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Chairperson Sullivan questioned the City's process for allowing temporary facilities. Mr. Swif~ noted that it is still a local decision, but that it may be looked at differently if it is a short-term, interim facility. Chairperson Sullivan stated that he contacted Mr. Pat Stoner who has been involved in issues related to community energy planning and strategies and is knowledgeable in options and potential alternatives for cities. Mr. PaUick Stoner, Local Government Commission, 1414 K Street, Suite 600, Sacramento, provided information regarding the Commission's activities since 1979. He presented an overview of deregulation, electricity restructuring, the purpose and functions of the Independent System Operator (ISO) and the Power Exchange, and options for local governments. He noted that AB 970 was passed this past summer and it provides $50 million dollars to find ways to reduce demand for next summer or create new sources of renewable energy and the fast-tracking of new "cleaner" power plants. He provided information regarding the permit authority for energy facilities. He noted that the Energy Commission is trying to work with local governments to help them develop permitting guidelines. Mr. Stoner advised that there are three things local governments can do to have some control over what goes on in their communities. He noted that policies, such as an Energy Element in the General Plan or policies within other elements of the General Plan, should be in place for power plants which the local government is not the permitting authority. He reviewed possible areas to be considered for policy development within an Energy Element. He reportexl on the Community Energy Authority, noting that this is a separate entity that has the authority to develop and operate programs in the area of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and low income. Mr. Stoner provided information regarding the PLACE3S (Planning for Community Energy, Economic, and Environmental Sustainability) process. He advised that this is a ve~ time consuming process, but it may be possible to work with the consultant to develop a shorter version. Mr. Stoner advised that an energy plan should be in two areas: energy efficiency and energy generation. He noted that there are funds available through P.G. & E. or energy service companies that can look at municipal facilities and implement upgrades to the buildings to make them more energy efficient, at no cost to the city. He commented on other alternatives for existing businesses and residences, and new construction. He noted that San Jose and Irvine have deaign assistance programs for, mostly, new commercial buildings to make them more energy efficient and cut future energy use. Mr. Stoner discussed energy generation alternatives, including solar photovoltaics and solar water heating, and the cost effectiveness of installing solar photovoltaics on new construction. He noted that there is funding available from the State to convert traffic signal lights. Mr. Stoner distributed a copy of the "Summer of 2001 Forecasted Electricity Demand and Supplies" from the California Energy Commission. He advised that the report states that a problem is not anticipated for next summer. He advised that the Governor's Office is looking at PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES November 28, 2000 Page 7