Advanced Energy Buyers Group Applauds Governor Brown’s Signing of California Law Expanding Customer Choice

SACRAMENTO, Sept. 20, 2018 – Today, the Advanced Energy Buyers Group (AE Buyers Group) applauded California Governor Brown’s decision to sign SB 237*, a bill passed by the state legislature to expand California’s Direct Access market. Specifically, the law would raise the annual cap of the state’s Direct Access market by an additional 4,000 GWh by next June, and would require the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to provide recommendations to the legislature regarding a second reopening schedule for the Direct Access market. Authored by Senator Robert Hertzberg, this bill would provide California businesses with additional choice and control when it comes to their electricity use. California’s Direct Access program allows customers the option to purchase electricity from a competitive provider called an Electric Service Provider (ESP). 

“We applaud the governor for recognizing that expanding California’s direct access market is a priority for businesses located in the state, and for those looking to move in,” said Caitlin Marquis, Manager of Policy for the Advanced Energy Buyers Group, a coalition of large energy users. “As large corporations such as members of the Advanced Energy Buyers Group increasingly move toward renewable and other advanced energy technologies, an expanded direct access market can accelerate California’s progress toward clean, secure, and affordable electricity while also meeting business needs. California’s Direct Access market has had a waiting list for years, and the passage of SB 237 is an important first step toward providing businesses the options they want to pursue advanced energy resources to meet their needs.”

The AE Buyers Group weighed in with the legislature and with the Governor in support of the bill. The AE Buyers Group also remains actively engaged in discussions at the CPUC around customer choice, the topic of a years-long CPUC investigation that is still ongoing. 

*Note: Access the latest bill language and action including votes, via AEE’s PowerSuite Tool with a trial subscription. Complimentary permanent access available for credentialed press.

About the Advanced Energy Buyers Group
The Advanced Energy Buyers Group is a business-led coalition of large energy users engaging on policies to expand their opportunities to procure energy that is secure, clean, and affordable. Members of the Advanced Energy Buyers Group are leading companies and organizations spanning a range of market sectors, including technology, retail, education, and manufacturing. AE Buyers Group members share a common interest in expanding their use of advanced energy, with the goal of becoming more competitive, resilient, and sustainable enterprises far into the future. The Advanced Energy Buyers Group is convened and facilitated by Advanced Energy Economy (AEE), a national business association of advanced energy companies.

Media Contact:
Monique Hanis, mhanis@aee.net, 202-391-0884 (O), 202-236-8220 (C)