California’s renewable energy expansion gains momentum as state fast-tracks Cornucopia Hybrid Project in Fresno, expected to create jobs and boost local economies

Fresno, California – In an ambitious move to bolster California’s renewable energy landscape, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a decisive step to expedite the development of the Cornucopia Hybrid Project in Fresno County. This clean energy venture is designed to generate 300 megawatts of solar power and an equivalent capacity of battery storage, potentially supplying electricity to approximately 300,000 homes across the region.

Governor Newsom utilized provisions from the state’s recent infrastructure legislation to fast-track this project, emphasizing the state’s commitment to its environmental and energy goals. The project’s certification under this legislation allows for a more efficient legal process, addressing and reducing typical delays caused by legal challenges.

This streamlined approach is part of California’s broader strategy to achieve 90% clean electricity by 2035 and a fully renewable energy grid by 2045. The Governor highlighted the dual benefits of this project, not only advancing California towards its clean energy targets but also stimulating economic growth through job creation and enhanced tax revenues that benefit local infrastructure and services.

The Cornucopia Hybrid Project stands out not only for its capacity to generate renewable energy but also for its strategic incorporation of battery storage. This feature is critical as it allows the storage of solar energy generated during the day to be used during peak demand times, including evenings and nights, thereby providing a consistent and reliable energy supply.

Moreover, Governor Newsom’s administration has prioritized safety, particularly concerning the battery storage component of renewable energy projects. In response to evolving technology, the state has convened a collaborative to oversee and enhance safety standards, with anticipated updates to the California Fire Code to include stricter battery energy storage system (BESS) regulations.

The legal framework facilitating this acceleration is anchored in SB 7 (2021), which permits the Governor to certify eligible clean energy projects for judicial streamlining under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This measure, extended in 2023’s SB 149, ensures that while environmental reviews remain thorough, the time-consuming litigation that can follow is curtailed. Courts are now required to resolve any CEQA challenges to such projects within 270 days when feasible.

This initiative is part of a larger legislative package signed by Governor Newsom, aimed at accelerating various critical infrastructure projects that are pivotal to California’s future in clean energy, water safety, and transportation modernization. Over the next decade, this legislative push is expected to leverage approximately $180 billion in combined state, local, and federal funds, creating around 400,000 jobs and significantly boosting the state’s infrastructure and economic landscape.

Residents interested in learning more about the ongoing and upcoming projects can visit the state’s dedicated website at build.ca.gov, providing insights into how these initiatives are shaping communities across California.

Find projects building your community at build.ca.gov.