Full Breakdown
Criticism Mounts Over Newsom's Clean Energy Pact with the UK
2/17/2026, 3:43:56 AM
Overview of the Clean Energy Pact
California Governor Gavin Newsom's recent memorandum of understanding with U.K. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has sparked significant criticism. The pact, signed on February 16, 2026, aims to enhance collaboration on climate change initiatives and involves nearly a billion dollars in investments in clean technology projects from the U.K. energy company, Octopus. Critics argue that this agreement exemplifies California's ongoing struggle with high energy costs and regulatory challenges.
Key Critiques of the Pact
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton labeled the partnership as "insanity," pointing out that both California and the U.K. have some of the highest electricity prices globally. He criticized Newsom for promoting clean energy while simultaneously contributing to carbon emissions through extensive travel. Hilton's remarks reflect a broader sentiment among critics who believe that Newsom's policies have exacerbated California's energy crisis, leading to the closure of oil refineries and increased fuel prices.
Dr. Wayne Winegarden, a senior research fellow at the Pacific Research Institute, acknowledged the importance of achieving net-zero emissions but emphasized that this goal should not come at the expense of affordability. He noted that California's regulatory environment has driven refineries out of the state, resulting in a significant reduction in local fuel production. Valero's refinery in Benicia is set to close in early 2026, leaving only eight operational refineries in a state that ranks second in fuel consumption after Texas.
Official Responses and Legislative Actions
In response to the criticism, Newsom highlighted several laws aimed at stabilizing fuel prices, including efforts to boost oil production in Kern County and enhance regulatory transparency through the California Energy Commission (CEC). He asserted that California is actively working to protect consumers while transitioning away from petroleum-based transportation. However, a report from Bloomberg News indicated that California's reliance on foreign oil has increased, with over 40% of gasoline imports in November coming from the Bahamas, coinciding with record-high gas prices in the state.
Broader Implications and Industry Concerns
Critics like Tom Manzo, founder of the California Business & Industrial Alliance, argue that Newsom's regulatory approach has created an anti-business climate, driving up energy costs and pushing businesses out of the state. Manzo pointed to the closure of solar farms, such as a $2.2 billion facility in the Mojave Desert, which was operating at only 75% capacity. He criticized Newsom for prioritizing international agreements over addressing the pressing energy issues within California.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Newsom's administration emphasizes the importance of clean energy and regulatory reforms, critics highlight the tangible consequences of these policies, including rising energy costs and refinery closures. There is a notable discrepancy between the state's clean energy goals and the immediate economic realities faced by Californians.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What a genius idea that is, the UK with the highest electricity prices pretty much in the world teaming up with California the highest electricity prices anywhere in America apart from Hawaii to do more of the insanity of offshore wind that is planned already to destroy our beautiful coastline in California,” — Steve Hilton, Republican gubernatorial candidate
- “The clean energy dream — you know, we have the highest prices in the nation because they chased out the refiners,” — Tom Manzo, founder of the California Business & Industrial Alliance
- “While others point fingers to spread fear and divide us, California is doing the actual work—collaborating with industry, using data and transparency to protect consumers, and building the all-of-the-above energy future America needs,” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
The clean energy pact between California and the U.K. continues to face scrutiny as stakeholders weigh the implications of ambitious climate policies against the backdrop of rising energy costs and regulatory challenges.
