CO2 Heat Pump Systems for Buildings Across California
Summary
SCH Number
2026040804
Public Agency
California Energy Commission
Document Title
CO2 Heat Pump Systems for Buildings Across California
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
4/16/2026
Document Description
This project will develop and deploy a high-efficiency, fully electric CO2-based heat pump to replace natural gas furnaces and HVAC systems that rely on high-GWP synthetic refrigerants. The purpose is to advance a scalable, ultra-low-GWP space conditioning solution that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lowers energy use and costs, and supports California's building electrification and climate goals across diverse climate zones. Beneficiaries include California homeowners and renters, particularly those in low-income and multifamily housing who will gain access to reliable, affordable heating and cooling, as well as electric utility ratepayers and the State of California through reduced grid stress and improved environmental outcomes.
Contact Information
Name
Matt Stroud
Agency Name
Icebox Heat Pumps Inc
Job Title
Project Manager
Contact Types
Project Applicant
Address
Phone
Email
Name
Harrison Reynolds
Agency Name
California Energy Commission
Job Title
Associate Energy Specialist
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Cities
Petaluma
Counties
Sonoma
Regions
Citywide
Cross Streets
Petaluma 94952
Zip
94952
Other Location Info
TBD Petaluma 94952, Sonoma
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15301
Reasons for Exemption
This project qualifies for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption because it involves the installation, testing, and replacement of mechanical equipment within existing residential buildings with no expansion of use and no physical alteration of the structures beyond routine HVAC work. The project consists of installing CO2-based heat pump systems as replacements for existing gas furnaces or conventional HVAC units in single-family and multifamily buildings. Installation activities are limited to standard HVAC scope, including placement of indoor and outdoor units, use of existing or equivalent refrigerant line sets, electrical connections, and mounting on existing pads or building exteriors. No new buildings will be constructed, and no increase in building capacity, occupancy, or square footage will occur. The project does not involve grading, trenching beyond minor electrical or conduit work typical of HVAC replacement, vegetation removal, or disturbance of undisturbed land. All work will occur within previously developed residential sites, and the upgraded equipment will serve the same space-conditioning function as the existing systems, consistent with the criteria for exemption under Section 15301.
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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