Distributed-Generation Advocacy
Distributed generation (DG) technologies like stationary fuel cells and solar photovoltaic systems don't require large amounts of land or new transmission lines, and enjoy relatively fast licensing and construction times. “Infill” projects of 3 - 20 MW capacity have ample siting opportunities in our region, and spark much less environmentalist opposition than larger plants. CEERT is working on critical grid-capacity and interconnection issues that could limit how much DG can be installed, and on renewable DG incentives like an expanded feed-in tariff.
Recent Developments:
On December 13, CEERT hosted a meeting of our Distributed Generation (DG) caucus to discuss successes in 2011 and priorities for 2012. Expanded feed-in tariffs and defense of net metering were the top priorities for the coming year.
Electric Program Investment Charge
CEERT participated in conference calls among environmental and clean energy advocates on priorities for Phase 2 of the CPUC's reauthorization of funds for the Electric Program Investment Charge (formerly the Public Goods Charge), which will address programmatic changes to the emerging and existing renewables programs and the research program.
Feed-in Tariffs
CEERT and other renewable energy advocates filed a joint reply to responses to the Joint Motion for a Workshop on an administratively determined, fixed-price, avoided-cost feed-in tariff (FIT) for distributed generation such as PV installations. Our original motion was supported on different counts by Sierra Club, CalSEIA, and SEIA. We also worked with national environmental organizations to support clarification that states have the authority to set rates for FITs.
Net Metering
CEERT discussed utility opposition to net metering with several solar and environmental advocates, SEIA, CalSEIA, Vote Solar, UCS, CCSE, and NRDC, and brought concerns about utility arguments to the Governor's office.
Biomethane
CEERT drafted and coordinated submission of a joint letter to the California Energy Commission from The Utility Reform Network, Union of Concerned Scientists, Large-Scale Solar Association, SEIA, and several other environmental, ratepayer, and renewable advocates, pushing back on the eligibility of undeliverable pipeline biomethane contracts for RPS compliance.
Rule 21
CEERT was an active participant in the Rule 21 Settlement discussions. Rule 21 describes the interconnection, operating, and metering requirements for generation facilities connecting to a utility's distribution system, over which the CPUC has jurisdiction. We are supporting a settlement proposal that calls for the CPUC to adopt a partially revised Rule 21 now, but also to immediately and expeditiously consider a Phase II of its Rule 21 proceeding to make further changes that would foster more streamlined interconnections for DG projects.
