Key Challenges for California’s Energy Future

A primer for energy policy.

CCST consulted with policymakers and more than 30 experts across California’s preeminent academic and research institutions to identify energy issues that needed additional attention given policy conversations and their importance to California’s energy future. This process identified eight high-level key challenges, which are explored across the eight sections of this primer. These sections highlight major challenges and opportunities, environmental justice and equity considerations, and resources for more information.

This peer-reviewed energy primer begins with an “Overview of California’s Energy Transition,” prepared by the Steering Committee describing a framework for California’s energy transition and key highlights.

Sections:

1. Electrification and Grid Development
2. Utility-Scale Solar and Wind Development
3. Reliability and the Need for Clean, Firm Power
4. Decentralizing the Grid
5. Carbon Capture and Storage
6. The Future of the Natural Gas System
7. Decarbonizing Transportation
8. Cap-and-Trade

Previous Versions:

• April 2024: Updated to include key laws passed during the 2023 legislative session, more recent data (where available), and any noteworthy updates for any previously described developing situations. Download (PDF)
• June 2023: Original version. Download (PDF)