Once again, we will co-host our holiday party with Young Professionals in Energy - Orange County. The party will be held at the Red Chair Lounge in the Hyatt in Huntington Beach. The address is 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, HB, CA 92648.
The party will be on Tuesday, December 6th from 7:00 to 9:30 pm.
RSVPs not necessary and it's a cash bar. We will also have a "white elephant" gift exchange, if you're interested. Hope to see you there!
Friday, December 2, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Upcoming 2012 Officer Election
We will have an election for all six OC Renewables members starting next week.
Voting is eligible to members of OC Renewables only. If you would like to vote, you may become a member by 11:59 PM on Thursday, October 27. Click here to join.
Members will vote on the following offices for the 2012 term:
Nominations will be taken from the floor at the October meeting next Thursday, October 13th.
Each member will receive a ballot by Friday, October 14.
Write in candidates are acceptable.
Ballots are due at noon on Thursday, November 10.
The winners will be announced at the November meeting.
Please contact Lori Greene if you have any questions.
Voting is eligible to members of OC Renewables only. If you would like to vote, you may become a member by 11:59 PM on Thursday, October 27. Click here to join.
Members will vote on the following offices for the 2012 term:
- President
- Vice President - Events
- Vice President - Membership
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- Social Media and Publicity Director
Nominations will be taken from the floor at the October meeting next Thursday, October 13th.
Each member will receive a ballot by Friday, October 14.
Write in candidates are acceptable.
Ballots are due at noon on Thursday, November 10.
The winners will be announced at the November meeting.
Please contact Lori Greene if you have any questions.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
October Meeting
Green is the New Orange
Renewable Energy Initiatives underway by the County of Orange
James Campbell is responsible for several land entitlement and development projects, as well as the creation and implementation of renewable energy initiatives for the County of Orange. This includes the development and implementation of the County's AB811 program, which will allow residential and commercial property owners to finance solar and energy efficiency improvements through their property tax assessments (PACE). The County has selected a team headed by PFM to serve as the program administrator. James and his team are also responsible for the development and implementation of a comprehensive energy master plan to serve the County of Orange. The County has selected Navigant Consulting to assist with the plan and its initiatives. Additionally, James and his team negotiated a 4MW solar power purchase agreement with PsomasFMG to provide power to County facilities at a reduced rate over the next 20 years. Additional duties include the development of the County's 200 acres at the former Marine Corp Air Station El Toro in Irvine, CA, as well as, the entitlement and development of a 4,000 unit master planned community on the 1,658 acre "Greenspot" property. Both of these developments include potential renewable energy projects. James has been with the County since 1994, working previously for 3 members of the Orange County Board of Supervisors before joining the County in his current capacity.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Upcoming Renewable Events for October
Wednesday, October 5th, 2011, 6-9pm
Los Angeles Community College District Small Business Dream Center
811 Wilshire Blvd., 1st Floor - Los Angeles, CA 90017
You are cordially invited to a Community Impact Summit to launch So Right So Smart - Los Angeles, a program to promote the business case for sustainable business throughout Los Angeles. At this special event hosted by the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) at the Small Business Dream Center, the green business community will come together to celebrate the life of Ray Anderson, screen the award-winning documentary So Right So Smart, and convene business and sustainability leaders to advance the So Right So Smart - Los Angeles program.
This event is FREE, but those attending are required to RSVP. Click here for more information or to register: http://sorightsosmartla.eventbrite.com/
Friday, October 21, 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Irvine Ranch Water District - San Joaquin Marsh Campus
Next to the Duck Club in Irvine, CA
IRWD is an innovative urban water supplier, answering its water supply challenge with a comprehensive Recycled Water Program, addressing polluted urban runoff with Natural Treatment Systems, and managing its carbon footprint through a Green House Gas Reduction Plan.
Registration required; space is limited. Click here to register.
Saturday, Oct. 29, 10am-7 pm, and Sunday, Oct. 30, 11am-6pm.
LA Convention Center – South Hall G
1201 South Figueroa Street - Los Angeles, CA 90015
The nation’s premier green living event comes to Los Angeles . This year, Green Festival, a nonprofit event, celebrates a ten year milestone. This is a great place to increase your holiday sales! Reserve your spot at the Los Angeles Green Festival and get a 15% discount on your booth. To get this special offer call 828-333-9436 or exhibit@greenfestivals.org.
Click here for more information: www.greenfestivals.org
Sunday, September 11, 2011
OC Renewables Election and Positions
At the last meeting, Lori Greene announced that we would hold elections for a new Board of Trustees. Each position, responsibilities, and questions about the election are as follows:
OC Renewables has the following positions available with the following responsibilities:
PRESIDENT
Make sure non-profit status is maintained in good standing
Serve as signatory on bank account
Liaise with ASES
Facilitate Board meetings
Oversee the “big picture” goals of OC Renewables - make sure the Board is hitting its milestones
Make sure that the organization adheres to the bylaws
Stay current on important policies in the field (e.g. state regulations)
Devise an annual operating budget and fundraising plan in conjunction with the Treasure and Development Director
Review membership guidelines
Make sure OCR is in full corporate compliance with federal, state, regional & city rules and regulations
Assist with annual government reporting & filing
VICE PRESIDENT – EVENTS
Maintain a database of potential speakers and activities for Chapter Meetings - solicit suggestions from other Board and OCR members
Manage Chapter meetings - we suggest a 2-month lead on speakers/activities
Provide the Social Media & Publicity Director have event information in a timely fashion so they can spread the word. Several publications need 3-4 weeks’ notice.
Coordinate any additional OCR events
Oversee Chapter Meeting venue
VICE PRESIDENT – MEMBERSHIP / DEVELOPMENT
Find incentives for businesses & individuals to join as local chapter members
Oversee fundraising campaign - whether this is an event, a membership drive
Help forge strategic alliances with other organizations & businesses (in consultation with President & other Board members)
Work with President and Board to come up with a fundraising plan
Oversee implementation of fundraising plan
Work with Events Director to plan fundraising events
Assume the duties of the President if the President is unavailable and if the office becomes unoccupied
SECRETARY
Organize regular Board meetings in consultation with President
Create agenda for Board meetings in collaboration with other Board members;
Maintain & distribute Board of Directors meeting Minutes
Keep corporate paperwork organized and up to date
Serve as signatory on bank account
Make sure OCR is in full corporate compliance with federal, state, regional & city rules and regulations
Assist with annual government reporting & filing
TREASURER
Provide monthly treasury reports at board meetings
Serve as signatory on bank account
Assist in procuring any necessary items
Make sure vendors get paid, maintain checkbook / accounting
Assist with annual government reporting & filing
SOCIAL MEDIA AND PUBLICITY DIRECTOR
Write content for weekly e-newsletter
Update & maintain website with announcements of upcoming OCR activities, as well as follow-ups on previous meetings (summaries, photos, etc). May get the help from other OCR Board members in implementing these.
Moderate social media outlets - Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn
Write press releases for the group
Place notices of monthly meetings & special events to community bulletins, local publications, etc
Look for and facilitate media placement
Keep log of press clippings
Make sure someone takes photos of events and other activities
If you are interested in any of the above positions, contact Lori Greene to place your name on the ballot.
You must be a member of OC Renewables in order to run for office. If you are not a member, please become one today.
If you are a member of OC Renewables by Thursday, October 27, you will be eligible to vote in this election.
All Members of OC Renewables will receive a ballot by Friday, October 14, 2011. Voting is open until Thursday, November 10 at 11:59 AM Pacific.
Votes will be collected and tabulated on November 10th and announced at the OC Renewables meeting that evening.
Offices for Election
OC Renewables has the following positions available with the following responsibilities:
PRESIDENT
Make sure non-profit status is maintained in good standing
Serve as signatory on bank account
Liaise with ASES
Facilitate Board meetings
Oversee the “big picture” goals of OC Renewables - make sure the Board is hitting its milestones
Make sure that the organization adheres to the bylaws
Stay current on important policies in the field (e.g. state regulations)
Devise an annual operating budget and fundraising plan in conjunction with the Treasure and Development Director
Review membership guidelines
Make sure OCR is in full corporate compliance with federal, state, regional & city rules and regulations
Assist with annual government reporting & filing
VICE PRESIDENT – EVENTS
Maintain a database of potential speakers and activities for Chapter Meetings - solicit suggestions from other Board and OCR members
Manage Chapter meetings - we suggest a 2-month lead on speakers/activities
Provide the Social Media & Publicity Director have event information in a timely fashion so they can spread the word. Several publications need 3-4 weeks’ notice.
Coordinate any additional OCR events
Oversee Chapter Meeting venue
VICE PRESIDENT – MEMBERSHIP / DEVELOPMENT
Find incentives for businesses & individuals to join as local chapter members
Oversee fundraising campaign - whether this is an event, a membership drive
Help forge strategic alliances with other organizations & businesses (in consultation with President & other Board members)
Work with President and Board to come up with a fundraising plan
Oversee implementation of fundraising plan
Work with Events Director to plan fundraising events
Assume the duties of the President if the President is unavailable and if the office becomes unoccupied
SECRETARY
Organize regular Board meetings in consultation with President
Create agenda for Board meetings in collaboration with other Board members;
Maintain & distribute Board of Directors meeting Minutes
Keep corporate paperwork organized and up to date
Serve as signatory on bank account
Make sure OCR is in full corporate compliance with federal, state, regional & city rules and regulations
Assist with annual government reporting & filing
TREASURER
Provide monthly treasury reports at board meetings
Serve as signatory on bank account
Assist in procuring any necessary items
Make sure vendors get paid, maintain checkbook / accounting
Assist with annual government reporting & filing
SOCIAL MEDIA AND PUBLICITY DIRECTOR
Write content for weekly e-newsletter
Update & maintain website with announcements of upcoming OCR activities, as well as follow-ups on previous meetings (summaries, photos, etc). May get the help from other OCR Board members in implementing these.
Moderate social media outlets - Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn
Write press releases for the group
Place notices of monthly meetings & special events to community bulletins, local publications, etc
Look for and facilitate media placement
Keep log of press clippings
Make sure someone takes photos of events and other activities
Election Process
If you are interested in any of the above positions, contact Lori Greene to place your name on the ballot.
You must be a member of OC Renewables in order to run for office. If you are not a member, please become one today.
If you are a member of OC Renewables by Thursday, October 27, you will be eligible to vote in this election.
All Members of OC Renewables will receive a ballot by Friday, October 14, 2011. Voting is open until Thursday, November 10 at 11:59 AM Pacific.
Votes will be collected and tabulated on November 10th and announced at the OC Renewables meeting that evening.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Upcoming Renewable Events Around Orange County
Upcoming events of note...
Thursday, September 22, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
AEE SoCal Annual Conferernce "Energy Risk: Keeping the Power On"
Association of Electrical Engineers (AEE) - So Cal Chapter
SoCalGas Energy Resource Center
9240 Firestone Boulevard, Downey, CA 90241
Monday, September 26, 6:30 PM
American Vacuum Society, Inc. Presents “Fuels from Sunlight”
dinner & presentation with CalTech professor Nathan Lewis
Il Fornaio Restaurant, Sorrento Room
24 West Union Street, Pasadena, CA 91103
Registration deadline is September 16th!
For more details, visit: www.sccavs.org
Wednesday and Thursday, September 28-29
South Coast AQMD Air Quality Technology Symposium
SCAQMD Auditorium
21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California 91765
Attendance and exhibit space are free of charge.
AEE SoCal Annual Conferernce "Energy Risk: Keeping the Power On"
Association of Electrical Engineers (AEE) - So Cal Chapter
SoCalGas Energy Resource Center
9240 Firestone Boulevard, Downey, CA 90241
American Vacuum Society, Inc. Presents “Fuels from Sunlight”
dinner & presentation with CalTech professor Nathan Lewis
Il Fornaio Restaurant, Sorrento Room
24 West Union Street, Pasadena, CA 91103
Registration deadline is September 16th!
For more details, visit: www.sccavs.org
South Coast AQMD Air Quality Technology Symposium
SCAQMD Auditorium
21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California 91765
Attendance and exhibit space are free of charge.
September Meeting Wrap-Up
There is incredible innovation taking place right here in Orange County, and we are very thankful to have the quality of speaker like Dr. Brouwer join us and explain it's potential and uses. Thank you, Dr. Brouwer!
Join us for our next meeting on Thursday, October 13th. Speaker to be determined... but they have big shoes to fill.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Create A Sustainable Future With a Green Career
Cal State Fullerton University Extended Education wants to provide you with the skills to implement green practices in your career or business. Advancements are being made every day to make our world a greener place – and they can provide this specialized training through professional development courses conveniently offered in the evenings or on weekends. Most courses begin in September.
Five sustainability programs are being offered for Fall…
Applied Sustainability is designed to give participants an applied understanding of the concepts, practical knowledge and skills necessary for the adoption of sustainability practices. It’s a great place to start if you’re new to green.
If you already work in a construction or IT related field, your best fit might be to enroll in courses that focus on the sustainability aspects of your industry, choosing from: Green Building, Commercial Building Energy Audit, and Green Data Center Management. Cloud Computing and Emerging Technologies is also a part of our sustainability offerings – courses will be offered at a future date.
Questions? See the contact at the bottom of each program description page (links above).
Register ONLINE today: www.fullerton.edu/greencareers or call 657.278.2611.
University Extended Education
Cal State Fullerton
2600 Nutwood Ave., Suite 100
Fullerton, CA 92831
Thursday, August 25, 2011
September Meeting and Reorganization
Exciting news ahead for OC Renewables!
First, join us at our next regular meeting on Thursday, September 8, 6:30 PM at the Duck Club. Our guest speaker will be Dr. Jack Brouwer, the Associate Director of the National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC) located at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). Dr. Brouwer's topic will be Turning Waste Into Energy: Overview of Fuel Cells. At the NFCRC, Dr. Brouwer has overall responsibility of the management and operations of the center as well as the challenges associated with the development of this unique concept. The NFCRC is breaking new ground in the design and conduct of both a university center and a National Center. This, coupled with the extraordinary changes that are occurring with regard to electric restructuring and global climate requirements, is bringing focused attention of the world's community to high-efficiency, environmental-preferred energy generation options with fuel cell technology serving as the principal target.
Dr. Brouwer will speak to us about his last ten years of hard work bringing the sewage-to-hydrogen project online at the Orange County Sanitation District in Fountain Valley. The Fuel Cell Research Center recently posted the following: "Imagine being able to get the equivalent of 70 miles per gallon in your car, keep your home cool and power your computer – all from sewage. Thanks to technology developed by UC Irvine’s National Fuel Cell Research Center and partners, that’s now possible. Ten years of hard work, led by center associate director Jack Brouwer, has paid off in a cutting-edge project at the Orange County Sanitation District in Fountain Valley. A unique fuel cell generator simultaneously and continuously converts gas created in wastewater digesters to hydrogen used for zero-emission vehicle fuel, electricity and heat in a highly efficient manner.
“This will reduce smog and greenhouse gases and mean a better quality of life for Southern Californians,” says Brouwer, showing off the white generator box and shiny silver pipes across from a waste settling pond, along with a brand-new hydrogen fueling station. Starting this month, drivers of select hydrogen-run cars will be able to exit the 405 freeway at Euclid Avenue and fill up with converted sewage waste. Numerous major automakers have announced plans to commercially manufacture such vehicles by 2015. Using locally produced hydrogen will increase its supply and bring costs in line with other renewable energy sources.
Also, at this meeting, we will start the process for electing new officers to the Board of Directors. OC Renewables is at the point where we need to find the best, most persuasive case to promote renewable energy to Orange County and celebrate renewable energy success stories. If you think you have an idea, or are willing to make a contribution, this is your chance! Contact Lori Greene to find out more details about being a member of the Board and what Board members do.
See you on Thursday the 8th!
First, join us at our next regular meeting on Thursday, September 8, 6:30 PM at the Duck Club. Our guest speaker will be Dr. Jack Brouwer, the Associate Director of the National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC) located at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). Dr. Brouwer's topic will be Turning Waste Into Energy: Overview of Fuel Cells. At the NFCRC, Dr. Brouwer has overall responsibility of the management and operations of the center as well as the challenges associated with the development of this unique concept. The NFCRC is breaking new ground in the design and conduct of both a university center and a National Center. This, coupled with the extraordinary changes that are occurring with regard to electric restructuring and global climate requirements, is bringing focused attention of the world's community to high-efficiency, environmental-preferred energy generation options with fuel cell technology serving as the principal target.
“This will reduce smog and greenhouse gases and mean a better quality of life for Southern Californians,” says Brouwer, showing off the white generator box and shiny silver pipes across from a waste settling pond, along with a brand-new hydrogen fueling station. Starting this month, drivers of select hydrogen-run cars will be able to exit the 405 freeway at Euclid Avenue and fill up with converted sewage waste. Numerous major automakers have announced plans to commercially manufacture such vehicles by 2015. Using locally produced hydrogen will increase its supply and bring costs in line with other renewable energy sources.
Also, at this meeting, we will start the process for electing new officers to the Board of Directors. OC Renewables is at the point where we need to find the best, most persuasive case to promote renewable energy to Orange County and celebrate renewable energy success stories. If you think you have an idea, or are willing to make a contribution, this is your chance! Contact Lori Greene to find out more details about being a member of the Board and what Board members do.
See you on Thursday the 8th!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Summer Barbeque Wrap Up and Upcoming Events
Thanks to those who attended last night's Summer Barbeque! Also, special thanks to Jay and Marquita Miller of the Sea and Sand Chapter of the Audubon Society for conducting a fine tour of the avian wildlife in and around the Irvine Ranch Water District grounds. We have an ecological gem here in the heart of Orange County!
There will be no monthly meeting in August. OC Renewables will kick off again on Thursday, September 8th. We will have a big speaker, networking opportunities, and a good discussion on the future of the OC Renewables chapter.
With that segue, we will select new officers at the September meeting. A job description for each spot will be available here on this website in the next few days. OC Renewables has a critical mass of individuals who promote renewable energy. Finding out the best, most persuasive case to promote renewable energy and taking it to all of Orange County is up to the next group of officers. If you think you have an idea, or are willing to make a contribution, this is your chance! Contact Lori Greene to find out more details about being a member of the Board and what Board members do.
There will be no monthly meeting in August. OC Renewables will kick off again on Thursday, September 8th. We will have a big speaker, networking opportunities, and a good discussion on the future of the OC Renewables chapter.
With that segue, we will select new officers at the September meeting. A job description for each spot will be available here on this website in the next few days. OC Renewables has a critical mass of individuals who promote renewable energy. Finding out the best, most persuasive case to promote renewable energy and taking it to all of Orange County is up to the next group of officers. If you think you have an idea, or are willing to make a contribution, this is your chance! Contact Lori Greene to find out more details about being a member of the Board and what Board members do.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
July Barbeque and Meeting
OC Renewables will hold it's regular monthly meeting on Thursday, July 14 at the Duck Club in Irvine.
We will host a barbeque with food (omnivore and vegetarian options) and soft drinks. The barbeque will start at 6:30 PM. The Sea and Sage Audubon Society of Orange County will provide a guided tour of the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. That will start from the Duck Club at 6:00 PM.
You may bring your own food, if you'd like, or you may bring some for all and turn it into a potluck.
We look forward to a good time on Thursday!
We will host a barbeque with food (omnivore and vegetarian options) and soft drinks. The barbeque will start at 6:30 PM. The Sea and Sage Audubon Society of Orange County will provide a guided tour of the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. That will start from the Duck Club at 6:00 PM.
You may bring your own food, if you'd like, or you may bring some for all and turn it into a potluck.
We look forward to a good time on Thursday!
Monday, June 6, 2011
No Meeting in June
There will be no regularly scheduled monthly meeting this Thursday. Join us on July 14 for our annual summer picnic/networking event at the Duck Club in Irvine.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
ASES Advocacy: Keep Funding for DOE's Loan Guarantee Program
Just when we were breathing a sigh of relief over the Dept. of Energy's Loan Guarantee Program for Renewables having survived the Congressional budget bloodbath, ASES hears that some worthy projects that were counting on it may well fall by the wayside.
DOE has informed dozens of loan guarantee applicants that their applications will be put on hold indefinitely. Unless applicants can start their projects and close their loan guarantees by September 30, they won't be considered for a guarantee under the program.
To date, DOE has committed nearly $30 billion in guarantees for 27 clean energy projects, representing some $40 billion in private investment. These projects will be responsible for the creation of tens of thousands of jobs over 21 states; they include utility-scale solar power plants in the southwest and solar manufacturing facilities in California, Colorado and Indiana. But now some 40 applications, representing $15 billion in investments and thousands of jobs, have been placed on hold; the companies involved have together spent millions of dollars to this point, preparing their applications.
To maintain and build on the success of the Loan Guarantee Program, and to ensure that as many viable clean energy projects as possible become reality, it's essential that the program be adequately funded through FY2012.
Can you send a message to the President and Congress, letting them know how much good this program does for jobs and our energy future? It's too good to be allowed to die.
How to send a message:
1) (Simplest way): You can go to the Solar Nation advocacy site and enter your ZIP code.
2) You can copy and paste the message below into any or all of the following links to send it to:
a) the President:
b) your U.S. Senators:
c) your U.S. Representative:
Message:
The Department of Energy Loan Guarantee Program has enabled many vital renewable energy projects to obtain sufficient private investment to proceed; these include utility-scale solar power plants in the southwest and solar manufacturing facilities across the nation. It's a great example of a successful government program that is generating not only clean power but thousands of jobs for Americans.
The Department of Energy has now restricted loan guarantees only to those projects that can be ready by September 30, excluding dozens of worthy, viable clean energy projects from securing funding.
Please use your influence to provide appropriate funding to allow this successful program to continue. Good jobs and our energy future are hanging in the balance.
DOE has informed dozens of loan guarantee applicants that their applications will be put on hold indefinitely. Unless applicants can start their projects and close their loan guarantees by September 30, they won't be considered for a guarantee under the program.
To date, DOE has committed nearly $30 billion in guarantees for 27 clean energy projects, representing some $40 billion in private investment. These projects will be responsible for the creation of tens of thousands of jobs over 21 states; they include utility-scale solar power plants in the southwest and solar manufacturing facilities in California, Colorado and Indiana. But now some 40 applications, representing $15 billion in investments and thousands of jobs, have been placed on hold; the companies involved have together spent millions of dollars to this point, preparing their applications.
To maintain and build on the success of the Loan Guarantee Program, and to ensure that as many viable clean energy projects as possible become reality, it's essential that the program be adequately funded through FY2012.
Can you send a message to the President and Congress, letting them know how much good this program does for jobs and our energy future? It's too good to be allowed to die.
How to send a message:
1) (Simplest way): You can go to the Solar Nation advocacy site and enter your ZIP code.
2) You can copy and paste the message below into any or all of the following links to send it to:
a) the President:
b) your U.S. Senators:
c) your U.S. Representative:
Message:
The Department of Energy Loan Guarantee Program has enabled many vital renewable energy projects to obtain sufficient private investment to proceed; these include utility-scale solar power plants in the southwest and solar manufacturing facilities across the nation. It's a great example of a successful government program that is generating not only clean power but thousands of jobs for Americans.
The Department of Energy has now restricted loan guarantees only to those projects that can be ready by September 30, excluding dozens of worthy, viable clean energy projects from securing funding.
Please use your influence to provide appropriate funding to allow this successful program to continue. Good jobs and our energy future are hanging in the balance.
Monday, May 16, 2011
May Meeting Summary: SB 32 and Feed-In Tariffs
Allison Arnold from Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA spoke with OC Renewables on Thursday, May 12. We had a good conversation about the implementation of SB 32 and the California Feed-In Tariff (FIT).
For a good summary of the passage and status of the FIT, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency's write up of SB 32.
Allison indicated that SB 32's FIT would be available through the publicly owned utilities until the combined statewide cumulative capacity of eligible generation installed equals 750 MW, up from 500 MW. The maximum size of a renewable energy system is increased to 3 MW.
The tariff itself - and the price referent for calculating the tariff - is where the fight is happening now. It's very complicated. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has made a recent ruling (October 2010) for guidance on how the California PUC can set this tariff. Allison mentioned the name of Kevin Fox, a lawyer, working on these issues. The most comprehensive article I could find regarding what it all means can be read here: What Utility Involvement in the Distributed Solar Market Means For the Future of the Solar Industry.
So now the FIT is legal, and under consideration by the CPUC. The proceedings can be followed on the CPUC website. We at OC Renewables will keep track of this issue in the near future.
Finally, some links to share that Allison brought up in her presentation:
The Los Angeles Business Council's two studies regarding proposed FIT's
1. Designing an Effective Feed-in Tariff for Greater Los Angeles
2. Bringing Solar Energy to Los Angeles: An Assessment of the Feasibility and Impacts of an In-basin Solar Feed-in Tariff Program
California Solar Statistics Site. The official public reporting site of the California Solar Initiative (CSI).
Volunteer on a GRID Alternatives solar installation crew! Help make the benefits of solar power accessible to low-income families while learning new skills and having fun outside.
Great meeting! See you on Thursday, June 9 at the Duck Club
For a good summary of the passage and status of the FIT, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency's write up of SB 32.
Allison indicated that SB 32's FIT would be available through the publicly owned utilities until the combined statewide cumulative capacity of eligible generation installed equals 750 MW, up from 500 MW. The maximum size of a renewable energy system is increased to 3 MW.
The tariff itself - and the price referent for calculating the tariff - is where the fight is happening now. It's very complicated. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has made a recent ruling (October 2010) for guidance on how the California PUC can set this tariff. Allison mentioned the name of Kevin Fox, a lawyer, working on these issues. The most comprehensive article I could find regarding what it all means can be read here: What Utility Involvement in the Distributed Solar Market Means For the Future of the Solar Industry.
So now the FIT is legal, and under consideration by the CPUC. The proceedings can be followed on the CPUC website. We at OC Renewables will keep track of this issue in the near future.
Finally, some links to share that Allison brought up in her presentation:
The Los Angeles Business Council's two studies regarding proposed FIT's
1. Designing an Effective Feed-in Tariff for Greater Los Angeles
2. Bringing Solar Energy to Los Angeles: An Assessment of the Feasibility and Impacts of an In-basin Solar Feed-in Tariff Program
California Solar Statistics Site. The official public reporting site of the California Solar Initiative (CSI).
Volunteer on a GRID Alternatives solar installation crew! Help make the benefits of solar power accessible to low-income families while learning new skills and having fun outside.
Great meeting! See you on Thursday, June 9 at the Duck Club
Monday, April 25, 2011
May Meeting: "Selling Your Power to the Grid"
Thursday, May 12th
Speaker: Allison Arnold, Senior Manager, Marketing and Public Policy, Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA
Topic: "Selling Your Power to the Grid: The Latest on SB 32"
6:45pm Networking
7:00pm Speaker
Irvine Ranch Water District Duck Club
5 Riparian Way - Irvine, CA
** Enter off of Campus Drive (not Michelson) due to construction
FREE and open to the public!
In 2009 Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 32, establishing a feed-in tariff for renewable energy facilities up to 3 megawatts in size. The law allows renewable energy system owners to receive payment from the local utility for electricity fed into the grid at a (yet-to-be-determined) fixed price over 10-20 years. A similar law helped make Germany (a country with less average sunlight than Seattle) a world leader in renewable energy. If implemented successfully, the law would boost California's distributed renewable energy generation capacity by 750MW. Join us at our May OC Renewables meeting, where Allison Arnold, of solar products manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric, will explain how home and business owners can get paid for creating clean energy. You'll get an update on the rule-making process currently taking place at the California Public Utilities Commission, and find out how you can give your input as a stakeholder.
Allison Arnold, Solar Photovoltaic Division, Senior Manager, Marketing and Public Policy, Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA
Allison leads marketing, communications, and public policy for the solar photovoltaic products manufacturing business of Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA. She also heads the office Green Team, which helps employees adopt environmentally friendly practices at the company’s Cypress, California headquarters and in the community. Allison serves on a number of boards and committees in support of local and national deployment of photovoltaic technology, including the Board of the California Solar Energy Industries Association, the Executive Committee of the Solar Alliance, Grid Alternatives of Greater LA’s Advisory Council, and the Los Angeles Business Council. Prior to joining the solar industry, Allison worked in ocean conservation policy as a Program Officer for WWF in Wellington, New Zealand, and as a consultant to government agencies and environmental organizations in New Zealand and the U.S. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Systems from Stanford University and a Master of Environmental Studies degree from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, where she studied as a Fulbright Scholar. During her career Allison has sought to advance policies that support environmentally sustainable technologies and policies..com
Speaker: Allison Arnold, Senior Manager, Marketing and Public Policy, Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA
Topic: "Selling Your Power to the Grid: The Latest on SB 32"
6:45pm Networking
7:00pm Speaker
Irvine Ranch Water District Duck Club
5 Riparian Way - Irvine, CA
** Enter off of Campus Drive (not Michelson) due to construction
FREE and open to the public!
In 2009 Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 32, establishing a feed-in tariff for renewable energy facilities up to 3 megawatts in size. The law allows renewable energy system owners to receive payment from the local utility for electricity fed into the grid at a (yet-to-be-determined) fixed price over 10-20 years. A similar law helped make Germany (a country with less average sunlight than Seattle) a world leader in renewable energy. If implemented successfully, the law would boost California's distributed renewable energy generation capacity by 750MW. Join us at our May OC Renewables meeting, where Allison Arnold, of solar products manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric, will explain how home and business owners can get paid for creating clean energy. You'll get an update on the rule-making process currently taking place at the California Public Utilities Commission, and find out how you can give your input as a stakeholder.
Allison Arnold, Solar Photovoltaic Division, Senior Manager, Marketing and Public Policy, Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA
Allison leads marketing, communications, and public policy for the solar photovoltaic products manufacturing business of Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA. She also heads the office Green Team, which helps employees adopt environmentally friendly practices at the company’s Cypress, California headquarters and in the community. Allison serves on a number of boards and committees in support of local and national deployment of photovoltaic technology, including the Board of the California Solar Energy Industries Association, the Executive Committee of the Solar Alliance, Grid Alternatives of Greater LA’s Advisory Council, and the Los Angeles Business Council. Prior to joining the solar industry, Allison worked in ocean conservation policy as a Program Officer for WWF in Wellington, New Zealand, and as a consultant to government agencies and environmental organizations in New Zealand and the U.S. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Systems from Stanford University and a Master of Environmental Studies degree from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, where she studied as a Fulbright Scholar. During her career Allison has sought to advance policies that support environmentally sustainable technologies and policies..com
Friday, April 22, 2011
ASES, Sierra Nevada Brewery, and Five Thousand Dollars
We're so close to winning $5,000!
If you haven't already done it, sign the Sierra Nevada Earth Day Pledge today and then forward this email to all your friends and relatives. This will only take a minute and won't cost you a thing.
It's a race to get the most votes and WE CAN WIN TODAY
Earth Day Fundraiser for the Month of April
This Earth Day, Sierra Nevada is helping people get out for a good cause. For every person who takes an online pledge to get outside in April, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will donate $25 to the American Solar Energy Society. The organization with the most votes will receive $5,000. Click here and select ASES from the list of supporting organizations.
Take the pledge today!
Please forward this email to your friends and colleagues or visit ASES' Facebook page and share the post with all your Facebook friends.
There has never been a better time than right now to make nationwide solar power a reality.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Earth Day Event A Success!
The Earth Day event was a big success! Team OC Renewables had a lot of fun at Crystal Cove State Park. We opted to remove a rusty trail fence, and after completing what they thought would take until noon by 10:30am, we removed another fence!
Next time (2012?), we need OC Renewables T-shirts! (Groups from Home Depot & SCE had matching shirts)
Here is an article from the OC Register. Wendy was in our group:
http://www.ocregister.com/news/park-296725-volunteers-state.html
Next time (2012?), we need OC Renewables T-shirts! (Groups from Home Depot & SCE had matching shirts)
Here is an article from the OC Register. Wendy was in our group:
http://www.ocregister.com/news/park-296725-volunteers-state.html
Friday, April 8, 2011
OC Renewables Meeting Is An Earth Day Volunteer Event!!!
Saturday, April 16
Friends and family invited to join the OC Renewables team for the annual California State Parks Foundation’s Earth Day 2011 Restoration & Cleanup.
*Registration required*
*Update: One Location - Crystal Cove*
For Crystal Cove, contact:
Dr. Lori Greene, lgreene@ocrenewables.org
___________________
Crystal Cove
Saturday, April 16, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Volunteers of all ages are needed at Crystal Cove State Park on Saturday, April 16th for the 14th annual California State Parks Foundation’s Earth Day 2011 Restoration & Cleanup. Projects include: removal and replacement of ½ mile of old rusty ranch fencing, planting coastal bluff plants and painting gates and curbs. Registration is required.
Location: Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach. Check-in at Los Trancos parking lot (Pacific Coast Highway, turn inland at stoplight at Los Trancos).
Bring: Water bottle, sunscreen, hat, garden gloves, snacks
REGISTER: Dr. Lori Greene, lgreene@ocrenewables.org
Monday, April 4, 2011
Wind Powering America - Siting, Sizing, and Other Considerations for Distributed Wind
Wind Powering America - Siting, Sizing, and Other Considerations for Distributed Wind
The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) Small Wind Division hosted a webinar to provide a general overview of small wind technology and 12-step program for a small wind project, covering topics including zoning, interconnection, and the economics of small wind.
The presentation can be found on the Wind Powering America.gov website.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Sierra Nevada Will Make a Donation to ASES on Your Behalf!
This Earth Day, Sierra Nevada is helping people get out for a good cause. For every consumer who makes an online pledge to get outside in April, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will donate $25 up to $2500 each to one of the following organizations, based on the consumer's preference. The organization with the most votes will receive $5,000.Take the pledge! http://www.SierraUnplug.com
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Enter the $10,000 CACI Fast Pitch Competition
Competition Summary
Five early stage, clean technology companies will be chosen from submittals received and given a platform to showcase their business ideas to a panel of industry-leading judges as well as all conference attendees, many of whom are also investors in the space. Additionally, the winner of the competition will receive:
$10,000 in cash
Free entry into the Cleantech Open at the "semi-finalist" level with the opportunity to compete for an additional $250,000 in cash and prizes! ($1,850 value!)
Recognition on the CACI website for the following year
For more information, visit the California Clean Innovation website.
Monday, March 28, 2011
OC Goes Green: County Programs Commended by Grand Jury
Three County of Orange departments were lauded by the Grand Jury for their commitment to protecting natural resources and employing environmentally conscious practices. In a report titled “Orange County Goes Green,” the Grand Jury described the OC Waste & Recycling department as “one of the most cost-conscious agencies in the county – and one of the most respected in the nation.”
The report praised OC Waste & Recycling’s ability to capture methane gas from the County’s Frank R. Bowerman Landfill, convert it into liquid natural gas, and then sell it to power local bus and truck fleets. In addition, the department, which manages four Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers, has successfully increased the diversion of self-hauled waste from the landfills by 70% through recycling outreach and the self-hauled waste surcharge.
The County Executive Office’s Procurement Department was also noted in the Grand Jury report for the development of the OC Green Fair, inspired by the Board of Supervisors’ adoption of an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy.
Finally, the environmental stewardship efforts of John Wayne Airport (JWA) were also acclaimed in the report including the early implementation of water conservation, pollution prevention, energy efficiency, air quality, noise abatement and recycling practices.
For more details -
Read the Press Release, or the full Grand Jury Report.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Harris Poll: Americans Improve Energy Efficiency at Home. Knowledge of Energy Issues Remains Unchanged
GetSolar.com directs us to a very timely Harris poll. While solar panel systems and wind farms have become increasingly ubiquitous over the past few years and the amount of clean energy sources in the U.S. has grown significantly, it is not translating into a better understanding of energy issues amongst Americans, according to a recently released study.
What Really Motivates Customers to Install Solar
Interesting article that we wanted to share from GreenTechMedia. Not surprising to see that solar motivations are similar to most other buying decisions: price, reliability, and price again.
Click here to read this informative article.
Click here to read this informative article.
Monday, February 28, 2011
EPA Study: Where You Live Matters More Than How You Live
From Treehugger.com:
The paper finds that a home's location and access to transit -- in other words, its location efficiency -- are as important to reducing energy use as are energy-efficiency measures in homes and cars.
The paper finds that a home's location and access to transit -- in other words, its location efficiency -- are as important to reducing energy use as are energy-efficiency measures in homes and cars.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
The Making of the Ultimate Eco-Friendly Technology Workspace - March 9/10
Feel free to stop by and witness the merging of technology, sustainability and property leasing.
There will be beverages and hors d’oeuvres: March 9th and 10th, 4pm-8pm 1260 N. Hancock Street #104, Anaheim, CA 92807
Click on to the flier to the left for more details.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
ASES Small Wind Webinar - March 15, 1PM
To Register, click on:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/620025136
Small Wind Turbines (SWT) are wind turbines with a rated capacity up
through 100 kW. Used for a diverse range of applications, SWT
technology has grown at a rapid pace becoming more readily available
for consumers and the general public. Whether used to display
environmental commitment, or to offset energy costs, SWTs have the
potential to make meaningful contributions to energy security,
strategic technology, and long-term economic growth in the United
States.
This webinar will provide a general overview of small wind technology
and 12-step program for a small wind project, covering topics
including zoning, interconnection, and the economics of small wind. A
small group of experts from the SW Division will be available to
answer questions from Chapter members.
Presenter: Trudy Forsyth
Trudy has worked in the wind technology field since May 1994 as a
leader of NREL's distributed wind turbine projects. Since 1995, she
coordinated efforts between the NWTC technical staff and U.S.
manufacturers for designing new small wind turbines and testing new
prototypes. Her work at NREL is also focused on midsize wind turbines.
Trudy serves on a number of US Boards and Committees in support of
distributed wind including the Small Wind Certification Council, the
American Solar Energy Society and the ASES Small Wind Division, the
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and on the
steering committee for Women of Wind Energy. She is also the
secretary for an international group of small turbine experts who
revised the IEC Small Wind Turbine Safety standard (61400-2).
Trudy has authored and co-authored technical conference papers on
small wind turbines, their design features, economics, and
commonalities in the U.S. marketplace between PV and small wind. She
has given numerous presentations to both international audiences and
the general public on distributed wind technology, economics, and
applications.
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/620025136
Small Wind Turbines (SWT) are wind turbines with a rated capacity up
through 100 kW. Used for a diverse range of applications, SWT
technology has grown at a rapid pace becoming more readily available
for consumers and the general public. Whether used to display
environmental commitment, or to offset energy costs, SWTs have the
potential to make meaningful contributions to energy security,
strategic technology, and long-term economic growth in the United
States.
This webinar will provide a general overview of small wind technology
and 12-step program for a small wind project, covering topics
including zoning, interconnection, and the economics of small wind. A
small group of experts from the SW Division will be available to
answer questions from Chapter members.
Presenter: Trudy Forsyth
Trudy has worked in the wind technology field since May 1994 as a
leader of NREL's distributed wind turbine projects. Since 1995, she
coordinated efforts between the NWTC technical staff and U.S.
manufacturers for designing new small wind turbines and testing new
prototypes. Her work at NREL is also focused on midsize wind turbines.
Trudy serves on a number of US Boards and Committees in support of
distributed wind including the Small Wind Certification Council, the
American Solar Energy Society and the ASES Small Wind Division, the
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and on the
steering committee for Women of Wind Energy. She is also the
secretary for an international group of small turbine experts who
revised the IEC Small Wind Turbine Safety standard (61400-2).
Trudy has authored and co-authored technical conference papers on
small wind turbines, their design features, economics, and
commonalities in the U.S. marketplace between PV and small wind. She
has given numerous presentations to both international audiences and
the general public on distributed wind technology, economics, and
applications.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Call For Volunteers! OC Renewables Fundraiser
We are in need of volunteers to be part of our Event/ Fundraising Committee. These volunteers will help us develop a strategy for our Summer Solstice Celebration event in June. Contact James Matarese for more details. Thanks!
Webinar - Energy Storage - Wednesday, February 23, 10am PST
Interesting webinar coming up next Wednesday on energy storage.
Grid Energy Storage: Understanding the Market from the End User's Perspective
Join us and over 850 of your peers on Wednesday, February 23 for a free webinar with Josh Gould, Cleantech Group's Energy Storage Analyst, and Jim Kim of Khosla Ventures as they tackle the energy storage market from the end-user’s perspective.
After attending this webinar you will understand:
Grid Energy Storage: Understanding the Market from the End User's Perspective
Join us and over 850 of your peers on Wednesday, February 23 for a free webinar with Josh Gould, Cleantech Group's Energy Storage Analyst, and Jim Kim of Khosla Ventures as they tackle the energy storage market from the end-user’s perspective.
After attending this webinar you will understand:
- The State of Energy Storage: How to view and categorize the marketplace
- The End User's Perspective on Energy Storage: Revealing the results of a new Cleantech Group survey
- Key Cleantech Group Research Insights: What grid storage consumers really want
- Investment trends and opportunities across market sectors
Costa Mesa Green Task Force Seminars
The Costa Mesa Green Task Force are an action oriented coalition providing a network of resources that inspire residents, businesses and local government in Costa Mesa to adopt sustainable lifestyles and practices.
They are into their second weekly speaker and training series. Next Wednesday at 6 PM, they will discuss the following:
Wed, Feb. 23rd, 2011: Conscious Consumerism - The Real Costs of What We Consume
We vote with our pockets and every time we make a purchase, we cast a vote for the way things are. Join Jesse Baker, PhD from Ecofficiency and other speakers as we discuss and breakdown the true costs associated with the things we consume on a daily basis.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
March Speaker - Samantha Simonnet
Because Human Capital is an organization’s greatest asset, C-MONet unlocks its clients GREENOVATION potential starting with the most important component of the TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE: People. C-MONet addresses the energy workforce deficit through talent acquisition and talent management, building and shaping great teams and preparing global professionals for new heights of leadership. Samantha has extensive international organizational consulting, corporate training and executive coaching experience, acquired in Asia and Europe with leading outfits such as Boyden Executive Search & the Center for Creative Leadership Asian Research Institute. Samantha serves on the board of Cleantech Open, Cleantech Orange County and the Workforce Investment Board and teaches cleantech and sustainability at UCI and CSUF.
Presentation Title and Description
Just How Clean is Cleantech?
A recent article in GreenBiz.com dated Feb 2 2011 raised an interesting point that is gaining an increasing amount of attention: Just How Clean is Cleantech? There's a significant difference between clean technology and sustainable technology and as sustainability and carbon footprinting gain momentum, cleantech business models, deemed green and clean by essence, will be under as much if not even more scrutiny as “traditional” companies. Recognizing that sustainability and cleantech are not synonyms, the Cleantech Open, whose mission is to find, fund, and foster the big ideas that address today’s most urgent energy, environmental, and economic challenges, has developed a Sustainability Program which strives to highlight the relevance and promote the philosophy of sustainability throughout its activities. The primary goal is to give the tools and motivation to embed sustainability into every aspect of a company. The Cleantech Open sees cleantech as the end product or service, and sustainability as a key driver in determining the process to get to that end point. Join us to learn about the Cleantech Open, the benefits of entering the competition, how sustainability is now at the top of the judging criteria and why it matters.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Greening the World, One Project At A Time
The California Center for Sustainable Energy has an excellent article in their newsletter this month.
You’re going to hear a lot about energy efficiency and home performance during 2011, not just from us at CCSE, but also from local municipalities, San Diego Gas & Electric and various energy-related businesses and contractors. That’s because there are several federally funded and state-mandated programs rolling out now and over the next few months to help us reduce energy use, save on utility bills and curb greenhouse gas emissions. Those are truly wonderful goals, but I believe the best part of these efforts is that energy efficiency can make your home life more comfortable.
Read more by clicking here.
You’re going to hear a lot about energy efficiency and home performance during 2011, not just from us at CCSE, but also from local municipalities, San Diego Gas & Electric and various energy-related businesses and contractors. That’s because there are several federally funded and state-mandated programs rolling out now and over the next few months to help us reduce energy use, save on utility bills and curb greenhouse gas emissions. Those are truly wonderful goals, but I believe the best part of these efforts is that energy efficiency can make your home life more comfortable.
Read more by clicking here.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Webinar: RETScreen Solar Thermal Tutorials
From ASES and the New York Solar Energy Society:
The New York Solar Energy Society will present three RETScreen solar thermal tutorials for utilizing the software available from RETScreen Canada. At the same time NYSES will be preparing status reports on your experience with their software thanks to a grant from RETScreen. The American Solar Energy Society is providing the webinar time for NYSES.
What is this RETScreen software? Want to know how a solar hot water system will work for you? If you know the basic parameters of your location and how big your system needs to be you can find out the pay back time, the carbon off sets, and more. Watch our instructor, Dan Connors take you through a few examples. You won't need to take notes as the examples will be sent out after the tutorial.
How to sign up? Go to www.nyses.org and the RETScreen logo and fill in your registration information. Your invitation to join the webinar will be sent to you and you'll get reminders for your class.
Upcoming solar thermal tutorials:
February 10 at 6:30 pm (EST)
February 11 at 10:00 am (EST)
March 3 at 6:30 pm (EST)
A tutorial runs about 2 hours and 15 minutes and includes time for questions and answers. Your input is very important.
The RETScreen Conference for advanced workshops will be on June 20, 21, and 22 in Niagara Falls, Canada.
Join us!
Dan Connors, Instructor
President, Renewable Energy Strategies, LLC
*New York Solar Energy Society** - The solar resource network*
* 5270 Sycamore Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471-2838*
*www.NYSES.org*
*wyldon1@gmail.com*
*Mobile: 917 974 4606 FAX: 347 269 4141*
* NYSES is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society*
The New York Solar Energy Society will present three RETScreen solar thermal tutorials for utilizing the software available from RETScreen Canada. At the same time NYSES will be preparing status reports on your experience with their software thanks to a grant from RETScreen. The American Solar Energy Society is providing the webinar time for NYSES.
What is this RETScreen software? Want to know how a solar hot water system will work for you? If you know the basic parameters of your location and how big your system needs to be you can find out the pay back time, the carbon off sets, and more. Watch our instructor, Dan Connors take you through a few examples. You won't need to take notes as the examples will be sent out after the tutorial.
How to sign up? Go to www.nyses.org and the RETScreen logo and fill in your registration information. Your invitation to join the webinar will be sent to you and you'll get reminders for your class.
Upcoming solar thermal tutorials:
February 10 at 6:30 pm (EST)
February 11 at 10:00 am (EST)
March 3 at 6:30 pm (EST)
A tutorial runs about 2 hours and 15 minutes and includes time for questions and answers. Your input is very important.
The RETScreen Conference for advanced workshops will be on June 20, 21, and 22 in Niagara Falls, Canada.
Join us!
Dan Connors, Instructor
President, Renewable Energy Strategies, LLC
*New York Solar Energy Society** - The solar resource network*
* 5270 Sycamore Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471-2838*
*www.NYSES.org*
*wyldon1@gmail.com*
*Mobile: 917 974 4606 FAX: 347 269 4141*
* NYSES is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society*
Thursday, February 3, 2011
LATimes: Fool's Gold Catches Eye of UCI Solar Energy Researchers
Great article in the Los Angeles Times about solar research and technologies here in Orange County. Iron pyrite — also known as fool's gold — may be worthless to treasure hunters, but it could become a bonanza to the solar industry. The mineral, among the most abundant in the earth's crust, is usually discarded by coal miners or sold as nuggets in novelty stores. Read more by clicking here.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
AB 920 Update
Here at OCRenewables, we have eagerly anticipated the implementation of AB 920. Here's a great article from the Solar Home and Business Journal on the latest developments.
California Solar Owners to Start Gaining Payments for Net Surplus Generation
Some highlights from the article:
Although fewer than 10 percent of solar PV system owners are expected to be affected, and the compensation in most cases will be small, the frequency with which this question comes up demonstrates that it packs a symbolic wallop.
Conversations with hundreds of small-scale prospective solar owners suggest that a majority believe that they are entitled to be paid for excess generation at the highest retail price they pay the utility to provide electricity to them, not the wholesale price the utility pays conventional suppliers.
They aren’t going to get it, at least not yet.
Under a proposed decision by an administrative law judge in a proceeding before the California Public Utilities Commission, the compensation for net surplus generation is to be based on a formula suggested by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. that reflects short-term wholesale electricity prices. Because these prices vary, the plan calls for averaging out 12 months of daily fluctuations.
In 2009, the average price for Pacific Gas and Electric was a nickel per kilowatt-hour for energy purchased between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. The draft decision calls for adding a payment to the wholesale electricity price that reflects the cleaner-energy attributes of solar or other renewable generation. This amount is to be based on the average market price of renewable energy credits, which are not yet traded on a public market in California. Under other pricing mechanisms suggested by the utilities, the added compensation for cleaner energy could have ranged from about 1 to 3 cents per kilowatt-hour.
According to Pacific Gas and Electric, a total of 2,450 customers on net energy metering were net exporters of electricity in 2009. Of those, more than 40 percent had net surplus generation of only 100 kilowatt-hours or less annually. San Diego Gas & Electric Co. said it had fewer than 1,000 customers who would have been eligible for net surplus compensation, while Southern California Edison reported fewer than 1,500 would have been eligible. At 5 cents per kilowatt-hour, the average annual payment would have been less than $125 in the service areas of SCE and SDG&E, the proposed decision said.
We will continue to keep you posted on this important development as events warrant.
California Solar Owners to Start Gaining Payments for Net Surplus Generation
Some highlights from the article:
Although fewer than 10 percent of solar PV system owners are expected to be affected, and the compensation in most cases will be small, the frequency with which this question comes up demonstrates that it packs a symbolic wallop.
Conversations with hundreds of small-scale prospective solar owners suggest that a majority believe that they are entitled to be paid for excess generation at the highest retail price they pay the utility to provide electricity to them, not the wholesale price the utility pays conventional suppliers.
They aren’t going to get it, at least not yet.
Under a proposed decision by an administrative law judge in a proceeding before the California Public Utilities Commission, the compensation for net surplus generation is to be based on a formula suggested by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. that reflects short-term wholesale electricity prices. Because these prices vary, the plan calls for averaging out 12 months of daily fluctuations.
In 2009, the average price for Pacific Gas and Electric was a nickel per kilowatt-hour for energy purchased between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. The draft decision calls for adding a payment to the wholesale electricity price that reflects the cleaner-energy attributes of solar or other renewable generation. This amount is to be based on the average market price of renewable energy credits, which are not yet traded on a public market in California. Under other pricing mechanisms suggested by the utilities, the added compensation for cleaner energy could have ranged from about 1 to 3 cents per kilowatt-hour.
According to Pacific Gas and Electric, a total of 2,450 customers on net energy metering were net exporters of electricity in 2009. Of those, more than 40 percent had net surplus generation of only 100 kilowatt-hours or less annually. San Diego Gas & Electric Co. said it had fewer than 1,000 customers who would have been eligible for net surplus compensation, while Southern California Edison reported fewer than 1,500 would have been eligible. At 5 cents per kilowatt-hour, the average annual payment would have been less than $125 in the service areas of SCE and SDG&E, the proposed decision said.
We will continue to keep you posted on this important development as events warrant.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
February Speaker - Kevin Ross
Topic:
Current status of California Solar Initiative (CSI) Rebates and Economic Viability of Commercial PV Projects in 2011 and Beyond.
Speaker Bio:
Kevin Ross manages commercial-scale and small utility-scale project development in California for SunPower’s Commercial Systems Division. Mr. Ross has developed many large commercial projects under various financing structures; Power Purchase Agreements, ARRA-supported Bonds, municipal tax leases, CEC loans, and direct procurement, including the 3.9 MW multi-site PPA project for Inland Empire Utility Agency in Chino, CA. Mr. Ross also manages Solar project development for the Water & Waste Treatment Industry in California, and remains an active associate of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), having completed over 20 large projects, representing 20+ MWs in this market sector. He was directly responsible for starting up SunPower’s Southern California office located in Irvine, CA, currently staffed with Project Development Managers, Sales Analysts, Project Managers, and Construction Managers. Mr. Ross has over 24 years in specialty contracting and design engineering in the Semiconductor & Photovoltaic Industries, and holds BS degrees in Business Management and Manufacturing Engineering.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Duck Club Directions - Our Apologies
Despite our best efforts to inform everyone of the new route to the Duck Club, it seems many of you had trouble getting to the location last night. We apologize for the inconvenience and will include a detailed map with our February event information. Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in February.
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