An initiative proposed for the November 2008 ballot would more than double current state requirements for investor-owned utilities’ renewables portfolio. Its also would require that half of the municipal utilities energy portfolios consist of wind, solar, geothermal, and other non-fossil-fueled generation projects. Organized by former San Francisco supervisor Jim Gonzalez, the Solar and Clean Energy Act of 2008 also would cap energy prices to consumers, which would rise as a result of new procurement. It contains an off ramp for utilities too--that is, if the cost of renewable power is more than 10 percent of the market price for power, utilities would not be required to contract for renewables. While it sounds like an environmentalist’s dream, renewable advocates weighing in early on the initiative have reservations. Some of the major organizations uncomfortable with the initiative include the Union of Concerned Scientists, Environment California, and the League of Conservation Voters. The Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technology questions the initiative’s requirement for new transmission payment methods and its jurisdiction. The group considers problematic the initiative’s plan for renewable energy “zones,” in which developments would be fast tracked, like a solar zone in the southern desert. The group also claims that the “must buy” portion of the initiative for renewables ignores energy efficiency as a priority. The California Public Utilities Commission would have to vote on whether to endorse the initiative, according to Randy Wu, commission counsel. He expects it to come before the panel early next year. The California Independent System Operator supports the current 20 percent renewables portfolio requirement, according to spokesperson Gregg Fishman, but has not taken a stand on the initiative. The California Energy Commission had not taken a position as of press time. Gonzalez did not return inquiries about the campaign by press time. The campaign’s website, solarandcleanenergy.org, exhibits a letter from him saying, “The proposition will dramatically increase and promote the use of sustainable and clean energy.” The financial underwriter, John Sperling, also did not return inquiries. According to environmental organizations, he has not responded to their requests to meet and organize support for the initiative. Sperling is noted for heading up Phoenix University. Some of the details of the initiative include: -Having the California Energy Commission set a market price for energy, including the cost of greenhouse gases. -Permitting 20-year contracts for renewables. -Allowing retail sellers to pass through construction costs for transmission if they are unable to obtain recovery through Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. -Fast tracking development in certain geographical zones. -Not requiring utilities to contract if power prices are over 10 percent of market price.