April 9, 2013
California

Supervisors to weigh comprehensive renewable energy plan Wed. April 10

April 8, 2013 | East County Magazine | eastcountymagazine.orgApril 8, 2013 | East County Magazine | eastcountymagazine.org

On May 8, County Supervisors will hear a controversial wind ordinance that would make it easier to build wind turbines in some areas of East County.

But this Wednesday, April 10, the agenda will include a proposal by Supervisor Dianne Jacob for staff to develop a comprehensive renewable energy plan including options to integrate the proposed wind ordinance into a renewable energy plan, as well as examining options such as the San Diego Energy Foundation’s proposal with emphasis on rooftop solar. Supervisors meet at 9 a.m. at the County Administration Center, 1600 Pacific Coast Highway in San Diego. If approved, staff would then have several weeks to come back with proposed language.

Below is the exact language from the agenda:

ITEM 3 # SUBJECT: COMPREHENSIVE RENEWABLE ENERGY PLAN

OVERVIEW:

San Diego County is faced with some of the highest energy costs in the state and nation. With the emergence of renewable energy and green building technology, consumers are realizing a growing range of options to help reduce energy costs and move towards energy independence. While the County has undertaken efforts to expand renewable energy and green – building development, a more comprehensive approach is needed to explore and maximize opportunities, and to reduce costs for consumers.

Today’s Board letter directs the Chief Administrative Officer to research and develop options for a comprehensive renewable energy plan, prepare a work plan including time and cost estimates, and to include options for integrating the proposed wind ordinance into a renewable energy plan. This comprehensive approach should consider technology, appropriate zoning and development standards, fiscal and financial impacts and community benefits, including costs to consumers.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.

BUSINESS IMPACT STATEMENT: N/A

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2013

RECOMMENDATION: VICE CHAIRWOMAN JACOB

1.Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to research and develop options for a comprehensive renewable energy plan, prepare a work plan including time and cost estimates and return to the Board within 120 days.

2.Include options for integrating the proposed wind ordinance into a renewable energy plan when staff presents the item in May.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/04/09/supervisors-to-weigh-comprehensive-renewable-energy-plan-wed-april-10/