NATURAL RESOURCES

By Wilmer Amina Carter

Energy Efficiencies and Water Conservation will provide future generations with a sustainable community.

Assembly Member Carter serves on the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee and the Select Committee on Renewable Energy. She serves on the Assembly Select Committee on Regional Approaches to Addressing the State's Water Crisis. Assembly Member Carter is working on two bills that would improve energy efficiency and save ratepayers money:

• AB 2061 would improve the efficiency of electricity distribution, to make sure that electricity is supplied to ratepayers in the most efficient way possible.
• AB 2132 uses existing money dedicated to energy projects to create jobs and energy savings for our community. Utilities Issues:
• Extending the Renewable Portfolio Standard to 33% by 2020 will be a primary issue. The expectation is that this year, the legislature and the governor's office will be able to develop a compromise solution that helps expand the use of renewable power, while developing California's economy and creating jobs in our state.
• There is a need to expedite the permitting process for new transmission lines and backup power plants to support renewable energy targets. In doing so, we must protect our environment and assure the reliability of our electricity grid in the most cost-effective way.
• The air quality permitting issue with South Coast Air Quality Management District must be resolved, so that needed projects can move forward and the region's air quality is protected.

• Assembly Member Carter worked hard last fall to ensure that a balanced Delta Water Package was passed and signed into law.
• Last year, she co-authored legislation to assure that California receives the most federal stimulus money possible for clean drinking water projects.
• Since then, San Bernardino County has received more than $20 million in federal stimulus funding for clean water projects.
• Assembly Member Carter continues to work with local, state, and federal agencies and stakeholders to understand their needs and to support tangible solutions to bring new projects online that enhance water supply and quality.
• In February, Assembly Member Carter helped secure financing for two water quality projects in the East Valley Water District.