For Immediate Release: February 17, 2021
SACRAMENTO – California Energy Commissioner Karen Douglas released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Interior's decision to revoke amendments to the Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP) filed by the Trump Administration last month.
"We are pleased to learn that the Department of Interior has restored the Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan by terminating a last-minute attempt by the previous administration to unilaterally amend it," said Douglas. "Today's action means these valued public lands will continue to be protected while ensuring renewable energy projects needed to achieve California’s 100 percent clean electricity target can be developed responsibly. We are excited to have the opportunity to work with the Biden administration on a range of climate and renewable energy issues to boost the nation's economic recovery while working to achieve our mutual environmental goals."
The DRECP was developed by the CEC, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The comprehensive plan identifies areas in the desert appropriate for the utility-scale development of wind, solar, and geothermal energy projects. It also provides for the long-term conservation and management of covered species and preserves the natural resources, recreational areas, and scenic values of the desert.
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About the California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission is leading the state to a 100 percent clean energy future. It has seven core responsibilities: developing renewable energy, transforming transportation increasing energy efficiency, investing in energy innovation, advancing state energy policy, certifying thermal power plants, and preparing for energy emergencies.