SB 254 could save Californians billions—and strengthen the grid

Updates to the grid are on their way! California just passed a bill to keep electricity affordable and clean, and lower wildfire risk at the same time. The Clean Air Task Force called SB 254 a “landmark” piece of legislation, and a “huge win” for ratepayers and the climate—this is a major accomplishment!

The grid is the backbone of the electricity system. With the passage of my bill, SB 254, California is making sure we’re building out the grid in a way that’s more affordable and safe than ever. 

One major piece of SB 254 establishes a mechanism for the state to partner with transmission developers to lower the cost of future transmission buildout with more cost-effective ownership structures and financing methods. Transmission infrastructure is a vital piece of the transition to 100% clean energy, and analysis from the Clean Air Task Force and Net Zero California found that public/private partnerships like this can save electricity ratepayers up to $3 billion annually.

The legislation also includes provisions for optimizing our wildfire mitigation efforts. As megafires become increasingly prevalent in California, it is crucial to ensure that we use the most cost-effective techniques to reduce the risk of electric transmission infrastructure sparking fires, making our dollars go as far as possible to minimize fire risk while keeping electricity rates affordable. 

There is no silver bullet that will dramatically lower electricity rates, but I’m happy every time we can find ways like these to deliver safe, clean, and reliable power more effectively. And wins like SB 254 are proof that that progress is possible!