SB 1196 signed: faster utility hookups for ADUs and EV chargers

A finished ADU or a new EV charger does nothing until the utility connects it, and some builders say that wait has stretched to a year. A new California law aims to put clear deadlines on those smaller hookups.

What it is. SB 1196 by Senator Jerry McNerney was signed by Governor Newsom and chaptered on September 27, 2026, as Chapter 684. According to the author's office, it takes effect January 1.

What it does. The law applies to small energization projects, which the author describes as projects that do not require investor-owned utility infrastructure upgrades. Examples named include ADUs, junior ADUs, EV chargers and home backup batteries. It directs the California Public Utilities Commission to set timelines, by September 30, 2027, for utilities to respond to and process these requests. Applicants may request a hookup at the same time they apply for a building permit, and a utility may not cancel a service connection application without the applicant's consent. The author's office says the CPUC will also set penalties for utilities that miss the timelines.

Who it affects. Customers of investor-owned utilities such as PG&E, SCE and SDG&E. A legislative committee analysis listed all three as opposing the bill.

What it does not do yet. The law does not set the number of days. That comes from the CPUC, so the practical change for homeowners depends on its rulemaking over the next year. Projects that need utility infrastructure upgrades are outside its scope.

Rules you can use now. The committee analysis notes a 2024 CPUC decision that already requires utilities to assign a project manager within 10 business days of approving an energization application and to give monthly status updates.

Today's next step: if you are waiting on a hookup now, ask your utility for your assigned project manager and the date of your last status update.