Consumer Group Opposes Proposed Power Line

NBC San Diego June 1, 2007

SAN DIEGO -- A controversial plan to build a new power line through San Diego is drawing criticism from a consumer watchdog group.

The Utility Consumers' Action Network filed its opposition to the Sunrise Powerlink Friday with the state.

Opponents of the proposed electric power project say the SDG&E plan is wasteful and that local residents don't need all the power it will bring into San Diego County.

SDG&E has argued that the new line is needed in order to avoid rolling blackouts in less than three years.

"We can't gamble with 'just-in-time' planning that does nothing for long-term reliability for our region," said Stephanie Donovan of SDG&E.

The utility company also said the Sunrise Powerlink, running through San Diego backcountry, would also cut utility bills

But UCAN's Michael Shames said the powerlink is a waste of money.

In papers filed with the state Public Utilities Commission, UCAN claims the project "will not" increase alternative energy use, and "will instead" cost ratepayers much more than SDG&E said it will.

Instead of a new power line, Shames wants SDG&E to expand two existing lines, which he said would provide more than enough electricity for at least a decade.

"SDG&E says we need a new freeway into Imperial County to bring in electricity, and our argument is, before you go spending a lot of money, at least widen the road," Shames said.

But the utility company argues that demand has doubled since the last big project was built in 1983. It said San Diego can't wait for new power sources.

SDG&E will respond to UCAN's claims later this month. Then, the Public Utilities Commission will hold hearings. A ruling on the Powerlink should come next year.