California renewable power bill passes first test
Jun 25 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Marc Lifsher Los Angeles
Times
Legislation aimed at requiring California electric utilities to meet the
nation's toughest renewable power quotas easily passed its first test
Thursday, gaining support from a large number of usually conflicting
interests.
The bill would require utilities to get 33% of their power from
renewable sources by 2020, a boost from the current 20% standard. The
new standard would apply to both publicly owned power generators, such
as the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and investor-owned
utilities, including Southern California Edison Co.
The bill, SB 722 by state Sen. Joe Simitian (D- Palo Alto), was approved
by the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee on a 9-2 vote and is
expected to win final passage in late summer.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who vetoed a similar measure last year,
applauded the vote but warned that he would seek changes that would
streamline the siting and permitting of renewable projects before
signing the final legislation.
Environmental groups, which forged a compromise with private
generating companies, labor unions and renewable energy developers, said
the Simitian bill is needed to attract investment to California and
create jobs.
"Passing this bill will send a clear signal to renewable energy markets
that California is open for business," said Laura Wisland, an energy
analyst with the Union of Concerned Scientists.
marc.lifsher@latimes.com
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