California has been working to implement its current 2020 GHG reduction goals, and we have made great progress. But at the same time, we are also now able to see the consequences on consumers and our economy – both intended and unintended – of the many different programs and mandates put in place. With the Governor’s announcement of the new 40 percent reduction target, we are now entering a new period of legislative and regulatory uncertainty regarding objectives and costs.
Given our current reductions, can we achieve the new 40 percent reduction targets for 2030? If so, how much will it cost low income and middle class working families and the business community? Is this a plan where other states and jurisdictions will follow California’s lead on an even more ambitious goal?
The next generation climate change policy must ensure affordable energy costs for all Californians. We look forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature on the flexibility needed in the current and future policies to ensure affordability and achieve the GHG reduction goals.
That is the only way that we can protect our economy and our communities, and ensure that other states will be similarly motivated to reduce their emissions and join in the effort to fight this global problem.