Clean Power SF reports stable enrollment and expands renewable energy programs

In a recent meeting of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), significant discussions centered around the Clean Power SF program, highlighting its ongoing initiatives and future plans aimed at enhancing the city’s renewable energy landscape. The meeting, led by Vice Chair Fielder, featured a detailed report from Executive Director Mike Himes, who provided updates on enrollment statistics, customer programs, and resource procurement efforts.

The Clean Power SF program continues to show stable enrollment, with a slight increase in the opt-out rate now at 4.3%. Notably, participation in the Super Green program, which offers 100% renewable energy, has risen to over 8,000 customer accounts, indicating a growing interest in sustainable energy options among San Francisco residents and businesses. Himes emphasized the program's competitive rates, which are significantly higher than those offered by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) for net energy metering, making it an attractive choice for solar energy producers.

Among the key initiatives discussed was the upcoming EV Charge SF program, designed to incentivize new construction projects to be electric vehicle (EV) ready, aligning with the city’s EV readiness ordinance. This program aims to support the installation of EV charging infrastructure, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.

The meeting also addressed the challenges posed by supply chain issues and inflation on project timelines, particularly in relation to the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). Himes assured commissioners that the IRP would include analyses of these factors, as well as the impact of drought conditions on energy supply, ensuring that the city remains on track to meet its climate goals.

In terms of resource procurement, the SFPUC is actively engaging in long-duration energy storage projects and is negotiating contracts for new renewable energy supplies. These efforts are crucial for complying with state mandates aimed at increasing the reliability and sustainability of California's energy grid.

The discussions underscored the importance of Clean Power SF's role in the broader context of San Francisco's Climate Action Plan, with ongoing coordination between various city departments to ensure that energy programs align with decarbonization goals. However, the budget for these customer programs remains modest, with approximately $1.5 million allocated annually, primarily funded through ratepayer contributions.

As the city moves forward, the SFPUC is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping San Francisco’s energy future, with a focus on expanding its programs and addressing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions. The next steps will involve finalizing contracts for new energy resources and continuing to engage with stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of the Clean Power SF program.