Procurement
DRA seeks to ensure that the utilities prepare procurement plans consistent with California’s Energy Action Plan, which prioritizes energy efficiency, demand response and renewable energy above additional fossil-fired generation.
The CPUC is reviewing and establishing energy storage technologies throughout the state's electricity system. DRA supports an integrated and cost-effective approach to storage.
To ensure a reliable and cost-effective electricity supply in California, the CPUC reviews utilities' long-term procurement plans and makes a need determination. DRA closely monitors these planning proceedings and advocates for cost-effective solutions.
DRA advocates on behalf of consumers to ensure that the CPUC's renewable policy remains cost-effective while meeting California's ambitious clean energy goals.
Created in response to California’s 2002 energy crisis, the Resource Adequacy (RA) program provides for reliable electric service throughout California. To prevent electric shortages and possible blackouts, electric providers are required to obtain contracts in advance to meet their future obligations. DRA participates in annual proceedings to refine and improve the RA program.
PPTAs are contracts to purchase power wherein the utility pays the seller a periodic payment for capacity for the length of the contract. The utility is responsible for the procurement and delivery of the fuel (e.g., natural gas) to the seller’s power plant generating units, and the scheduling of the generating units under contract. Hence, utility customers take all the upside and downside risks of fuel price volatility.
In March 2012, PG&E proposed to use ratepayer funds to build a new combined cycle natural gas-fired facility of 584 MW in Contra Costa County which would incur a total cost of approximately $ 1.15 billion.
MRTU is a California Independent System Operator (CAISO) technology upgrade initiative that enables utilities to effectively interface with CAISO energy market activities.