Regulators voted to keep the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility open for a while longer, despite objections from activists and residents who wanted it closed sooner. The California Public Utilities Commission approved a plan to gradually wind down the facility as the demand for natural gas decreases in the future. This decision was made in San Francisco, where many people protested outside the meeting. The commission heard from nearly 80 individuals during a public comment period.
The Aliso Canyon facility, owned by Southern California Gas Co., experienced a massive methane leak in 2015, forcing thousands of families to evacuate. The approved plan aims to close the facility once the demand for natural gas drops to a level where it can be served without using Aliso Canyon.
Governor Gavin Newsom supports the closure of Aliso Canyon but wants to ensure that utility bills remain affordable. The commission believes that as the state transitions to renewable energy sources, the demand for natural gas will decrease. The plan includes regular assessments to monitor the progress and ensure that the closure does not impact the reliability of natural gas or rates.
Despite concerns from activists and residents, the commission’s decision to keep Aliso Canyon open for now is based on the current demand for natural gas in California. The plan allows for incremental reductions and regular assessments to eventually close the facility. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition away from Aliso Canyon without causing disruptions in the energy market.
While some believe that Aliso Canyon should have been closed sooner, the commission’s plan aims to balance the need for reliable energy with the concerns of residents. The decision to keep Aliso Canyon open is based on current demand and projections for the future. The commission will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments as needed.
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