principles the City used for developing electric vehicle charging work items. These
principles will also be reflected in any studies done on EVs or EV programs developed.
The 2023-2025 climate action section priorities are:
P1. Complete grid modernization plan and begin construction to increase reliability and transformer capacity for
electrification
P2. Launch effective programs for emissions reductions with highest impact and lowest cost: single-family
electrification, strategic promotion of EVs, commercial rooftop HVAC, and expanded transportation alternatives
P3. Build community awareness and confidence in electrification through engagement, addressing concerns, and
program results
P4. Identify an additional 9% in emissions reduction opportunities to achieve the 80x30 goal
P5. By 2024 identify funding needed and potential funding sources for full scale implementation of highest impact
emissions reductions
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
4 of 32
2.ii 2023-2025 Climate Action Summary Timeline
The proposed timeline for the 2023-2025 Climate Action section work items (which are listed below in section 2.c) is
outlined below. The proposed timeline is contingent on certification of environmental review and may be modified
accordingly. A more detailed timeline for each work plan item is included in Appendix A.
Priority 2023 2024 2025
P1 (Modernize
grid)
• Grid modernization study
completion, hire contractor
• Reliability/Resiliency Strategic
Plan
• Begin a 5-7 year construction effort to increase reliability and
transformer capacity
• Implement Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan
P2 (Launch
programs)
Design and launch programs:
• Full-scale HPWH program
• Pilot commercial HVAC
• Municipal electrification
• Downtown parking
management program
• On-demand transit pilot
• Single-family whole home
• Full-scale commercial HVAC
• Full-scale multi-family EV
charger program (tentative)
Design and launch additional
programs based on the 2024
studies (See P4 for other studies
that may result in new
programs) and the EV Strategic
Plan
Studies to guide program launches:
• EV Strategic Plan
• Multi-family and income-
qualified EV work plan
• Bicycle Plan update
• Work plan for commuter and
visitor EV charging and EV
promotion
• Vision Zero program (tentative)
P3 (Build
awareness and
confidence)
Build awareness of the need for climate action and the City’s services and achievements. Drive
community actions to achieve S/CAP goals. Build confidence in the City’s electric infrastructure. Report
results from new and existing programs:
• New program: HPWH pilot
• Existing programs:
• Existing Mobility programs
• Multi-family EV charger
• New programs: Full-scale HPWH
program, commercial HVAC pilot
• Continuation of existing programs
• New programs; Full-scale
HVAC, multi-family EV
charger
• Continuation of programs
P4 (Additional
emissions
reductions)
• Seek ideas from community
members and other experts
• Monitor technologies and
medium term opportunities
• Multi-family and non-residential
electrification study
• Study highest potential community
ideas/technologies
• Evaluate new programs
based on studies
P5 (Funding
needs and
sources)
• Evaluate implementation cost
for full scale high impact /
lower cost programs
• Preliminary evaluations of
potential funding sources
• Decisions on how to fund priority
electrification areas
• Develop financial and operational
plan for gas utility
• Implement follow up from
prior-year studies
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 5 of 32
2.C Climate Action 2023-2025 Work Plan
The climate change topic areas of the S/CAP (Energy, EVs, Mobility, and Climate Change) are highly inter-related. Multiple key actions can affect the same
community members in various ways. For example, a multi-family building owner might do a project that builds EV charging, bike storage, and electrifies some
building equipment, which touches all three topic areas. Programs should be as simple as possible for the community. As a result, the work plan below is
organized according to the type of activity and the part of the community served instead of being organized by the S/CAP topic areas. The key actions being
implemented are listed next to each work plan item, and an index is provided in Appendix D to help readers map the Key Actions from the S/CAP to all
implementing work plan items.
The work plan is organized according to the priorities above, as follows:
P1. Grid Modernization: Complete grid modernization plan and begin construction to increase reliability and transformer capacity for electrification
P2. Launch Programs: Launch effective programs for emissions reductions with highest impact and lowest cost: single-family electrification, strategic
promotion of EVs, commercial rooftop HVAC, and expanded transportation alternatives
P2.1 Residential Emissions Reduction
P2.2 Non-Residential Emissions Reduction
P2.3 Citywide Mobility
P2.4 Municipal Electrification
P2.5 EV Strategic Plan
P3. Build Awareness and Confidence: Build community awareness and confidence in electrification through engagement, addressing concerns, and program
results
P4. Additional Emissions Reductions: Identify an additional 9% in emissions reduction opportunities to achieve the 80x30 goal
P5. Funding Needs and Sources: By 2024 identify funding needed and potential funding sources for full scale implementation of highest impact emissions
reductions
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 6 of 32
P1: Grid Modernization
Grid modernization is critical, particularly for residential electrification. The programs below will impact the electric grid, and there are also supporting grid-
related efforts that could reduce barriers to electrification citywide, such as examining electric rate design, low wattage solutions, and fee structures for
transformer upgrades. Electric grid reliability and resilience will be important to inspiring confidence in electrified homes and vehicles.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
1.A Grid Modernization Study E8 Complete a grid modernization
study covering scope, designs, high
level cost estimates, and estimated
implementation timelines for
electric system upgrades.
Recruitment
challenges.
Planning fully
funded.
Implementation
funding needs
under review.
Dec ‘22: Complete study
Dec ’23: Complete
design, bring contractor
on board
Early 2024: Begin
construction
Consultant hired, study in
progress, nearing release
of initial draft study
1.B Reliability and Resiliency
Strategic Plan
E8 Develop Reliability and Resiliency
strategic plan based on principles
in Appendix D
Fully staffed,
funding needs
under evaluation
Dec 2023
Not started
1.C Reliability and Resiliency
Strategic Plan Implementation
E8 Implement Reliability and
Resiliency Strategic Plan
Staffing and
funding needs to
be evaluated
To be evaluated as part
of 1.B
Policy guidelines for plan
development to Council
December 5, 2022
1.D Evaluate Utility Rates and Fees E6 Evaluate utility rate designs and
fee structures in the context of
future electrification, implement
any needed changes
Fully funded Mar 2023 Cost of service evaluation
in progress
P2.1: Residential Emissions
The long-term goal in residential areas is full electrification of vehicles and buildings, but some electrification of some types of buildings is easier and less costly
than others. Single-family homes tend to be easier and less costly to electrify than multi-family buildings. It is easier to install EV charger access as well. Grid
capacity is an important consideration that drives the work plan in residential areas. The plan below prioritizes individual heat pump water heating electrification
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 7 of 32
(which is primarily in single-family homes, but also some multi-family) and EV charger access in multi-family homes. Individual heat pump water heaters have
low grid impact compared to other electrification measures and can be installed citywide while grid modernization gets underway. In modernized
neighborhoods electrification of space heating and other equipment and appliances can be promoted.
The work plan for multi-family residential emissions reduction prioritizes EV charger access in multi-family homes. EV chargers are relatively easy to install
without City assistance in single-family homes, but the City’s multi-family EV program will help multi-family building owners and condo associations install EV
chargers so residents can access the savings and emissions reductions from EVs. This work plan includes development of a strategy to scale successful existing
multi-family EV charging pilot programs to all multi-family buildings in Palo Alto. Multi-family building electrification requires more study to develop cost-
effective strategies, since early studies and pilots have found multi-family building electrification to be very expensive. But more pilots in affordable housing
projects, where grants and other funding might be available, would help the City get experience and develop strategies. All programs will be developed with
equity in mind, considering how to serve low-income residents and renters.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
All Residential
2.1 A Promote EV Adoption EV1,EV4 Offer Workshops and Events to
raise awareness of EVs, including
electric micromobility options and
incentives. Work item subject to
change based on EV Strategic Plan
(see 2.5A).
Fully staffed and
funded, staffing
issues may
impact this in the
short term
Ongoing In 2022 conduct 33 EV
related workshops and
expos. Contracting in
progress to offer more
awareness raising
opportunites in 2023.
2.1 B Emissions Reduction Advisory
Services
C1 Provide single points of contact for
online and phone advice for
residents to reduce building and
transportation emissions.
Fully staffed and
funded
Dec ‘23: Phone advising
Timeline for launch of
online services under
evaluation
RFP responses evaluated
and contract negotiations
are in progress
2.1 C Evaluate small electric
vehicles (e.g. e-bike) program
potential
EV4 Evaluate alternatives for providing
residential small electric vehicle
programs or pilots. Work item
subject to change based on EV
Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Fully staffed and
funded, though
staffing issues
may impact this
in the short term
Complete evaluation by
December 2023
RFP being written
Single-family Residential
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 8 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.1 D Heat Pump Water Heater
Electrification Pilot Program
E1,E5 Launch a pilot heat pump water
heater electrification pilot to
achieve 1000 gas water heater
replacements by the end of 2023
Partly staffed and
funded – sales/
marketing needs
being evaluated
Launch late 2022 / early
2023, aim to achieve
goal by Dec 2023
Council approved program
on October 3, staff
implementing the plan
2.1 E Full-Scale Heat Pump Water
Heater Electrification
Program
E1,E5 As pilot program nears its goals,
transition to a full-scale program
with the goal of electrifying all
water heaters in Palo Alto
Fully staffed for
design, staffing /
funding needs to
be determined
Based on pilot program
progress, tentatively
late 2023
Some preliminary analysis
completed, otherwise not
started.
2.1 F Electrification data collection
program
E1 Do home evaluations to collect
data and help people plan for
equipment or whole home
electrification
Fully staffed,
funding needs
under evaluation
Program up and running
by December 2023
Contract negotiations in
progress
2.1 G Pilot Programs for
Modernized Neighborhoods
E1,E5 Identify and launch electrification
programs for neighborhoods with
increased electric capacity such as
whole home or heat pump space
heating pilot programs
Fully staffed,
funding needs
under evaluation
Program design and
approvals by Dec 2024
Not started
2.1 H Single-family Electrification
Rebates
E1 Establish rebates for all appliances
and equipment in single-family
homes
Fully staffed and
funded
Launch rebates by
spring of 2024
Some analysis done, but
moving slowly due to
conflicting priorities
Multi-family Residential
2.1 I Affordable Housing EV
Charging and Electrification
Pilot
E5,EV5,
EV7
Design a pilot electrification and EV
project in an affordable housing
multi-family building to test
potential scalable approaches.
Work item subject to change based
on EV Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Fully staffed,
funding needs
under evaluation
Complete pilot design
by December 2023
Partner identified, grant
secured for EV charging,
contract negotiations in
progress for electrification
pilot management, some
analysis completed.
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 9 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.1 J Multi-Family EV Charger
Program
EV5,EV6
EV7
Establish rebates and EV charging
technical assistance , with the goal
of expanding charger access to
10% (1,100 units) of multifamily
households. Work item subject to
change based on EV Strategic Plan
(see 2.5A).
Fully staffed and
funded
Aiming for 1,100 units
by December 2025
100+ multifamily
properties actively
proceeding in programs to
install EV chargers
2.1 K Multi-family and Affordable
Housing Electrification and
EV Charger Access Strategy
Development
C8,EV6,
EV7,EV8
Evaluate potential scalable
strategies for multi-family and
affordable housing EV charger and
electrification programs, including
the role of publicly-owned EV
charging, such as in rights-of-way.
Work item subject to change based
on EV Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Fully staffed and
funded for
evaluation,
implementation
needs TBD
Complete evaluation by
December 2023
Evaluating responses to
RFP issued for multi-family
electrification services,
analyses of potential
program designs / funding
sources in progress.
P2.2: Non-Residential Emissions
City staff has less experience and knowledge with electrification of non-residential building equipment than with electrification of other types of building
equipment. In section 6 of this work plan there are several studies planned that could help staff develop building electrification strategies for the non-residential
sector. In the meantime, rooftop packaged heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units are potentially cost-effective to electrify. This work plan
includes running a small initial pilot while simultaneously designing a potential advanced pilot and evaluating the potential for mandated electrification for end
of life replacements. These rooftop HVAC programs and/or mandates can reduce emissions in major facilities as well (see Section 5)
In addition, staff plans to partner with major facility owners in Palo Alto to help them achieve their sustainability goals. Ideally these partnerships would include
both building electrification, promotion of alternative transportation and EVs for commuters, and expanded EV charger access. A successful partnership with at
least one major employer could provide an example that could lead to future employer partnerships, while a partnership with the schools could be an
educational opportunity that leads to more awareness of electrification among residents.
Staff estimates about a third of transportation emissions come from drivers entering Palo Alto to visit or do business. The City is limited in its ability to affect
these emissions, but partnering regionally to promote alternative transportation modes and personal and fleet EVs should help.
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 10 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.2 A Rooftop Packaged Heating,
Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning (HVAC) Pilot
E2,C8,
E7
Continue HVAC pilot with the goal
of completing 4-5 installations
Fully funded December 2023 Program launched,
recruiting participants
2.2 B Rooftop Packaged HVAC
Advanced Pilot Design
E2,C8,
E7
Develop proposal for an advanced
pilot program and/or mandate
Fully funded Proposal to Council for
approval by Dec 2023,
implementation 2024
Not started
2.2 C Major Employer Partnerships C2,E2,
E3,EV3,
other
Develop custom sustainability
partnership with at least one major
employer, electrification pilots
with City facilities and PAUSD.
Work item subject to change based
on EV Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Fully funded for
design, not
implementation
Complete goals listed in
“Description” column by
December 2023
Preparing to start
discussions with various
employers and PAUSD
2.2 D Commuter Transportation and
EV Charging Strategy
C8,EV1,
EV3,EV8
Develop a strategy to promote EV
adoption (including small EVs like
e-bikes/e-scooters) and alternative
transportation to commuters.
Evaluate workplace charger
programs and/or mandates,
including role of publicly owned
business district EV charging. Work
item subject to change based on
EV Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Fully staffed,
consultant
funding needs
being evaluated.
Implementation
needs TBD.
Complete plan by end of
December 2024,
implementation
timeline TBD
Not started
2.2 E Regional and State
Partnerships
EV2,
EV10
Identify promising regional
partnerships and State programs
for potential City participation.
Work item subject to change based
on EV Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Under evaluation Ongoing Not started
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 11 of 32
P2.3: Citywide Mobility
Road transportation represents the largest percentage of Palo Alto’s existing carbon footprint – and a congestion headache. Reducing vehicle miles traveled is an
important element in reducing these emissions. Reductions are achieved through a comprehensive citywide effort to increase access to alternative modes and
awareness of the benefits complemented by programs for specific groups within the community. Land use is an important lever for affecting vehicle miles
traveled. The City already has a variety of transportation programs and is addressing land use via its Comprehensive Plan process (including the Housing
Element) and subsequent implementation. The work plan below acknowledges those efforts and aims to modestly expand them as staff time and funding
permit.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.3 A Transportation and Land Use
Policies and Programs
M1 Continue to implement existing
transportation policies and
programs to reduce VMT
Fully funded Ongoing Continuing to work on
Council Transportation
priorities including grade
separation, street closures
2.3 B Housing Element Adoption M7, M9 Update the Housing Element for
2023-2031.
Fully funded January 2023 Draft document being
prepared for Council
consideration
2.3 C Housing Element
Implementation
M7, M9 Implement the 2023-2031 Housing
Element, which is projected to
reduce VMT
Funding via
grants and
annual City
budget process
2031 Not started – awaiting
Housing Element adoption
2.3 D Micro-mobility evaluations M2 Evaluate opportunities to pilot
bike/scooter share and
neighborhood mobility hub pilots
to provide last-mile connections
Proceed as staff
time is available
No target, proceed as
time is available
Some design work and
research completed, staff
aims to develop potential
funding and/or staffing
proposals as time permits.
2.3 E On-demand transit pilot M2 Launch on-demand transit pilot to
provide last-mile connections for
100% of the city for a limited time
Fully funded for
two years
Launch by Mar 2023 Reviewing proposals for
on-demand transit provider
2.3 F Update Bicycle Plan M3 Update the 2012 Bicycle and
Pedestrian Transportation Plan
Fully funded Dec 2024 Awaiting consultant
proposals in response to
RFP issued in fall 2022
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 12 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.3 G Vision Zero Program M3 Program to reduce roadway severe
injuries and fatalities to zero
Applied for grant
funding for
planning
To be determined,
depends on whether
grant is received
Applied for Federal Safe
Streets for All grant to fund
a safety action plan.
Implementation would
require additional staffing
and funding
2.3 H Evaluate expansion of
employer transportation
demand management (TDM)
M4 Evaluate possible alternatives to
expand TDM ordinance
requirements and/or voluntary
TDM services (e.g. expanding the
Transportation Management
Association)
Proceed as staff
time is available
No target, proceed as
time is available
Some design work and staff
research has been done,
staff exploring ways to fund
and staff a study of options
as time permits.
2.3 I Proposals for Managing
Downtown Parking Availability
M5 Develop proposals for pricing
strategies to manage parking
supply and availability
Fully funded Fall 2022 Proposals to be shared with
Council in Fall 2022
2.3 J Implement Efficient
Downtown Parking
Management
M5 Implement proposals for pricing
strategies to manage parking
supply and availability
Funding and
staffing to be
determined
Spring 2023 RFP for management
services in development
2.3 K Traffic Signal Improvements &
Transit Signal Priority
M8 Maintain and modernize current
traffic signals and central
management systems. Use
technology to improve traffic
operations and safety. Work with
transit providers on transit signal
priority where feasible.
Mostly funded,
long-term
funding needs
being evaluated
Ongoing Long-term system plan in
development. Supporting
transit signal priority
project for Dumbarton
Express. Implementing
Automated Traffic Signal
Performance Measures to
improve signal timing.
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 13 of 32
P2.4: City Facilities and Fleet Emissions
A priority for the Council in development of the S/CAP was that we lead by doing. Electrification of City facilities and the vehicle fleet is a critical part of that. In
addition, if increased publicly-owned EV charging becomes a part of multi-family and/or business district EV charger strategies (see P2.1K and P2.2D), a detailed
plan for maintenance and operation will be needed.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.4 A Facility Electrification
Assessment Plan
E4 Complete an assessment of
electrification opportunities at City
facilities
Fully funded Under evaluation Assessment of all City
facilities is underway
2.4 B Facility Electrification
Assessment Implementation
E4 Implement recommendations from
the Facility Electrification
Assessment Plan where feasible
Under evaluation Under evaluation Not started
2.4 C Electrify Equipment at City
Facilities during Routine
Replacement
E4 Evaluate the feasibility of
electrification when doing end of
life equipment replacements
Under evaluation Under evaluation On-going. The mechanical
equipment at MSC-B is at
the end of its service life
and we are currently
looking into electric
replacement solutions
2.4 D Electrify City Vehicle Fleet EV9 Convert all Palo Alto municipal
vehicles to EVs when feasible and
when the replacement is
operationally acceptable.
Evaluated with
each
replacement
On-going There are two units
identified in FY23 for
potential EV replacements,
pending manufacturer
availability and cost
2.4 E Build City Fleet and Employee
Charging Infrastructure
EV9,EV3 Expand charging at City facilities to
support an electrified fleet and
employee EV adoption
Under evaluation Under evaluation We are currently testing a
low cost EV charger
solution that could be
used for future employee
charging locations
2.4 F Publicly-owned charger
strategic plan
EV8 Evaluate potential publicly-owned
EV charger strategies. Work item
subject to change based on EV
Strategic Plan (see 2.5A).
Staffing and
funding needs
under evaluation
Residential plan – by
Dec ‘23 (see P2.1 K)
Business district plan –
by Dec ‘24 (see P2.2 F)
Not started
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 14 of 32
P2.5: Electric Vehicles Strategic Plan
Several work plan items relate to electric vehicle promotion and programs to improve access to charging. Coordinating staff effort across a variety of efforts
focused on many different parts of the community requires some level of coordination. This strategic plan will guide development of other work items.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
2.5 A Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan
Development
EV1
thru
EV10
Develop a strategic plan based on
principles in Appendix C to guide
coordination of various work
items, including 2.1 A, C, I, J, and K,
2.2 C, D, and E, and 2.4 F. Align
with Reliability and Resiliency
Strategic Plan (1B and 1C)
Fully funded Under evaluation Policy guidelines for plan
development to Council
December 5, 2022
P3: Building Awareness and Confidence
To achieve high participation in electrification programs and other emissions reduction efforts and continuing support for S/CAP climate action programs
requires building community awareness and confidence through engagement, addressing concerns, and achieving program results.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
3.1 A Build awareness of the need
for climate action and the
benefits the City and its
utility can provide
N/A Achieve widespread awareness of
the need for climate action and the
City’s services and achievements,
including low electric rates. Use
partnerships and volunteers to
help deliver the message.
Fully staffed,
partially funded
Ongoing Sustainability hub and
various other engagement
efforts implemented.
3.1 B Drive community actions to
achieve S/CAP goals
N/A Run effective marketing and
outreach that drives community
action on S/CAP goals
Under evaluation Ongoing Marketing plan in
development
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 15 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
3.1 C S/CAP Survey Program N/A Continuing surveys of community
sentiment and engagement to
guide decision making and track
certain key performance indicators
Under evaluation Under evaluation –
requires coordination
with other City surveys
Not started
3.1 D S/CAP Reporting N/A Ongoing reporting of S/CAP results,
including key performance
indicators
Under evaluation Ongoing Annual reporting provided
in Earth Day report, to be
expanded to cover all
S/CAP KPIs
3.1 E Build confidence in the City’s
electric infrastructure
N/A Communicate actions the City is
taking to improve electric reliability
and grid capacity, to help residents
and businesses build resiliency,
and successes in these areas
Under evaluation Under evaluation –
requires coordination
with other City surveys
Not started
4. Additional Emissions Reductions
A variety of planning efforts are needed to achieve 80x30. Emissions reductions identified to date only achieve 71% from 1990 levels, so the City must identify
additional reductions to achieve its 80x30 goals. The multi-family and commercial building sectors have the smallest contribution to the emissions reductions
identified to-date, so this will be an area of focus where staff is likely to find the most additional emissions reductions. Note that carbon dioxide removal
technologies are not included in this effort, these are part of a separate future study on the City’s carbon neutrality goal.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
4.A Multi-family and Commercial
End Use Study
C3,E9 Do end use study of commercial
and multi-family buildings to
identify potential building
electrification measures
Fully staffed,
consultant
funding needs
being evaluated
December 2024 Writing consultant RFP
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 16 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
4.B Idea generation and additional
research
C3,
M10
Consult community members and
experts (including Stanford) and
research new technologies to
identify other potential
approaches to reducing emissions
in Palo Alto
Staffing and
funding needs to
be evaluated
December 2024 Not started
4.C Additional Emissions Reduction
Project Prioritization
C3 Prioritize the most cost-effective
approaches to achieving the
additional emissions reduction
needed to achieve 80x30 in
establishment of next three-year
work plan
Staffing and
funding needs to
be evaluated
December 2025 Not started
5. Funding Needs and Funding Sources
A high-level assessment of resource needs and funding sources will be done by fall of 2023 to allow for Council discussions on potential funding sources in late
2023 and early 2024. The needs of low- and middle-income residents will be assessed as part of this effort. Full-scale implementation of high potential programs
will cause significant reductions in gas utility sales, necessitating careful planning to manage contracting revenues and operational needs.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
5.A Resource Needs Assessment C4 Complete study of staffing and
other resources needed for
programs and operations to
implement all 80x30 activities
Fully staffed,
consultant
funding needs
being evaluated
Dec 2023 Writing consultant RFP
5.B Funding Alternatives C5, M5 Complete study of funding
alternatives for 80x30, taking into
account Federal policy such as the
Inflation Reduction Act.
Fully staffed,
consultant
funding needs
being evaluated
Dec 2023 Writing consultant RFP
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 17 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion Date Status (Dec 2022)
5.C Affordability Study C6,E5 Identify vulnerable populations
who may need help electrifying
and subsidy needed
Fully staffed and
funded
Dec 2023 Consultant beginning work
5.D Gas Utility Financial and
Operating Plan
N/A Develop a financial and operating
plan for declining gas utility sales
that maintains safety and solvency
while providing affordable gas
service to remaining gas users
Staffing and
funding needs to
be evaluated
Dec 2024 Not started
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 18 of 32
3. 2023-2025 Sustainability Section Work Plan: Creating a More Sustainable Natural Environment
In Palo Alto, we have a Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) because we include sustainability areas that don’t necessarily have a direct impact on
greenhouse gas reductions, but have critically important sustainability, public health and safety, regional, resource conservation, and equity benefits that
contribute to overall climate action. The Sustainability area Key Actions were prioritized based on the co-benefits analysis conducted by AECOM.
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion
Date Status (Dec 2022)
8.A Maximize Water Conservation and
Efficiency
W1 Maximize cost-effective water
conservation and efficiency through
incentives, outreach/education, and
other programs
Fully funded On-going This is an on-going effort
8.B Design and build a salt removal
facility for the Regional Water
Quality Control Plant
W2 Facility that will remove salt from the
recycled water produced at the RWQCP
resulting in an enhanced product
Negotiating with
Valley Water
and the City of
Mountain View
Bring to
Council for
approval by
2023
Design is 90% complete.
Council has not approved
construction of the facility
8.C Develop a “One Water” Portfolio
for Palo Alto
W3 Develop a “One Water” Portfolio that
includes stormwater, recycled water,
on-site reuse, conservation, and
groundwater
Fully funded August 2023 Study underway by staff
and consultant
8.D Develop a tool for dynamic water
planning in the future
W4 Excel-based tool for water planning Fully funded August 2023 Included as deliverable
under One Water
consulting contract
8.E Complete the Sea Level Rise
Vulnerability Assessment
S1 Complete a Sea Level Rise Vulnerability
Assessment to identify risks and hazards
to the Palo Alto Baylands, City
infrastructure, and residential and
business property, considering high tide,
100-year coastal storm event scenarios
and rising shallow groundwater impacts
Fully funded Fall 2022 Completed in Fall 2022
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 19 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion
Date Status (Dec 2022)
8.F Develop a Sea Level Rise
Adaptation Plan
S2 Develop a Sea Level Rise Adaptation
Plan with goals to 1) Preserve and
Expand Habitat, and 2) Protect City and
Community Assets, and Private Property
Partially funded
to develop the
plan, and
funding needed
for plan and
implementation
2024 Preparing a contract
amendment AECOM so
that we can move to the
second phase of the
project, which is to
develop a Sea Level Rise
Adaptation Plan over the
coming months with the
goal of bringing a plan to
Council in 2024
8.G Begin design process for a levee
projects
S3 Determine levee alignment and begin
design process for a levee project that
protects the Palo Alto community from
sea level rise, and incorporates other
related priorities including habitat
restoration, recreation, transportation,
City facilities, and community properties
Funded by US
Army Corps of
Engineers (50%
Fed) and Valley
Water / CA
Coastal
Commission
(50% Non-Fed)
*PA staff is
participating in
the analysis
2024 Levee alignment will be
determined by 2024
8.H Identify Protection Strategies from
Significant Flood Events at Newell
Road Bridge
S4 Complete Newell Road Bridge
improvements
Funded by
Caltrans / local
sponsor
(SFCJPA)
2024 Preparing construction
documents and initiating
right-of-way aquisition
8.I Identify Protection Strategies from
Significant Flood Events at Pope
Chaucer Bridge and Creek
S4 Complete Pope Chaucer Bridge and
Creek widening improvements
Applied for
grants and
secured partial
funding through
SFCJPA / partner
agencies
contributions
2025-2026 Analysing existing
conditions within Creek to
verify structural integrity
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 20 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion
Date Status (Dec 2022)
8.J Identify Protection Strategies from
Significant Flood Events
S4 Working with San Francisquito Creek
Joint Powers Authority (SFCJPA) partner
agencies to identify strategies to protect
the community from flows that exceed
the 70-year + storm event
Part of SFCJPA
operating
budget – Palo
Alto contributes
1/5 of operating
budget
On-going This is an on-going
coordination effort
with Stanford (the entity
not the University)
8.K Implement Foothills Fire
Management Plan
S5 Implement the Foothills Fire
Management Plan to balance
conservation of natural resources with
reduction of fire hazards especially in
open space areas
Partially funded On-going This is an on-going effort
8.L Minimize Fire Hazards Through
Zoning
S6 Minimize fire hazards by maintaining
low density zoning in wildland fire
hazard areas and enforcing building
codes for fire resistant construction
Staff available On-going This is an on-going effort
8.M Collaborate on Reducing Wildfire
Hazards
S7 Coordinate with other Fire agencies
through the Santa Clara County Fire
Chiefs Association and CalFire
Staff available On-going This is an on-going effort
8.N Implement CAL FIRE Public
Education Programs
S8 Implement CAL FIRE recommended
programs in educating and involving the
local community to diminish potential
loss caused by wildfire and identify
prevention measures to reduce those
risks
Fully Funded On-going This is an on-going effort
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 21 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion
Date Status (Dec 2022)
8.O Increase Palo Alto’s Tree Canopy
and establish a baseline and Key
Performance Indicator for carbon
storage of tree canopy
N1
N5
Develop programs to plant trees to
increase tree canopy – that will be
integrated with traditional tree planting
programs and Green Stormwater
Infrastructure programs – and provide
carbon sequestration, improve water
quality, capture stormwater when
feasible, and reduce the urban heat
island effect
Partially funded,
Staff available
as time permits
Establish
baseline by
2024
New canopy cover GIS
tool recently launched,
which will help establish a
baseline
8.P Ensure No Net Tree Canopy Loss
for all Projects
N2 Ensure no net tree canopy loss for all
Projects
Staff available On-going This is an on-going effort
to implement the updated
Tree Ordinance (effective
July 21, 2022)
8.Q Reduce Pesticide Use in Parks and
Open Space Preserves
N3 Continue to review the use of pesticides
in all parks and open space preserves to
identify opportunities to further reduce
and eliminate the use of pesticides
Staff available
as time permits
On-going This is an on-going effort
8.R Coordinate Implementation of City
Natural Environment-Related
Plans
N7 Coordinate implementation of the
Urban Forest Master Plan, Parks Master
Plan, Green Stormwater Infrastructure
Plan and other citywide planning efforts
through interdepartmental collaboration
Staff available
as time permits
On-going This is an on-going effort
8.S Support the Green Stormwater
Infrastructure (GSI) Plan and
incorporate GSI in Municipal
Projects
N10
N11
Establish policies and ordinance changes
as needed to support the Green
Stormwater Infrastructure Plan as
required due to Municipal Regional
Stormwater Permit
Staff available
as time permits;
Partially funded
through GSI
On-going This is an on-going effort
to achieve a 10% increase
in land area that uses
green stormwater
infrastructure to treat
urban water runoff
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 22 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion
Date Status (Dec 2022)
8.T Encourage Food Waste Prevention
and Require Food Recovery from
Commercial Food Generators
ZW1 Encourage food waste prevention and
require edible food recovery for human
consumption from commercial food
generators
Staff and County
funded program
staff available;
Funded for FY
2023, may need
funding for FY
2024
On-going Began 1/1/2022 per
SB1383 requirements
8.U Promote Residential Food Waste
Reduction
ZW2 Create a new campaign to promote
residential food waste reduction
Existing
outreach
funding
Launch by July
2023
Campaign strategy in
development, for launch
by July 2023
8.V Champion Waste Prevention,
Reduction, Reusables, and the
Sharing Economy
ZW3 Promote adoption of a “Zero Waste
lifestyle”, stimulate value of reuse,
repair
Existing
outreach
funding for
initial
promotion of a
“Zero Waste
lifestyle”; may
need future
funding for
stimulating
reuse, repair
On-going This is an on-going effort
8.W Provide Waste Prevention
Technical Assistance to the
Commercial Sector
ZW4 Develop an outreach tool and technical
assistance to the commercial sector
Existing
outreach
funding
Launch in 2023 Outreach tool and
technical assistance in
development, for launch
in 2023
8.X Prioritize Domestic Processing of
Recyclable Materials
ZW5 Prioritize domestic processing of
recyclable materials
Request for
additional
$500,000
On-going Domestic processing for
Mixed Paper and Mixed
Rigid Plastics began April
2022.
Went to Council in
November 2022 to
request additional funding
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 23 of 32
Work Item
Key
Action Description
Resource
Availability
Target
Completion
Date Status (Dec 2022)
8.Y Eliminate Single-Use Disposable
Containers
ZW6 Eliminate single-use disposable
containers by expanding the Disposable
Foodware Ordinance
Funded for
Ordinance
Requirement,
need additional
funding for
infrastructure
and
implementation
of future
requirements
Launch in 2024 Strategy and timeline in
development, for launch
in 2024
8.Z Expand the Deconstruction and
Construction Materials
Management Ordinance
ZW7 Expand the Deconstruction and
Construction Materials Management
Ordinance
Additional staff
and funding
needed
Launch by
January 2026
Expand types of covered
projects or increase
diversion requirements,
collaborate with other
Departments; consider
including in next Reach
Code Cycle to be
implemented in January
2026
8.aa Implement Reach Code standard
for Low Carbon Construction
Materials
ZW8 Implement Reach Code standard for low
carbon construction materials
If approved,
additional staff
and funding
needed
Launch January
1, 2023
Reach Code going to
Council for approval in
October 2022. If
approved, will go into
effect January 1, 2023
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 24 of 32
Appendix A: S/CAP Work Plan Timeline
2023-2025 Sustainability Workplan.xlsx
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
25 of 32
Appendix B: How Climate Actions were Prioritized
The chart below gives an overview of how various emissions reduction activities were prioritized based on various
factors. Activities were divided up into four priority tiers:
A. Prioritize for immediate action
B. Prioritize in areas where grid modernization has been completed
C. Requires additional study or stakeholder engagement to determine priority
D. Prioritize only if resources are available
A fuller blue bubble denotes a program that ranks more favorably when considering S/CAP implementation efforts. For
example, a program with a full blue bubble in the “Total emissions reduction potential” column has more emissions
reduction potential than one with a partially filled bubble. See next page for more detail.
Activity
Cost effective
(per metric
ton basis)
Total emissions
reduction
potential
Minimizes
Electric Utility
Impacts
Policy leverage
– City ability to
impact
Funding
Source
Availability
Priority
Tier
Mobility – Bicycling /
Alternative Modes C
Visitor EV adoption D
New buildings/ADU A
Single-Family
Water Heating A
Space Heating (w/ A/C) B
Space Heating (w/o A/C) B
Other Building Equipment B
Electric Vehicles A
Multi-Family
Building retrofits (1) C
Electric Vehicles A
Non-Residential
Rooftop HVAC A
Other building equipment (2) C
Fleet Electrification D
Commuter EVs
Small/Med Business (1) B
Major Facilities (1) B
1. Tentative ranking based on some preliminary ideas that need more exploration, which will take staff time
2. Tentative conclusion based on initial impact analysis, needs more study
Insights:
• Mobility and EVs are the most cost-effective actions and the City has significant policy leverage in the Mobility area.
• The City has less policy leverage to drive EV adoption, but there are a few areas where it has potential policy
leverage, such as increasing EV charger access.
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
26 of 32
• Electrification of single-family building equipment is worth prioritizing under most criteria. Heat pump water heaters
can be promoted citywide. Other equipment should be promoted primarily in neighborhoods with upgraded utility
infrastructure.
• Commercial building rooftop packaged HVAC units are worth prioritizing and may have fewer electric utility impacts
than other electrification measures.
• More study is needed to identify other viable building electrification actions in the commercial sector.
• More study is also needed on multi-family building electrification.
How to Ratings were Determined:
- Rating, high (filled bubble) to low (empty bubble)
Cost effective (MT
CO2-e)3
Total emissions
reduction
potential**
Minimizes Electric
Utility Impacts
Policy leverage –
City ability to
impact
Funding Source
Availability*
Deep cost savings >25,000 MT/yr
No permit review,
does not impact
utilities
City policy has high
impact
Resources / staffing
available in existing
budget, no added
funds needed
Modest cost savings 15,000 – 25,000
MT/yr
Permit review, but
rare utility upgrades
Dedicated funding
source under City
control, sufficient
for pilot programs
Break even 10,000 – 15,000
MT/yr
Permit review,
causes some utility
upgrades
Lower cost
($0/MT -$200/MT)
5,000 – 10,000
MT/yr
Frequent utility
impacts, must
develop programs
to limit impact.
No dedicated
funding source for
S/CAP pilots, grants
may be available
High cost
(>$200/MT) Minimal potential
Utility upgrades
often needed,
cannot be avoided
Little or no ability to
impact
No dedicated
funding source for
S/CAP pilots
* It may not be possible to use the same funding source to achieve all goals using the same funding source. For example,
Low Carbon Fuel Standard revenue might be available to fund residential EV programs or workplace charging programs,
but not both.
** This represents the full potential contribution of this type of activity to achieving the 80x30 goals, not just the
emissions reductions associated with the 2022-2024 work plan.
3 Metric tons (MT) of carbon-dioxide equivalent (CO2-e), a common measure of greenhouse gas emissions quantity.
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 27 of 32
Climate Actions by Individual Prioritization Criteria
Key Actions by Cost per Metric Ton of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent Reduced4
4 Cost per metric ton shown as a range from a low-cost scenario to a high-cost scenario
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 28 of 32
Total Citywide Emissions by Source (MT CO2-e)5
5 Metric tons (MT) of carbon-dioxide equivalent (CO2-e), a common measure of greenhouse gas emissions quantity.
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
29 of 32
Appendix C: Policy Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan Development
Work item 2.5A calls for the development of an electric vehicles strategic plan, which would guide implementation of
several work items. The strategic plan would also relate to a reliability and resiliency strategic plan to be developed in
parallel.
Objectives
1. Promote residential, workplace, and visitor electric vehicle adoption
2. Lower the cost and carbon emissions of EV charging as much as possible
3. Decrease the impact of electric vehicle charging on the local electric distribution system
4. Explore how electric vehicles could contribute to the efficient and reliable operation of the statewide and local
electric system
5. Explore the use of electric vehicles for increased home resiliency
6. Evaluate the reliability and resiliency needs of an electrified transportation system and the City’s role in fulfilling
those needs
Concepts to explore adding to Strategic Plan
• Scalable programs to provide charging for multi-family and income-qualified households
• Scalable programs to provide workplace and visitor charging
• The role of publicly-owned charging in providing multi-family, income-qualified, workplace, and visitor charging
• How much high-speed charging is needed in Palo Alto and where it should be located
• Business models to make commuter and visitor mid-day low-cost, low-carbon charging more attractive than
overnight home charging
• New technologies such as vehicle to load, vehicle to home, and vehicle to grid and their roles in providing home
resiliency and improving the efficiency and reliability of the statewide and local electric systems
• Lower wattage chargers and charging behaviors
• Time of day pricing and other ways to encourage off-peak and mid-day charging
• The role of smaller electric vehicles such as e-bikes and e-scooters in transportation emissions reduction
• The role of regional partnerships in driving electric vehicle adoption for commuters and visitors
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022
Page
30 of 32
Appendix D: Policy Guidelines for Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan Development
Work item 1B calls for the development of a reliability and resiliency strategic plan, which would guide implementation
of reliability and resiliency work items. This would be coordinated with development of an electric vehicle strategic plan.
Objectives
1. Maintain and improve electric system reliability
2. Improve utility outage communication
3. Prepare the electric system for increased penetration of solar, batteries, electric vehicles and chargers,
electrified building equipment, and similar new technologies
4. Optimize the use of local grid capacity in a cost-effective way
5. Promote technologies and behaviors that contribute to the efficient and reliable operation of the statewide and
local electric system
Concepts to explore adding to Strategic Plan
• Addressing utility workforce issues
• Replacing aging infrastructure as part of a grid modernization plan
• Installing additional switching and other solutions to improve reliability and recovery from outages as part of a
grid modernization effort
• Improving utility outage management system and communications protocols
• Technologies like vehicle to load or vehicle to home for home resiliency
• Equity in resiliency – how to provide resiliency to income-qualified residents
• Neighborhood-level resiliency solutions such as microgrids and local utility-scale battery storage
• Community emergency center resiliency
• Mobile battery strategies, such as large electric vehicles that could double as emergency resiliency solutions
• Promoting low-wattage electrification solutions to reduce grid impacts of vehicle and building electrification
• Time of day pricing and other ways to encourage shifting electric use to times of day with lower emissions, lower
utility cost, and lower local grid impact
• Increasing transformer capacity to accommodate higher loads
Appendix E: Index of Key Actions and the Work Items that Implement them
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 31 of 32
Key Action Title
Work
Item(s)
C1. Provide Building and
Transportation Emissions
Consultations for Residents
P2.1B
C2. Develop Major Employer Custom
Emissions Reduction Plans
P2.2C
C3. Study Additional Key Actions
Needed for 80 x 30
P4.A,
P4.B,
P4.C
C4. Study Staffing and Budgetary
Needs
P5.B
C5. Study Funding Alternatives P5.C
C6. Conduct an Electrification
Affordability Study
P5.D
C7. Study Carbon Neutrality Options
C8. Accelerate GHG reductions
through Mandates or Price Signals
P2.1K,
P2.2A,
P2.2B,
P2.2D
E1. Reduce GHG emissions in Single-
Family Appliances and Equipment
P2.1D,
P2.1E,
P2.1F,
P2.1G,
P2.1H
E2. Reduce GHG emissions in Non-
Residential Equipment
P2.2A,
P2.2B,
P2.2C
E3. Reduce Gas Use in Major Facilities P2.2C
E4. Reduce Natural Gas Use at City
facilities
P2.4A,
P2.4B,
P2.4C
E5. Support Income-Qualified
Residents and Vulnerable
Businesses with Electrification
P5.D,
P2.1D,
P2.1I
E6. Develop Electric Rate Options P1.D
Key Action Title
Work
Item(s)
E7. Use Codes and Ordinances to
Facilitate Electrification
P2.2A,
P2.2B
E8. Electric Grid Modernization Plan P1.A,
P1.B,
P1.C
E9. Additional Electrification
Opportunities in Commercial and
Multi-Family Buildings
P4.B
EV1. Raise Awareness of Alternative
Transportation Modes,
Micromobility, and EVs.
P2.1A,
P2.2D
EV2. Collaborate to Promote EV
Adoption Regionally
P2.2E
EV3. Promote EV Adoption and
Alternative Commutes for
Commuters
P2.2C,
P2.2D
EV4. Facilitate the Adoption of EVs, E-
bikes and other Light EVs.
P2.1A,
P2.1C,
P2.2D
EV5. Promote Alternative
Transportation Modes and
Infrastructure To Support Adoption
P2.1I,
P2.1J
EV6. Expand EV Charging Access for
Multi-Family Residents
P2.1J,
P2.1K
P2.4F
EV7. Improve EV Charging Access for
Income-Qualified residents
P2.1I,
P2.1J,
P2.1K
P2.4F
EV8. Ensure EV Charging Capacity
Supports EV Growth
P2.1K,
P2.2D,
P2.4C
P2.4F
Key Action Title
Work
Item(s)
EV9. Electrify Municipal Vehicle Fleet P2.4D,
P2.4E
EV10. Support Policy to Electrify Fleet
Vehicles
P2.2E
M1. Increase Active Transportation
and Transit for Local Work Trips
P2.3A
M2. Expand Availability of Transit and
Shared Mobility Services
P2.3D,
P2.3E
M3. Implement the Bicycle and
Pedestrian Transportation Plan
P2.3F,
P2.3G
M4. Improve Transportation Demand
Management for Employees and
Residents
P2.3H
M5. Implement Smart Parking
Infrastructure in Public Garages
and Parking Fees in Business
Districts
P5.C,
P2.3I,
P2.3J
M6. Study Land Use and
Transportation
M7. Continue to Implement the City’s
Housing Element
P2.3B,
P2.3C
M8. Improve Transit and Traffic Flow P2.3K
M9. Create Housing Density and Land
Use Mix that Supports Transit and
Non-SOV Transportation
P2.3B,
P2.3C
M10. Encourage Reductions in GHGs
and VMT
P4.A,
P4.C
W1. Maximize Water Conservation
and Efficiency
8.A
W2. Build a Salt Removal Facility 8.B
W3. Implement One Water Portfolio
Projects
8.C
W4. Develop a Dynamic Water
Planning Tool
8.D
Draft S/CAP Three-Year Work Plan – Updated Fall 2022 Page 32 of 32
Key Action Title
Work
Item(s)
S1. Complete a Sea Level Rise
Vulnerability Assessment
8.E
S2. Implement a Sea Level Rise
Adaptation Plan
8.F
S3. Begin Design Process for a Levee
Project
8.G
S4. Identify Protection Strategies from
Significant Flood Events
8.H, 8.I,
8.J
S5. Implement the Foothills Fire
Management Plan
8.K
S6. Minimize Fire Hazards Through
Zoning
8.L
S7. Collaborate on Reducing Wildfire
Hazards
8.M
S8. Implement CAL FIRE Public
Education Programs
8.N
N1. Increase Palo Alto's Tree Canopy 8.O
N2. Ensure No Net Tree Canopy Loss
for all Projects
8.P
N3. Reduce Pesticide Use in Parks and
Open Space Preserves
8.Q
N4. Enhance Pollinator Habitat
N5. Establish a Carbon Storage of Tree
Canopy Baseline and KPI
8.O
N6. Maximize Biodiversity and Soil
Health
N7. Coordinate Implementation of
City Natural Environment-Related
Plans
8.R
N8. Expand Water Efficient Landscape
Ordinance (WELO) Requirements
N9. Phase out Gas-Powered Lawn and
Garden Equipment
Key Action Title
Work
Item(s)
N10. Support the Green Stormwater
Infrastructure Plan
8.S
N11. Incorporate Green Stormwater
Infrastructure in Municipal Projects
8.S
ZW1. Encourage Food Waste
Prevention and Require Food
Recovery from Commercial Food
Generators
8.T
ZW2. Promote Residential Food Waste
Reduction
8.U
ZW3. Champion Waste Prevention,
Reduction, Reusables, and the
Sharing Economy
8.V
ZW4. Provide Waste Prevention
Technical Assistance to the
Commercial Sector
8.W
ZW5. Prioritize Domestic Processing of
Recyclable Materials
8.X
ZW6. Eliminate Single-Use Disposable
Containers
8.Y
ZW7. Expand the Deconstruction and
Construction Materials
Management Ordinance
8.Z
ZW8. Implement Reach Code standard
for Low Carbon Construction
Materials
8.aa
2023 - 2024 Sustainability and Climate Change – Protection and Adaptation Work Plan Last Updated ________Last Updated ________
Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/June July/Aug Sep/Oct Nov/Dec Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/June July/Aug Sep/Oct Nov/Dec Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/June July/Aug Sep/Oct Nov/Dec
P1.A Grid Modernization Study
P1.B Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan
Development
P1.C Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan
Implementation
P2.1 A Promote EV Adoption
P2.1 B Emissions Reduction Advisory Services
P2.1 C Small electric vehicles (e.g. e bike) program
P2.1 D Heat Pump Water Heater Electrification Pilot
Program
P2.1 E Full-Scale Heat Pump Water Heater
Electrification Program
P2.1 F Electrification data collection program
P2.1 G Pilot Programs for Modernized
Neighborhoods
P2.1 H Single-family Electrification Rebates
P2.1 I Affordable Housing EV Charging and
Electrification Pilot
P2.1 J Multi-Family EV Charger Program
P2.1 K Multi-Family and Affordable Housing EV
Charger Access Strategy
P2.2 A Rooftop Packaged Heating, Ventilation, and
Air Conditioning (HVAC) Pilot
P2.2 B Rooftop Packaged HVAC Advanced Pilot
Design
P2.2 C Major Employer Partnerships
P2.2 D Commuter Transportation & EV Charging
Strategy
P2.2 E Regional and State Partnerships
P2.3 A Transportation and Land Use Policies and
Programs
P2.3 B Housing Element Adoption
P2.3 C Housing Element Implementation
P2.3 D Micro-mobility evaluations
P2.3 E On-demand transit pilot
P2.3 F Update Bicycle Plan
P2.3 G Vision Zero Program
P2.3 H Evaluate expansion of employer
transportation demand management (TDM)
P2.3 I Proposals for Managing Downtown Parking
Availability
Council
adoption
P2.3 J Implement Efficient Downtown Parking
Management
P2.3 K Traffic Signal Improvements & Transit Signal
Priority
P2.4 A Facility Electrification Assessment Plan
Continue ongoing transportation programs, traffic management, and partnerships and land use regulatory activity
Adopt plan
Implementation of Housing Element programs as outlined in Housing Element and as funded via grants and annual budget requests
Evaluate opportunities to pilot bike/scooter share and neighborhood mobility hub pilots to provide last-mile connections as staff time becomes available
Launch Pilot Pilot program in operation
2.2. Non-Residential
Emissions Reduction
Programs
Multi-Family
Residential
Single-Family
Residential
All Residential
2.
1
R
e
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
E
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
R
e
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
P
r
o
g
r
a
m
s
Timeline to be determined, depends on staffing and funding availability
Evaluate possible alternatives to expand TDM ordinance requirements and/or voluntary TDM services (e.g. expanding the Transportation Management Association) as staff time becomes available
Complete evaluation of potentially scaalable strategies for multi-family and affordable housing EV
charging and/or building electrification, including evaluating the role of publicly-owned EV charging
Achieve installations at four to five sites through existing rooftop HVAC pilot program
Program design and approvals Assuming grid modernization has made enough progress, launch program(s)
Cost-effectiveness studies to determine rebate amounts, software configuration, launch
preparation Rebate launch
Complete pilot design, hire consultant
Ongoing data collection
Ongoing Ongoing
Get phone advisory services up and running
Determine work plan for online services, begin implementation
Complete evaluation Program implmentation? To be determined depending on results of program evaluation and
staffing and funding analysis.
Ongoing program activity with the goal of providing EV charging in buildings
representing 10% of multi-family units in Palo Alto by 2025
Complete evaluation of potentially scaalable strategies for multi-family and affordable housing EV
charging and/or building electrification, including evaluating the role of publicly-owned EV
charging+L20:U20
Ongoing program activity with the goal of providing EV charging in buildings
representing 10% of multi-family units in Palo Alto by 2025
202520232024
Complete study, design, and bring contractor on board
following certification of environmental review Construction to increase capacity
Develop strategic plan
Ongoing
Priority 1. Grid
Modernization
2.3 Citywide Mobility
Staff and Consultant Work
a
t
i
o
n
Work to achieve program goals
Do program evaluation, assuming advanced pilot
program goals are on track to be met.Transition to full scale program
Finalize S/CAP and 2021 GHG
Inventory
Finalize CEQA Documents S/CAP Implementation
Complete 2022 GHG Inventory
S/CAP Implementation
Complete 2023 GHG Inventory
S/CAP Implementation
Start Work Plan Update
Finalizing Facility Electrification Assessment Plan
Implementation based on timelines in Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan
Implement pilot project
Complete evaluation and develop recommendations for future programs Implement any adopted commute or EV charging programs
Develop work plan and identify promising partnerships Continued participation in chosen partnerships, exploration of new partnerships Continued participation in chosen partnerships, exploration of new partnerships
Develop proposal for an advanced pilot program and/or mandate and present to Council Launch program and/or mandate if approved Ongoing program management, if program is approved
Develop custom ermissions reduction and sustainability partnership with at least one major
employer. Develop electrification pilots with City facilities and PAUSD Develop additional employer partnerships Develop additional employer partnerships
Hire parking management consultant Ongoing program management
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
C
h
a
n
g
e
(
B
u
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
,
M
o
b
i
l
i
t
y
,
E
V
s
)
Pr
i
o
r
i
t
y
2
:
L
a
u
n
c
h
P
r
o
g
r
a
m
s
Hire consultant, kick off study Study completion and plan adoption Plan implementation
Maintain and modernize current traffic signals and central management systems. Use technology to improve traffic operations and safety. Work with transit providers on transit signal priority where feasible.
Ongoing program operation
Get program up and running by December 2023 Ongoing data collection
P2.4 B Facility Electrification Assessment
Implementation
P2.4 C Electrify Equipment at City Facilities during
Routine Replacement
P2.4 D Electrify City Vehicle Fleet
P2.4 E Build City Fleet and Employee Charging
Infrastructure
P2.4 F Publicly-owned charger strategic plan
P2.5A Electric Vehicle Strategic Plan Development
P3.1 A Build awareness of the need for climate
action
P3.1 B Drive community actions to achieve S/CAP
goals
P3.1 C S/CAP Survey Program
P3.1 D S/CAP Reporting CDP Report CDP Report CDP Report
P3.1 E Build confidence in the City’s electric
infrastructure
P4 A Multi-family and Commerical End Use Study
P4 B Idea generation and additional research
P4 C Additional Emissions Reduction Project
Prioritization
P5 A Resource Needs Assessment
P5 B. Funding Alternatives
P5 C. Affordability Study
P5 D. Gas Utility Financial and Operating Plan
8.A Maximize Water Conservation and Efficiency
8.B Design and build a salt removal facility for the
Regional Water Quality Control Plant
8.C Develop a “One Water” Portfolio for Palo Alto
8.D Develop a tool for dynamic water planning in the
future
8.E Complete the Sea Level Rise Vulnerability
Assessment Completed
8.F Develop a Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
8.G Begin design process for a levee projects
8.H Identify Protection Strategies from Significant
Flood Events at Newell Road Bridge
8.I Identify Protection Strategies from Significant
Flood Events at Pope Chaucer Bridge and Creek
8.J Identify Protection Strategies from Significant
Flood Events
8.K Implement Foothills Fire Management Plan
8.L Minimize Fire Hazards Through Zoning
8.M Collaborate on Reducing Wildfire Hazards
8.N Implement CAL FIRE Public Education Programs
8.O Increase Palo Alto’s Tree Canopy and establish a
baseline and Key Performance Indicator for carbon
storage of tree canopy
8.P Ensure No Net Tree Canopy Loss for all Projects
8.Q Reduce Pesticide Use in Parks and Open Space
Preserves
Develop programs to plant trees to increase tree canopy – that will be integrated with traditional
tree planting programs and Green Stormwater Infrastructure programs – and provide carbon
sequestration, improve water quality, capture stormwater when feasible, and reduce the urban
heat island effect
Establish baseline and Key Performance Indicator for carbon storage of tree canopy; implement
programs to increase tree canopy On-going implementation of programs to increase tree canopy
On-going effort to implement the updated Tree Ordinance (effective July 21, 2022)
On-going effort to review the use of pesticides in all parks and open space preserves to identify opportunities to further reduce and eliminate the use of pesticides
On-going work with San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority (SFCJPA) partner agencies to identify strategies to protect the community from flows that exceed the 70-year + storm event
On-going implementation of the Foothills Fire Management Plan to balance conservation of natural resources with reduction of fire hazards especially in open space areas
Ongoing work to minimize fire hazards by maintaining low density zoning in wildland fire hazard areas and enforcing building codes for fire resistant construction
On-going coordinatation with other Fire agencies through the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs Association and CalFire
On-gong implementation of CAL FIRE recommended programs in educating and involving the local community to diminish potential loss caused by wildfire and identify prevention measures to reduce those risks
Preparing construction documents and initiating right-of-way aquisition Construction of Newell Road Bridge improvements
Analysing existing conditions within Creek to verify structural integrity Prepare construction documents Construction of Pope Chaucer Bridge and Creek widening improvement
Maximize cost-effective water conservation and efficiency through incentives, outreach/education, and other programs
Design is 90% complete. Bring to Council for approval of construction of the facility
Study underway by staff and consultant Implementation of a “One Water” Portfolio that includes stormwater, recycled water, on-site reuse, conservation, and groundwater
Included as deliverable under One Water consulting contract
Develop a Sea Level Rise (SLR) Adaptation Plan CEQA Review of Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan Bring SLR Adaptation Plan to
Council for Approval Implement Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
Explore Public Charging Pilot Develop publicly-owned charger strategic plan
Determine levee alignment for a levee project that protects the Palo Alto community from sea level rise, and incorporates other related priorities including habitat restoration, recreation,
transportation, City facilities, and community properties Begin design process
Complete multi-family and non-residential end use survey to identify promising emissions
reduction opportunities, develop recommendations based on survey
Continuing Council discussions of potential funding options
Ongoing engagement, including Sustainability Newsletter, Climate Action Blog, Social Media, Sustainability Hub, Electrification Portal, Website Updates, Utility Bill Inserts, Workshops, webinars, and departmental collaboration
Ongoing engagement, including Sustainability Newsletter, Climate Action Blog, Social Media, Sustainability Hub, Electrification Portal, Website Updates, Utility Bill Inserts, Workshops, webinars, and departmental collaboration
On-going
On-going marketing On-going Marketing
Develop Surveys Conduct Surveys
On-going Marketing
Conduct Surveys
Seek ideas for emissions reductions from community, experts.
Monitor emerging technologies.
Evaluate new programs based on findings of studies
Study those ideas and technologies with highest potential
Building City Fleet Infrastructure is on-going, assessing Employee Charging Infrastructure
On-going
On-going
On-going
On-going
On-going
On-going On-going
On-going
On-going
Natural Environment
Climate Adaptation and Sea
Level Rise
Water
2.4 City Facilities and
Fleet
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
a
n
d
C
l
i
m
a
t
e
A
c
t
i
o
n
P
l
a
n
(
S
/
C
A
P
)
a
n
d
C
l
i
m
a
t
e
C
h
a
n
g
e
-
P
r
o
t
e
c
t
i
o
n
a
n
d
A
d
a
p
t
a
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Priority 4. Studies and
Analysis
Priority 5. Funding Needs
and Funding Sources
Develop financial and operating plan for contracting gas utility
Implement any follow-up actions from prior year studies
Implement any follow-up actions from prior year studies
2.5 EV Strategic Plan Develop EV Strategic Plan to coordinate efforts on various EV work items
Earth Day Report Earth Day Report Earth Day Report
Priority 3: Build Confidence
and Awareness
Complete RFP for consultant to do end use survey.
Summarize resource needs for a selection of pilots, advanced pilots,
full-scale programs + commercial end-use research program
Study funding options available to fund programs evaluated in work item 4.B for most promising
electrification programs, present findings to Council.
Complete affordability study to inform funding needs and program design
8.R Coordinate Implementation of City Natural
Environment-Related Plans
8.S Support the Green Stormwater Infrastructure
(GSI) Plan and incorporate GSI in Municipal Projects
8.T Encourage Food Waste Prevention and Require
Food Recovery from Commercial Food Generators
8.U Promote Residential Food Waste Reduction
8.V Champion Waste Prevention, Reduction,
Reusables, and the Sharing Economy
8.W Provide Waste Prevention Technical Assistance
to the Commercial Sector
8.X Prioritize Domestic Processing of Recyclable
Materials
8.Y Eliminate Single-Use Disposable Containers
8.Z Expand the Deconstruction and Construction
Materials Management Ordinance
8.aa Implement Reach Code standard for Low Carbon
Construction Materials
Council Study
Session on
S/CAP Progress
Report
Council Study
Session on
S/CAP Progress
Report
Council Approval of Sea Level
Rise Adaptation Plan
Council certification of CEQA
and adoption of S/CAP, Council
Meeting on Earth Day Report
CEQA Public Review S/CAP Implementation Resources, Updates, Outreach, and
Webinars
Cross-promotional efforts with external partners and
COPA departments (e.g. Library)
Cross-promotional efforts with external partners and
COPA departments (e.g. Library)
Cross-promotional efforts with external partners and
COPA departments (e.g. Library)
On-going effort to encourage food waste prevention and require edible food recovery for human consumption from commercial food generators. Began 1/1/2022 per SB1383 requirements. May need funding for FY 2024
Campaign strategy in development Implement campaign to promote residential food waste reduction
On-going effort to promote adoption of a “Zero Waste lifestyle”and stimulate value of reuse,
repair. On-going effort to promote adoption of a “Zero Waste lifestyle”and stimulate value of reuse, repair. May need funding for stimulating reuse, repair outreach
Develop an outreach tool and technical assistance to the commercial sector Implement outreach tool and technical assistance to the commercial sector
On-going effort to prioritize domestic processing of recyclable materials. Domestic processing for Mixed Paper and Mixed Rigid Plastics began April 2022.
Developing strategy and timeline to eliminate single-use disposable containers by expanding the Disposable Foodware Ordinance Implement the expanded Disposable Foodware Ordinance
Implement Reach Code standard for low carbon construction materials (pending Council approval in October 2022)
Expand types of covered projects or increase diversion requirements, collaborate with other Departments; consider including in next Reach Code Cycle to be implemented in January 2026Determine the most effective way of expanding the Deconstruction and Construction Materials
Management Ordinance
On-going effort to coordinate implementation of the Urban Forest Master Plan, Parks Master Plan, Green Stormwater Infrastructure Plan and other citywide planning efforts through interdepartmental collaboration
On-going effort to achieve a 10% increase in land area that uses green stormwater infrastructure to treat urban water runoff
Zero Waste
COUNCIL AND
COMMISSION MEETINGS
COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
S/CAP Implementation Resources, Updates, Outreach, and Webinars S/CAP Implementation Resources, Updates, Outreach, and Webinars
Background on Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S/CAP) Development
• April 2016: City Council adopted the ambitious goal of reducing GHG emissions to 80 percent
below 1990 levels by 20301 (the “80 x 30” goal) - 20 years ahead of the State of California 80
x 50 target, and an interim step towards California’s new statewide goal of achieving carbon
neutrality by 20452.
• November 2016: the Council adopted the S/CAP Framework3, which has served as the road
map for achieving Palo Alto’s sustainability goals.
• December 2017: Council accepted the 2018-2020 Sustainability Implementation Plan “Key
Actions” as a summary of the City’s work program4.
• June 2020: The City launched an S/CAP update to determine the goals and key actions needed
to meet its sustainability goals, including the 80 x 30 goal.5
• April 2021: Staff presented a preliminary impact analysis and Council directed the Mayor to
form an S/CAP Ad Hoc Committee.6
• August 2021 to April 2022: The S/CAP Committee held several public meetings with City
staff.7
• November 17, 2021: The S/CAP Ad Hoc Committee held the first meeting of its S/CAP
Working Group, which assembled knowledgeable members of the community to consult with
Council members and City staff on S/CAP implementation priorities.
• December 13, 2021: Staff presented a Progress Report on the Sustainability and Climate
Action Plan Update and S/CAP Ad Hoc Committee Work8 to Council.
• March 7, 2022: Council and the Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC) held a joint study
session9 to discuss sustainability and utility related items.
1 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=3534&TargetID=268
2 In September 2018, Governor Brown signed California Executive Order B-55-18, setting the goal of achieving
carbon neutrality as soon as possible, and no later than 2045. The state is to maintain net negative net emissions
after 2045, meaning that GHG sinks must exceed GHG sources. The Executive Order explains that the carbon
neutrality goal is layered on top of the state’s existing commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40%
below 1990 levels by 2030 (as codified in SB 32), and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
3 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/60858
4 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/63141
5 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-
reports-cmrs/year-archive/2020/id-11404-climate_sustainability-and-climate-action-
plan.pdf?t=59513.75
6 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-
reports-cmrs/year-archive/2021/id-12009.pdf
7 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/City-Clerk/City-Council-Committees/Sustainability-and-
Climate-Action-Plan-Ad-Hoc-Committee
8 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-
reports-cmrs/2021/id.-13765-s-cap-update.pdf
9 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/city-
council-agendas-minutes/2022/20220307/20220307pccsmamendedfinal-linked.pdf
• April 11, 2022: Staff presented the Earth Day Report10 to Council on April 11, 2022. The Earth
Day Report described the work of the S/CAP Ad Hoc Working Group teams.
• June 14, 2022: The S/CAP Ad Hoc Working Group Teams held a public meeting to discuss their
progress on three areas that would advance residential building electrification goals:
• Engagement. The work of this team included fine-tuning messaging on residential
building electrification and developing a strategy and timeline for engagement.
• Technology. The work of this team included reviewing current and emerging technologies
and their feasibility for meeting the demands of a typical home and developing a strategy.
The team also considered the influence of electrification technologies that are
implemented on the electrical grid improvements that are needed.
• Finance. The work of this team included prioritizing the most feasible funding strategies
and developing a strategy for financing S/CAP Implementation.
The working group teams also discussed an outline of a proposed Advanced Heat Pump
Water Heater Pilot Program at the June 14 meeting. They agreed to have staff develop the
outline into a more defined proposal.
• September 27 and October 3, 2022: Staff and the S/CAP Committee recommended, and
Council accepted, the S/CAP Goals and Key Actions that would be used for environmental
review. Staff and the S/CAP Committee recommended the creation of an Advanced Heat
Pump Water Heater Pilot program and Council took several actions to enable the program to
be launched.11
10 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/reports/city-manager-
reports-cmrs/2022/id.-14174-earth-day-report-2022-edr22.pdf
11 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/city-
council-agendas-minutes/2022/20220927/20220927pccsmlinked-amended-v2.pdf#page=79