California lawmakers have advanced a bill aimed at expanding the use of biomass as an alternative to open pile burning, with recent amendments designed to address air quality and public health concerns.
The legislation, which passed the state Assembly this week, now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
The bill is intended to reduce wildfire risk and harmful smoke emissions by encouraging the use of forest waste for energy production rather than burning it in open piles.
Supporters argue that this not only cuts air pollution but also creates opportunities for renewable energy development across the state.
Amendments added to the bill tighten emissions standards for biomass facilities, require expanded air quality monitoring in nearby communities and mandate regular emissions reporting from operators.
These updates aim to strike a balance between environmental protection and the need for better forest management tools.
Some lawmakers and environmental advocates remain concerned about the potential health impacts of biomass energy, particularly related to fine particulate matter.
However, the added safeguards were seen as a necessary compromise to maintain momentum behind the legislation.
If the bill becomes law, it could increase demand for biomass feedstock, especially from forest management operations, while also imposing new regulatory requirements on facility operators.
The legislation represents a key development in California’s approach to wildfire mitigation, clean energy, and air quality.
The Senate is expected to take up the bill in the coming weeks.
California advances biomass bill with new safeguards
