By Frank Andorka, Senior Correspondent
What Happened:Thanks in part to solar penetration in Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) territories, the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) proposed canceling $2.6 billion in transmission projects.
- The 39 cancelled projects in the two utilities’ service areas include transmission projects rendered unnecessary in part because of solar’s increased penetration in those areas.
- The 2017-2018 plan also includes special studies on the impact of a 50% renewable resources policy, the early retirement risks of the gas fleet and updates to previous studies on the benefits of large-scale storage. C
SolarWakeup’s View: One of my favorite songs from the musical Cabaret is called “Money,” in which Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey sing passionately about how money makes the world go around (or as Grey pronounces it “vorld go around.”). If that’s true, then at least in California the Earth is spinning off its axis thanks to the potential savings solar (in part) will provide the CAISO.
In its 2017-2018 Transmission Plan, the electrical grid operator for the state has recommended canceling at least 39 transmission projects that it says will avoid long-term costs to the tune of $2.6 billion, due to energy efficiency programs and increased solar penetration in PG&E and SDG&E service territories.
That kind of money, even in the form of savings, talks. And with residential solar expansion in the state continuing, those savings only stand to go up. So look for these savings to become a central argument in California solar advocates’ continued push for residential solar policies.
Additionally, CAISO also requested a study on the long-term effects of a 50% RPS (although that ship may be sailing if the state’s legislature has its way in producing a 100% RPS in the near future) and updates to studies on large-scale energy storage.
The good news for California’s solar industry continues apace, and the rest of the country best be paying attention.
More:
CAISO Board approves 2017-18 Transmission Plan, CRR rule changes
Bonus (you’re welcome):