CA SB1247

Allows small hydroelectric facilities to remain eligible renewable energy resources even if efficiency improvements undertaken after January 1, 2008 cause generating capacity to exceed 30 megawatts, provided no adverse impact on instream beneficial uses occurs.

Permits incremental electricity increases from hydroelectric facility efficiency improvements to qualify as eligible renewable energy resources if the facility received federal Clean Water Act certification within the preceding 15 years and meets specified ownership and operational requirements.

Establishes alternative certification pathway for Rock Creek Powerhouse (FERC Project Number 1962) to receive incremental certification from the State Water Resources Control Board instead of standard Clean Water Act certification.

Exempts hydroelectric facilities that were eligible renewable energy resources as of January 1, 2010 from losing eligibility if streamflow changes are required by Federal Power Act license conditions approved on or after January 1, 2010.

Declares the act an urgency statute taking effect immediately to address rising electricity rates and support economic recovery.