The board first approved a proposal to apply to renewable resources some of the same performance standards conventional generators must meet. The new requirements make intermittent resources more reliable for real-time operations and are key to meeting the state's renewable energy goals.
The second vote modified the current California ISO grid-planning process that only allows approval of transmission projects based on the reliability or economic benefits they provide.
To help achieve California's goal of meeting electricity demand with 33% renewable energy by the year 2020, the California ISO revised grid-planning process will enable it to approve transmission projects that support state policies. It also allows qualified independent transmission developers to build and own some projects.
Both new policies require approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
SOURCE: The California Independent System Operator
