The High Cost of Sustainability in California

SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 7, 2025 (Newswire.com) - California's electricity costs are among the highest in the nation, with residential rates rising 47% from 2019 to 2023, according to a recent report from the Legislative Analyst's Office.

As California phases out gas-powered appliances, vehicles, and infrastructure in favor of electricity, the financial burden on working-class households and small business owners will continue to grow.

"We're a recycling company, and we care about the environment. I understand the need for cleaner air, but it feels like small businesses are carrying the burden of these mandates," said Marcus Gomez, co-owner of CA Clothing Recyclers. "Lawmakers don't seem to realize how much it takes to run a business and how these policies affect us-whether it's a restaurant, a clothing exporter like me, or a gardener. These are forgotten industries, and there's a real disconnect between the work we do, and the laws being made in the capital."

Levanta Tu Voz, a Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) program, is urging policymakers to pursue energy solutions that balance sustainability with affordability for all Californians. Its latest blog post, "The Cost of Sustainability in California," highlights the cost implications of new energy mandates -asking how California plans to achieve sustainability without making life unaffordable for its residents.

"California's energy policies are important and well-intended, but it cannot come at the expense of affordability," said Argelia León, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Southwest Policy, WSPA. "California needs smart policies that support sustainability without making it harder for households already struggling with high electricity costs, high gas prices, and inflation."

Some legislators have pledged to tackle affordability while maintaining sustainability efforts, but it remains unclear how they plan to find a fair balance.

To read the full blog, learn more about Levanta Tu Voz, and understand how California's energy policies may affect you, visit https://levantatuvoz.org/.

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About Levanta Tu Voz
Levanta Tu Voz (Raise Your Voice) is a program of the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) created to empower voices of the Latino community across California. Efforts to improve air quality and fight climate change are important but will only work if the solutions are affordable for everyone. Even though Latinos will be disproportionately impacted by a rushed energy transition, Latino voices are often absent from discussions on energy and climate issues. WSPA has been working with - and listening to - the Latino community to co-create a program where Latino voices and perspectives can be part of the energy and climate conversation.

Source: Levanta Tu Voz