SFPUC's Major Commitment to Clean Energy
Scout Clean Energy's Gonzaga Ridge will provide nearly 150 megawatts of clean wind energy to 385,000 CleanPowerSF customers.
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission's (SFPUC) community choice energy program, CleanPowerSF, has secured its largest-ever single source of wind power through a power purchase agreement with Scout Clean Energy. Gonzaga Ridge will deliver 147.5 megawatts of clean wind energy as well as 50 megawatts of dependable energy storage for CleanPowerSF's 385,000 customers in San Francisco.
Overview of the Gonzaga Ridge Project
Gonzaga Ridge, developed by Colorado-based Scout Clean Energy, will be the largest wind energy source in CleanPowerSF's portfolio. It is expected to generate enough electricity annually to power approximately 120,000 average San Francisco homes. The addition of a 50-megawatt, 4-hour battery energy storage system means it can store power generated during the day for evening use, which is crucial given the increased cost of grid power at that time.
Benefits to the Community
“Thanks to our investment in Gonzaga Ridge, we will nearly double the amount of clean wind energy for our CleanPowerSF customers,” stated SFPUC General Manager Dennis Herrera. “The SFPUC has been a clean energy provider for over a century, and we are committed to expanding our renewable energy portfolio, delivering affordable and reliable power to San Francisco. Through this initiative, we are aiding in creating a more resilient grid in the face of climate challenges while enhancing California's shift towards renewable energy sources and generating local jobs.”
Environmental Impact and Job Creation
The Gonzaga Ridge project is a redevelopment of an existing wind farm at the same site. It is projected to offset around 593,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions while creating approximately 200 jobs during the development and construction phases. Additionally, all 378 tons of turbine blades from the decommissioned site will be recycled, preventing them from ending up in landfills and producing an estimated 360,000 pounds of concrete additives in the recycling process.
Scout Clean Energy's Role
“We’re proud to support the SFPUC’s ambitious objectives as they continue to position the CleanPowerSF program as a benchmark for successful community energy transitions,” said Michael Rucker, Founder and CEO of Scout Clean Energy. “Gonzaga Ridge represents a unique project, and we are eager to see it provide energy solutions for San Francisco residents.”
With the addition of Gonzaga Ridge, CleanPowerSF has contracted for over 600 megawatts of new solar, wind, and geothermal energy projects capable of powering over 500,000 average San Francisco homes. Furthermore, CleanPowerSF's energy storage contracts have surpassed 300 megawatts in total.
Progress towards Carbon Reduction
As of 2024, CleanPowerSF's portfolio consists of over 95% clean and renewable energy, and it has played a crucial role in reducing San Francisco’s greenhouse gas emissions from electricity consumption by 93% compared to levels in 1990.
SFPUC Contact:
Nancy Crowley
628-629-1748
Scout Clean Energy Contact:
Will Patterson
240-778-3530
About CleanPowerSF
CleanPowerSF is dedicated to providing San Francisco residents and businesses with renewable energy options at competitive rates, serving over 380,000 customer accounts while significantly reducing emissions.
About Scout Clean Energy
Scout Clean Energy is a leading renewable energy developer, managing substantial renewable energy projects across the United States, being recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Gonzaga Ridge project?
The Gonzaga Ridge project is a wind energy development in California, supplying significant renewable energy to the CleanPowerSF program.
2. How much clean energy will Gonzaga Ridge produce?
Gonzaga Ridge is expected to produce 147.5 megawatts of wind energy, enough to power around 120,000 homes.
3. What role does Scout Clean Energy play?
Scout Clean Energy is developing and managing the Gonzaga Ridge project, which is pivotal for providing renewable energy to San Francisco residents.
4. How will this project affect job creation?
The project is anticipated to create approximately 200 jobs during development and construction.
5. What is CleanPowerSF's goal?
CleanPowerSF aims to provide San Francisco residents with affordable, reliable, and renewable electricity while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
