Pasadena as seen from PWP power plant, 2019 (Photo – ColoradoBlvd.net)
Pasadena is one step closer to its goal of 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030. This summer, the upgraded Wind Resource II facility started supplying clean energy to the city, a major milestone in its sustainability efforts.
By News Desk
Developed in partnership with CalWind Resources, Inc., the Wind Resource II project is part of Pasadena Water and Power’s (PWP) strategy to diversify the city’s energy mix and improve grid reliability. The facility is expected to generate approximately 60,000 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, further reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
The project is backed by a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) approved by the Pasadena City Council in 2024. This agreement marks a key milestone in the city’s ongoing efforts to meet state and local renewable energy targets, including California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which mandates increasing amounts of clean energy in the state’s electricity mix.
Wind Power’s Role in Grid Reliability
One of the primary benefits of the Wind Resource II facility is its ability to complement existing renewable energy sources, particularly solar power. Wind power, which typically generates the most electricity during the evening and overnight hours, helps stabilize fluctuations in solar energy production. This balancing of intermittent energy sources improves the overall reliability of Pasadena’s electricity grid.
David Reyes, General Manager of Pasadena Water and Power, emphasized the importance of this project in ensuring both reliable and affordable electricity for the city’s residents. “This project adds a consistent, emission-free energy source that will support both grid reliability and affordability, ensuring long-term stability for Pasadena’s customer,” he said.
Supporting Decarbonization Efforts
The Wind Resource II project is a crucial part of Pasadena’s broader decarbonization strategy, which includes transitioning to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030. This goal was outlined in the city’s 2020 Resolution 9977, which established one of the most ambitious timelines for decarbonization in the country. The project is also in line with California’s aggressive climate goals, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the use of renewable energy sources across the state.
The city of Pasadena has been working with CalWind Resources, Inc. since 2024, and the new 10-year agreement with the company is expected to further accelerate the city’s progress toward meeting its carbon-free electricity target.
Challenges and Future Plans
While the Wind Resource II facility is an important achievement, PWP has acknowledged the challenges of achieving a 100% renewable energy grid. Securing reliable, long-term renewable energy sources will remain a key focus for the utility, particularly as the city works to ensure the affordability and stability of electricity prices for residents.
PWP also continues to explore additional renewable energy projects that will help meet state mandates and support the city’s decarbonization goals, while maintaining a stable energy supply.
Developed in partnership with CalWind Resources, Inc. (Photo – PWP)
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