San Francisco pilot project aims to electrify homes without displacing low-income tenants

San Francisco's Mission District is testing a program to fully electrify low-income rental properties without burdening tenants, aiming to prevent displacement while advancing climate goals.

Twilight Greenaway reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

A San Francisco program funds electrification upgrades like solar panels and heat pumps in rental units to decarbonize buildings and improve climate resilience.
Environmental justice group PODER SF is leading efforts to ensure costs aren't passed to tenants, addressing concerns over potential displacement from increased property values.
Advocates are watching this pilot as a model for the state's upcoming $500 million Equitable Building Decarbonization Program, which includes renter protections against evictions and rent hikes.

Key quote:

“There are concerns about ‘renovictions,’ there are concerns about cost pass-throughs, and so tenant protection is a really big, explicit focus for us.”

— Benny Zank, building decarbonization coordinator at the San Francisco Environment Department

Why this matters:

Building electrification is a key component of cutting carbon emissions, but low-income renters often face risks of eviction when properties are upgraded. Ensuring affordable access to climate-resilient housing can protect vulnerable communities while supporting decarbonization goals.

insideclimatenews.org

San Francisco pilot project aims to electrify homes without displacing low-income tenants

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