Ventura Modernization Project Newsletter

December 3, 2024

Ventura Compressor Station Modernization Project Application Update

On October 30, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Energy Division, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Energy Permitting Section notified SoCalGas that it has completed its completeness review of SoCalGas Proponent’s Environmental Assessment (PEA) and application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) for the Ventura Compressor Station Modernization Project (Proposed Project). The CPUC Energy Division found that the PEA contained sufficient information to satisfy the requirements of the CPUC’s Guidelines for Energy Project Applications Requiring CEQA Compliance: Pre-filing and Proponent’s Environmental Assessment and deemed the application complete. This milestone advances the Proposed Project to the next phase of the environmental review process.

SoCalGas encourages community members and stakeholders to stay informed and provide feedback throughout the review process. Community and public input play an important role, and the CPUC will offer opportunities to engage and share comments. For more information about the Proposed Project and how to participate, visit the CPUC’s website https://ia.cpuc.ca.gov/environment/info/aspen/venturacompressor/vcm.htm.

The Ventura Compressor Modernization Project is designed to replace three existing natural-gas-driven compressors with a hybrid configuration of two new natural-gas driven and two new electric-driven compressors. These upgrades are intended to improve reliability, promote affordability, and reduce permitted Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions by 75% (when compared to the existing compressor units at the facility today) for Ventura residents.

For more information, visit socalgas.com/VenturaModern.

Introducing Elisabeth Paniagua: SoCalGas's New Public Affairs Manager for Ventura County

SoCalGas is excited to introduce Elisabeth V. Paniagua as the new Public Affairs Manager for Ventura County. A lifelong Ventura County resident, Elisabeth brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to her community. Her passion for Ventura County shines through in her love for its diverse communities, beautiful beaches, and open spaces. In her role, Elisabeth will lead public affairs efforts across Ventura County, including local governments, community organizations, media outlets, and residents.

Elisabeth is deeply passionate about connecting with community members throughout Ventura County, a favorite aspect of her role. With more than 23 years of experience in public policy and community relations, she has honed her skills in government relations, legislative affairs, and municipal government. Her extensive background allows her to effectively represent SoCalGas, supporting the needs of local communities while fostering meaningful partnerships. Elisabeth’s commitment to understanding and addressing community concerns makes her an invaluable resource for both SoCalGas and Ventura County.

Elisabeth holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a master’s degree in public administration and policy from California Lutheran University. She lives in Oxnard with her husband, Andres, and their four children: Katherine, Mateo, Benjamin, and Alexandra. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and exploring Ventura County’s beautiful beaches and natural areas with her family.

SoCalGas Shares Five Simple Ways to Reduce Energy Use and Save

As cooler weather approaches, SoCalGas shares energy-saving tips and tools to help customers prepare their homes.
Energy-Savings Tips for Customers:
1.    Manage Your Heating Systems: Heating is often the largest energy expense for customers. When away from your home or business, adjust your thermostat by five to eight degrees, if health permits, to help save energy.
2.    Optimize Appliance Usage: Ensure your dryer runs efficiently by checking the ductwork for obstructions and cleaning the lint filter before every load. Dry full loads of laundry but avoid overloading or over-drying. Upgrading to energy-efficient models can result in up to 20% savings.
3.    Install Energy-Saving Showerheads and Other Fixtures: By using less water, less natural gas will be used for heating. Consider installing fixtures such as low flow faucet aerators and tub spouts.
4.    Test for Duct Air Leakage and Seal Leaks: Leaky ducts can lead to 10%-30% higher heating and cooling costs. Check for leaks in ductwork to help reduce energy expenses. Seal any leaks around windows and doors to retain heat and ensure proper insulation to reduce heating needs.
5.    Replace Furnace Filter(s): Replace your furnace filter(s) monthly during heating season or as often as the manufacturer recommends.
A great way to conserve energy usage is to upgrade older model appliances with new, energy-efficient ones. Find eligible appliances at our marketplace.socalgas.com site where you can purchase, finance, and schedule delivery of your new appliances.

This fall, SoCalGas also launched its newly redesigned website, offering enhanced navigation and improved access to information on billing, energy savings assistance programs, as well as critical and timely customer announcements, safety information, and sustainability initiatives. Learn more about the updated features to “My Account” at myaccount.socalgas.com.

Ventura Compressor Station: Powering Ventura County for Nearly a Century

At SoCalGas, safety and reliability are at the heart of everything we do. For nearly a century, the Ventura Compressor Station has been an essential part of our commitment to providing Ventura County residents with the reliable energy they need to power their lives. Since 1923, this critical facility has safely and reliably delivered natural gas to over a quarter million customers for heat, cooking, and hot water. The Ventura Compressor Station is the only compressor station on SoCalGas’s coastal transmission system and plays a vital role in energy reliability and resiliency for the region. We are dedicated to operating the station with the highest safety standards and keeping the community informed. To learn more about the Ventura Compressor Station, visit socalgas.com/Ventura.

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