Issue Brief: Local Natural Gas Emission Reduction Options BPC - The Statewide Energy Efficiency Best Practices Coordinator is pleased to release an Issue Brief, which compiles key information and resources for local governments interested in exploring or pursuing various local natural gas emission reduction options for buildings. To watch the Virtual Office Hours recording on this topic, click here. To join an ongoing email dialogue on this topic, sign up here.
George Mason University- This survey was fielded from April 7 – 17, 2020, during which time a large percentage of the U.S. population was sheltering at home due to the novel coronavirus (COVID19) epidemic. Social science theory and prior research suggest that people have a “finite pool of worry,” such that worrying about one issue will decrease concern about other issues.
Utility Dive- Gasoline production in the state dropped by nearly 48% between the week ending March 20 and the last week of April, according to a report from the California Energy Commission. Jet fuel and diesel production reduced by 68.3% and 33.2%, respectively, as well.
Grists- In the first quarter of 2020, renewables were the only energy source to post a growth in demand: Globally, the market is projected to grow from $184.3 billion to $226.1 billion by 2021.
There are two priority deadlines to submit proposals: submit by June 5th for the second block (Aug-Sep) or by July 31st for the third block (Oct-Nov). Session tracks this year include: Leading with Equity & Community Engagement; Energy Resilience; Integrated Planning to Action; and Decarbonization Pathways. Check the forum website for the proposal guidance and the submission form!
Due to the CPUC Decisions requiring the Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) to outsource 60% of their customer programs (Decision 16-08-0192) to Third Party contractors, and the minimum cost- effectiveness thresholds for IOU program portfolios, the IOUs have undergone a portfolio balancing process that includes reducing budgets and sunsetting programs, which includes the IOUs’ partnership with SEEC. Click to read more about the upcoming transition.
CPUC- The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is continuing to work with the Investor Owned Utilities on future New Residential Construction Programs that will pilot and explore deeper energy efficiency opportunities to help meet California's aggressive greenhouse gas reduction goals. Over the coming year, the CPUC will be engaging stakeholders to discuss and define potential opportunities. This survey will help to inform and guide that effort.
WRCOG- Western Community Energy is seeking Proposals for the design, development, implementation, and management of Demand Response (DR) Programs and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) for Residential and Non-residential customers in its territory. Apply by May 26. View the RFP Guidelines.
CivicSpark- Apply today to receive project support to address emerging environmental and community resilience challenges. In response to the scale and urgency of COVID-19, CivicSpark is prepared to focus Fellow support on recovery activities such as: supporting development of responsive programs or connecting community members with resources. Hosting a Fellow is a cost-effective way to bolster response efforts. Explore potential recovery activities by contacting Kif Scheuer (kscheuer@lgc.org), or visit our website below to learn more about the application. https://civicspark.lgc.org/join-civicspark/project/
Funding Resource- The California Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD) released the first of two Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) announcements for the Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program. The first NOFA is for formula funding - formula amounts by jurisdiction can be found in Appendix A in the NOFA, here. Don't wait to apply - the deadline for formula funding is July 27, 2020! *Keep a lookout for the NOFA for the Permanent Local Housing Allocation Competitive Program, which is anticipated to be released August 2020.* Learn more about the Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program by visiting our website at: https://www.fundingresource.org/affordable-housing/
