The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) held a workshop on October 19, 2023, focusing on resiliency planning and evaluation through the 4-Pillar Methodology. The meeting aimed to discuss the implementation and benefits of microgrid projects, particularly highlighting the Santa Rosa microgrid initiative.

The session began with an overview of the Santa Rosa microgrid configuration. It consists of four solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays, including one rooftop and three carport systems, expected to generate approximately 3,600 megawatt-hours of AC electricity annually. The microgrid also features three batteries: two power batteries with one megawatt and one megawatt-hour capacity each, and one energy battery with a capacity of one megawatt and two megawatt-hours. This setup supports over 20 campus buildings and incorporates load shedding devices, allowing flexibility in managing energy distribution during outages.

The microgrid is designed to sustain the entire campus for nearly three hours during a power outage, with the potential for extended support through load shedding. The project has set environmental goals to supply 40% of the campus's electricity needs through solar energy during normal operations and to reduce reliance on diesel generators during outages. Economically, the microgrid aims to lower peak demand charges and participate in utility demand response programs, creating additional value for the campus.

Energy efficiency measures are also being prioritized alongside the microgrid development, with ongoing efforts to reduce overall campus load. This approach is intended to enhance the microgrid's capacity to support the campus during extended outages.

The discussion then shifted to the relevance of the microgrid project within the CPUC's broader microgrid proceeding and the 4-Pillar Methodology. The Santa Rosa project, initiated in early 2019, began engaging with the CPUC's methodology around 2021. As a demonstration project, it aims to share insights and lessons learned to inform future microgrid initiatives across California. A key component of the project includes developing a California-specific cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the various value streams associated with microgrid implementation.

In conclusion, the CPUC workshop underscored the importance of microgrid projects in enhancing energy resiliency and sustainability in California. The Santa Rosa microgrid serves as a model for future developments, emphasizing the integration of renewable energy sources and efficient energy management practices. Further discussions and evaluations are expected as the project progresses and insights are shared with other stakeholders in the energy sector.