In a recent government meeting, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) provided an update on the Clean Power SF program, highlighting significant advancements in renewable energy initiatives and green financing. The meeting, attended by LAFCO commissioners, featured a presentation by Michael Hyams, the deputy assistant general manager at SFPUC, who detailed the program's steady enrollment and upcoming projects aimed at enhancing the city's renewable energy supply.

Hyams reported that participation in Clean Power SF remains stable, with expectations for growth in the Super Green product as large commercial buildings become subject to the city's renewable energy ordinance. This ordinance is designed to encourage businesses to transition to cleaner energy sources, thereby supporting the city’s sustainability goals.

A key highlight of the meeting was the announcement of a new power supply contract with the Gonzaga Ridge project, which will be the largest agreement to date for Clean Power SF. This project, developed by Scout Energy in Merced County, will generate 147.5 megawatts of clean wind energy and include a 50-megawatt battery energy storage system. The battery will store excess energy produced during the day for use in the evening, reducing reliance on natural gas during peak hours. The project is expected to power approximately 120,000 homes annually and create 200 jobs during its construction phase.

Additionally, the Gonzaga Ridge project will incorporate sustainable practices by recycling turbine blades from a decommissioned wind farm, diverting waste from landfills and producing concrete additives. The project is fully permitted and is anticipated to come online in June 2026.

Hyams also shared that Clean Power SF's 2023 power content information indicates that both the default green product and the Super Green product are 100% renewable, sourced from a mix of solar, geothermal, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass projects. This commitment to renewable energy aligns with California's broader regulatory requirements and the city's goal of achieving a fully renewable energy supply.

As the Clean Power SF program continues to evolve, the upcoming Gonzaga Ridge project is poised to significantly enhance the city’s renewable energy portfolio, further solidifying San Francisco's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The SFPUC plans to distribute annual power content labels to customers in the coming weeks, reflecting these advancements and the program's ongoing dedication to clean energy solutions.