Sen. Stern presented SB 453 to transfer or make available previously authorized microgrid funding so communities at high risk of outages and wildfire impacts can use those dollars before the funds revert. The bill is narrowly focused on enabling already-authorized, ratepayer-funded microgrid grants to be spent rather than returning unspent money.

Supporters including cities, counties and community groups urged passage to protect medically dependent residents and vulnerable communities that experienced prolonged public-safety power shutoffs (PSPS). Utilities expressed a "concerned" or "oppose unless amended" posture where projects are already underway and asked clarifying language about timelines and awards in flight; the committee accepted amendments and advanced the measure to Appropriations as amended.

Why it matters: Microgrids are cited by proponents as a resilience tool for communities that have been repeatedly affected by outages. SB 453 aims to ensure previously allocated funds are available to build local resilience projects before they revert or expire.

Key testimony: The author said the bill helps deploy allocated funds to communities that have repeatedly lost power; Los Angeles County and other local governments and nonprofits testified in support. Utility witnesses said they appreciate the intent but asked for clarity about the timeline for projects already awarded.

Ending: Committee adopted the author's amendments and moved SB 453 to Appropriations; the author said stakeholders will continue technical work over the summer.