What it Took to Build one of the US’ Largest Community Choice Aggregations

How do you make an ambitious clean energy goal a reality that benefits an entire community? In this episode, we sit down with Cody Hooven, principal and co-founder of Evolution Affairs, to explore how she led the charge in creating San Diego Community Power—now the second-largest Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) in the U.S.

From navigating policy and financial hurdles to engaging local stakeholders and launching during the turbulence of COVID, Cody shares the behind-the-scenes story of what it takes to build a more decentralized, community-driven energy future. She also discusses the growing role of local governments in energy decision-making, the unique advantages CCAs offer over traditional utilities, and why community engagement is the key to lasting change.

Tune in to learn how CCAs are shaping the future of energy—and how communities across the country can take control of their power.

00:00 Introduction to Energy Changemakers

00:27 Meet Cody Hooven: The Force Behind San Diego's Community Choice Program

01:57 Understanding Community Choice Aggregation (CCA)

04:48 The Growth and Challenges of San Diego Community Power

11:40 Navigating Financial Hurdles During COVID-19

14:16 Lessons Learned and Advice for Future CCAs

23:24 The Role of CCAs in Distributed Energy

29:41 Future of CCAs and Energy Transition

33:30 Cody Hooven's New Venture: Evolution Affairs

35:25 Conclusion and Call to Action

🔗 Learn More & Join the Conversation: EnergyChangemakers.com