After nearly a decade since the Aliso Canyon natural gas leak, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) voted to keep the facility open despite ongoing concerns and health risks for nearby residents. The decision, backed by a 4-0 vote with one commissioner recusing himself, has drawn criticism from environmentalists and residents who have long been advocating for the facility’s closure. The CPUC’s decision, which includes a natural gas peak day demand target, aims to eventually reduce or eliminate reliance on Aliso Canyon. However, opponents argue that this proposal will only prolong the facility’s operation for potentially another decade or longer. Even after Governor Gavin Newsom’s directive in 2019 to expedite the closure, Aliso Canyon continues to operate, leading to disappointment and frustration among residents and activists. While the governor emphasized the importance of closing Aliso Canyon permanently, he also stressed the need for reliable energy and affordability for consumers. The debate over the future of Aliso Canyon highlights the ongoing struggle between environmental concerns and energy reliability in California.
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Daily News reports that the state body has decided to keep the Aliso Canyon gas storage facility open for the time being
