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PUC urges ISO to accelerate Potrero closure if Transbay Cable testing proves reliable
Summary
PUC power staff said ISO extended a Reliability Must Run designation for Potrero while Transbay Cable completes testing; testing had a trip on Sept. 8 but is scheduled to resume Sept. 15, with ISO evaluation expected by November and a possible termination of RMR dispatch if tests show reliability.
Barbara Hale, Assistant General Manager for Power, updated the commission on efforts to retire the Potrero power plant. She said the California Independent System Operator (ISO) had extended a Reliability Must Run (RMR) obligation for Potrero while Transbay Cable completes a test period; the ISO also directed staff to accelerate termination of RMR obligations as reliability allows.
Hale said Transbay Cable tripped offline on Sept. 8 during its test period but testing was scheduled to resume on Sept. 15 and run through an evaluation window concluding around Oct. 10. ISO staff and the owner partnership will evaluate whether the Transbay Cable can bear the reliability burden Potrero currently carries; Hale said ISO staff indicated they expect to be able to make a judgment on the testing data by November.
Commissioners and staff discussed options if Transbay proves reliable, including quicker termination of RMR contracts and engagement on remediation and redevelopment of the Potrero facility; Hale noted that PG&E remains responsible for site remediation as prior owner once the site is released from operational obligations.
