On October 17th, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved new planning and execution processes for the state's three major utilities: Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). This Decision introduces more proactive, data-driven strategies for grid upgrades, using customer energization data and advanced forecasting methodologies to ensure utilities can meet the growing demands of electrification. The new approach is designed to significantly reduce delays in customer projects, allowing them to proceed without having to wait for grid upgrades to be completed.
Last year, RCRC supported Senate Bill 410 (Becker) and Assembly Bill 50 (Wood) that established energization timelines and distribution planning improvements by requiring utilities consider additional data and information in the distribution planning process and coordinate with local and tribal governments and communities. The CPUC’s Decision builds on this by mandating more accurate forecasting, increased transparency through new data reporting requirements, and improved coordination with key stakeholders. Utilities are also tasked with exploring bridging solutions, such as load flexibility and distributed energy resources, to offer temporary or partial services while full grid upgrades are completed. These efforts aim to accelerate grid modernization and provide cost-effective, timely solutions that benefit both customers and communities throughout California.
For more information, contact RCRC Policy Advocate Leigh Kammerich.