California 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB669

Introduced
2/19/21  
Introduced
2/19/21  
Refer
3/3/21  
Refer
3/3/21  
Failed
2/1/22  

Caption

California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: bioenergy projects.

Impact

This legislation is poised to strengthen regulations governing bioenergy procurement and aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance energy sustainability in California. The requirements compel local and publicly owned electric utilities serving over 100,000 customers to adhere to the procurement standards, thereby potentially transforming the operational landscape for electric utilities and emphasizing the importance of bioenergy in California's energy mix. The bill is also part of a broader initiative to manage the risks posed by tree mortality and its impact on energy infrastructure.

Summary

Senate Bill 669, introduced by Senator Borgeas, amends Section 399.20.3 of the California Public Utilities Code, specifically concerning the California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program. This bill mandates that electrical corporations acquire, through financial commitments spanning five years, a proportionate share of 125 megawatts of cumulative rated generating capacity generated from bioenergy projects that commenced operation prior to June 1, 2013. The emphasis on bioenergy reinforces California's commitment to renewable energy sources while ensuring that certain percentage standards for feedstock originate from specified sustainable practices.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding SB 669 relates to the definition of bioenergy and the stipulation regarding feedstock sources, particularly the emphasis on using materials from high hazard zones. This raises concerns among environmental groups regarding the potential exploitation of natural resources under the guise of bioenergy generation. Critics argue that the sourcing requirements could encourage overharvesting of forest materials and threaten biodiversity in managed areas. Furthermore, there are broader implications for how utilities balance regulatory obligations, community needs, and environmental stewardship.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB488

California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: bioenergy projects: community choice aggregators.

CA AB2750

Electricity: procurement: generation from biomass.

CA SB663

California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: renewable hydrogen.

CA AB2276

Forestry: timber harvesting plans: exemptions.

CA AB982

Public Utilities Public Purpose Programs Fund.

CA AB625

Forest biomass: management: emissions: energy.

CA SB1370

Electricity: procurement: generation from biomass.

CA SB1062

Conversion of electrical generation facilities using biomass.

CA AB324

Gas corporations: renewable gas procurement.

CA SB1342

California Environmental Quality Act: infrastructure projects: County of San Diego.

Similar Bills

CA SB1109

California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: bioenergy projects.

CA AB2750

Electricity: procurement: generation from biomass.

CA SB488

California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: bioenergy projects: community choice aggregators.

CA SB515

Public Utilities Commission: high hazard zone fuel: report.

CA AB2276

Forestry: timber harvesting plans: exemptions.

CA AB1690

Biomass electrical generation facilities: contract extension requirements.