California Enacts New Energy Laws to Accelerate Clean Energy Transition and Impact Utility Bills
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed five new bills into law aimed at accelerating the state's transition to clean energy, with potential impacts on new energy projects and residents' utility bills. These laws focus on various aspects of energy infrastructure and consumption. Senate Bill 2493, authored by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, addresses the backlog in power transmission line upgrades by requiring the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to establish an independent monitor by October 1, 2027. This monitor will track projects and implement remedies for delays, crucial for bringing 22 gigawatts of clean energy online. Senate Bills 913 and 905, both by state Sen. Josh Becker, focus on 'virtual power plants' by removing restrictions on consumer-owned batteries in the wholesale energy market and identifying opportunities to reduce grid spending by shifting usage to off-peak hours. Senate Bill 868, by state Sen. Scott Wiener, legalizes 'balcony solar panels' up to 1,200 watts per hom...