Costa Mesa, California, September 6, 2025
News Summary
The Costa Mesa City Council has voted to draft an ordinance for community choice aggregation (CCA) to enhance renewable energy use and potentially lower resident energy rates. The council’s decision paves the way for consideration to join the Orange County Power Authority, which focuses on renewable energy initiatives. A feasibility study revealed significant potential revenue for Costa Mesa, but concerns regarding OCPA’s operational transparency remain. Further discussions are scheduled to address community energy goals and address council members’ skepticism about the program’s management.
Costa Mesa, California – The Costa Mesa City Council voted 5-2 to move forward with drafting an ordinance allowing ratepayers to enroll in a community choice aggregation (CCA) program, aimed at increasing renewable energy usage and potentially lowering energy rates for residents. The decision marks a significant step for the city, which is considering joining the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA).
The OCPA was established in 2020 and focuses on boosting renewable energy consumption, with decisions regarding the amount of energy purchased, rate settings, and surplus revenue allocations directed toward community energy initiatives. In July, the Costa Mesa City Council authorized this agency to analyze the city’s energy load data, which was evaluated by OCPA’s chief executive, Joe Mosca, on Tuesday.
According to the analysis, Costa Mesa has 50,558 customers who collectively consumed 631,172 megawatt-hours of energy between 2023 and 2024. If the city joins the OCPA, it is projected to generate approximately $75.1 million in revenue by the fiscal year 2027-28, against operating expenses estimated at $64.1 million. Current OCPA reserves stand at 16% of operational costs, with expectations to rise to 30% in the following year.
For membership to become effective, Costa Mesa’s council must vote by December 2023, in order for the service to begin in March 2027. The OCPA currently serves cities such as Irvine, Buena Park, and Fullerton, with Fountain Valley also anticipated to join by October 2026.
Buena Park has seen a notable decrease in carbon emissions—over 350 million pounds since its enrollment with the OCPA. This reduction is comparable to removing approximately 38,000 gas-powered vehicles from the roads.
Despite the optimism surrounding OCPA, skepticism persists among some council members regarding its operational transparency and past issues. Recent departures from Huntington Beach and Orange County have highlighted audits that raised concerns about management and financial practices. Critics have pointed out instances where the OCPA may have misrepresented information regarding rates and plan options to other cities.
The council discussed concerns about the troubled history of the OCPA, including leadership transitions and accusations of bypassing procurement policies. Councilman Don Harper raised questions about the independence of the feasibility studies conducted by OCPA to assess energy load data.
The proposed ordinance is set for further discussion at the council meeting on October 7, where community energy objectives will be reviewed, alongside consideration for an opt-out clause if projected savings do not materialize. Mayor Pro Tem Chavez emphasized the need for reduced energy costs for inhabitants, reflecting the wider need for transparency and assurance in OCPA’s operations.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on ongoing analysis and data review, as council members remain cautious about fully committing to the program without comprehensive information.
FAQ
What is the Orange County Power Authority?
The Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) is a community choice aggregation program formed in 2020 aimed at increasing the use of renewable energy and potentially lowering energy rates for its member cities.
What was the vote outcome by the Costa Mesa City Council?
The Costa Mesa City Council voted 5-2 to draft an ordinance to allow ratepayers to enroll in the OCPA program.
What is a community choice aggregation program?
A community choice aggregation program allows cities or counties to purchase and provide electricity to their residents, often with a focus on renewable energy sources.
What are the expected revenue and costs for Costa Mesa if they join OCPA?
Projected revenues from Costa Mesa for the OCPA are estimated to be $75.1 million, with operating expenses forecasted at $64.1 million by fiscal year 2027-28.
When would service begin if Costa Mesa joins OCPA?
If Costa Mesa joins the OCPA, membership must be voted on by December 2023 for services to commence in March 2027.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vote Outcome | 5-2 in favor of drafting ordinance to join OCPA |
| OCPA Established | 2020 |
| Projected Revenues from Costa Mesa | $75.1 million by 2027-28 |
| Projected Operating Expenses | $64.1 million by 2027-28 |
| Number of Customers in Costa Mesa | 50,558 customers |
| Total Energy Used | 631,172 megawatt-hours |
| Current OCPA Reserves | 16% of operating costs, projected to increase to 30% |
| Membership Voting Deadline | December 2023 |
| Service Start Date if Joined | March 2027 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Leaning Toward Joining O.C. Power Authority
- Wikipedia: Community Choice Aggregation
- Orange County Register: Costa Mesa Considering Switching to Green Power Agency
- Google Search: Costa Mesa Power Authority
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Explores Joining OCPA
- Google Scholar: Costa Mesa OCPA
- Los Angeles Times: O.C. Supervisors Pull Out of OCPA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Costa Mesa
- Orange County Register: Irvine Threatens to Leave OCPA
- Google News: Costa Mesa Renewable Energy
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
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