RCEA Board Approves Budget and Power Source Report, Advances Clean Energy Initiatives

The Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) Board of Directors held their regular meeting on August 28, 2025, addressing a range of topics focused on sustainable energy initiatives for Humboldt County. Despite technical difficulties delaying the start, the meeting progressed efficiently, covering budgetary approvals, clean energy progress reports, and community outreach efforts.

**Budgetary Approvals and Key Purchases:** The board unanimously approved the consent calendar, encompassing the minutes from the July 24th meeting, June 2025 disbursement and financial reports, and a federal activity report. Significant approvals included a two-year, $250,000 software agreement with BlastPoint, Inc., for customer analytics and outreach within the Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN). Further, the board authorized the purchase of a sixth Sun Titan L30 power trailer from RPS Solar Pumps, increasing the project budget for Energy-Resilient Fire Services in High-Threat Communities from $157,101 to $188,522 to meet Regional Resilience Grant Program requirements.

**Clean Energy Progress and Reporting:** A key focus of the meeting was the adoption of Resolution 2025-5, approving RCEA's 2024 Power Source Disclosure Report, a state-mandated report to the California Energy Commission detailing the energy sources powering the Community Choice Energy program. This report highlights RCEAs commitment to transparency and accountability in its clean energy efforts.

**Community Engagement and Outreach:** RCEA Executive Director [Name of Executive Director, if available from transcript] reported on several community engagement activities, including participation in the Humboldt County Fair, Fortuna Chamber of Commerce events, and the Eureka Main Street Resource Fair. The director also announced the launch of the RCEA electric vehicle rebate program, noting that 13 rebates have already been issued, with 6 more pending. A handout on understanding energy bills and tax credits was also distributed at the meeting.

**Other Notable Items:** Director Sheri Woo, Vice-Chair of the Board, shared updates from member entities, including a vacancy on the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District Board and the recent adoption of a new county lighting ordinance impacting unincorporated areas of Humboldt County. The Executive Director also mentioned participation in a letter from the Elected Officials to Protect America, aimed at supporting offshore wind energy projects.

**Looking Ahead:** The next RCEA Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. in the Wharfinger Building Upstairs Great Room, 1 Marina Way, Eureka. Residents are encouraged to attend in person or participate via Zoom. Information on how to participate remotely will be available on the RCEA website closer to the date.