Distributed Energy Generation - Future or Fantasy?

Please join us at Silicon Valley Bank for an exploration of the efficacy of distributed energy generation in California based on regional policy and the economics of proposed solutions. Dian Grueneich -- ex-CPUC Commissioner Bryan Hannegan -- Vice President, EPRI Craig Lewis -- Exec Director, Clean Coalition Dave Ruben -- Director, Pacific Gas & Electric Moderator: Eric Wesoff, Green Tech Media As part of California's 33% renewable electricity portfolio standard, Governor Brown established a goal of 12,000 MW of renewable generation at customer sites, e.g. roof-top solar, or connected to the lower voltage electrical grid. These Distributed Generation (DG) facilities avoid some of the permitting and capacity problems of large-scale, transmission-connected projects and offer reduced electrical losses, avoidance of new substations, easier permitting, and local economic benefits. However, the electrical distribution system of today was not designed from either a technical or regulatory perspective for two-way power flows. As the Smart Grid is implemented many technical issues will be resolved, but other questions regarding access to the grid and establishing fair and sustainable rates for users of the distribution grid will remain.