CA SB1433

Establishes a Gravity-Based Energy Storage Well Pilot Program until January 1, 2034, allowing the State Oil and Gas Supervisor to authorize conversion of up to 1,000 wells for gravity-based energy storage to evaluate safe operation conditions.

Defines gravity-based energy storage wells as plugged wells isolated from hydrocarbon reservoirs used exclusively to store or generate energy by raising or lowering weights, with eligible wells including idle and orphan wells.

Requires annual mechanical integrity assessments including pressure testing, continuous fluid leak monitoring, and operator notification to the division, Air Resources Board, water quality boards, and nearby schools/residents within 3,200 feet if mechanical integrity is lost or leaks occur.

Mandates idle wells converted to gravity-based energy storage remain subject to idle well fees and be identified annually in operator plans, while operators remain obligated to eventually plug, abandon, and remediate wells.

Requires the Secretary for Environmental Protection to evaluate the pilot program by January 1, 2032, and submit recommendations to the Legislature for an ongoing regulatory framework addressing design standards, monitoring, fee structures, and environmental safeguards.