State regulators approve SDG&E solar power initiative

The California Public Utilities Commission approved a San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) solar power initiative that provides for 100 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy.

Under the initiative, 26 MW of utility-owned generation would be slated for construction on existing SDG&E property, with the remaining 74 MW purchased from independent power producers.

The program calls for SDG&E to install and procure renewable solar power using projects primarily in the one to two megawatt range and also provides for PV solar installations ranging from less than a megawatt up to 5 MW. In addition to developing its own local solar projects, SDG&E will solicit power purchase agreements for solar power at other sites in the region.