Opposition to Assembly Bill 303

Yesterday, Assembly Bill 303 (AB 303) was introduced in the California Assembly, and we want to make you aware of its implications and our immediate response. This bill, if passed, would impose severe restrictions on the development of battery-based energy storage systems, with significant negative consequences for California’s clean energy goals.

Key Provisions of AB 303:

• Excludes battery energy storage systems from the definition of eligible energy storage facilities under the existing CEC opt-in certification process.
• Mandates the denial of pending battery energy storage systems applications at the CEC as of the bill’s effective date.
• Prohibits the development of battery energy storage systems capable of storing 200 megawatt-hours (MWh) or more if the project is:
  
  • Within 3,200 feet of a sensitive receptor (e.g., residential areas, schools, or hospitals).
  • Located on a broadly-defined environmentally sensitive site.

While we sympathize with public concerns regarding safety and environmental impacts, we strongly oppose AB 303. This legislation is excessive and does nothing to enhance public safety. Instead, it creates unnecessary barriers to the deployment of critical energy storage systems needed to stabilize our grid and support California’s transition to a clean energy future.

Why This Matters: Energy storage systems are a cornerstone of California’s efforts to integrate renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance grid reliability. AB 303 undermines these objectives by:

• Severely limiting the development of large-scale battery storage projects.
• Setting a precedent for exclusionary policies that could stall innovation and investment in the energy storage sector.

CESA’s Position: CESA stands firmly against AB 303. We will advocate strongly to ensure that legislators understand the detrimental impacts this bill would have on California’s clean energy and climate goals. Public safety and environmental protection can be addressed through thoughtful regulation and collaboration with the energy storage industry—not sweeping restrictions passed in the immediate aftermath of the Moss Landing incident.

How You Can Help: We urge all members to act by contacting your local Assembly representatives to express opposition to AB 303. Additionally, please share this announcement within your networks to raise awareness about the potential consequences of this bill.
 
CESA will keep you updated on any developments regarding AB 303 and our advocacy efforts. Thank you for your continued support in advancing California’s energy storage and clean energy future.