San Diego Regional Energy Network to Bring Energy Efficiency Programs to our Region

03/20/25

The San Diego Regional Energy Network (SDREN), authorized by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in August 2024, is set to bring big changes to energy efficiency, equity, and sustainability across the entire San Diego region. This program is fully funded through the existing Public Purpose Program Surcharge, meaning there are no new costs to residents or businesses! The $124 million budget over the next four years will fill gaps and complement services provided by San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) to ensure everyone, from businesses to local communities, can be part of the clean energy transition.

Board Action

In December 2024 (5), the County Board of Supervisors approved a collaborative management and oversite of SDREN between the County’s Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice (OSEJ) and San Diego Community Power (SDCP). As stewards of SDREN, OSEJ and SDCP will provide strategic guidance, ongoing evaluation, and implementation oversight of these programs.

Cooking at Electric Stovetop

What is the SDREN?

SDREN will offer ten programs, each designed to make energy efficiency and electrification more accessible and affordable through incentives and technical support. Whether it’s energy upgrades for homes and businesses, technical assistance for Tribes and public agencies, or workforce training in green careers for youth and adults, SDREN is about reducing energy costs, boosting resilience, and opening up opportunities for all!

Solar Panels on County Building Roof

SDREN advances County efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emssions in alignment with the 2024 Climate Action Plan (CAP), the Zero Carbon Portfolio Plan, and the Regional Decarbonization Framework by supporting clean energy adoption and efficiency programs, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, and prioritizing investment in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.

SDREN will provide tools, resources, and education for local governments, residents, and business to advance energy projects and programs. These efforts ensure that progress toward sustainability is practical, community-driven, and available to all. Initial program rollout is expected to occur by the end of 2025, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable region.