The Interstate Renewable Energy Council releases ’12,000 MW of Renewable Distributed Generation by 2020’ Report

12,000 MW of DG can power more than two million homes in California

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – August 1, 2012 – (RealEstateRama) — The Interstate Renewable Energy Council, Inc. (IREC) released a new report today that analyzes the  ambitious goal set forth by California Governor Edmund Brown’s office to spur 12,000-MW of distributed generation (DG).  The report, 12,000 MW of Renewable Distributed Generation by 2020, provides a careful analysis of the benefits, costs and policy implications of the 12,000-MW goal, to inform decision-making on the development of the plan and help ensure its effective implementation.

“The Governor’s 12,000 MW goal has the potential to stimulate enormous economic growth in California,” said Jane Weissman, IREC’s Executive Director. “This report brings a real-world context to the goal and provides policymakers with a clear path forward through the implementation process.”

To put this goal in context, 12,000 MW of DG is enough to power over two million homes.

Joseph Wiedman and Erica Schroeder of Keyes, Fox & Wiedman LLP prepared the report, with an economic analysis provided by Thomas Beach of Crossborder Energy. The 12,000 MW Report was funded through generous support from the Energy Foundation.

“The Governor’s 12,000 MW goal has provides California policymakers with a great opportunity to propel the energy landscape of the state forward,” said Mr. Wiedman, lead author of the report.  “But we also hope this report will serve as a helpful resource and guide for policymakers in other areas of the country who have similar objectives.”

The Report provides background on DG and why the size, location and technology of DG resources matter in determining the benefits DG is able to provide.  The Report also provides an analysis of the cost effectiveness of DG resources and, perhaps most importantly, recommends ways to maximize the benefits that DG can provide to the grid. These recommendations include creating localized incentives that target areas where grid support is most needed, providing resources on circuit availability and minimum load data and better integrating DG considerations into the utility planning process.

“Well-designed DG policies have real net benefits for all ratepayers,” said Kevin Fox, with Keyes, Fox & Wiedman. “It is crucial that California continue to facilitate a healthy and diverse solar marketplace, one that provides space for generators of all types and sizes.”

For questions about this report, please contact Mr. Wiedman at ">.

Download 12,000 MW of Renewable Distributed Generation by 2020: Benefits, Costs and Policy Implications