Public Goods Charge Programs 2009-2011

Planning for the 2009-2011 energy efficiency public goods charge programs has begun at the CPUC. The hope is that this time around the utilities, their local government partners and third party implementers will have plenty of time to plan, propose, and execute contracts so that there will be no gaps in program offerings.

In June, there were workshops on big bold strategies for the next next round of funding, and for portfolio composition and rules development. The ideas that came out of the workshops include:

• Sign on to achieve AIA, ASHRAE, and U.S. Green Building Council Campaign to achieve "Zero Net Energy" New Commercial Buildings by 2030.


• Achieve some identified level of market penetration of high-efficiency HVAC systems in the retrofit/replacement residential and small commercial market segments. Systems also should be optimally sized, with high-quality installations, and low-leakage, properly sized ductwork. This strategy might involve a national approach to climate-zone-efficiency standards.


• Short-term: 50% of all new residential construction in 2011 will achieve the "Tier II" requirements of the Energy Commission's New Solar Homes Partnership;


• Long-term: 100% of all new residential construction in 2020 will achieve "zero net energy" consumption.


• Industrial sector achieves 100% of electricity economic potential (e.g., 15%) by 2015, through voluntary action.


• How to ensure effective strategic energy efficiency planning and implementation ("strategic planning") across stakeholders, including the transfer of R&D and emerging technologies findings into energy efficiency programs, codes, & standards; and


• How to assure effective coordination and integration of education, outreach, and marketing activities among energy efficiency programs and across related demand- side activities for low income, solar, and demand response goals.

To view more details on the workshop outcomes, and to read the text of ALJ Malcolm's Ruling Soliciting Questions on Energy Efficiency Programs and Strategies Workshop Topics at http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/EFILE/RULINGS/69407.htm

The CPUC is planning to have a proposed decision on 2009-2011 energy efficiency program guidance ready in July, and a final decision for adoption in August of this year.

To get on the service list for future announcements on this proceeding, go to http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/published/service_lists/sl_index.htm.

This is one of many topics where the Local Government Sustainable Energy Coalition could be representing local governments before the CPUC.

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