Central Coast Community Energy updates San Benito supervisors on renewables, storage and local programs

Central Coast Community Energy briefed the San Benito County Board of Supervisors Sept. 23 on the agency’s progress toward supplying renewable electricity and expanding customer programs.

3CE Community Relations Manager Sofia Schwartzke told the board that the public power agency supplies clean and renewable energy to about 1.2 million people across 30 cities and five counties, representing roughly 94% of eligible customers. She said 3CE already has contracts to supply about 69% of its total load with renewable energy by October 2028 and is pursuing additional contracts to raise that share further.

Schwartzke said battery storage is a central part of keeping renewable power reliable and affordable. She cited recent heat-wave days to show how batteries capture solar during the day and discharge in the evening to avoid higher fossil‑fuel use and reduce the need for flex alerts. She said 3CE invests only in outdoor,…