Coachella Today

Assemblymember Greg Wallis has introduced a new bill aimed at addressing the rising energy costs affecting families in California. The legislation directs the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to ensure that residents have access to affordable, clean, and reliable energy options as the state transitions toward sustainability.

Wallis highlighted the state's affordability crisis, noting that "families are paying nearly double the national average for electricity." He emphasized propane as a viable solution, describing it as "a clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy solution that reduces emissions without burdening working families with higher energy bills or costly infrastructure changes."

Propane is recognized for having no methane emissions and high energy efficiency. It can also be blended with renewable propane to lower carbon intensity further. This makes it an essential energy source for communities in cold climates, rural areas, and low-income regions that often do not have access to more expensive electrification solutions.

Regional air districts such as the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and South Coast Air Quality Management District have already approved propane as an acceptable fuel source under current law. Wallis's bill seeks to extend this approval statewide.

The proposed legislation aims to provide a balanced approach that allows California to pursue its climate goals while maintaining affordability and reliability for all residents.