California Inland Empire Agencies Form Joint Powers Authority to Finance New Water Supply Infrastructure
Public water agencies in San Bernardino County, California have established the San Bernardino Water and Power Authority (SBWPA) as a joint powers authority under California's Joint Exercise of Powers Act. The new entity aims to provide low-cost financing for interconnected water and energy infrastructure projects across Inland Empire and High Desert communities. Formed by San Bernardino County and Fenner Gap Mutual Water Company, the JPA will support sustainable development through expanded access to capital, including public-private partnerships. The Authority's mission is to reduce infrastructure costs while maintaining affordable services for residents and businesses in the region. It plans to leverage innovative funding sources such as revenue bonds and state/federal grants to finance water supply projects like recycling, stormwater capture, groundwater recharge, and energy-related infrastructure. The JPA’s board includes representatives from key agencies involved in regional utilities. Leaders emphasized that this initiative will help address significant capital investment needs while supporting new housing development and economic growth by lowering the cost of essential services.
Topics: energy projects public utilities regional cooperation water infrastructure