Advanced Energy Perspectives

California is on the cusp of a new wave of investments in advanced energy technologies and projects, from energy efficiency upgrades for aging school buildings to breakthroughs in low-carbon fuels.  Or at least it should be.  With revenue generated from Prop 39 and proceeds from the auction of emissions credits under AB 32, 2013 was to be the year that the state reaffirmed its leadership role in energy and climate. 

This past November, California voters overwhelmingly passed Proposition 39, which will raise an estimated $550 million a year over the next five years to underwrite energy efficiency and advanced energy projects in schools.  Savings generated by these improvements will be plowed directly back into classroom instruction, providing significant relief to cash-strapped school districts.