Is the Sunrise Powerlink cost-effective and beneficial to ratepayers?
• No. In evaluating the Sunrise Powerlink project, the independent consumer watchdog group, Utility Consumer’s Action Network (UCAN) noted that SDG&E has “exaggerated” the need for this project, has “understated its costs,” has “ignored reasonable alternatives,” and has engaged in a “systematic scheme to mislead the public. (Source: “UCAN Testimony on Overview of Technical Testimony, SDG&E Misinformation and Alternatives,” June 1, 2007) • Furthermore, the Division of Ratepayer Advocates (DRA), the arm of the California Public Utilities Commission that advocates on behalf of public utility customers, maintains Sunrise is clearly not needed to meet any of its stated objectives, including the critical goal of providing reliable service in San Diego. DRA is not convinced that Sunrise is the best alternative for meeting such goals, or even that Sunrise’s benefits will exceed its costs.
