California Sets Nation's Highest Renewable Power Goals

MILPITAS, Calif. (AP) -- Gov. Jerry Brown has signed legislation requiring California utilities to get one-third of their power from renewable sources, giving the state the most aggressive alternative energy mandate in the U.S.

   California utilities and other electricity providers have until the end of 2020 to draw 33 percent of their power from solar panels, windmills and other renewable sources. Brown signed the bill Tuesday at a solar panel manufacturing plant near San Jose.

   Supporters say the increase from the previous law that required 20 percent renewable power will reassure investors and keep money flowing to develop alternative energy sources. They say that will lead to cleaner air and job growth in the clean-energy sector.

   Manufacturers and other critics say the higher standard will drive up electricity costs and hurt business competitiveness.

   (Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)