Coronado Moves to Join San Diego Community Power, Seeking Affordable, Renewable Energy

CORONADO, CA – The Coronado City Council unanimously approved a measure to join San Diego Community Power (SDCP), potentially offering residents a choice in electricity providers and access to more competitive rates and renewable energy options. The decision, made on February 17, 2026, follows a multi-year discussion that began with the adoption of Coronado’s Climate Action Plan in 2022.

What is Community Choice Aggregation?

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) allows local communities to source electricity for their residents, rather than relying solely on investor-owned utilities like San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). Under this model, SDG&E will continue to deliver power and handle billing in Coronado. CCAs, as non-profit entities, reinvest income after covering reserves into local energy programs, a key difference from investor-owned utilities.

Potential Benefits for Coronado Residents

Customers under SDCP have historically experienced rates comparable to those of SDG&E. The move aligns with Coronado’s Climate Action Plan goals and offers a path toward affordable, 100% renewable power by 2035, according to SDCP officials. All eligible customers will be automatically enrolled but retain the right to opt out and remain with SDG&E.

Timeline and Next Steps

While the Coronado City Council has approved initiating the process, several steps remain before Coronado residents can receive service from SDCP. These include:

• Approval from the SDCP Board of Directors.
• Submission of an application to the California Public Utilities Commission.
• A preliminary decision in late August.
• Adoption of a joint powers agreement around October 31.

If approved, Coronado could begin receiving service from SDCP as early as 2028.

Statements from Officials

“The people of Coronado deserve the same opportunity for affordability, choice and access to energy programs most of San Diego County enjoys,” said Coronado Councilmember Amy Steward.

Terra Lawson-Remer, Chair of the San Diego Community Power Board, stated, “Today’s vote shows that working families across our region are choosing public power as they want affordability and local control… We welcome Coronado’s decision and look forward to completing the next steps to bring its 12,000 accounts into a regional partnership focused on affordability, local accountability and putting people first.”

About San Diego Community Power

San Diego Community Power currently serves nearly a million customers in San Diego, Chula Vista, Encinitas, La Mesa, National City, Imperial Beach, and unincorporated areas of San Diego County. The organization aims to provide higher levels of renewable power at competitive rates. More information can be found at SDCommunityPower.org.