Long-duration energy storage systems.
The legislation specifies that the PUC and the Energy Commission are required to integrate long-duration energy storage systems into their planning efforts. This includes the evaluation of the systems' capacity to support eligible renewable resources and enhance grid reliability, especially during adverse weather events where renewable generation may falter. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the development of a strong market for long-duration storage technologies that could help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with California's broader climate goals while maintaining electricity supply stability.
AB2255, introduced by Assembly Member Eggman, seeks to amend the Public Utilities Code by incorporating long-duration energy storage systems into the state’s energy and resource planning. It aims to support California's ambitious renewable energy goals of sourcing 100% of its retail sales of electricity from eligible renewable energy resources by 2045, with an interim target of 60% by 2030. The bill mandates the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and the Energy Commission to consider measures to promote long-duration energy storage while ensuring operational flexibility and reliability for the electrical grid.
Overall, the sentiment around AB2255 leans positively; stakeholders recognize the necessity of developing long-duration energy storage solutions to address the intermittency of renewable energy sources. Supporters argue that this bill provides an essential framework for future energy storage projects that will be crucial for maintaining the reliability of the power grid and enabling California to meet its climate objectives. However, concerns remain regarding the implementation stages and how effectively stakeholder engagement, particularly from local entities and environmental groups, will be achieved.
A point of contention revolves around the role of the Independent System Operator (ISO) in implementing the provisions outlined in the bill. There are anxieties that reliance on a single operator may not adequately address local needs or foster competition within the emerging energy storage sector. Additionally, potential regulatory hurdles with federal approval, particularly from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), could complicate or undermine the bill’s intentions, especially if new market mechanisms threaten to encumber the state's renewable energy objectives.