Issue: Local political and community support was needed for two state-of-the-art natural gas power plants, totaling over 1,400 megawatts and valued at more than $1 billion, in east Contra Costa County.

Solution: Zell & Associates developed and managed a public affairs campaign designed to present a unified expression of support to the California Energy Commission. Focus groups, public opinion surveys, effective community and media relations and advocacy were used, including organizing the support of local non-profits, environmental groups, and organizations such as the NAACP, to create broad political and community understanding and support.

Success: The California Energy Commission approved the Delta and Los Medanos Energy Centers, among the first new power plants built in the state of California in over fifty years.