San Diego Gas and Electric: Evolution of Public Utilities

Covering over 4,100 square miles, San Diego Gas and Electric brings safe and dependable energy to 3.4 million people with 1.4 million electric meters and 830,000 natural gas meters. As with most endeavors, its growth has spanned over several centuries. The history of this company begins with William H. Perry, a San Diego resident who in 1870 set out to provide San Diego with gas. His first effort involved bringing machinery into Sane Diego by boat. It failed but did not stop Mr. Perry from pursuing his dream.

By March of 1881, citizens of San Diego and the surrounding communities decided to regroup and resolve the matter. One might have found one Pacific Beach volunteer and a Mission Beach volunteer involved in the mission. In sum, the residents were ready for some improvement in their gas and electric and rallied around the idea that San Diego community service would bring residents safer and more dependable energy.

Within a month, The San Diego Gas Company had come together, and in April, articles of merger were recorded and registered. The members of the first group were: 0. S. Witherby, George A. Cowles, Dr. R. M. Powers, E. W. Morse, Gordon & Hazzard, Bryant Howard, and M. G. Elmore.

On Tenth and M Streets work began, and this time the project was providing jobs instead of depending on San Diego volunteers. and by June 2,1881, fires were lighted for the first time in the city's history. The fuel used was petroleum. The plant was viewed as adequate for a city of 20,000. The number of subscribers at the start was less that one hundred.

Despite the steady increase in energy available and innovation, petroleum proved to be inefficient for a growing coastal town like San Diego, and coal use was implemented in place of petroleum.

Electric lighting arrived in San Diego in 1885. The Horton House in downtown San Diego became the first building illuminated by electricity. Today, you will find the U.S. Grant Hotel standing in its place. The late Senator Bowers built the house and used it as a profitable hotel, which opened in 1870. Jenney Electric Light Company, based out of Indianapolis, Indiana, had the first contract, which was to last five years. San Diego Gas, Fuel, and Electric Light Company was formed in March of 1887 and commenced light and gas service to families and businesses in the San Diego and Coranado areas.

Always aiming to provide the best energy service possible, San Diego Gas, Fuel, and Electric Light Company, was now know as the San Diego Consolidated Gas and Electric Company and spent over 750,000 rebuilding all of its plants.

The changes of the energy resources of the city have changed considerably over the years. With southern California utility approval, what we now know as San Diego Gas and Electric continues to thrive on service and innovation.