Water supply planning: California Environmental Quality Act: photovoltaic or wind energy generation facility.
Impact
The implications of AB 594 extend to how local agencies handle water supply assessments for renewable energy projects. Under existing law, cities and counties must identify public water systems for projects with significant water demands. By exempting smaller photovoltaic and wind projects from these requirements, the bill alleviates some of the administrative load on local governments, allowing them to focus on larger developments that could have a more substantial environmental impact. This legislative change could encourage the growth of renewable energy infrastructure in California, supporting the state's goals for sustainability and reducing the environmental footprint.
Summary
Assembly Bill 594, introduced by Assembly Member Irwin, seeks to amend and repeal Section 10912 of the Water Code, which relates to water supply planning specifically for photovoltaic and wind energy generation facilities. The bill proposes to indefinitely exempt facilities that demand no more than 50 acre-feet of water annually from the definition of a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This change is significant as it allows for certain renewable energy projects to proceed without the burden of the water supply assessment requirements that typically apply to larger developments, aiming to streamline the approval process and promote clean energy generation in California.
Contention
However, the bill has generated discussion concerning the balance between facilitating renewable energy development and ensuring adequate water resource management in a state that frequently faces water shortages. Critics may argue that exempting even small renewable projects from detailed assessments could contribute to unaddressed water resource concerns in local communities. Therefore, while proponents of AB 594 view it as a necessary measure for economic and environmental advancement, opponents highlight the potential risks involved in relaxing regulatory oversight for water usage, raising questions about resource sustainability and long-term environmental policies.
Amends tax law on renewable energy products to exempt certain additional products from sales tax including battery energy storage system equipment, if supplied by a manufacturer of solar photovoltaic equipment.