Central Coast Community Energy is a Community Choice Energy agency established by local communities to source clean and renewable electricity while retaining the utility provider’s traditional role delivering power and maintaining electric infrastructure as well as billing. Central Coast Community Energy proactively engages member agencies in Monterey County in program design, utilization, outreach, and support for initiatives designed to reduce greenhouse gasses (GHG). Since beginning operations, CCCE has enrolled 33 communities throughout the Central Coast. All jurisdictions in Monterey County are CCCE member agencies except the City of King City. Pacific Gas & Electric is Monterey County's utility provider delivering power and maintaining electric infrastructure as well as managing billing for customers in Monterey County. CCCE promotes long-term electric rate stability and energy security while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and stimulating the local economy. In its first two years of operations, CCCE has contracted for 453.3 megawatts (MW) of long term eligible renewable resources and 192.7 MW of battery storage in furtherance of California’s goal to be 100% GHG-free by 2045.
CCCE is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through local control of utility scale renewable electricity generation provided at competitive rates and the implementation of innovative energy programs that facilitate the electrification of the transportation sector and built environments. CCCE has allocated over $12M toward its energy program in addition to establishing a $25M Energy Resiliency program in response to the investor owned utilities Public Safety Power Shutoffs. CCCE is requesting input from jurisdictions in Monterey County on their interest in potential grant applications related to workforce development and other related costs associated with transitioning to electric vehicles. This may lead to future grants and other financial initiatives that promote alternative fuel use in Monterey County. Member agency services (web link provided below) is a comprehensive approach to
an evolving collaboration with CCCE’s member agency partners to
further climate action (especially reduction of GHG emissions via
electrification). CCCE updates programs and services each fiscal
year. The next fiscal year and associated programs is scheduled to start October 1, 2022. CCCE Member Agencies with program-eligible projects may
receive financial support in the form of incentives and rebates. For FY 21/22, CCCE offers the following to member agencies:
1. Energy Programs
- Light Duty Vehicle & Fleet Electrification
- Electric Vehicle Charging stations
- Planning, Implementation & Innovation Grant (CLOSED for this fiscal year)
- Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Electrification (CLOSED for this fiscal year)
2. Policy Support
- Reach Codes & GHG Accounting
- Electrification Resolutions
- Legislative Advocacy
3. Data
- Collaborative Data Analysis
4. Grid Reliability
- Front of the Meter
- Substation Backup Power
Electric vehicles are considered a vital part of California's plan to reduce emissions over the next two decades. Last year, California Governor Gavin Newsom set 2035 as a target date for ending the sale of gas- and diesel-powered vehicles within the state. By transitioning to electric vehicles, municipal fleets can also eliminate tailpipe emissions and exposure to fumes, creating healthier, cleaner communities. Municipalities operating a range of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that serve the public can benefit by electrifying their fleets from:
- Reduced operating costs;
- Fewer incidences of unscheduled maintenance; and
- Lower maintenance expenses.
After a jurisdiction begins the electrification of their transportation fleet, there is concern that municipalities may incur training costs related to maintenance and operations. A CCCE representative will discuss the services provided to member agencies and ask for input on the potential challenges and anticipated costs related to workforce development.