-May 19,2022-
JANET WILSON | Palm Springs Desert Sun
California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to add up to $400 million to the 2022-23 budget to accelerate development of a potential huge global supply of lithium and clean energy at the south end of the Salton Sea, and developers there could have access to $1 billion more in “green energy” tax credits in coming years.
The multi-pronged package would fund a new Brawley college campus, aid county and private planning with grants and tax incentives, construct large new transmission lines from the Salton Sea area across the Imperial and Coachella valleys, and could create a permanent lithium production fee, with most going to local coffers. It also includes proposals to streamline geothermal permitting in “Lithium Valley,” a major development zone in Imperial County.
“Lithium Valley represents an extraordinary economic opportunity for the Imperial Valley and all of California, with the potential to power the transition to clean energy and zero-emission vehicles nationwide — and beyond,” Newsom said. “We’re doubling down on our progress with new investments to develop Lithium Valley while keeping our values of inclusive, green growth and sustainability front and center to ensure communities in the region share in the benefits.”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to add up to $400 million to the 2022-23 budget to accelerate development of a potential huge global supply of lithium and clean energy at the south end of the Salton Sea, and developers there could have access to $1 billion more in “green energy” tax credits in coming years.
The multi-pronged package would fund a new Brawley college campus, aid county and private planning with grants and tax incentives, construct large new transmission lines from the Salton Sea area across the Imperial and Coachella valleys, and could create a permanent lithium production fee, with most going to local coffers. It also includes proposals to streamline geothermal permitting in “Lithium Valley,” a major development zone in Imperial County.
“Lithium Valley represents an extraordinary economic opportunity for the Imperial Valley and all of California, with the potential to power the transition to clean energy and zero-emission vehicles nationwide — and beyond,” Newsom said. “We’re doubling down on our progress with new investments to develop Lithium Valley while keeping our values of inclusive, green growth and sustainability front and center to ensure communities in the region share in the benefits.”