CMUA policy paper recommends key principles for California's 100% clean energy transition
Thursday, February 3, 2022
Section: CMUA News


For Immediate Release

Contact: Matt Williams, Communications Director mwilliams@cmua.org | Cell/Text: (916) 841-4054
(Sacramento, Calif.; February 3, 2022) — Reliability, affordability and other essential ingredients are needed for success as California’s electric sector continues to lead decarbonization efforts, according to a new policy paper from the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA).

California is becoming more reliant on the electric grid to achieve its overall climate goals, so preserving the affordability and reliability of electric service — in a way that is predictable yet flexible for utilities — are increasingly important priorities, especially as the transition to 100% clean energy continues.

“If California is going to successfully reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the economy — from sources like vehicle tailpipe emissions —  it’s vital that we get implementation of California’s 100% clean energy right,” said Patrick Welch, CMUA senior director of energy policy and strategy. Job #1 is making sure the people of California can afford their power bills and the lights stay on 24/7. Balancing these efforts is not easy, and requires thoughtful collaboration and planning.”

Powering California’s Future with Clean, Affordable and Reliable Energy: Four Principles for Success explains why it is important that policymakers recognize these key principles when considering new laws and regulations that would impact the electric sector.

The policy paper also highlights how publicly owned electric utilities in California are advancing clean energy solutions in their communities and why statewide coordination is needed to deliver on clean energy and climate goals.

With major contributions from publicly owned electric utilities, California’s electric sector is leading the state’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, having reduced emissions by more than 40% since 2006, more than any other sector.

“In addressing climate change, California’s leadership is clear, but implementing decarbonization technologies can be a bumpy road when it comes to reliability and affordability,” said Barry Moline, CMUA executive director. “CMUA’s policy principles for clean energy will get us down that road faster and with a solid foundation of outstanding service to the people of California.”

View an executive summary and FAQ for more information about CMUA’s clean energy principles.

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About CMUA

The California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA) is the leading voice for California utilities, enhancing our communities. CMUA partners with community owned utilities to support reliable, sustainable, and affordable services to all Californians through advocacy, education and relationships. Together, CMUA members provide water service to about 75 percent of Californians and electric service to 25 percent of the state. For more information about CMUA, visit www.cmua.org.