Jan 13 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Ryan Orr Daily Press, Victorville, Calif.

As if the government doesn't make citizens sweat enough already, a new mandate, if approved, will require all new buildings in California to install thermostats that can be controlled by the state.

The proposed regulations -- devised by the California Energy Commission -- would require all residential and nonresidential buildings to have a Programmable Communicating Thermostat.

The thermostats will be distributed with a non-removable Radio Data System communications device that, in energy emergencies, would allow state regulators to decide what temperature your house should be.

The thermostats -- which residents have already been able to voluntarily install -- will allow the government to control the temperature of homes and businesses in case of emergencies, high energy prices or shortages.

"Outrageous," said Sen. George Runner, R-Lancaster, while laughing at the absurdity of the idea. "Talk about government intervention in your life. Now they want to turn your heat up and down."

If the regulations are adopted, PCTs would be required for all new or substantially modified houses and buildings.

The commission will decide on Jan. 30 on whether or not to adopt the regulations.

Message postings are already on the Internet with ideas on how to beat the invasive thermostats, such as pointing a portable heater at it, tricking it into thinking the room is warmer than it is.

Nevertheless, if the mandate is adopted, California will bring a whole new meaning to "climate control."