US: Wind energy industry applauds California’s move toward 50% renewable energy by 2030

The American wind energy industry hailed California’s intention to get half its electricity from zero-carbon renewable sources within 15 years as it steps up its efforts to fight climate change, saying wind can help get the job done while protecting consumers from energy price spikes.

A more diverse energy supply for the world's eighth largest economy will also improve air quality, conserve water, and address the risk of rising fuel prices by locking in more low-cost energy for the long term. The costs of both wind and solar power have plummeted in recent years.

The California Assembly passed landmark legislation today that by 2030 will increase the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to 50 percent renewably generated electricity, from the previous 33 percent, as well as double energy efficiency. SB 350, authored by Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, now goes to the state Senate with the support of Gov. Jerry Brown. 

Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association, responded:

“We applaud Sen. de Leon and the Assembly for raising the bar in their fight to cut carbon pollution. The current 33 percent RPS has already led to significant job creation and improvements in air quality. These benefits are now certain to continue, as wind is among the biggest, fastest, cheapest options for states seeking to reduce carbon pollution, while protecting consumers with low prices locked in for 20 years or more. SB 350 is a giant step forward, and the wind energy industry looks forward to final passage and to helping California and the rest of the states reach their environmental goals.”

Importantly, SB 350 contains a strong directive for California to continue promoting regional cooperation with neighboring states and utilities – providing California customers access to broader regional energy markets that will help lower prices.  

“We fully support a more efficient energy market in the West,” said Kiernan. “It would let California trade energy surpluses and deficits with its neighbors in a real-time market, while at the same time lowering costs for California consumers by improving access to the region’s geographic diversity of renewable energy, including wind power.”