CSE is leading development of an Energy Storage Permitting Guidebook to help California local governments and agencies adopt standardized, streamlined procedures to expedite installations.
Commercial and residential energy storage systems can offer relief to grids and provide end users with lower energy costs and backup power during outages. However, installing these on-site, behind-the-meter energy resources is hampered by a lack of uniform local permitting and approval processes.
Goals for the guidebook include supporting recently adopted state energy codes that require both solar and battery storage for new commercial buildings. The project is funded by a $1 million grant from the California Energy Commission’s Electric Program Investment Charge.
CSE has helped streamlined permitting and requirements for rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations.
Program at a Glance
Program Goals
Research and publish an electronic Energy Storage Permitting Guidebook that identifies best practices and guidelines for policies that encourage and facilitate battery energy storage installations
CSE's Role
Project management
Conduct research
Information gathering and analysis
Stakeholder workshops and surveys
Create permitting guidebook
Develop training program
Technologies
Key Partners
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Guidehouse
California Solar & Storage Association
U.S. DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory
State Policies Supported
California Senate Bill 350
California Assembly Bill 2514
California Assembly Bill 546
Impact Statement
Establishing standardized permitting procedures throughout the state could significantly reduce the soft costs of individual installations and reduce staff time and costs for permitting agencies.
