Statement: California Legislature approves bill to speed up clean energy adoption

SACRAMENTO, Calif.—The California State Legislature passed legislation (SB 1020) to speed up clean electricity adoption. If signed by the governor, this would mark an important step in moving California closer to 100% renewable energy by 2045, as required by the 2018 law SB 100. The legislation passed the State Assembly Monday night with a 54:17:9 vote, followed by a concurrence vote in the Senate Tuesday morning. 

The Clean Energy, Jobs, and Affordability Act (SB 1020) would add interim targets requiring renewable energy and zero-carbon resources to supply 90% of electricity sales by 2035, and increasing to 95% of sales by 2040. These targets are consistent with planning happening at the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) and other state agencies. 

The bill would also require all state agencies to use 100% renewable energy and zero-carbon resources to serve their own facilities by 2035.

CALPIRG State Director Jenn Engstrom issued the following statement: 

“Transitioning to clean energy like solar and wind will cut global warming emissions, reduce asthma rates and other harmful health impacts of dirty air, and save consumers money. With the Clean Energy, Jobs, and Affordability Act, Californians are a big step closer to experiencing the benefits of a clean energy economy.” 

Environment California Clean Energy Advocate Steven King issued the following statement:

“Today’s vote brings California one step closer to 100% clean energy. This bill sets important benchmarks so that we build more renewable energy now and ensures that state agencies lead by example in the transition to 100% clean energy. Thank you to Sen. Laird, Senate President pro Tempore Atkins, Speaker Rendon and all those who supported this important step. With the governor’s signature, California will be on a quicker and brighter path toward our clean energy future.”