Press Release

What’s the buzz on Mosquitos & Long Duration Energy Storage

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SACRAMENTO (4/22/24) - Today, Senator Henry Stern celebrates the successful advancement of two bills, SB 1251 (Mosquito Utility Vaults) and SB 1508 (Long Duration Energy Storage), through the Senate Energy and Utilities Committee.

California's energy grid faces increasing vulnerabilities due to extreme weather conditions, resulting in prolonged power outages. SB 1508 aims to address this challenge by requiring the California Public Utilities Commission to expand its review of energy storage technologies, to include long duration and multi-day energy storage that align with current clean energy and climate goals. By incorporating a wider range of energy storage technologies, this bill enhances grid resiliency and supports the state's transition away from fossil fuels.

Senator Stern emphasizes the importance of prioritizing energy storage to achieve California's zero-emissions objective: "If we want to continue moving towards our clean energy goals, storage must be a priority. SB 1508 supports the Governor's 2030 plan and reduces our reliance on the fossil fuel industry."

In another victory against a different kind of threat, Senator Stern's SB 1251 "Mosquito Utility Vaults," targets a pesky problem affecting communities statewide. This bill mandates investor-owned electric utilities to collaborate with mosquito abatement agencies or health departments to mitigate mosquito breeding in utility vaults.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind SB 1251, Senator Stern remarks, "Like many parents, witnessing my children suffer mosquito bites is unpleasant and can come with other diseases, I knew we had to tackle this issue head-on. Utility vaults are a breeding ground for these pests, and it's time for change."

The urgency for action comes after a survey revealing that 75% of California Mosquito and Vector Control districts report issues with mosquito production in utility vaults.

With these bills, Senator Stern reaffirms his commitment to safeguarding California's environment and public health. As the legislative journey continues, he remains steadfast in his fight against the pest: Stern 3 vs. Mosquitos 0.

More this week: Tuesday, 4/23 SB 1400 (PUBLIC SAFETY), 1444, 1421, 1504 (JUDICIARY) Wednesday, 4/24 SB 1252, 1471 (EDUCATION) Watch hearings: Senate Events | California State Senate