Did Y'all Know? | August 2024

Did Y’all Know…

We are pulling out the acronym book once again! For the month of August, we are all about DERs.

Why are DERs important? If done right, they can contribute to overall grid resiliency and help generate cost and energy savings.

When DERs are combined with energy efficient measures, truly comprehensive energy savings can be achieved. It is through this combination we can make a real difference in lowing our greenhouse gas emissions and make significant strides toward sustainability.


Did Y’all Know…

In the context of IDSM, DERs play a crucial role by providing essential attributes like flexibility, grid stability, optimized energy consumption, demand response capabilities, and the seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.

Noteworthy examples of DERs include advanced technologies like battery storage, electric vehicles, state-of-the-art solar inverters, grid-interactive water heaters, and electrified public buses.  DERs offer operational flexibility in managing energy consumption, strongly support demand response programs, promote decentralized energy generation, and enhance grid reliability.

Looking ahead, DERs offer an exciting opportunity for California to expand its utilization of renewable and zero-carbon energy sources while driving the electrification of transportation and buildings. It's crucial to acknowledge that deploying DERs could lead to environmental challenges, such as heightened land use and spatial footprint concerns, and potential air pollution emissions. Despite these considerations, the potential for positive change through DERs is truly promising for our state's sustainable energy future.


Did Y’all Know…

This month, we’re focusing on Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and want to spotlight a particular DER: electric vehicles (EVs). In our August Technology Tuesdays edition, we explored how DERs, like EVs, enhance resiliency, cost savings, and energy efficiency.

In connection to our spotlight on EVs, we recently interviewed Alexandria, PG&E’s Program Manager for the Residential Charging Solutions program. This initiative offers a $700 rebate on PG&E-approved EV charging equipment to income-eligible households, aiming to support residential EV charging while minimizing costly electrical upgrades.


Did Y’all Know…

We’re halfway through our IDSM topics for 2024 and are excited to expand on IDSM technology and Distributed Energy Resources this August!

We’ve relaunched our Fund-It Fast Chat webisode: “Monetize EVs and LCFS credits!” What is LCFS, and how does it relate to IDSM? LCFS (Low-Carbon Fuel Standard) is a California program offering monetary credits for reducing transportation’s carbon footprint. In the IDSM world, electric vehicles are batteries (energy storage) with wheels. In this webisode, you will learn about the LCFS process and find some resources to help you on your journey.


Did Y’all Know…

Boost your savings with the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN)! Public agencies can now take advantage of exciting incentives for HVAC equipment through the Streamlined Savings Pathway Program. This is your opportunity to enhance operations, minimize maintenance issues, and reduce energy and costs. Don’t let this opportunity chance pass you by!


Did Y’all Know

BayREN is offering an exciting virtual training, “BayREN C&S Training: Heat Pump HVAC for Building Departments” on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This training will cover:

  • Overview of heating and cooling technologies and trends

  • Identifying HP-HVAC in the field

  • Energy Code compliance forms and requirements specific to HP-HVAC.


Kelsey Jones2024, IDSM, DERs