This session will explore how microgrid developers are enhancing the resilience of California's vital water utilities in wildfire-prone areas through innovative battery technology and strategic utilization of the state's Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP).

California's water utilities face increasing challenges from climate change, including severe storms and wildfires that threaten grid reliability. Traditional backup solutions often fall short during extended outages or Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). One solution integrates battery storage with solar and/or backup generators using advanced controls to provide continuous, clean power and ensure critical water infrastructure remains operational.
 

As a bonus, by managing water facilities’ demand on the grid, these microgrids can reduce costs from demand charges and time-of-use rates, helping to insulate the budgets of these essential service providers from California’s fast-rising electricity prices.

This session will highlight successful projects at facilities for several California water utilities, discuss the importance of the state’s SGIP funding for making them possible, and highlight success stories – including how one microgrid enabled pumping stations to continue operating during grid shutoffs in the midst of the January 2025 wildfires in Southern California. This presentation will offer valuable insights into building a more resilient and sustainable water future for California and across the US.