California Makes Progress on Clean Energy despite Setbacks

(SACRAMENTO – September 11, 2015) The California State Assembly approved a key bill today with bipartisan support aimed at advancing the state’s climate and clean energy leadership. Legislators approved a modified version of SB 350 (De León) to increase the state’s reliance on renewable energy to 50 percent and double energy efficiency by 2030. While 2030 and 2050 carbon reduction targets are set through executive order, a companion bill aimed at cementing these targets in legislation was held without vote. The bill will now go to the senate for a concurrence vote where it is expected to pass.

“Today, legislators upheld Governor Brown’s crucial goal to continue to build our clean energy economy by passing SB 350. Although they weren’t able to set firm targets to cut California’s massive dependence on oil, the governor and the Air Resources Board can and will continue to pursue this goal. Despite some setbacks, today’s bipartisan vote to advance clean energy and cut energy use is a significant step forward for the state. SB 350’s nation-leading energy targets will create jobs, spur innovation, and improve public health.”

– Gavin Purchas, California Director, Clean Energy