September 20, 2002—California Governor Gray Davis recently signed four bills that will promote the use of solar power and protect California’s energy market.
A.B. 1881 expands on the definition of “solar energy equipment” to make solar and heating technologies eligible for installation on, or near, new state buildings and parking facilities. Under current law, “solar energy equipment” is defined as a provider for the collection, conversion, storage, or control of solar energy for electricity generation. This bill expands the definition for the purpose of including solar thermal energy that heats water, but does not necessarily generate electricity.
S.B. 1534 updates the safety and performance standards for solar energy systems that produce electricity. Specifically, this bill requires that solar energy systems for sale in California be certified by the Solar Rating Certification Corporation, as well as meet all of the applicable safety and performance standards established by the National Electrical Code and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, among others.
S.B. 1269 requires power plant developers of projects whose applications are complete after January 1, 2003, to begin construction within one year of receiving their certification to construct and operate a power plant from the California Energy Commission. There is some concern that companies are in financial trouble, cannot borrow money and are ceasing construction on projects already underway and attempting to sell assets to reduce their debt and avoid bankruptcy. This bill ensures that there is a safety net for those plants already sited by the Energy Commission by allowing the Power Authority to take over the permits in order to complete the project.
S.B. 1389 restructures California’s energy markets, based on the results of the California Energy Commission’s policy, forecasting, and data collection responsibilities. These changes eliminate obsolete requirements and replace them with relevant, timely, and efficient standards put forth by the Governor and the State Legislature.
For more information, contact the California Energy Commission.
