Latest news with #Quiñones
Los Angeles Times
06-08-2025
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Major clean power plant serving L.A. goes fully online in Kern County
MOJAVE, Calif. — One of the largest solar and battery power plants in the United States is now supplying Los Angeles and Glendale from Kern County. Local leaders and clean energy experts gathered Tuesday beneath a blazing desert sun to mark the initiation of full production from 1.36 million solar panels and 172 lithium iron phosphate batteries that make up the Eland solar-plus-storage electricity project. It's as large as 13 Dodger stadiums, parking lots included, and will generate 7% of the electricity for all of the city of Los Angeles, much of it at a record-low price. 'This is the largest project for LADWP when it comes to solar and battery, and that is a huge accomplishment for us because it takes away the fear of doing more of these — and we need about 10 more of these to hit our goals,' said Janisse Quiñones, chief executive officer of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The city has committed to 100% clean energy by 2035. With Eland's power now flowing through its grid, L.A. is nearly two-thirds of the way there: The project has pushed the city's total supply to 64% clean energy, Quiñones said. Other sources of power in L.A.'s portfolio include hydrogen, natural gas, biomass, geothermal, nuclear and coal, which the city aims to decommission by the end of this year. The $2 billion Eland project was developed by Arizona-based Arevon Energy and will also supply solar electricity to Glendale Water and Power. While Eland's sprawling solar panels are eye-catching, it's the unassuming batteries — which look like rows of large white shipping containers — that are the real crux of the project. Locating batteries together with solar power or wind allows them to charge up on the clean energy, then feed it back to people's homes after the sun goes down or the wind stops blowing. At the end of 2023, there were close to 469 such 'hybrid' clean power plants in the U.S., according to a recent report from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. In California, nearly every new solar project waiting to be connected to the electrical grid included batteries. All scenarios for effectively addressing climate change call for using storage. The Eland project is also coming online as the Trump administration is slowing the transition to clean energy with dozens of measures that favor electricity made from coal and natural gas. The president's so-called Big Beautiful Bill ends federal tax credits for wind and solar within the next two years. But in California and a number of other states where addressing climate change is mandated, the transition is likely to continue. 'I spent 12 years in D.C., and to be home, where this is not a controversy — there's no controversy about climate goals and solar and renewables — it's an exciting day,' Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass told The Times. Eland 'represents a significant milestone toward reaching our climate goals, and it also just reinforces our stature of leading the country in terms of renewables and moving toward clean energy goals,' Bass said. Kevin Smith, chief executive officer of Arevon, said solar paired with battery storage is currently the cheapest source of energy 'with or without tax credits,' and the fastest to deliver to market. The Eland project took about two years to complete once the first shovel was in the ground, compared with nuclear or natural gas projects that can take several years longer, he said. Smith also cited the sudden increase in forecast need for electricity for data centers. 'If we don't meet that demand, that means the AI future is going to be won by the Chinese, because they're building more solar in a month than we build in a couple of years.' Two-thirds of all the renewable energy installed globally in 2024 was in China, which strongly encourages the buildout. In the U.S. now, such projects must either begin construction by next July or be placed into service by the end of 2027 in order to receive a federal tax credit from. But much of Eland's success will depend on DWP, which has committed to a 25-year, $1.5 billion contract for its power, with options to buy the facility outright as soon as year 10, according to company officials. Eland marks DWP's first utility-scale integrated solar and battery project. Its two facilities combined — the first phase opened last year — will generate 758 megawatts of solar power and store up to 1,200 megawatt-hours of energy, all of which can be dispatched during peak demand in the evening or nighttime. DWP officials said Eland is the lowest-cost project in their portfolio, with the cost of generation and storage averaging about 4 cents per kilowatt hour. The energy is expected to be neutral or even a cost savings for ratepayers, company officials said. That's partly because DWP was able to contract for the power prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing supply chain issues, and well before new market uncertainties related to tariffs, according to Quiñones. Experts say such projects can't come soon enough. Last year was Earth's hottest on record, with rising global temperatures driven primarily by fossil fuel emissions. The Eland project alone is expected to avoid emissions equivalent to about 120,000 cars, according to company officials. 'When the City of Los Angeles first pursued renewable power some twenty years ago, it did so on moral grounds. It was 'the right thing to do' to reduce the City's greenhouse gas emissions,' Jonathan Parfrey, executive director of the nonprofit Climate Resolve, said in a statement. 'Flash forward to today — and solar power is now the right thing to do economically, producing electricity at a cost lower than that of coal, natural gas and nuclear power.' About 75% of the state's energy on Tuesday came from renewables, according to the California Independent System Operator. With Eland, DWP is well on track to meet its 100% clean energy goal by 2035, although Quiñones said the last 3% to 4% will be the most challenging. But a project like Eland — the largest DWP has ever done — 'demonstrates our commitment toward our renewable and clean energy transition,' Quiñones said. 'We're not backing down from that.'
GMA Network
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Puey Quiñones launches his new couture atelier in LA and wows Hollywood
You knew it was going to be a different fashion show just based on the clothes on display in Puey Quiñones' new couture atelier in downtown Los Angeles. Quiñones, the only Filipino fashion designer who has a couture dress purchased by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) as part of its heritage collection, recently wowed his Hollywood guests when he showcased some of his latest pieces for his couture collection. The People Asia People of the Year 2024 awardee, who already has an atelier in the Philippines and a Q Bridal collection shop in Los Angeles, shared to us where he gets his inspiration for his designs. "Inspiration for my designs comes from various sources. I often find myself drawn to art, nature, and cultural history. Additionally, I draw inspiration from the people around me. Their stories and experiences shape the way I approach fashion. Traveling also opens my eyes to different styles and practices, which I then incorporate into my work." The couture collection, Quiñones revealed, "highlights an array of intricate designs that celebrate both contemporary and Filipino traditional aesthetics, blending luxurious and local fabrics from the Philippines with bold colors. The pieces embody elegance and innovation." Some of the Hollywood stars and celebrities who attended included Tia Carrere, Jon Jon Briones, Reggie Lee, Melody Butiu, Joan Almedilla, Debralee Daco, Jannelle So, Bryan Geli, Omen Ortiz, Alex Pineda, Chef Lord Maynard Llera, former Miss Universe Margaret Gardiner, among others. We were able to interview some of the guests, and below are some of their reactions. Margaret Gardiner, author and former Miss Universe His style is fresh elegant with elan that incorporates style that is classic and clean. Jon Jon Briones, actor Puey's creations were both fun and glamorous, just like the designer himself. Reggie Lee, actor I thought Puey's collection was elegance personified! I was blown away! Of course, I especially thought his men's collection was spectacular. Classic lines with a touch of flair that made it stand out. I can't wait to own one! Melody Butiu, actress I loved the bold colors and sculptural pieces! The textures and mixture of patterns were surprising and exciting. Puey gave wonderful nods to Filipino traditional styles, while allowing his playful vision to come through for some definite wow moments on the runway. Jannelle So, TV host-producer of SoJannelle TV I've always been a fan of Puey's. His collection was a dream woven in silk and light—ethereal, meticulous, and emotionally resonant. Every gown was a love letter to couture, blending tradition with modern grace. His work doesn't just dress the body; it moves the soul. Bryan Geli, theater actor Puey Quinones' collection was nothing short of a display in vision, craftsmanship, and cultural commentary. The show was like a carefully curated narrative. Each look told a story of evolution, elegance, and experimentation. Omen Ortiz, chairman of Manila International Film Festival The collection is truly a masterpiece, as it not only celebrates the empowerment of women but also exudes elegance and sophistication, evident in the exquisite fabric, vibrant colors, and impeccable styles. Alex Pineda, interior designer/jeweler I always look forward to watching Puey Quinones' fashion collections. He never disappoints; he always delivers. I am amazed by his playful manipulation of fabrics, understated elegance, studied simplicity, attention to details, and most importantly, his vision of loveliness. Bravo, my dear, Puey! —MGP, GMA Integrated News
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Yahoo
Citing threats, DWP seeks to spend up to $700,000 on private security for CEO
The chief executive of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has asked the utility's board to spend around $700,000 on private security for her, citing an uptick in threats after the Palisades fire. The five-member Board of Water and Power Commissioners will decide Tuesday whether to approve the one-year private security contract for the CEO and chief engineer, Janisse Quiñones. In the wake of the Palisades fire, DWP received criticism for diminished water pressure in some hydrants and for the Santa Ynez Reservoir sitting empty for nearly a year while awaiting a repair estimated to cost about $130,000. Read more: This reservoir was built to save Pacific Palisades. It was empty when the flames came Quiñones, who took over as chief executive of the nation's largest municipal utility in May, came under increasingly personal attacks online that assailed her $750,000 salary and denigrated her as a "DEI hire" for her Puerto Rican roots. Quiñones addressed some of the commentary about her background at a DWP commission meeting last month, suggesting her critics had ignored her qualifications in order to fuel an agenda. She highlighted her decades running emergency management for the U.S. Coast Guard. "Not only do I have 20 years plus serving this country, I also have a mechanical engineering degree that I graduated with honors. I have two graduate degrees," she said. "And I happen to like to get tough jobs, and this is a tough job." Quiñones' salary is in line with top executives' salaries at the Omaha Public Power District in Nebraska and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, according to public records. A DWP spokesperson said the utility began soliciting proposals for private security to protect Quiñones before the Jan. 7 fire. Around that time, companies across the U.S. began boosting security after the chief executive of UnitedHealthcare was slain outside a New York hotel in December. In the days after the wildfire erupted, vitriol against her intensified. The utility said it "has received numerous threats" to Quiñones' personal safety, adding that some "have required direct intervention by law enforcement." The nature of those threats and police "intervention" are unclear. DWP officials did not elaborate, but a spokesperson said, "All threats were reported to LAPD." Police officials also declined to disclose any details about the alleged threats. Read more: New head of L.A. DWP will make $750,000 a year — nearly twice as much as her predecessor 'We don't comment on potential threats or ongoing investigations,' said Jennifer Forkish, LAPD communications director. An L.A. County district attorney's spokesperson said that no case has been presented to the office relating to threats to Quiñones. A spokesperson for L.A. City Atty. Hydee Feldstein-Soto did not answer whether any misdemeanor charges were filed. Under the agreement pending before the mayor-appointed DWP commissioners, Quiñones would receive protection from Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations, with at least one designated armed security agent and a driver. The contract, which would permit up to $703,577 in spending, was issued on a single-source basis, although DWP said it received two other proposals that were far more expensive. The firm "will provide security agents trained in personal safety, defensive tactics, travel security, and surveillance on an as-needed basis," according to a memo on the agreement. The firm's agents have military or surveillance backgrounds, including the special forces. The move to private security partially alleviates a strain on LAPD resources. Quiñones initially received protection from L.A. Airport Police after the Palisades fire broke out. She was then provided a detail of LAPD officers who also were protecting then-L.A. Fire Chief Kristin Crowley and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Los Angeles Times
08-03-2025
- Los Angeles Times
Citing threats, DWP seeks to spend up to $700,000 on private security for CEO
The chief executive of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has asked the utility's board to spend around $700,000 on private security for her, citing an uptick in threats after the Palisades fire. The five-member Board of Water and Power Commissioners will decide Tuesday whether to approve the one-year private security contract for the CEO and chief engineer, Janisse Quiñones. In the wake of the Palisades fire, DWP received criticism for diminished water pressure in some hydrants and for the Santa Ynez Reservoir sitting empty for nearly a year while awaiting a repair estimated to cost about $130,000. Quiñones, who took over as chief executive of the nation's largest municipal utility in May, came under increasingly personal attacks online that assailed her $750,000 salary and denigrated her as a 'DEI hire' for her Puerto Rican roots. Quiñones addressed some of the commentary about her background at a DWP commission meeting last month, suggesting her critics had ignored her qualifications in order to fuel an agenda. She highlighted her decades running emergency management for the U.S. Coast Guard. 'Not only do I have 20 years plus serving this country, I also have a mechanical engineering degree that I graduated with honors. I have two graduate degrees,' she said. 'And I happen to like to get tough jobs, and this is a tough job.' Quiñones' salary is in line with top executives' salaries at the Omaha Public Power District in Nebraska and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, according to public records. A DWP spokesperson said the utility began soliciting proposals for private security to protect Quiñones before the Jan. 7 fire. Around that time, companies across the U.S. began boosting security after the chief executive of UnitedHealthcare was slain outside a New York hotel in December. In the days after the wildfire erupted, vitriol against her intensified. The utility said it 'has received numerous threats' to Quiñones' personal safety, adding that some 'have required direct intervention by law enforcement.' The nature of those threats and police 'intervention' are unclear. DWP officials did not elaborate, but a spokesperson said, 'All threats were reported to LAPD.' Police officials also declined to disclose any details about the alleged threats. 'We don't comment on potential threats or ongoing investigations,' said Jennifer Forkish, LAPD communications director. An L.A. County district attorney's spokesperson said that no case has been presented to the office relating to threats to Quiñones. A spokesperson for L.A. City Atty. Hydee Feldstein-Soto did not answer whether any misdemeanor charges were filed. Under the agreement pending before the mayor-appointed DWP commissioners, Quiñones would receive protection from Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations, with at least one designated armed security agent and a driver. The contract, which would permit up to $703,577 in spending, was issued on a single-source basis, although DWP said it received two other proposals that were far more expensive. The firm 'will provide security agents trained in personal safety, defensive tactics, travel security, and surveillance on an as-needed basis,' according to a memo on the agreement. The firm's agents have military or surveillance backgrounds, including the special forces. The move to private security partially alleviates a strain on LAPD resources. Quiñones initially received protection from L.A. Airport Police after the Palisades fire broke out. She was then provided a detail of LAPD officers who also were protecting then-L.A. Fire Chief Kristin Crowley and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Palisades water supply cleared for drinking as Bass touts speed of fire recovery
Residents and businesses in Pacific Palisades will be able to safely use water this week, Mayor Karen Bass announced Thursday, touting the milestone as a sign of the speed of efforts to rebuild the devastated neighborhood. The "do not drink" notice will be lifted Friday, the two-month anniversary of the deadly Palisades fire, after engineers and experts at the L.A. Department of Water and Power confirmed the absence of contaminants in the water supply. Bass credited DWP crews for working seven days a week to restore and flush out toxic substances from the water supply, drawing a comparison to the November 2018 wildfire in Paradise, where the do-not-drink advisory remained in place until May 2020. "In the tragic Camp Fire, it took 18 months. It was done here in two," Bass said at a news conference at Palisades Recreation Center. "I'm committed to rebuilding this community at lightning speed." Janisse Quiñones, chief engineer and chief executive of DWP, said that before using water Friday, residents and businesses in the Palisades should flush their systems for at least 10 minutes, turning on all spigots, showers and faucets. Customers will receive a $50 credit on their next bill, "so you don't have to worry about the cost of running water," Quiñones said. Read more: Inside the battle to restore drinking water in Altadena and Pacific Palisades "We flushed the system all the way to the meter," said Quiñones, who called on residents to finish the flushing process inside their homes and eliminate any remaining contaminants. "Once you flush it and the water comes clear inside your structure, we know the water from the meter is clean — so you should be good." Residents and businesses will be able to drink, shower and cook with the water as they had prior to the wildfire. At the Palisades Recreation Center, Bass and city officials also highlighted progress in the recovery efforts since the Jan. 7 blaze, which destroyed thousands of homes and killed 12 people. Noting that the Environmental Protection Agency completed debris removal last week in a third of the time originally projected, Bass said that 60 properties were now in Phase Three — the permitting and rebuilding process. Bass thanked the Trump administration for providing the staff and resources "to move so quickly." Both Bass and the DWP chief reiterated their commitment to "undergrounding" power lines in the Palisades. Parts of the Palisades — including the Highlands and some streets in Castellammare — already had underground power lines. DWP engineers began planning the move about a week after the Jan. 7 fire broke out and have so far designed 4,000 feet of new underground lines that are now "ready for construction," Quiñones said. Read more: What — or who — started the Palisades fire? Two leading theories emerge as investigation intensifies "The goal is to have all of Palisades with new underground infrastructure, power infrastructure," Quiñones said. Underground lines are protected from wind, falling branches and lightning, reducing the risk of sparking a wildfire. DWP plans to place underground the 80 miles of electric lines across the Palisades area, a process that can take several years. Each mile of subterranean electric line can cost from $1 million to $4 million, and Quiñones said the utility was assessing how to finance the overall installation. Meanwhile, Quiñones said, the utility has rebuilt distribution systems and replaced 800 power poles to restore electricity to nearly every customer. As of Thursday, 143 customers in "hard to reach areas" of the hilly, coastal neighborhood remained without power, Quiñones said. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
