California Sets Goal of 100 Percent Renewable Energy by 2045

Monica Sanchez | September 10, 2018
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California Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday signed a "clean electricity bill" committing the state to having 100 percent of its energy come from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar by 2045.  

“SB 100 advances the state’s existing Renewables Portfolio Standard, which establishes how much of the electricity system should be powered from renewable energy resources, to 50 percent by 2025 and 60 percent by 2030,” according to a press release. “It also puts California on the bold path to implement a zero-carbon electricity grid by 2045.”

“The state will reach its goals with continued significant reductions of carbon pollution and increased carbon sequestration in forests, soils and other natural landscapes and programs focused on improving air quality and public health, especially in California’s most impacted communities,” the press release goes on. “With Governor Brown’s order, California establishes the most ambitious carbon neutrality commitment of any major economic jurisdiction in the world – of more than 20 countries and at least 40 cities, states and provinces planning to go carbon neutral by mid-century or sooner.”

Gov. Brown in a statement said that the bill puts “California on a path to meet the goals of Paris and beyond,” spiting President Trump who pulled the U.S. out of the Paris climate agreement last year.  

“It’s not going to be easy and will not be immediate, but it must be done,” Brown said. “California is committed to doing whatever is necessary to meet the existential threat of climate change.”

Brown signed the bill just days ahead of a climate change summit he will be hosting in San Francisco.

"It’s merely a goal, with no mandate or penalty for falling short," reports CBS San Francisco.

Brown said he will be signing other bills with the same or similar objectives this week.

(Cover Photo: Flickr - CARB)

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