California Vows To Use 100% Carbon-Free Energy By 2045

California has approved an expedited plan to transition the state to renewable energy, introducing a carbon-free energy goal with a 2045 deadline. Under Senate Bill 100, which was signed by California Governor Jerry Brown, the state will adopt wind, solar, and similar renewable energy sources at an increased rate, offering its own regional action against climate change.

Under its new plan, all retail electricity use in the state of California will need to be carbon-free by the year 2045. Only Hawaii rivals the state in its aggressive move to tackle climate change, something that will require considerable, sustained effort. Brown touched on that topic, saying during the signing ceremony:

It's not going to be easy. It will not be immediate. But it must be done. California is committed to doing whatever is necessary to meet the existential threat of climate change.

Labor unions, oil companies, and more challenged the legislation, which was introduced in 2017. Critics argued against Senate Bill 100 on the grounds of increased electricity prices for residents and a loss of jobs for people working in the fossil fuel industry. Regardless, proponents have billed the legislation as a necessary step for reducing emissions that are fueling climate change.

Some of California's existing green goals are already ahead of schedule. A mandate for the state's big utility companies to get around 30% of their electricity from renewable projects has already been reached approximately two years before the 2020 deadline. Additional stepping stone goals are presented by SB 100 that will culminate in a completely carbon-free energy profile by 2045.

SOURCE: Sacramento Bee