DER Update: CPUC Moves Toward Flexible Connections, Statewide DER Rules

The CPUC’s High DER Future docket produced three significant developments this week, all aimed at making better use of the distribution grid as electrification increases demand for new connections.

A July 28 proposed decision would reduce Integration Capacity Analysis workshops while requiring standardized biennial reports on utility grid-modernization spending and results.

Comments filed the previous day revealed disagreements over two emerging policies. Flexible service connections let customers energize under operating limits instead of waiting for upgrades. DER orchestration would compensate or direct distributed resources to relieve grid constraints.

Parties broadly support both concepts. The dispute is over how quickly to scale them, whether utilities or third parties should control the necessary platforms, and whether the CPUC should permit three utility-specific systems or establish a common statewide framework.