The power plant is run by LS power. The company wants to build a smaller, modern replacement facility just south of the existing plant. But regional power giant SDG&E says if they build it, they won’t buy power from it. SDG&E executives say that instead of a new baseload plant, what San Diego needs are smaller, “peaker” plants that supply energy during periods of high demand.
Michael Shames of the Utility Consumer’s Action Network or UCAN says the proposed replacement plant could be a very cost-effective solution, but without SDG&E’s support, he says it doesn’t stand a chance. And this could cost consumers.
Shames: One of the concerns I have is that SDG&E has already indicated the RFO, or the bid process that it has for new power will not include any base-load plants, and that may end up costing San Diegans more because SDG&E is bypassing even considering a plant like the one considered in Chula Vista.
The fate of the South Bay power plant now lies with the Chula Vista City Council. The city has big plans for redeveloping its bay front, and mayor Cheryl Cox is opposed to building a replacement plant on the water. Instead, she’d like to find another site in Chula Vista. While she wouldn’t comment on how all this could impact the city’s bid to attract a Chargers stadium, Cox said moving the plant would give the city tremendous redevelopment options.
Cox: Without a power plant on the bay front, we’re looking at possibly 125-150 acres. It’s a giant piece of property. I think we will have our horizons so much more widened once we’re all satisfied that we can have that bay front back and it truly will be ours.
The South Bay power plant has been assigned “must-run” status by the California Independent Systems operator – this means it’s considered an essential component for meeting the region’s power needs. And before it is demolished, something must take its place.
