Some Early Steps in the Removal of the South Bay Power Plant

The South Bay Power Plant looms over the south San Diego Bay's wetlands - Photo by author

An early step in the long-coming process of removing the South Bay Power Plant (SBPP) from the south San Diego Bay occurred today when "SDG&E filed for approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to relocate the company's existing South Bay substation in Chula Vista to a site south of the South Bay Power Plant to open up public access to the waterfront".

This is one of many regulatory and proceedural steps needed before the SBPP is shutdown and removed from the edge of our San Diego sea turtle's home. The California Independent System Operator (Cal-ISO) still needs to remove the "must run status" of the plant before it can be completely shut down, and full environmental reviews, development plans and permits are still to follow this action - but it is one step closer to the changes we knew have been coming for a long time.

So all of you out there who enjoy our sea turtles, birds, fish and other wonderful wildlife who share our great natural resource, the San Diego Bay, keep paying attention to this process and make sure your voice is heard.

The Port of San Diego and the City of Chula Vista in particular will be working hard to coordinate plans to convert the land now occupied by the SBPP to something new and different. And through the participation of citizens, scientist, and policy makers - we have the potential to create a well preserved bayfront environment; which also provides learning and earning opportunity for San Diego's residents and visitors.

There is a spectrum of impact that development can have on the environment and the natural resources (including the turtles). Likewise, there is a spectrum of value - both traditional economic value as well as non-tradition inherent, personal, and enjoyment value - which differing types of development can generate. My hope is that a creative development plan can maximize both the economic and inherent value of the South Bay. For example, a rejuvenated area with shops, restaurants, homes and even hotels could be set off of the bay. While open space, parks, natural wetlands, observation decks, kayak launch/rental, and trails allow residents and visitors alike the chance to enjoy the beautiful coastal ecosystems of the South Bay.

The South Bay Power Plant and the site of our makeshift field research

station during sea turtle monitoring days - Photo by author

I can visualize school groups learning about wetlands and birds, while watching the mullet leap from the water as they scan to see those turtles pop up for a breath of air. Bird-watching enthusiasts could stroll along the wetland edges, taking in the many migration and residential species found in the South Bay; while only having a short 5 minute walk before they take a seat and enjoy a cut of coffee at a small cafe. Giant sea turtles, one of the most charismatic creatures in the ocean, will continue to visit and feed in the South Bay. Jobs can be created, amazing educational experiences can be had, a new recreation opportunity will be accessible; all through smart planning for the upcoming development.

Economic value can coincide with environmental conservation. The two are in no way mutually exclusive. This is our wonderful backyard, this is our wonderful opportunity. Let's continue to be involved in the process, make our opinions and desires heard, and support our leaders and representatives making these decisions about the future of the South Bay.

See the full press release article from SDG&E about this early step here.