SACRAMENTO – Today, Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) issued the following statement after AB 1016 passed out of the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee:
“I am thrilled to see AB 1016 advance out of committee. This is a critical step toward unlocking California’s geothermal potential, empowering communities like Imperial County to lead in building our clean energy future and creating the quality-paying jobs our region urgently needs,” said Gonzalez.
AB 1016 increases the generating capacity of geothermal power plants eligible for local permitting—recognizing the decades of proven expertise in regions like Imperial County in managing clean energy development responsibly. With an unemployment rate of 17.2%—the highest in the state—this bill opens the door to new jobs, stronger schools, and vital revenue for local governments.
By streamlining the path for clean, reliable base-load power, AB 1016 positions Imperial County to become a hub of clean energy innovation and workforce development, while enforcing California’s climate and energy goals. This is community-driven progress that puts people to work, strengthens our grid, and builds a more resilient, sustainable future for all Californians.
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