SACRAMENTO – Today, Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) issued the following statement after the Assembly passed Assembly Bill 1016, a pilot program aimed at increasing the generating capacity of geothermal power plants eligible for local permitting:
“AB 1016 is a game-changer for Imperial County and region, where unemployment remains the highest in the state. By expanding local permitting for geothermal power, this bill will bring much-needed jobs, support our schools, and generate revenue for local governments—all while advancing California’s clean energy goals. It’s a practical, community-driven solution that strengthens both our economy and our grid.”
AB 1016 increases the generating capacity threshold for geothermal projects that qualify for streamlined local permitting. This change recognizes the decades of proven clean energy development in Imperial County and empowers local communities to responsibly manage and benefit from clean energy innovation.
AB 1016 now heads to the State Senate for further consideration.
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