Pole-Less in Del Mar

What if we imagine a future where Del Mar takes a different path to electrifying our homes and takes a leadership role in local energy generation that might make undergrounding unnecessary. Given the staggering cost of undergrounding, considering alternatives seems like a worthy exercise. Del Mar could set an example for other cities, states, and the country in adapting to the future energy landscape.

The Future: The electrical distribution grid is likely to look much different in 2045, when the state has a goal of 100% carbon-free electricity, than it does today. To achieve this goal, there will need to be many changes to electricity generation, storage and distribution. Energy experts tell us the best way to meet these challenges will be to accelerate local energy generation and storage. Battery storage and EV vehicle to grid charging will be much more common. Local generation from rooftop solar and local microgrids will reduce transmission losses and cost. It is plausible that utility lines and poles can be removed because they will no longer be needed, and the cost of undergrounding avoided. It is impossible to predict the future, but it will be a different energy landscape.

The Cost: At their November 18th meeting, the City Council heard an update on the projected cost of undergrounding utilities citywide. The estimated cost exceeded $100 million, or much more if borrowing adds interest costs. The final project completion date was estimated to be 2059 if only Measure Q revenues were used, the pay-as-you-go option. Given the cost and time frame, any alternative that can be achieved earlier and with less expense should be considered.

The Short Term: Notwithstanding these arguments, there are real safety advantages to completing the X1A undergrounding in the high fire risk Crest Canyon area as soon as possible before construction costs further escalate. It is the later projects that require more scrutiny.