California Renewables Portfolio Standard Program: bioenergy projects.
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.
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.
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.