Report on Monterey Peninsula Water Supply and Demand Forecast

Introduction

On June 26, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) was scheduled to adopt a proposed decision concerning the Monterey Peninsula’s current water supply and forecasted demand through 2050. This decision is critical in aligning local water management with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, and SDG 13: Climate Action.

Postponement of Decision

The decision was initially rescheduled from the June 12 CPUC meeting by Commissioner Darcie Houck, who presides over the matter. On June 24, Houck again removed the item from the agenda and postponed the decision until the CPUC’s next meeting on July 24.

Stakeholder Engagement

On June 24, California-American Water Company (Cal Am) filed a notice reporting meetings held via Webex with staff from four of the five CPUC commissioners. These meetings took place on June 19 and June 20, involving eight participants from Cal Am (six employees and two consultants) and CPUC staff, including Houck’s Chief of Staff, Victor Smith.

Discussion Points

• Cal Am expressed disagreement with the proposed decision’s water demand projection of 13,732 acre-feet per year by 2050, a figure Cal Am supports but which is significantly higher than five independent estimates.
• The proposed current water supply was estimated at 11,204 acre-feet per year, a figure Cal Am considers overestimated.
• Cal Am reiterated its rationale for the higher demand projections.

Water Demand Trends

Water demand on the Monterey Peninsula fell below 9,000 acre-feet last year, marking the lowest level in decades. The proposed decision anticipates an increase of more than 4,500 acre-feet over the next 25 years, highlighting the need for sustainable water resource management consistent with SDG 6.

Implications for Water Management and Regulatory Compliance

Dave Stoldt, General Manager of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, expressed frustration over the delays. He emphasized the urgency of establishing a strategy to appeal to the State Water Resources Control Board to lift the cease-and-desist order against Cal Am.

Stoldt stated: “I do need a decision with some numbers in it so I can figure out what it means, because that’s what the State Water Board needs. As long as the CPUC doesn’t reverse course, I can work with the proposed decision. Do I think it’s wrong? Yes, but I can work with it.”

Conclusion and Outlook

The postponement of the CPUC decision delays critical steps toward sustainable water management on the Monterey Peninsula. The resolution of water supply and demand projections is essential to meet SDG targets related to clean water access and climate resilience. Stakeholders and the public are advised to stay informed as the CPUC prepares to revisit the decision in July.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article focuses on water supply and demand management for the Monterey Peninsula, directly relating to ensuring availability and sustainable management of water.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Although not explicitly mentioned, the management of water resources and planning for future demand implicitly connects to climate resilience and adaptation strategies.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The article discusses planning for water supply in a community context, which is essential for sustainable urban development.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6 Targets
   • Target 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
   • Target 6.4: Substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals to address water scarcity.
   • Target 6.5: Implement integrated water resources management at all levels.
2. SDG 13 Targets
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
3. SDG 11 Targets
   • Target 11.1: Ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services.
   • Target 11.5: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including water management.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Water Supply and Demand Metrics
   • Current water supply measured in acre-feet per year (11,204 acre-feet).
   • Projected water demand for 2050 (13,732 acre-feet per year as per proposed decision; Cal Am’s estimates differ).
   • Historical water demand data (below 9,000 acre-feet last year).
2. Regulatory Compliance Indicators
   • Status of cease-and-desist orders and regulatory decisions by the California Public Utilities Commission and State Water Board.
3. Stakeholder Engagement and Decision-Making Process
   • Meetings and consultations between Cal Am, CPUC commissioners, and water management authorities as a measure of governance and integrated management.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: montereycountynow.com