Public-Sector Energy Provider: SD City Council To Consider Idea

SAN DIEGO, CA –The San Diego City Council will consider a resolution Monday to begin the process of establishing a public-sector energy provider to compete with companies like San Diego Gas and Electric.

Environmentalists have long supported the concept, known as community choice energy.

Proponents say that a community choice energy provider would lower energy costs, introduce a new revenue stream for the city and offer choice in the often-monopolized energy market.

Should the council approve the resolution, the city would begin the process of establishing a joint-powers authority to provide energy throughout the county, with the intention of inviting the county's other jurisdictions into the fold. City officials hope to have the project off the ground and providing energy in 2021, but would need to submit the proposal to the state's Public Utility Commission by December to make that deadline.

"Community choice energy will inject healthy competition into the marketplace, allowing customers to benefit from lower energy costs and pick greener energy sources to power their home or business," Mayor Kevin Faulconer said last month during his State of the City address.

"People said this couldn't be done in San Diego, but when we say 'yes,' we open the doors to what is possible."

The council will consider the resolution during its 2 p.m. session at the City Administration Building at 202 C St. The council meets in the 12th floor Council Chamber.

• ALSO SEE: SDG&E To Switch Customers To More Flexible Plans

--City News Service