California renewable energy program launch delayed

(The Center Square) — A renewable energy program instituted by a 2022 law has still not been launched more than three years later, California lawmakers said during a committee hearing on Wednesday. The Assembly Energy and Utilities Committee looked at the efficacy of the legislation as part of a response to ensure previously passed laws are enforced. The law in question, Assembly Bill 2316, established a renewable energy subscription program for utility ratepayers, as well as a separate community renewable energy program. “There are a number of important policy outcomes we wanted to be able to achieve,” Assemblymember Christopher Ward, D-San Diego and author of the bill, said during Wednesday's meeting. “We wanted to make sure the California Public Utilities Commission would help us create a community renewable energy program that would prioritize access for community solar for renters and other low-income households.” The bill was intended to create a mid-scale community solar program