Bill > AB854

This bill aims to streamline environmental permitting and support California's clean energy goals by creating exemptions from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for certain renewable energy and transmission infrastructure projects. Specifically, the bill exempts three types of actions from CEQA review: (1) streambed alteration agreements, (2) incidental take permits for endangered species, and (3) waste discharge requirements, when these are related to renewable energy projects. Additionally, the bill creates a categorical exemption for transmission infrastructure projects that involve inspection, maintenance, repair, restoration, replacement, or reconductoring (upgrading wire capacity) of electrical transmission lines, provided the work occurs within an existing right-of-way and the project applicant agrees to restore the area to its original condition. If a lead agency determines a project meets these exemption criteria, they must file a notice with the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation and the county clerk. The bill is part of California's broader strategy to achieve a net-zero carbon economy by 2045, with goals of increasing renewable energy to 100% of retail electricity sales by 2045 and nearly doubling clean energy capacity within five years. By reducing regulatory barriers, the bill aims to accelerate clean energy development and reduce the cost of California's energy transition.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB854