CA SB1153

Authorizes the Energy Commission to designate areas as sustainable energy zones suitable for constructing or operating renewable energy projects that meet the definition of eligible renewable resources under Public Utilities Code Section 399.12.

Requires the Energy Commission to identify sustainable energy zones consistent with the state's strategic plan for electric transmission grid needs and renewable energy goals established under the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006.

Allows the Energy Commission to contract for biologists to collect data on land proposed for sustainable energy zone designation.

Requires environmental review of sustainable energy zone designations under Chapter 6 of the Public Resources Code (rather than the California Environmental Quality Act).

Mandates the Energy Commission report to the Legislature by January 1, 2012 regarding sustainable energy zone designations, with this reporting requirement repealing on January 1, 2016.