Costa Mesa, California, September 6, 2025
News Summary
The Costa Mesa City Council voted 5-2 to draft an ordinance to join the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA), aiming to enhance renewable energy use and potentially lower electricity costs for residents. The city has approximately 50,558 electricity customers and could generate significant revenue by participating in the OCPA while also addressing community energy projects. This decision comes amidst discussions about OCPA’s management practices and the potential benefits of local control over energy sourcing.
Costa Mesa, California – The Costa Mesa City Council has voted 5-2 to advance plans to join the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA), initiating the drafting of an ordinance to enroll local ratepayers into a community choice aggregation (CCA) program. This move aims to enhance the use of renewable energy while potentially lowering electricity costs for residents.
The OCPA was established in 2020 with the goal of increasing renewable energy options and allowing local governments to have more control over their energy sources. Member cities determine their own rates, the amount of renewable energy to procure, and how to allocate surplus funds, which can be directed towards community energy projects.
The decision comes after the council approved a request allowing OCPA to review the city’s energy load data from Southern California Edison (SCE) in July. On Tuesday, OCPA’s chief executive, Joe Mosca, presented findings from this energy load analysis. Key data revealed that Costa Mesa has approximately 50,558 electricity customers who used a total of 631,172 megawatt-hours of energy between 2023 and 2024.
Financial projections from OCPA indicate that by the 2027-28 fiscal year, Costa Mesa could contribute $75.1 million in revenues, while operating expenses are forecasted at $64.1 million. Currently, OCPA holds reserves equivalent to 16% of its operating costs, which are expected to increase to 30% next year. If Costa Mesa proceeds with its membership, a board vote would be required by December, and service could commence by March 2027.
OCPA currently includes cities such as Irvine, Buena Park, and Fullerton. Fountain Valley is anticipated to join by October 2026. A notable success story from OCPA has been Buena Park, where carbon emissions have reportedly decreased by over 350 million pounds since the city joined the authority, a reduction comparable to taking 38,000 gas-powered vehicles off the streets.
Despite these positive aspects, skepticism surrounds OCPA’s operations, particularly due to the recent exit of Huntington Beach and Orange County, triggered by audits that questioned financial and management practices. OCPA has faced criticism regarding its communications with other cities, particularly concerning the clarity of information about energy rates and options.
Concerns were raised by council members about OCPA’s past, including managerial instability and allegations of bypassing established procurement policies. Specific attention was drawn to the independence of feasibility studies conducted by OCPA. The upcoming council meeting, scheduled for October 7, will see further discussion of the ordinance and a review of community energy targets, as well as evaluating potential alternatives.
Mayor Pro Tem Chavez has stressed the importance of reducing energy costs for local residents and is advocating for an opt-out provision. This would allow residents to withdraw from OCPA should projected savings fail to materialize, reflecting a careful approach by the council toward this potential membership.
In conclusion, while Costa Mesa moves forward with plans to join the OCPA, council members are adopting a cautious stance, seeking additional data and independent reviews to ensure a beneficial outcome for residents and local communities.
FAQ
What is the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA)?
The OCPA is a community choice aggregation program established in 2020 that aims to increase renewable energy use and allow local governments to control energy sourcing and rates.
What does joining the OCPA mean for Costa Mesa residents?
Joining the OCPA could potentially lower electricity costs for residents and increase access to renewable energy options while allowing the city to make decisions about energy sourcing.
What financial projections exist for Costa Mesa’s participation in OCPA?
By the fiscal year 2027-28, Costa Mesa is projected to generate $75.1 million in revenues for OCPA, with estimated operating expenses of $64.1 million.
What concerns have been raised regarding OCPA?
Concerns include management issues, previous audits questioning financial practices, and uncertainty regarding the independence of feasibility studies conducted by OCPA.
Key Features of Costa Mesa’s Consideration to Join OCPA
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vote Outcome | 5-2 to draft an ordinance |
| OCPA Formation Year | 2020 |
| Energy Customers in Costa Mesa | 50,558 |
| Estimated Annual Revenue for OCPA | $75.1 million by 2027-28 |
| Projected Operating Expenses | $64.1 million |
| OCPA Reserve Percentage | Currently 16%, projected 30% |
| Required Board Vote for Membership | By December |
| Projected Start of Service | March 2027 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Joining OCPA
- Wikipedia: Community Choice Aggregation
- OC Register: Costa Mesa Green Power Switch
- Google Search: Costa Mesa OCPA
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Explores OCPA Feasibility
- Google Scholar: Orange County Power Authority
- OC Register: Irvine Threatens to Leave OCPA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Renewable Energy
- Los Angeles Times: OC Supervisors Pull Out of OCPA
- Google News: Costa Mesa Energy News
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
