Bill > SB1173

This bill, titled "Water-conserving plumbing fixtures: CalConserve Water," aims to enhance water conservation efforts across California by updating regulations for plumbing fixtures in commercial properties and expanding access to water efficiency funding. It mandates the replacement of "noncompliant plumbing fixtures" – those exceeding specific water usage thresholds, now defined by compliance with State Energy Conservation and Development Commission standards – in commercial buildings, with phased deadlines for different sizes of properties, and also requires replacement during significant additions, alterations, or improvements. The bill also encourages retail water providers to offer "on-bill financing," a method where customers can pay for water efficiency upgrades through their utility bills, and encourages financial institutions to provide similar financing options. Furthermore, it expands eligibility for the CalConserve Water Use Efficiency Revolving Fund, a state fund for water conservation projects, to include county offices of education and governing boards of school districts, recognizing the significant water-saving potential in public schools. The bill also clarifies that these requirements do not apply to registered historic sites or properties where installation is technically infeasible, and it updates definitions for "noncompliant" and "water-conserving" plumbing fixtures to align with state energy efficiency regulations.