Bill > SB43

This bill establishes the Green Tariff Shared Renewables Program, allowing electricity customers, including large institutions like schools and governments, to subscribe to a portion of electricity generated by renewable energy facilities, even if they cannot install solar panels or other renewable sources on their own property. The program aims to expand access to renewable energy beyond the California Solar Initiative, which was limited to on-site solar installations. Key provisions include a statewide limit of 600 megawatts for customer participation, with specific allocations for disadvantaged communities, residential customers, and the City of Davis. Participating utilities must file applications with the commission for approval, and the program is designed to ensure that non-participating customers do not bear any additional costs. Participating customers will receive bill credits for the renewable energy they subscribe to, and the program will support job creation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The bill defines "eligible renewable energy resource" and "participating utility" and sets capacity limits for individual generating facilities and customer subscriptions, with exceptions for government entities. The program is set to remain in effect until January 1, 2019, unless extended by future legislation.