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San Francisco Clean Energy Proposal Opposed By Mayor

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – San Francisco's Board of Supervisors could take a bold step into the world of clean energy on Tuesday with one key obstacle: Mayor Ed Lee.

San Francisco's mayor said the CleanPower SF program is risky for ratepayers.

"You don't want to surprise them with financial risks," Lee said.

KCBS' Tim Ryan Reports:

The multi-million dollar investment in renewable energy, mainly wind and solar generation, is up for a vote.

"It might eliminate 95 jobs. There is a financial risk of some $13.5 million," said Lee.

San Francisco Supervisor David Campos is a supporter of CleanPower SF. He said he is ready to move forward with a five-year contract with Shell Energy, similar to what Marin County did two years ago.

"There are many people in San Francisco who don't mind paying a little bit more to get clean energy and to make sure that they're no longer buying nuclear power," said Campos.

Ratepayers would see their energy bills rise about $9 per month if the plan is implemented.

If approved, CleanPower SF would allow the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission to contract with Shell Energy to provide 100 percent renewable power to certain utility customers. About half of the city's residential customers would be automatically enrolled starting next year with the others having the option to opt in.

Customers who are automatically enrolled could opt out for free within a five month period. They would be charged a small fee after that to opt out.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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