Governor Gavin Newsom has released a report aimed at addressing a host of wildfire problems in California, while tying the problem directly to climate change.
"If anyone is wondering if climate change is real, come to California and experience what we've had to experience over the course of the decade or so," said Newsom during a Friday news conference at the California Office of Emergency Services in Rancho Cordova. "We are in a very precarious state, literally and figuratively, and it requires us to adapt."
The nearly 60-page report looks at how the state may keep investor-owned utilities financially sound while also ensuring customers get safe and affordable power.
The recommendations in the report put together by the Governor's new "strike team" include the creation of a state-run power purchasing entity, changing the standards that make utilities pay for wildfire damages, and discouraging new housing development in areas of California considered to be at high-risk for wildfire.
On the other hand, the report does not offer direction on what actions the state should pursue to achieve the stated goals.
California has suffered two of its deadliest and most destructive wildfire seasons in recent years and lawmakers have struggled with how to distribute the costs.
The report, “Wildfires and Climate Change: California’s Energy Future,” can be read by clicking here.