Bill > AB740

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for developing and implementing virtual power plants (VPPs) in California. A virtual power plant is defined as a coordinated aggregation of distributed energy resources like electric vehicles, smart thermostats, battery storage systems, and other flexible loads that can balance electricity demand and supply. The bill requires the California Energy Commission to develop a virtual power plant deployment plan in its biennial integrated energy policy report after January 1, 2027, subject to available funding. In developing this plan, the Energy Commission must consult with various stakeholders, including the Public Utilities Commission, Independent System Operator, and community advisory groups, and hold public workshops. The plan must identify resources, policies, and timelines for VPPs, assess barriers and opportunities for VPPs to qualify for resource adequacy, evaluate how VPPs can be optimized to support grid objectives like reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving costs, and recommend ways to address customer data access limitations. Additionally, the bill requires each electrical corporation to annually report its contribution towards meeting the state's load-shifting goals, which aim to reduce net peak electrical demand. The goal is to create a more flexible, efficient, and sustainable energy system by leveraging smart, interconnected energy resources.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB740