Joining an Existing CCA
For some areas, it makes more sense to join a CCA already in operation than to go through the intense process associated with building a CCA from scratch. Several cities have found success partnering with existing Community Choice programs. Contact local CCAs in your area to find out more.
Other Resources
Attending an industry event is a great way to learn more about establishing and operating a CCA. These include CalCCA’s own events, such as the CalCCA Annual Meeting.
Emerging CCA FAQs
Look here for answers to common questions asked by inquiring and emerging CCAs. For more general FAQs about Community Choice Aggregation, follow the link below.
What are the advantages of forming a CCA?
Advocates of consumer choice, renewable energy, and local decision-making often refer to CCAs as “energy democracy.” With CCAs, local governments can provide their constituents with a choice of what energy resource they wish to support through their energy purchases. This can directly result in the reduction of GHG emissions and a reduction of monthly energy rates for customers.
Who can establish a CCA in California?
Any city, county, or combination thereof in California is eligible to form a CCA if located in an Investor Owned Utility (IOU) territory. Cities and counties that are part of a Publicly Owned Utility (POU) or served by a special district are not eligible as they are already governed by a local board.
What are some of the steps for forming a CCA?
- Declaration to Pursue — this is an official declaration sent to the service area IOU and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
- Ordinance — each city and/or county to be a member of the CCA must past a local ordinance or resolution to make membership official and to pursue the formation of the legal entity.
- Establishing a Legal Entity — depending on the desired model, the city or county needs to legally form a JPA or establish a division within the local city or county government to administer the CCA program.
- Feasibility Study — a feasibility study is not required by law but can assist a community in understanding its electricity needs and what energy resources and rates to consider.
- Implementation Plan — An Implementation Plan must be filed with and certified by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) prior to launching service.
- Other Steps Include — Entering into a service agreement with the local Investor Owned Utility (IOU), securing energy supply, data management services and electricity scheduling services, and noticing customers according to the statutory noticing requirements.
How long does it take to form a CCA?
CCAs have varying timelines for formation given attributes unique to their areas. Locations considering CCA should plan for a timeline of 1-3 years depending on the degree of support and interest within the community.
How do CCAs partner with Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs)?
CCAs provide electric generation, which is the source of power, but IOUs, such as Pacific Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison, continue to provide electric delivery and billing services just as they always have. IOUs still own and read the electric meter, send monthly bills, and provide the same maintenance and other repair services they always have.