Silicon Valley Clean Energy

Silicon Valley Clean Energy is a public not-for-profit community choice energy agency that provides electricity services to residents and businesses in Cupertino and several other cities throughout Santa Clara County. Established to offer cleaner and more sustainable energy options, the agency represents a collaborative effort among multiple local governments to reduce carbon emissions and increase renewable energy usage in the region.

Unlike traditional investor-owned utilities, Silicon Valley Clean Energy operates as a community choice aggregation program, meaning it procures electricity on behalf of its member communities while the existing utility infrastructure continues to handle transmission and distribution. This arrangement allows customers in Cupertino to access greener energy sources without requiring new power lines or equipment installations. The agency focuses on purchasing electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric facilities, helping the community transition away from fossil fuel dependence.

Residents and businesses in Cupertino automatically become Silicon Valley Clean Energy customers unless they choose to opt out and return to the incumbent utility provider. The agency typically offers multiple service tiers, including a standard option with a high percentage of renewable energy and a premium option that provides 100 percent renewable electricity. These choices enable customers to select the level of environmental impact that aligns with their values and budget.

The agency's website serves as a comprehensive resource for customers seeking information about rates, billing, energy sources, and program participation. Users can find tools to understand their energy usage, explore incentives for energy efficiency upgrades, and learn about electric vehicle charging programs. Silicon Valley Clean Energy also administers various programs designed to support decarbonization efforts, including rebates for energy-efficient appliances, incentives for solar panel installations, and assistance with transitioning to electric heating and transportation.

Community engagement represents a core component of Silicon Valley Clean Energy's mission. The agency regularly hosts educational workshops, participates in local sustainability events, and collaborates with schools and community organizations to promote energy literacy. These efforts help Cupertino residents understand how their energy choices impact the environment and provide practical guidance for reducing household carbon footprints.

For businesses operating in Cupertino, Silicon Valley Clean Energy offers specialized programs tailored to commercial and industrial energy needs. These include customized rate structures, energy audits, and technical assistance for implementing energy-saving technologies. The agency works with local enterprises to identify opportunities for operational efficiency and renewable energy integration.

Silicon Valley Clean Energy plays an important role in helping Cupertino achieve its climate action goals. By providing access to renewable electricity at competitive rates, the agency supports both individual and collective efforts to address climate change. The organization's governance structure includes representation from member cities, ensuring that local priorities and community interests guide decision-making processes. This regional approach enables Cupertino to benefit from economies of scale while maintaining local input on energy policy.