Boiling Point: Inside L.A.’s Solar Megaproject Episode Release Date: April 24, 2025
In the April 24, 2025 episode of Boiling Point, hosted by Sammy Roth of the Los Angeles Times Studios, listeners are taken on an in-depth exploration of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power’s (LADWP) ambitious solar and battery storage project, Eland. This groundbreaking initiative represents the largest solar and battery storage endeavor ever undertaken by the city of Los Angeles, aiming to significantly advance the region’s transition to renewable energy.
Aerial Journey to the Future of Energy
Sammy Roth begins the episode recounting his helicopter tour of the Eland solar farm, situated approximately 80 miles north of downtown Los Angeles in the Kern County desert. The journey provides a panoramic view of the expansive solar and wind farms that blanket the desert landscape.
“As we flew north... it felt like Los Angeles never really ends.” [01:04]
The Eland project comprises two solar farms, Eland 1 and Eland 2, which together are expected to supply 7% of LA's electricity at a record-low price for solar and storage solutions. The visual of countless solar panels stretching across the desert underscores the scale and potential impact of this renewable energy source.
Unprecedented Scale and Technological Integration
Upon landing at California City’s modest airport, Sammy highlights the sheer magnitude of the Eland Solar Farm, which houses 1.36 million panels—comparable in size to East Los Angeles. The proximity of existing power lines is a crucial factor, enabling the rapid expansion of renewable energy infrastructure without the lengthy delays typically associated with building new transmission lines.
“The fact that LA already had power lines here and was able to build some new ones too, that is a very big deal.” [06:53]
The integration of 172 Tesla lithium-ion batteries within the project allows Eland to store 300 megawatts of solar power for four hours after sunset, ensuring a reliable supply of clean energy even when the sun isn't shining.
Strategic Vision for Clean Energy Transition
Janice Quinones, LADWP's Chief Executive, provides critical insights into the strategic importance of the Eland project. She emphasizes that Eland is a pivotal step towards LADWP’s goal of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2035, a target that surpasses California’s state mandate of 2045.
“We're on track to get... by 2030, we should be about 98% clean energy.” [14:12]
Quinones outlines the necessity of replicating the Eland model, stating that ten additional projects of this magnitude are required to meet LADWP’s ambitious targets. This expansion is vital not only for increasing renewable energy capacity but also for phasing out reliance on coal and natural gas.
Challenges and Solutions in Renewable Integration
The episode delves into the complexities of transitioning to renewable energy. Quinones discusses the technical challenges, such as the need for voltage regulation and system stability, which are addressed through advanced technologies like Statcoms and extensive transmission upgrades.
“Switching from fossil fuels to clean energy isn't simple. We've got to move fast for climate reasons.” [08:35]
Additionally, the integration of hydrogen blending at gas plants represents a pivotal strategy in reducing carbon emissions. By substituting a portion of natural gas with green hydrogen, LADWP aims to transition entirely to hydrogen by 2045, further decarbonizing the energy supply.
Economic and Community Impact
Eland's economic implications are significant, providing affordable clean energy and supporting local economies. Quinones highlights LADWP's approach to maintaining affordable rates despite the substantial investments required for renewable infrastructure.
“We're working on keeping the rates as affordable as we can... probably one of the cheapest increasing rates compared to others.” [23:16]
Being a municipally owned utility allows LADWP to prioritize community benefits and long-term sustainability over shareholder profits, facilitating more strategic and equitable energy solutions.
Looking Ahead: Confidence in Achieving 100% Clean Energy
Despite the formidable challenges, Quinones expresses unwavering confidence in LADWP's ability to meet its 2035 clean energy goal. She attributes this confidence to the utility’s history of overcoming significant obstacles and its commitment to innovative solutions.
“I'm confident and positive that I'm going to do it. That's 100% our strategy and we're committed to it.” [29:16]
Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Goals
The episode concludes with a reminder of the delicate balance LADWP must maintain between ensuring immediate energy reliability and pursuing long-term sustainability objectives. Recent events, such as the Palisades fire, underscore the importance of resilient and clean energy infrastructure.
“Whatever might have happened in Pacific Palisades, it's important that city officials don't lose track of the important climate work being done at DWP.” [32:10]
Sammy Roth emphasizes the urgency and significance of LADWP’s initiatives, positioning the Eland project as a beacon of hope and a model for other cities striving towards sustainable energy futures.
Conclusion
"Inside L.A.’s Solar Megaproject" offers a comprehensive look into LADWP’s transformative efforts to achieve a 100% clean energy landscape by 2035. Through expert interviews, on-the-ground reportage, and insightful analysis, Sammy Roth effectively captures the complexities and triumphs of this monumental shift towards renewable energy, underscoring its critical role in combating climate change and setting a precedent for urban sustainability.