Power plant ready to fire up near border

A new natural gas power plant in Otay Mesa is "essentially finished with construction and is about to enter commercial operation," according to developer Apex Power Group.

Following performance testing, the controversial plant is expected to go live today (August 30).

Despite an initial denial of the project by the California Public Utilities Commission, vocal opposition from neighbors, and allegations of undue influence, the plant was still approved in early 2014.

The 300-megawatt plant, designed as a "peaker" facility that is only expected to operate during times of heavy demand on the local power grid, has a 25-year power purchase agreement in place with San Diego Gas & Electric.