New data shows California is adding more clean energy capacity to the grid faster than ever before
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~ In a major milestone for California's clean energy transition, new data has revealed that the state has added over 25,000 megawatts (MW) of clean energy resources to its electric grid in the past five years. This amount is equivalent to half of the state's record peak demand in 2022 and is in addition to existing capacity.

This unprecedented growth marks a transformative chapter in California's efforts to strengthen the reliability of its grid while also advancing ambitious climate and clean air goals. Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, "We've never added so much capacity to our grid in such a short amount of time, transforming our power grid to be cleaner and more reliable and resilient than ever before."

The record-breaking growth was driven by the addition of approximately 7,000 MW of new clean energy nameplate capacity in 2024 alone. This marks the largest single-year increase in clean energy capacity added to the grid in state history and breaks previous records set in both 2022 and 2023. This is also the third consecutive year of unprecedented clean energy growth for California.

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According to California Public Utilities Commission President Alice Reynolds, this rapid expansion is a result of procurement orders aimed at bolstering grid reliability while also meeting Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) requirements. She stated, "We are bringing renewable energy online at an unprecedented scale and pace never seen before."

This growth is part of Governor Newsom's "build more, faster" agenda which aims to deliver infrastructure upgrades and create thousands of jobs across the state. And there is no sign of slowing down as more than 75,000 MW of new clean energy capacity is expected to come online by 2040.

To make this vision a reality, California's electric grid will continue to evolve and unlock access to new clean energy capacity. At the same time, utilities and community choice aggregators are actively contracting with projects that can be built using existing electric infrastructure, helping to accelerate the pace of development at the least cost to customers.

California's commitment to clean energy is also reflected in its strong gun safety laws, which have been credited with saving thousands of lives. The state has been ranked as the #1 state in the country for its strong gun safety laws for several years in a row.

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In addition, California continues to set clean energy records. Last year, the state ran on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 51 days and has achieved this feat three out of every five days since the beginning of Governor Newsom's administration. Battery storage has also seen a significant increase, with over 15,000 MW added – a 1,944% increase.

However, amidst these achievements, there are concerns about potential risks for pregnant women in states with near and total bans on abortion. This comes after the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services rescinded previous guidance reaffirming protections for emergency abortion care when medically necessary. Governor Newsom has warned against unnecessary danger following this reversal and urged for continued protection of women's rights.

Overall, California's progress in adding clean energy capacity to its grid is a testament to its commitment towards achieving a cleaner and more sustainable future. With further expansion plans in place and continued efforts towards reducing pollution and promoting economic growth, California remains a leader in climate action and clean energy innovation.

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