Carlsbad: Cleaner Energy Approved

Carlsbad CA

14 March, 2021

7:04 AM

Description

Press release from the City of Carlsbad: March 12, 2021 In preparation for the launch of community choice energy in the City of Carlsbad, the City Council selected an energy source for its city customers that will be 50% renewable and 75% carbon-free, which is cleaner than San Diego Gas & Electric's 39% renewable sources. Starting in May 2021, customers will have an alternative to SDG&E for their energy services through the Clean Energy Alliance, which provides access to cleaner energy, competitive rates, local programs and local control. Under the community choice energy model, SDG&E will still deliver the energy, but the alliance will purchase the power first and build in renewable energy sources for customers. The cleaner mix of energy will save both residential and small commercial customers an estimated 0.6% on their monthly energy bills. Participation in the Clean Energy Alliance at this 50% renewable and 75% carbon-free power supply mix is voluntary for individual customers. Customers have various options including: Opting down into 50% renewable energy sources. Opting up into 100% renewable energy sources. This comes with additional fees, approximately $2.30 a month for residential customers and $7.90 a month for small commercial customers. Opting out of the Clean Energy Alliance and returning to SDG&E for less renewable energy sources. Customers with self-generation systems such as rooftop solar, that produce more electricity than they use, are eligible for a greater compensation under the alliance's net energy metering program. The Clean Energy Alliance's proposed compension rate exceeds SDG&E's 2020 rates. SDG&E will impose an exit fee on customers who choose to buy cleaner power from the alliance. Despite that fee, the total average monthly bill will still come in at a competitive rate with some savings. Carlsbad residents and businesses will be automatically enrolled into the Clean Energy Alliance under state law and can expect to receive notice of the change and information about the various options leading into the May 2021 launch. The alliance, which was formed in October 2019, is locally controlled and supported by ratepayers, with no taxpayer subsidies. By law, as a joint powers authority, the Clean Energy Alliance is a separate legal entity from its member city agencies and its budget is separate from the member cities' general funds. The alliance is funded by program revenues and reserves, which can be redirected back into the community for various energy related programs. The Clean Energy Alliance is also helping its member communities lead the way in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting their Climate Action Plan goals. More information About the Clean Energy Alliance Frequently asked questions Board meetings, agendas and minutes March 10 City of Carlsbad staff report (page 228) This press release was produced by the City of Carlsbad. The views expressed here are the author's own.