The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) authorized public utility Southern California Edison to procure a minimum of 1,400MW electrical capacity to meet the future energy requirements.
The authorization also stipulates that at least 50 MW must be procured from energy storage resources while another 150MW must be procured through preferred resources such as energy efficiency, demand response, and distributed generation.
CPUC president Michael R. Peevey remarked that the decision is a new method of integrating preferred resources into the commission’s long-term planning process.
"This approach is a major step forward in our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change," opined Peevey.
Commissioner Mike Florio also noted that going forward consumers in the state will not be solely reliant on a fossil fueled electric supply.
"They will increasingly have their electric needs met by a competitive portfolio of energy efficiency, electric storage, demand response, and distributed generation. This is a critical step, bridging our past and future," said Florio.
Commissioner Catherine J.K. Sandoval added, "This decision strikes the right balance between reliability, renewables development, and ratepayer interest. The decision allows flexibility to adjust the course if new conditions warrant."