Board of Supervisors Tues Mtg 07-14-26 · Ad Hoc Energy Policy Committee

The County of Lake, California Board of Supervisors held a meeting on July 14, 2026, focusing on the development of an energy element and accompanying energy policy as part of the county's general plan. The discussion centered on issuing an RFP to hire a consultant to develop the energy element, with community development handling the process and the ad hoc Energy Policy Committee providing input. The board considered pausing membership in a Community Choice Aggregator (CCA) due to ongoing litigation and regulatory uncertainty regarding the Power Charge Indifference Adjustment (PCIA). There was significant debate about the role and transparency of the ad hoc committee, with concerns raised about the committee meeting with energy developers without producing a formal policy. Several supervisors and public commenters advocated for a temporary moratorium on data centers and other energy projects until a comprehensive energy policy and ordinances are established to protect community interests, including environmental safeguards and community benefits. The board directed staff to continue introductory meetings with potential energy developers but clarified that the ad hoc committee should focus on policy development. A draft energy policy is expected to be presented within 60 days, with further discussion and refinement to follow. The board also agreed to pause CCA consideration pending resolution of legal and regulatory issues.