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SB 1196

Small energization projects: electrical service connections.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jerry McNerney and 1 co-sponsor

SB 1196 standardizes and speeds energization of ADUs/JADUs by CPUC-imposed timelines, load assessments, and service connections with upfront costs, reviews, and penalties for delay

Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
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Bill Summary · SB 1196

Summary of SB 1196 (2025-2026) – Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units: electrical service connections

Purpose and intent

SB 1196 aims to streamline and standardize the electrical service connections for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) in California. Building on the Powering Up Californians Act, the bill directs the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to establish concrete energization timelines and processes so ADUs/JADUs can be energized in a timely and predictable manner, reducing delays that impede housing production.

Key provisions and changes

  • CPUC energization timelines (Public Utilities Code, new Section 934.5):

    • By September 30, 2027, CPUC must establish timelines for electrical corporations to respond to and process energization requests for ADUs and JADUs.
    • Timelines must specify:
    • When applications are deemed complete and how applicants are informed in writing.
    • A process to provide deficiencies and cures for incomplete applications.
    • Timeframes to respond to cured applications.
    • Timeframes for load assessments and for informing whether a new panel or meter is required.
    • The timeline to verify completion of panel installation.
    • The timeline to complete the service connection after construction completion.
    • Establish penalties for noncompliance and a process for applicants to file complaints with the CPUC.

  • Application submission and pre-review options:

    • Utilities must allow ADU/JADU service connection applications to be submitted concurrently with local building permit applications.
    • Utilities must not cancel applications without applicant consent and must offer preapplication project review.
    • Utilities must provide upfront cost estimates, including potential upgrades to infrastructure.

  • Electrical service connection specifics (SB 1196/PUC framework):

    • Within 15 business days of a complete application, utilities must conduct a load assessment and specify whether a new panel or meter is required; they must provide specifications if a new panel/meter is needed.
    • Within 10 business days after installation of a new panel/meter, the utility must verify completion.
    • Within 30 days after construction completion, the service connection must be completed (extendable if the applicant requests a delay or if the unit isn’t ready).

  • Complaints and penalties:

    • Applicants may file complaints with CPUC for violations, with civil penalties up to $10,000 per day for violations, plus potential annual penalties tied to the share of complaints relative to total applications (up to $2,000,000 in high-violation scenarios).

  • Local government and utility duties:

    • Local agencies must post a comprehensive list of utility service connection requirements for ADUs/JADUs and contact information for each utility.
    • Utilities (electric, gas, sewer, water) must post a complete customer checklist, offer preapplication review, and provide upfront cost estimates.

  • Fees and impact considerations:

    • The bill preserves existing rules on utility connection fees and capacity charges, with adjustments restricting certain impact fees for smaller ADUs/JADUs (e.g., caps for units up to 750 sq ft for ADUs and 500 sq ft for JADUs).
    • It clarifies that certain ADUs/JADUs should not be treated as new residential uses for some utility fee calculations, with conditions.

Who is affected

  • Electrical utilities and CPUC: New energization timelines, complaint processes, and penalties.
  • Local permitting agencies: Requirement to provide ADU/JADU utility connection checklists and to coordinate with utilities.
  • ADU/JADU applicants and homeowners: Clearer, faster energization timelines, upfront cost information, and formal complaint rights.
  • Municipalities and local agencies: Mandated posting and disclosure requirements on websites or in writing.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The energization timelines are to be established by CPUC by September 30, 2027.
  • Several interim processes are codified, including application completeness determinations within 15 business days, load assessments within 15 days, installation verification within 10 days, and final service connection within 30 days (with extensions available upon request or readiness).

Notes

The act involves state-mandated local program implications and does not require state reimbursement for certain costs. It applies to all cities, including charter cities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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