The San Diego County SDCP Board of Directors convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to two major renewable energy projects in their portfolio. These projects are crucial for the agency's goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2035.

The first project discussed was the Pelican Shaw project, which has progressed to construction. Initially approved in January 2024, the project has expanded from a partial offtake of 226 megawatts of solar and 18 megawatts of battery storage to a full offtake of 440 megawatts of solar and 230 megawatts of battery storage. The board approved an amendment to the power purchase agreement (PPA) that allows for a slight price increase while ensuring the project remains financially viable and beneficial for ratepayers. The project is expected to generate approximately 1.2 million megawatt-hours per year, contributing 8-10% of the agency's load and supporting mid-term reliability goals.

The second project, a 400-megawatt solar and battery project, faced delays due to external factors, including network upgrades and permitting issues with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The board discussed amending the contract to extend the guaranteed commercial operation date by one year, from June 2027 to June 2028. Despite the delay, the project will not incur a price increase, maintaining competitive pricing for the agency. The developer has committed to significant community benefits, including a $2 million fund for local initiatives.

Both projects are expected to create hundreds of jobs and contribute to the local economy while advancing the agency's renewable energy objectives. The board expressed strong support for the amendments, emphasizing the importance of these projects in achieving long-term sustainability goals. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote in favor of the proposed amendments, marking a significant step forward for San Diego County's renewable energy initiatives.