The project will take approximately one year to complete and will follow four phases:
Phase 1
Direction setting
3.5 months (June-Sept.)
Develop a DER vision, guiding principles and goals
Engage stakeholders to review results of this phase and to receive/incorporate feedback
Phase 2
Data gathering
3.5 months (June-Sept.)
Assess current and desired future DER configurations
Review DER technology and market
Identify system impacts, opportunities, costs and benefits due to DER
Engage stakeholders to review results of this phase and to receive/incorporate feedback
Phase 3
Gap assessment
2 months (Oct.-Dec.)
Compare current DER state to desired future state
Consider range of industry approaches and best practices (where available)
Identify potential approaches to close gaps (joint planning evaluation, operations and programs)
Engage stakeholders to review results of this phase and to receive/incorporate feedback
Phase 4
Strategy report development
6 months (Jan.-June)
Continue to evaluate and discuss DER approaches
Develop DER strategic plan document
Engage stakeholders to review results of this phase and to receive/incorporate feedback before finalizing strategy