Amid a legal fight over California’s power to regulate car and truck pollution, state agencies are suggesting policies that need stable funding, legislative action or lengthy rulemaking.
Alejandro Lazo / CalMatters
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Newsom warms to Big Oil in climate reversal
After years of cracking down on California’s oil industry, Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislative Democrats are moving to get Kern County wells pumping again to avoid soaring gasoline prices.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California cut coal from its energy supply. Why it might plug back into fossil fuels
With electricity prices rising and pressure to keep the lights on, California is racing to create an expanded power market with other Western utilities to trade vast amounts of electricity.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California’s wind and solar projects face new federal hurdles
Clean-energy projects have new deadlines for federal tax credits and limits on foreign parts, taking aim at California’s climate agenda. Eleven major solar projects and one onshore wind project now face potential delays or cancellation.
Posted inHousing & Development
In a boon to developers, California budget includes sweeping rollback to CEQA environmental laws
Major changes to the California Environmental Quality Act include an exemption for high-tech industrial plants and other projects. The move, fast-tracked under pressure from Gov. Gavin Newsom, sparked fierce pushback from environmental, community and labor groups.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Controversial climate rule, which could raise gas prices, about to go into effect
No immediate hike in California gas prices will occur, but Democrats and Republicans in the Legislature fear the effects of the clean-fuel program.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
U.S. Senate blocks California’s electric car mandate in historic vote
Thursday’s vote in Washington could upend California’s phaseout of gas-powered cars and its decadeslong battle against air pollution. Some experts say Congress’ move is illegal and is likely to trigger a court battle.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California withdraws diesel truck ban, other clean-air rules as Trump prepares to take office
Because Donald Trump’s incoming administration is unlikely to approve them, California has no choice but to abandon its groundbreaking rules for zero-emission trucks and cleaner locomotives.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Californians pay billions for power companies’ wildfire prevention efforts. Are they cost-effective?
After utility equipment sparked tragic wildfires, Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric received state approval to collect $27 billion from ratepayers. As California electric bills soar, questions have emerged about oversight and costs.
Posted inLatest News
California’s plan to overhaul a key climate program — raising the cost of gas — ignites debate
In November, California’s state air board will vote on changes to its landmark clean fuel program that would cut more greenhouse gases but could raise the cost of gas and diesel.