Today’s passage of SBX1-2 by the California State Assembly is “a major boost” for jobs, clean energy and the state’s economy, says the Independent Energy Producers (IEP) “We appreciate the support of the renewable energy developers, environmentalists, labor and health organizations who worked tirelessly for this victory.” SBX1-2 by Senator Joe Simitian (D–Palo Alto) requires that 33 percent of the state’s energy come from renewable sources by 2020. Previously, the goal was 20 percent by 2010.
“This landmark legislation will help put Californians back to work and provide the clean electricity needed to power our economy into the future,” said Jan Smutny-Jones, Executive Director of IEP California. “The jobs and investment created by SBX1-2 are a major boost for our economy — and a signal to the nation that California is still the innovative leader when it comes to clean, green energy.”While increasing the amount of energy from renewable sources, SBX1-2 also protects system reliability, fosters resource diversity, and produces the greatest environmental benefits for California residents. Over 45 energy, labor, environmental and health organizations joined IEP in supporting SBX1-2, including the California Wind Energy Association, AFSCME, Sierra Club California and the American Lung Association of California.“SBX1-2 will generate billions of dollars in investment, create thousands of jobs and foster local economic development,” said Smutny-Jones. “We appreciate the support of the renewable energy developers, environmentalists, labor and health organizations who worked tirelessly for this victory.”
IEP is California’s largest association of electricity generators, representing over 26,000 MWs of power or about one-half of California’s peak needs — about eighty percent of the renewable energy being delivered in California.