FAQ

Q: Is the Sunrise Powerlink really needed?
A: Yes the Sunrise Powerlink is necessary to ensure reliable electric service to San Diego and South Orange counties. In addition, the Sunrise Powerlink is needed for SDG&E to meet the renewable energy mandates required in California law.

Q: Can San Diego achieve the renewable energy mandates with local solar energy?
A: No the current 20 percent renewable energy mandate cannot be met with rooftop solar panels. A proposed plan submitted by a Sunrise opponent has been rejected as too costly and impractical. Photovoltaic solar panels on rooftops, parking structures and businesses are a part of meeting the renewable energy goals. However, the Sunrise Powerlink will connect San Diego to large solar, wind and geothermal energy resources in East San Diego County and the Imperial Valley.

Q: Will the Sunrise Powerlink deliver fossil fuel power from Mexico?
A: No, that has been a myth portrayed by opponents who want no new electric infrastructure. The Sunrise Powerlink will deliver clean, green renewable energy to San Diego and already has solar and geothermal contracts is place to fill the power line. In fact, the Sierra Club and others who oppose Sunrise, are calling for 800 megawatts of new fossil fuel power plants in San Diego County.

Q: What renewable energy resources are in the Imperial Valley?
A: The Imperial Valley has extensive geothermal energy and solar resources. The California Energy Commission has estimated there are more than 2,000 megawatts of geothermal energy in addition to the 500 megawatts operating today. The CEC has projected 30,000 megawatts of solar energy potential in the Imperial Valley, more than half of California's peak demand for electricity.

Q: What can I do to help get the Sunrise Powerlink approved to ensure that clean energy is delivered to the San Diego region?
A: The California Public Utilities Commission will decide in December whether t approve the Sunrise Powerlink. You can join the Community Alliance for the Sunrise Powerlink and contact the CPUC to let them know you support the Sunrise Powerlink and want them to approve the project in December of this year.