SoCalREN Public Sector Program Updates Webinar

Summary

The webinar covers updates on SoCal Ren's public sector energy programs, focusing on sustainability, energy savings, and support for underserved communities in Southern California. Key topics include the closure of the Meter Savings Program (MSP), the launch of new initiatives like the Rural Hard-to-Reach Direct Install Program, Water and Wastewater Strategic Energy Management Program, and the Pathway to Zero for clean energy tax credits. The session highlights new strategies for public agencies to reduce energy usage, improve operational efficiency, and access technical and financial support for energy-saving projects, all with a focus on equity and long-term sustainability.

Takeaways

• 😀 SoCal Ren's public sector program webinar is being recorded, and attendees are encouraged to mute their microphones and use the chat for questions.
• 😀 SAR Hernandez, the program manager for Los Angeles County, provides key updates on existing public programs and new programs set to launch in 2025.
• 😀 In 2012, the California Public Utilities Commission authorized SoCal Ren to assist Californians in achieving energy goals through various programs.
• 😀 The Meter Savings Program (MSP) is being closed, and projects previously served by MSP will now be handled under the streamlined Savings Pathway (SSP) program.
• 😀 Starting in 2025, the Pathway to Zero program will focus on helping public agencies access direct pay for clean energy tax credits.
• 😀 The Rural Hard-to-Reach Public Agency Direct Install Program (Rural HRDI) will support smaller, underserved public agencies in achieving no-cost energy savings.
• 😀 The Water and Wastewater Strategic Energy Management (SEM) Program will help public agencies in the water sector implement energy efficiency and demand reduction strategies.
• 😀 The Underserved Schools Strategic Energy Management (SEM) Program, known as 'Elevating Energy in Schools,' will support K-12 schools and universities in underserved areas to reduce peak demand and improve energy management practices.
• 😀 The Water Infrastructure Program (WIP) will provide long-term energy solutions to water treatment and distribution systems, focusing on public sector facilities.
• 😀 SoCal Ren is committed to filling gaps in the market, specifically targeting disadvantaged and underserved communities with energy efficiency programs.
• 😀 SoCal Ren offers a comprehensive suite of services, including technical assistance, project management, and trade ally support to ensure successful program implementation and energy savings.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the SoCal Ren's Public Sector Program update?

The webinar focuses on updates to SoCal Ren's public sector portfolio, covering existing public programs and introducing new programs set to launch in 2025. Key updates include program closures, transitions, and new initiatives targeting underserved communities.

What changes are being made to the Meter Savings Program (MSP)?

The Meter Savings Program (MSP) is closing, and its performance-based incentives for public sector projects will now be provided through the Streamlined Savings Pathway (SSP) program starting in January 2025.

What is the role of the SSP program in relation to MSP?

The SSP program will absorb MSP projects, providing custom, deemed, and performance-based incentives, including the nmeg pathway, to ensure a smooth transition and no service disruption for public agencies.

How will the Pathway to Zero program change in 2025?

Pathway to Zero will shift its focus to help public agencies access direct pay for clean energy tax credits starting in 2025. The program will provide customized support to leverage tax credits for clean energy projects.

What is the Rural Hard-to-Reach Public Agency Direct Install Program?

The Rural Hard-to-Reach Public Agency Direct Install Program (Rural HRDI) is an equity program targeting small, underserved public agencies. It offers no-cost energy and peak demand savings through turnkey services, including equipment installation and disposal.

Who is eligible for the Rural HRDI program?

Public agencies located in underserved and hard-to-reach communities are eligible, provided they have active SCE or SoCal Gas service accounts and have not previously installed the same energy-saving measures at the same facility.

What is the goal of the Water and Wastewater Strategic Energy Management (SEM) Program?

The SEM program helps public agencies with municipally owned water systems and wastewater treatment plants reduce peak demand by implementing operational and maintenance strategies, as well as installing energy-efficient equipment.

What are the phases of the SEM program for water and wastewater facilities?

The SEM program is divided into phases, starting with operations and maintenance in the first year. Subsequent phases include the identification and implementation of energy-saving capital projects, with ongoing support and coaching for energy management.

What is the focus of the Underserved Schools SCM program?

The Underserved Schools Strategic Energy Management (SCM) program, also known as the 'Elevating Energy in Schools' program, helps K-12 schools, community colleges, and universities in underserved areas to develop energy load management programs and reduce peak demand charges.

How will SoCal Ren support public agencies in meeting their energy goals?

SoCal Ren provides comprehensive support, including technical assistance, project management, customized workshops, and the integration of energy efficiency strategies into everyday decision-making to help public agencies meet their energy and peak demand reduction goals.