On a High Note: California Energy is Getting Cleaner

California Energy is Getting Cleaner

For a moment earlier this month on April 3rd, California caught a glimpse into the clean-energy, carbon-free future when the state’s main electricity grid ran on over 97% renewable energy and broke the record set a week prior. According to Bloomberg, California’s goal to have a completely clean energy grid within the next 25 years is appearing more feasible than ever.

Elliot Mainzer, California Independent Systems Operator (ISO) President and CEO, emphasized the significance of this moment, stating that "while these all-time highs are for a brief time, they solidly demonstrate the advances being made to reliably achieve clean energy goals… These moments help crystallize the vision of the modern, efficient and sustainable grid of the future.”

Due to moderate temperatures, high wind speeds, and optimal sun, renewable energy usage is typically higher in the Spring. With California’s grid receiving 15,000 megawatts (MW) of solar and 8,000 MW of wind with more on the way, the state can expect its clean energy trajectory to continue.

California’s grid could provide a blueprint for the nation, where clean energy is already on the rise. The country achieved over 200 GW of total operating utility-scale clean power capacity in 2021, and more projects are underway. The New York Bight, for example, is on track to become home to a massive offshore wind farm.

CBS: California ahead of clean energy goals, March 11, 2022.

NJ Spotlight News: Clean-energy advocates cheer latest offshore wind leases, February 28, 2022.

TODAY: Off-Shore Wind Farms Provide Promising Roadmap For More Clean Energy, September 19, 2021.