California willing to keep nuclear plant running to keep lights on

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https://www.reuters.com/world/us/california-governor-says-will-seek-out-federal-nuclear-plant-rescue-funds-2022-04-29/

California willing to keep nuclear plant running to keep lights on
By Nichola Groom
April 29, 2022 3:23 PM CDT

April 29 (Reuters) - California is open to keeping its last remaining nuclear power plant running to maintain electric reliability as it transitions away from fossil fuels, a spokesperson for Governor Gavin Newsom said on Friday.

The statement marked an about-face for the state, which has been planning since 2016 to replace Diablo Canyon's large generating capacity this decade with other carbon-free energy sources like solar, battery storage and wind.

It followed a Los Angeles Times interview with the governor published on Friday in which he said the state "would be remiss" not to apply for funding under a new $6 billion federal program aimed at helping nuclear power plants stay open.

California has a goal of producing all of its electricity from clean sources by 2045, but has faced challenges with its transition away from fossil fuels, including rolling blackouts during a summer heat wave in 2020.

Diablo Canyon provided 8.5% of California's overall power needs in 2020 and is the state's top source of emissions free electricity.


Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant, Avila Beach, Calif. AFP | Getty Images

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