Vote Solar Responds to California’s Lawsuit Against Big Oil

Vote Solar’s California Deputy Program Director, Andrea León-Grossmann, Statement on California’s Lawsuit Against Big Oil

California’s groundbreaking lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies marks a pivotal moment in holding Big Oil accountable for its decades-long deception regarding climate change’s causes and consequences. These companies, including Exxon Mobil, Shell, BP, ConocoPhillips, Chevron, and the American Petroleum Institute, concealed vital knowledge about their pollution’s devastating climate impact dating back to the 1960s, instead spending billions to mislead the public. California’s suit, aiming to establish an abatement fund for climate disaster recovery and resilience, is essential, as it joins over forty states and municipalities in seeking justice and restitution from the very entities responsible for the climate crisis. This fight is about fairness, accountability, and securing a sustainable future for all.

However, it is crucial that California, while pursuing this lawsuit, remains steadfast in its commitment to not invest any of the funds in false solutions touted by Big Oil, such as carbon capture. We must prioritize solutions that genuinely address the climate crisis. It is incumbent upon us to direct these resources towards supporting clean energy alternatives like solar and battery storage, which are not only environmentally friendly but also contribute to reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

Additionally, as we seek climate justice, we should actively promote programs like community solar and virtual net metering. These initiatives empower communities to take control of their energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint. By embracing such programs, we can ensure that the benefits of clean energy are accessible to all, regardless of their economic circumstances.

In conclusion, we must remain resolute in our pursuit of climate justice, prioritizing genuine solutions and inclusive programs that pave the way for a sustainable and equitable future. Climate change is a crime, and it is time to make polluters pay for the damage they’ve caused while investing in a cleaner and more just energy future for all Californians.