San Diego County’s Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Wednesday to take the first step toward creating a comprehensive renewable energy plan for the unincorporated county.
Supervisors voted to spend up to $300,000 to have the County’s Department of Planning & Development Services form a Renewable Energy Advisory Committee — made up of renewable energy professionals from the private sector — and thoroughly study solar, wind and other renewable energy technology, trends and issues over the next 14 months.
The department, after getting public input, would then bring recommendations back to the Board that could help the County create legislative strategies, update its existing plans and policies, identify potential incentives and create marketing plans to promote and guide renewable energy in the County.
Supervisor Dianne Jacob, who recommended the County study creating a renewable energy plan in April, said the County needed a plan because San Diego County’s electricity costs were among the highest in the nation and were sparking increasing interest in renewable energy projects.
“I think we do need a blueprint that will help guide us into the future when it comes to renewable energy,” Jacob said. “And, as I stated before, I think the County of San Diego and this Board has the opportunity to be a leader.”