Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

Environment

California Regulators OK Closing State's Last Nuclear Plant

Diablo Canyon Power Plant's nuclear reactors in Avila Beach, Calif., Nov. 3, 2008.
Associated Press
Diablo Canyon Power Plant's nuclear reactors in Avila Beach, Calif., Nov. 3, 2008.

California utility regulators have approved an agreement to retire the state's last nuclear power plant.

The California Public Utilities Commission voted unanimously Thursday to ratify a 2016 deal to mothball the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant at San Luis Obispo.

Environmentalists and plant-owner Pacific Gas & Electric Co. have agreed that the state no longer needs the electricity from the nuclear plant. That's due in part to the growing affordability of solar and wind power, as well as natural gas.

Advertisement

Utilities Commission President Michael Picker says Diablo Canyon no longer makes economic sense.

The deal also allows PG&E to recover $241 million from ratepayers for closing the plant.

A big decision awaits some voters this July as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.