The program, once complete, is expected to generate up to 500MW of clean energy, enough to meet the needs of about 150,000 homes in PG&E’s Northern and Central California service area.
PG&E said that its solar PV program is part of its effort to provide its customers with more clean energy. The five-year initiative will consist of up to 250MW of utility-owned PV generation and another 250MW provided by independent developers through a streamlined regulatory process.
According to the company, the moderately sized projects targeted by its initiative, ranging from 1MW to 20MW, should require less time to plan and build.
Projects to be owned by PG&E will be located near company substations to reduce the costs and delays of interconnecting them to the power grid.
Steve Malnight, vice president of renewable energy at PG&E, said: “We applaud the CPUC’s decision to approve this important renewable energy initiative and look forward to beginning its implementation.
”This program will provide our customers with timely access to solar power and create local benefits including green jobs for the communities we serve.”
