SAN DIEGO, Oct. 18, 2006 – San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) has announced it is seeking bids to supply 250 megawatts of quick-start power-generating units to be brought online by 2008 for peak consumption periods.  The utility also will bolster its energy-efficiency and demand-response programs in 2007.

        A megawatt is enough electricity for approximately 650 homes.

        “While we were able to meet our customers’ needs during this summer’s heat wave, we need to continue to be prepared for future demand,” said William L. Reed, senior vice president, regulatory and strategic planning for SDG&E.  “These new resources will bring more energy to our customers when they need it most.”

        In 2004, the California Public Utilities Commission approved SDG&E’s long-term energy resource plan, which relies on a balanced mix of resources to meet the growing energy needs of San Diego.  That mix includes increased emphasis on energy efficiency, more renewable energy resources, and additional large-scale generation plants and transmission capacity.  The request for peak-generation units in 2008 is designed to address a short-term energy supply issue.

        SDG&E will expand its energy-savings programs, including doubling its air-conditioner cycling program, in 2007.

        San Diego Gas & Electric is a full-service energy utility that currently serves 3.4 million consumers through 1.3 million electric meters and more than 825,000 natural gas meters. The utility’s service area spans 4,100 square miles and serves customers in more than 125 communities from Southern Orange County to the Mexican border.  SDG&E is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE).  Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company.  To learn more, go to www.sdge.com.

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