The California Restaurant Association case overturned a landmark ruling that allowed local governments to enact stricter energy codes. This decision has significant implications for decarbonization efforts and the future of building standards in the Western U.S. In this paper, we analyze the case’s impact, explore alternative strategies for achieving deep energy efficiency and decarbonization, and examine successful examples of local building codes in the region. We also assess the long-term policy implications of the California Restaurant Association ruling.

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