Assemblymember Chris Holden's proposed legislation, AB 538, has garnered significant attention and support as it seeks to establish a regional transmission system for clean energy resources in collaboration with states across the West. Although the bill was temporarily held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee, the commitment and endorsement from Governor Gavin Newsom signal a solid dedication to advancing regional collaboration efforts that will benefit the entire West.
Governor Newsom commends Assemblymember Holden for his leadership on the Western Regional Transmission Organization, acknowledging the importance of such initiatives in achieving climate goals and ensuring energy reliability. California, with its renowned grid operator, the California Independent Systems Operator (CAISO), boasts extensive experience in managing renewable resources and tracking greenhouse gas emissions. However, collaboration with other states becomes crucial to effectively plan for and deliver clean power across the Western region. Assemblymember Holden decided to put AB 538 on hold in recognition of the broad interest and enthusiasm surrounding the governance and operations of a Western regional transmission organization. This pause allows for further discussions and progress in this area, with the ultimate goal of achieving rapid advancements and paving the way for future legislative action. The establishment of a regional transmission system for clean energy resources holds immense significance in the context of addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. By collaborating with other states in the West, California can tap into a broader range of renewable resources and enhance the resilience and reliability of its energy infrastructure. Moreover, the proposed legislation aligns with Governor Newsom's commitment to a clean energy future and reflects his vision of leveraging regional cooperation to tackle shared challenges. The Governor's endorsement emphasizes the importance of ongoing work with the Legislature, California stakeholders, and other state partners in driving progress and achieving collective climate goals. With further discussions and progress in this area, the stage is set for transformative legislative action that can pave the way for a greener, more resilient future. |
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