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Board approves RFP to launch Clean Power SF community choice aggregation program
Summary
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted to approve an ordinance issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to launch a community choice aggregation (CCA) program commonly called Clean Power SF after several supervisors praised years of interagency planning and urged vigilance against utility opposition.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Nov. 3 approved an ordinance authorizing issuance of a request for proposals to establish community choice aggregation services for the San Francisco CCA program, commonly called Clean Power SF.
Advocates and supervisors described the RFP as the technical step needed after years of planning to allow the city to procure electricity on behalf of local customers. Supervisor Mercarimi, who introduced the item, said the effort had taken "years, 7 to be specific," and asked officials from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and LAFCO staff to take a bow for their work preparing the program.
The vote followed extended comments from supervisors who serve on or have worked with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) and the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). Supervisor Dufty said community choice aggregation "is an important step because it allows San Francisco to take more control over our energy destiny," and praised cooperation across the city agencies and advocates. Supervisor Campos said the RFP has been "a long time coming" and warned that Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) would "fight you every step of the way," urging continued coordinated outreach.
Supporters told the board they designed the RFP to invite broad bidder participation and flexibility, with an emphasis on renewable energy and clean-technology options. Dufty and others also said some San Francisco customers may be willing to pay a small premium to receive higher shares of renewable energy; the board referenced examples where customers pay a modest monthly premium for higher renewable content.
The ordinance passed on roll-call vote with 11 ayes. After the vote the clerk announced, "There are 11 ayes," and the president declared the ordinance finally passed.
The board did not adopt substantive operational details in this ordinance; the RFP authorizes solicitation from vendors and begins the procurement steps toward forming a CCA. Supervisors said subsequent steps would include continuing coordination with SFPUC commissioners, LAFCO, and community advocates, plus public engagement to explain options and costs to consumers.
Votes and next steps: With the RFP approved, staff at the SFPUC and related agencies will proceed with procurement. Supervisors emphasized the need to counter outside misinformation and to continue public outreach ahead of future milestones, including contract awards and any ballot or implementation steps required by law.
