Critics claim deception in Calif. energy measures

SAN FRANCISCO: Californians will vote on two ballot initiatives this fall that at first glance would seem shoo-ins for approval in a state long associated with environmental activism.

The first would require utilities to generate half their electricity from renewable sources such as wind and solar. The second would provide rebates of up to $50,000 for the purchase of alternative-fuel vehicles through a $5 billion bond.

Supporters say the measures on the Nov. 4 ballot would help combat global warming and make California a leader in the alternative energy industry. Like most initiatives that wind up on the state’s ballot, however, they’re more complicated and contentious than advertised.

Opponents say they actually would undermine state efforts to promote alternative energy, add to California’s already bloated budget deficit, saddle taxpayers with billions in debt and potentially benefit a handful of companies, including one linked to Texas oilman T. Boone Pickens.

Propositions 7 and 10 are two of the most heavily contested of the 12 statewide initiatives on California’s ballot, as measured by campaign contributions.

International Herald Tribune