In the 2019 calendar year, power utilized in Westlands Water District (District) was 100% carbon-free power, in accordance with the standards created by the California Energy Commission.
The Power and Water Resources Pooling Authority (PWRPA) and the District
The District utilized hydroelectric and solar power, purchased from the Power and Water Resources Pooling Authority (PWRPA), to achieve 100% carbon-fee power. PWRPA is a joint powers authority governed by representatives from irrigation and water districts that spans a significant portion of the Sacramento-San Joaquin valleys and coastal counties of California. PWRPA’s portfolio generally includes hydroelectric power from the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) and utility scale solar power.
The District’s participation in PWRPA provides a low-cost energy alternative to deliver water on farms for growers, promotes conjunctive use of groundwater and surface water supply, and enhances water management. In the 2019 calendar year, PWRPA delivered carbon-free power to facilities enrolled in the District’s Groundwater Management Program (groundwater wells), Irrigation System Management Program (filtration and drip/micro spray systems), and by pumping plants that divert water from canals.
Carbon-Free Power
The District’s achievement aligns with the state of California’s goal of reaching 100% renewable and zero-carbon electricity by 2045. Using carbon-free power reduces the dependence on, and need for, fossil fuel-based energy sources.
Generally, the most widely available sources of carbon-free energy are hydroelectric plants, wind farms, and solar farms. These types of carbon-free power are replenished when used and, when sufficient water, wind, and sun are present, provide non-depleting sources of energy.
Celebrating A Carbon-Free 2019
The District is proud to have utilized sustainable and 100% carbon-free power in 2019. Westlands works alongside its growers to constantly improve upon the effective and responsible ways fresh and nutritious food and fiber products are produced within the District.