The San Francisco Board of Supervisors this week delayed approval of a bond-financed, gas-powered electric plant in the city. Mayor Gavin Newsom requested another week to consider options that would produce less greenhouse gases.
The proposed $250 million peaker plant would replace a facility that produces 38% more pollution. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission would issue certificates of participation to finance the plant, which is backed by Supervisor Sophie Maxwell, whose district includes the new and old plants.
The plan has come under attack from environmentalists, the San Francisco Chronicle editorial page, progressive supervisors, and even some of the mayor’s allies because it would continue the city’s reliance on fossil fuels. Backers have said it’s the city’s only viable alternative, and state regulators require the city to locate some electrical production capacity within its boundaries.
The board is scheduled to consider the proposal next week, but supervisors indicated they may delay longer if Newsom believes he can come up with a more environmentally friendly approach.
