Energy Noncompliance Fines to Begin

Starting Friday, law enforcement agencies around the state are authorized to begin slapping $1,000 fines on retail businesses that fail to reduce energy used for outdoor lighting. But Gov. Gray Davis said last week that the fines would be imposed “as a last resort, after clear warnings and other attempts to secure compliance.” Davis’ order says energy consumed--not necessarily the illumination--must be cut by 50% during nonbusiness hours, as long as the reductions don’t threaten public safety. Davis on Jan. 17 proclaimed a state of emergency in California because of electricity shortages and issued several conservation orders to reduce the need for rotating blackouts.