Board Approves ISO Strategic Vision for Increasing Renewables

FOLSOM, CA--(Marketwired - March 27, 2015) - The Board of Governors of the California Independent System Operator (ISO) approved an update to its 2014-2016 strategic plan by adding a blueprint for dealing with challenges emerging in the energy industry while further greening the grid.

The document, "Pursuing a Strategic Vision for a Sustainable Energy Future," details changes on the horizon of the electricity landscape and ways the power grid operator can work to meet Gov. Jerry Brown's recent call for 50 percent of the state's energy to come from renewable sources. The board approved the plan at its meeting at ISO's Folsom headquarters Thursday.

"This strategic vision outlines how the ISO will respond to a rapidly changing electric system," said Steve Berberich, ISO president and chief executive officer. "We will keep our focus on reducing carbon, lowering costs and working collaboratively for everyone's benefit, while maintaining a reliable grid."

Richard Maullin, Chair of the ISO Board, explained the vision statement was needed because of the rapid pace of change in the energy industry and the issues stemming from rising amounts of renewable energy integration into the power grid, including the growing occurrence of overgeneration, or producing excess power at times of the day when it's not needed.

"The strategic vision summarizes the opportunities and challenges facing California and the West in the ongoing transition to a low-carbon electric grid, through the integration of more renewable energy generation into our power mix," he said. "The vision statement emphasizes strategies for matching supply with energy demand and coordinating usage to match energy production, and the benefits of enhanced regional cooperation for assuring grid reliability along with carbon reduction."

To read the ISO strategic vision, go to caiso.com or click here.

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The California ISO provides open and non-discriminatory access to one of the largest power grids in the world. The vast network of high-voltage transmission power lines is supported by a competitive energy market and comprehensive grid planning. Partnering with about a hundred clients, the nonprofit public benefit corporation is dedicated to the continual development and reliable operation of a modern grid that operates for the benefit of consumers. Recognizing the importance of the global climate challenge, the ISO is at the forefront of integrating renewable power and advanced technologies that will help meet a sustainable energy future efficiently and cleanly.

The following files are available for download:

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