EDF and NRDC Urge Lawmakers to Support AB 825 for a More Affordable, Reliable Clean Electricity Future for California

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Environmental Defense Fund and Natural Resources Defense Council released the following statements after a late night agreement was reached to amend the provisions of SB 540 into AB 825. The newly amended bill eliminates SB 540’s unworkable provisions and restores the foundation for broader electricity collaboration across the West, saving Californians more than $1 billion in annual energy costs through efficiencies and expanding access to cheaper clean energy sources.

Katelyn Roedner Sutter, California State Director at EDF:

“With state leaders rightly focused on making California more affordable, the choice on AB 825 is simple. We can’t keep the lights on or fight climate change alone. By passing this bill this year, lawmakers will keep power bills in check while expanding clean electricity access and preventing blackouts. California must be at the forefront of a fast-moving revolution in how electricity is bought and sold across the West instead of being left behind by it. California is the innovation state and needs AB 825 to build a modern grid that cuts energy costs and pollution.”

Victoria Rome, Senior Director of California Government Affairs at NRDC:

“Building a 100 percent clean energy economy the cheapest and fastest way possible starts with passing AB 825. Right now, we generate more clean power than ever but we are not able to use all of it efficiently. This bill is a chance for California to lead a broader transition to cheaper clean power by working with our neighbors across the West. Let’s continue California’s track record of climate leadership and save Californians billions in electricity costs.”