Grid decarbonization is the process of reducing or eliminating the carbon emitted by the grid. The City estimates grid decarbonization will reduce energy demand by 23 percent. However, electricity demand will increase due to the transition to electric vehicles and buildings. If renewable sources are used, the increased demand will not add to the emissions level on the grid, while the emissions for transportation and the built environment will be sharply reduced.
Non-wires alternatives (NWAs) use distributed energy resources and microgrids to defer or replace the installation of more traditional “wires and poles” infrastructure. When utilities choose non-wires alternatives, they often save ratepayers money by avoiding investments in costly infrastructure. From an environmental perspective, NWAs may cut carbon emissions through the use of renewable energy that avoids fossil fuel-fired plants. They can also reduce line losses, boost efficiency and shift loads.
Distribution refers to the system that carries electricity over poles and wires from the energy source to homes and businesses. Making smart grid upgrades can provide a more responsive system.
Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) allows local governments to procure power on behalf of their residents, businesses, and municipal accounts from an alternative supplier while still receiving distribution and transmission service from their existing utility provider. By aggregating demand, communities gain leverage to negotiate better rates with competitive suppliers and choose greener power sources. CCA’s may also make it easier to balance peak and off-peak usages of electricity, especially if combining business and residential buildings.
Rooftop solar harnesses the power of the sun through panels installed on the roof of a building. Under the IGND, there is a potential for extensive solar panel installations on the roofs of buildings and parking garages.
Ground-mounted solar harnesses the power of the sun through panels installed at ground level. It is similar to rooftop solar and may be more efficient.
