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San Leandro council votes to default residents into lower‑cost community power option, citing equity
Summary
The council approved a resolution to default residents into a lower‑cost electricity option (with voluntary opt-up to Renewable 100), citing economic equity for residents who face language and access barriers. The vote was unanimous with one absence.
The San Leandro City Council voted on April 6 to adopt a resolution to default residents into the city’s lower‑cost community power option while preserving the ability for residents to opt up to higher tiers voluntarily.
Mayor Juan Gonzales introduced the measure, saying many residents are defaulted into the most expensive form of electricity and that making the lower‑cost option the default would be more equitable. "What I have proposed is that we default people to the cheaper power, and then if they want to, they can upscale and pay a higher price voluntarily," the mayor said.
Staff explained that community power options have materially improved and that the lower‑cost option is now described as roughly 90–95% carbon‑free in the staff presentation. During public comment, some residents urged keeping Renewable 100 (higher-cost but more renewable) available for those who choose it; others raised concerns about utility pricing and environmental trade‑offs.
Council member Boldt seconded the motion to adopt the resolution, and the council voted unanimously in favor with one council member absent.
The change will be implemented through the city’s community choice aggregation enrollment procedures; staff will clarify opt-out/opt-up instructions and outreach so residents understand their options.
