Frequently asked questions about the Sunrise Powerlink, energy issues, and more. Can San Diego meet it’s future energy needs without the Sunrise Powerlink?
• Yes. Improved local energy conservation and increased efficiency in San Diego would eliminate the energy reliability gap cited by SDG&E to justify the Powerlink. Simple measures like installing efficient air conditioning systems and replacing incandescent bulbs by 2012 could significantly reduce peak energy demand. (Source: Bill Powers, Border Power Plants Working Group) • In addition, SDG&E has already proposed the addition of 250 MW of “peaking” turbines by 2008. This step alone would eliminate much of the emergency “power gap” calculated by SDG&E to justify the Sunrise Powerlink. Furthermore, simple upgrades to existing energy infrastructure can further boost San Diego’s energy supply and eliminate the need for the Powerlink.
