California needs a better plan to achieve ambitious clean energy goals

California has set ambitious goals to fight climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector. But, as the old saying goes, a goal without a plan is just a wish. Current state law calls for 60 percent of our energy to come from renewables by 2030, and for 100 percent clean energy by 2045. This builds upon earlier legislation that required half of our electricity to come from renewables by 2030. The state Legislature has set the destination but left it to state agencies to figure out the best route to reach it. These goals are much more than just numbers on paper. Our ability – or failure – to meet them will have a real impact on the daily lives of all who call California home. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is about cleaning up our air, lowering health costs and creating a more productive society.