The California Energy Commission (CEC) will host a remote-access workshop to seek input and discuss ongoing efforts to develop clean energy alternatives to diesel backup generator systems. The workshop will also discuss future research opportunities to initiate new technology solutions that will provide the state with clean energy alternatives to diesel backup generator systems.
In the last few years, the number of data centers and other commercial operations in California relying on large diesel backup generator systems has increased. Additionally, diesel and other fossil fueled backup generator systems have been used more often in recent years because of increased wildfires and Public Safety Power Shutoff events. This workshop will provide a forum for state government agencies, researchers, community-based organizations, industry representatives, the academic community, and other interested parties to discuss the increased use of diesel backup generator systems and the clean energy alternatives that can be developed to replace these systems.
CEC Chair David Hochschild will host this workshop with additional attendance by other CEC commissioners and potentially commissioners or other senior staff from the California Public Utilities Commission, the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the California Independent System Operator. A quorum of commissioners may participate, but no votes will be taken.
The workshop will be held remotely, consistent with Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-29-20 and the recommendations from the California Department of Public Health to encourage physical distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. The public can participate in the workshop consistent with the direction in these Executive Orders. Instructions for remote participation are below.