California Passes Bill Requiring 33% of Energy from Renewable Sources
California Governor Jerry Brown signed the 33% Renewable Portfolio Standard, a bill that requires the state to obtain 33% (the previous level had been 20%) of its energy from renewable sources. The bill is being described as the strictest in the nation, mandating that a third of the state’s energy come from solar, wind and other clean sources over the next 10 years.
"There are people who think we can drill our way to happiness and prosperity," Brown said during a dedication of a new solar manufacturing facility for SunPower and its partner Flextronics in Milpitas, California. "Instead of just taking oil from thousands of miles away, we’re taking the sun and converting it."
Language in the legislation is also intended to limit price increases.
Southern California Edison (SCE) and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) were in favor of the Bill, while Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) expressed concern that it lacks adequate cost protection for its customers.
"This bill establishes California as the national leader in clean energy," said Democratic State Senator Joe Simitian, author of the Bill, "improving the environment and stimulating the economy, while protecting ratepayers from excessive costs."
Andrew Beebe, the Chief Commercial Officer of the world’s largest supplier of solar modules, Suntech Power, said, "A 33% renewable portfolio standard in the world’s eighth largest economy sends a clear message: renewable technologies can provide reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions for electricity generation. This strong commitment puts California on a clear path for creating more green jobs and achieving long-term energy security. In addition, it gives us the confidence to make greater investments in our California operations and American manufacturing that will help drive down the costs of solar electricity."
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