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Expedited storage permits, Anti-gas suit dropped, SMUD pursues novel net metering reform
The California Energy Commission accelerates the permitting of large storage projects to get more power online by next fall. The action follows the controversial expedited certification process for natural gas and diesel projects to beef up resources as the sun sets, as directed by Gov. Newsom last month. The Commission also funds what is […]
SMUD on the Verge of Net Metering Breakthrough
The Sacramento Municipal Utilities District is expected to approve Sept. 16 a novel solution for crediting customer-owned solar, which solar advocates support. Meanwhile, much of the rest of California continues to fight over net energy metering.
The SMUD board is considering a multi-faceted rate design that reduces the retail compensation to solar owners but adds […]
SCE rate increase, CEC fossil power permits, Rooftop solar costs vs benefits
Southern California Edison gets a nice juicy three-year rate increase of nearly 20% above the current revenue of $6.4 billion. Much of hike is for covering a huge swath of power lines in fire prone areas and wildfire insurance. None question the risk reduction from covered lines but the cost effectiveness is an […]
Groundbreaking building code, Summer 2022 grid, Diablo decommissioning deal
Two days after dire climate warnings by the International Panel on Climate Change, the California Energy Commission adopts a long-awaited building energy efficiency code update. It is a big step towards slashing 25% of the state’s carbon emissions produced largely by heating and cooling in buildings. Building decarbonization advocates continue to […]
CPUC Advances $4B Settlement to Close Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant
A $3.9 billion settlement between Pacific Gas & Electric, ratepayer advocates, nuclear watchdogs, and others to decommission the utility’s Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant gets a green light under a California Public Utilities Commission proposed decision.
It is nearly $1 billion below what PG&E […]
CEC Adopts 2022 Triennial Building Efficiency Code
The California Energy Commission unanimously approved a hard fought, cutting edge building energy efficiency code update Aug. 11, a key part being incentives for efficient electric water and space heat pumps in all new residential buildings and some nonresidential ones. The largest share of building energy is from heating systems, with gas-fired systems producing most of the carbon emissions