2020 Annual Report
Diversification and
Operation
Critical repairs were made on large-diameter pipes to ensure regional water supplies remained safe and reliable. During all construction projects, efforts are made to mitigate impacts to nearby communities and the environment.
Hydroelectric Facility Offsets Desalination Power Demands
To offset energy costs at the Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant, the Water Authority received approval from the California Public Utilities Commission to enroll in the Renewable Energy Self-Generation Bill Credit Transfer in August 2019. Through this program, the cost of electricity generated at the Water Authority’s Rancho Peñasquitos Hydroelectric and Pressure Control Facility is credited to the energy costs at the Carlsbad Desalination Plant. The Hydroelectric Facility provides two great benefits to the region, improved pipeline operations and hydroelectric energy generation. The bill credit program will reduce energy costs at the Carlsbad Desalination Plant by $400,000 in FY21, and savings are expected to increase after a planned rehabilitation of Rancho’s turbine generator.
“Through the (CPUC) program the Water Authority is able to reduce energy costs at the Carlsbad Desalination Plant, helping to stabilize water rates and ensure a drought-proof water supply for the region.”
Water Authority