Newsom Signed Bills to Advance Nuclear Energy
The legislation mandates new planning for fusion energy and nuclear infrastructure to reach state climate goals.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Nuclear
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Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two bills into law that task the California Energy Commission with developing nuclear fusion plans and assessing the role of nuclear power in critical infrastructure. The state aims to utilize these energy sources to reach its target of 100% zero-carbon electricity production by 2045.
Why it matters
As California works toward its ambitious 2045 zero-carbon energy goal, the state is looking to integrate both established nuclear power and emerging fusion technology into its long-term grid strategy. These legislative actions create the necessary oversight and permitting frameworks to guide that energy transition.
The state has authorized $1.6 million for initial reporting and $2 million annually for a new permitting unit. This initiative follows cost estimates for extending the Diablo Canyon plant operations, which reached $11.8 billion.
The players
Gavin Newsom
He serves as the Governor of California and signed the new nuclear energy legislation.
California Energy Commission
This state agency is tasked with overseeing the report on fusion energy and assessing nuclear infrastructure.
Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant
Located in San Luis Obispo County, it is the only remaining operational nuclear power plant in California.
The details
Senate Bill 925 requires a formal plan for fusion energy facilities to be delivered to the Legislature, while Assembly Bill 2647 mandates an assessment of nuclear energy's role in critical infrastructure. To support these mandates, the California Energy Commission will hire 14 new employees, including nine staff members for a dedicated permitting unit.
Timeline
October 2026: Governor Newsom signed the two new nuclear energy bills.
December 31, 2029: This is the deadline for the fusion energy plan report.
2030: This marks the planned end of extended operations at Diablo Canyon.
2045: California aims to reach its 100% zero-carbon energy target.
The Big Picture
The legislation follows a pattern set by California's 100% zero-carbon electricity production goals to diversify clean power sources. By formalizing studies on fusion and nuclear infrastructure, the state is shifting its focus toward high-density power to supplement intermittent renewables.
Residents may see long-term impacts on grid stability as the state investigates new energy sources to meet its 2045 targets. These legislative steps set the regulatory stage for future energy projects that could eventually alter the state's carbon footprint and power supply.
The takeaway
California is expanding its long-term energy planning to include nuclear fusion alongside its existing power infrastructure. This move reflects a broader state strategy to ensure reliable, carbon-free energy as the 2045 climate goal approaches.
Further reading
For more context on the state's energy policy, see the Nuclear section.
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Should states prioritize nuclear energy to meet long-term clean energy goals?
