DATE:
December 11, 2024
05
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH SAN DIEGO COMMUNITY POWER FOR THE SAN DIEGO REGIONAL ENERGY NETWORK (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
Since 2012, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has authorized the creation of Regional Energy Networks (RENs) to increase involvement of local governments in energy efficiency initiatives. Statewide, RENs have been important avenues for local government agencies in California to offer energy efficiency programs for residents and businesses, playing a key role in the transformation of the State's clean energy future. RENs use funds already collected by utilities and distribute those funds through regional programs for local businesses, residents, public agencies, and community organizations. Investor-owned utilities (IOUs), such as San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), have inherent constraints within their energy efficiency program portfolio, including cost-effectiveness requirements that limit the breadth of program offerings. RENs present a unique opportunity to fill demonstrated gaps in regional energy efficiency programs and program participation.
Until August 2024, when the CPUC authorized the San Diego Regional Energy Network (SDREN), the San Diego region was the only remaining area of the state eligible for a REN that did not have one. SDREN benefits the entire region, including Tribes and customers in all incorporated and unincorporated areas of San Diego county. The goal of SDREN is to ensure that no individuals or communities are left behind in the transformation to a clean energy economy by providing programs that focus on the needs and challenges of our most vulnerable communities, and are guided by community input and local programs such as the 2024 Climate Action Plan. Like all other RENs, SDREN is funded entirely from the Public Purpose Program Surcharge, which is an existing line item on utility bills that supports low-income an...
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