California approves Think Tank on global warming
Commission President Michael Peevey pushed the plan approved to create the California Institute for Climate Solutions. It is envisioned to bring together academic and private laboratories to quickly find ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Electric and gas utilities regulated by the state commission are to fund the program by collecting $60 million a year for 10 years. Peevey said the surcharge would add 25 to 30 cents per month to bills of the customers of private utilities such as Pacific Gas & Electric.
The commission doesn't have the authority to assess the surcharge on customers of government-owned utilities, he said.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and environmental groups supported the project, while some lawmakers and consumer groups had lined up against it, calling it an unfair tax.
The plan does not require approval of the governor or Legislature.
Under the plan, the institute must raise matching funds.
Board member John Bohn was among those wary of the plan, saying it pushes the boundaries of the board's legal jurisdiction "almost to the breaking point." But he wound up voting for it, saying it could make positive contributions.
Related News
Ukraine fights to keep the lights on as Russia hammers power plants
KYIV - Ukraine is facing an ongoing battle to maintain its electrical grid in the wake of relentless Russian attacks targeting power plants and energy infrastructure. These attacks, which have intensified in the last year, are part of Russia's broader strategy to weaken Ukraine's ability to function amid the ongoing war. Power plants, substations, and energy lines have become prime targets, with Russian forces using missiles and drones to destroy critical infrastructure, leaving millions of Ukrainians without electricity and heating during harsh winters.
The Ukrainian government and energy companies are working tirelessly to repair the damage and prevent total blackouts,…
