Judiciary Committee passes SB 540 11 to 0 vote with new amendments that further safeguard California’s clean energy leadership and consumer protections

SACRAMENTO, CA—The Judiciary Committee passed Senate Bill 540 by a vote of 11 to 0, advancing legislation that continues to balance diverse stakeholder priorities while creating a pathway to reliable and affordable clean energy. SB 540 creates a framework for regional energy coordination that expands clean energy deployment, preserves California’s clean energy goals, and protects state authority. 

“SB 540 aims to protect what makes California a leader in clean energy,” said Edson Perez, California lead at Advanced Energy United. “If implemented properly, the bill will make clean energy more affordable, reliable, and accessible, while supporting local economies by sharing locally produced clean power with neighboring states.”  

Recent amendments adopted in committee reflect the ongoing efforts to ensure the bill aligns with all stakeholders’ priorities. 

“We are encouraged to see lawmakers engaging constructively and balancing the priorities of a wide range of stakeholder interests,” said Leah Rubin Shen, Managing Director at Advanced Energy United. “This bill will strengthen California and the West’s position by building a broader market that protects state interests and fosters regional collaboration.”

In the committee hearing, the bill’s authors, Senator Becker and Stern, emphasized their commitment to continue working with stakeholders to refine the bill. The next step will be for the bill to be heard in the Appropriations Committee later in May.  

To learn more about SB 540 and how it supports locally produced power in California and the state’s clean energy future, visit localpowerpathways.com