The Clean Power SF program is making strides in San Francisco, with exciting updates on customer enrollment and new initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable energy use. During a recent government meeting, Deputy Assistant General Manager Michael Himes provided a comprehensive overview of the program's current status and future plans.
Clean Power SF continues to serve its customers effectively, maintaining a low opt-out rate of 4.4%. Himes highlighted the program's Super Green participation, which now accounts for over 12% of annual retail sales. A key announcement was the upcoming launch of an e-bike incentive program designed to assist low-income residents in equity priority communities. This initiative will offer qualifying customers a $1,000 coupon to purchase e-bikes from participating local retailers, promoting greener urban mobility.
In addition to the e-bike program, Clean Power SF is working on energy efficiency initiatives for food services and community solar projects aimed at disadvantaged communities. These programs are currently in the request for proposals (RFP) phase, with expectations to roll out by late 2025 or early 2026.
Himes also addressed the financial aspects of the program, noting that the SFPUC is seeking to extend its bank credit agreement, which is crucial for securing financial obligations related to power purchase agreements. This extension would allow Clean Power SF to maintain its operational stability and continue providing reliable service to its customers.
However, the meeting also touched on the recent rate increases from PG&E, which will affect all customers, including those enrolled in Clean Power SF. The typical residential bill is expected to rise by over $30 per month due to inflation and infrastructure investments aimed at enhancing safety and reliability. Despite these increases, Clean Power SF customers are projected to save approximately $8 per month compared to PG&E's generation service.
To assist residents in navigating these changes, Clean Power SF is hosting a free webinar on January 25, aimed at educating customers on understanding their energy bills and managing costs effectively. This initiative underscores the program's commitment to transparency and customer support.
Overall, the updates from Clean Power SF reflect a proactive approach to enhancing energy sustainability and customer engagement in San Francisco, with promising initiatives on the horizon.