California's Alternative Energy Bill

Filed in archive Renewable Energy on September 15, 2009

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An alternative energy Bill finally passed the California state legislature. GreenBeat describes the bill. It sets as goal of seeing 33% of California's energy come from renewable sources by 2020.

Opponents of the bill, SB 14, say it will require pricey construction of new power plants, transmission lines and other infrastructure (costing as much as $115 billion), forcing utilities to raise their rates and hurt consumers already grappling with a tough economy. On top of that, carving out land for renewable energy projects could instigate legal and environmental disputes. Some have even argued that the 33 percent target is infeasible.

California Governer Arnold Schwarzenegger is in favor of the 33% goal, but dislikes other portions of the bill. Number of news sources have reported his intention to veto the bill and impose the 33% goal in the form of an executive order.