Changes in the climate will likely result in increased electricity demand, mainly as a result of the increased use of air conditioning. At the same time, hydroelectric power-one of the key sources used to meet peak summertime demands-will be threatened by the declining Sierra Nevada snowpack. The electricity sector is already considering the impacts of climate change, but steps are needed to invest in research, development, and demonstration to improve system resiliency and develop conservation tools. This report was prepared as part of the Preparing California for a Changing Climate project.
