Senate Bill 2X passed the Assembly on Tuesday, after passing the Senate vote last month. Now it is up to Californian Governor Jerry Brown to cast the final decision. According to media reports, he has declined to say whether he will sign it or not.
If the legislation is passed, it will help to keep the state at the forefront of renewable energy in the region. Already last year, California was the leader in the North American PV rankings.
Tim Keating, Skyline Solar's vice president of marketing and field operations comments: "California continues to set important precedents in forward-thinking legislation that keeps renewable energy a priority.
"Long-term stability and consistent growth are key for attracting investment for renewable energy projects, and this legislation achieves both. With this legislation, financiers and investors are assured of the states dedication to renewable energy, and we expect California will maintain its place as a leader in renewable energy."
Tom Werner, CEO of SunPower Corp – headquartered in Silicon Valley – adds: "Passage of SB 2X is a vital step in providing renewable energy companies with the market certainty that drives business investment and job creation. Our new California solar manufacturing plant is a direct result of the strong policy support that the 33% Renewable Portfolio Standard represents."
If approved, Simitian believes the bill will:
- Improve air quality;
- Address climate change;
- Protect customers from rate manipulation by diversifying our sources of energy;
- ?Allow for an American foreign policy based on American values and American interests, rather than energy needs; and
- Attract investment and create jobs in renewable research and power generation.
Senate Bill 2X applies to all electricity retailers in the state, whereas the current 20 percent standard applies only to investor-owned utilities and independent sellers.
Californias current renewable requirement, Senate Bill 107, authored by Simitian and enacted in 2006, established a 2010 deadline for 20 percent renewables. Utilities reportedly expect to exceed that goal this year, consistent with the provisions of SB 107.
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