Big Investment

California is investing big in energy-related innovation. The blueprint to the state's energy market is oriented towards improving efficiency, reliability and a future of clean energy for all. As the Golden State looks to support its high energy consumption and fragile grid, its initiative to incorporate flexible resources has pushed mass production and consumption of renewable energy. California is one of the few states with not only a clear goal of 100 percent renewable energy, but it also has the means to make that happen. This puts California in a unique position to lead the nation.

Why Renewables?

California's forward-thinking approach to energy incorporates a wide adoption of renewables for good reason as there are many environmental and economic benefits. In the bigger picture, generating energy from renewables contributes to the reduction of both air pollution and dependence on importing fuels. It also helps support the aging utility grid and creates jobs in manufacturing and installation.

On a micro level, incorporating renewables into an energy system can provide substantial improvements to electricity costs and resilience. Power outages in California have become a massive issue in the past couple of years, most notably due to the growing number of wildfires. As a result, Californians are leading the push for resilient energy. Independent, decentralized power across California is an important approach to maintaining energy supply during grid disruptions.

Energy Flexibility

Rebuilding grid infrastructure is an expensive proposition for the state, so an approach that supports investments in behind-the-meter energy resources is a win-win for both the aging grid and the consumer. Distributed energy resources, including renewables, can work together in a smart microgrid to create a backup supply of power that can be stored and used as needed. California offers tax incentives and self-generation programs that benefit individuals making investments in renewables and energy systems for their homes or businesses. However, the benefits being offered now are the best for the foreseeable future. They start tailing off as early as 2022, and it's not guaranteed that future administrations will implement new incentives. In addition, the earlier you tap into renewable energy, the more prepared you will be against increasing utility rates and power blackouts.

Microgrid companies such as CleanSpark make it simple for individuals to not only invest in renewables but to optimize their power. CleanSpark's residential energy system, mVoult, enables resilient, sustainable and low-cost energy, providing power when the utility grid is down, cost savings when it's up, and access to green energy sources. This system is especially helpful in areas of California that are ravaged by wildfires and blackouts. If you already have Solar installed, CleanSpark's microgrid technology is extremely flexible and can be combined with most energy brands on the market. Its modular components enable it to be configured specifically for your backup power needs as well as off-grid applications.

The Future of Energy

This is not a new concept for California. Its generation of power from renewable resources currently surpasses all other states. Most of this electricity comes from solar and wind farms, with biomass, geothermal and hydro power also making contributions. The state is easily on track to being the first in the nation with 100 percent of its energy produced by renewable energy. This achievement would be ground-breaking, especially if met by the projected convergence to electric vehicles and cleaner industry emissions. There are actions being taken to meet that goal through state legislation. The 100 Percent Clean Energy Act of 2018 aims for 60 percent renewable energy by 2030 and a 100 percent zero-carbon energy supply by 2045.

Although state regulators are spearheading California's renewable revolution, the idea of decentralizing, or having individuals take control of their own energy needs, will play a very important role in leading the state to a 100% clean future for all.