LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com/AP) — Gov. Jerry Brown visited Griffith Observatory on Wednesday to sign a bill mandating for half of California’s electricity to come from renewable sources by the year 2030.
The bill, SB 350, also calls for the doubling of energy efficiency buildings.
Brown began the year setting the most aggressive greenhouse-gas emissions benchmark in North America.
In January, he outlined the plan to cut petroleum use, boost renewable electricity production and double energy efficiency in existing buildings without specifying how California could achieve those far-reaching goals during his inaugural address.
However, the bill was watered down during a state Assembly meeting in September, when officials removed a requirement to cut gasoline use by 50 percent in the next 15 years.
According to Senate President Kevin de Leon, the legislation still includes steps that “build on California’s historic commitment to lead the world in the fight against climate change and builds a healthy and livable planet for our children and grandchildren.”
Meanwhile, opposition from the oil industry has sparked debate in Sacramento in response to the changes.
Democrats have also expressed fears of possible economic fallout, while Republicans displayed concerns over increasing the cost of living.
“Out efforts to reduce carbon emissions are far from over as global warming and air pollution remain one of the most important issues of our generation and one of the greatest threats for generations to come,” added Leon.
The final bill largely defers to state regulators to implement the programs.
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