Project Solar Power Contract: City of Pasadena pushes toward clean energy goals - Pasadena Weekly

Project Solar Power Contract: City of Pasadena pushes toward clean energy goals | News | pasadenaweekly.com

As part of Pasadena’s commitment to clean energy, the city is expanding its energy portfolio with more solar power. Pasadena City Council has approved 105 megawatts (MW) of solar power and 55 MW of battery storage from Bonanza Solar, LLC, a 300 MW solar photovoltaic generating and Battery Energy Storage System, developed by EDF Renewables, located in Clark County, Nevada. The 20-year contract, scheduled to begin delivering energy in 2028, was negotiated by Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) and procured through the Southern California Public Power Authority, a joint powers authority that helps participating members like PWP reduce their overall costs.

“This solar agreement is an important step forward in meeting our goal to source 100% of Pasadena’s electricity from carbon-free sources by the end of 2030,” Mayor Victor Gordo said. “This contract is especially timely considering Pasadena’s exit from the Intermountain Power Project. The city, Pasadena Water and Power, and the residents of Pasadena are committed to a clean energy future.”

As a not-for-profit public service owned and operated by the city, PWP provides electricity to over 65,000 customers and delivers water to nearly 38,000 households and businesses in Pasadena and adjacent communities in the San Gabriel Valley.

In 2023, PWP expanded its energy portfolio to include contracts for 25 MW geothermal energy, and one-third share of a 117 MW solar energy project. Both acquisitions, which are expected to begin delivering energy in early 2028, were also negotiated through SCPPA and are key to reaching Pasadena’s sustainability goals.