CPUC Opens New Rulemaking to Consider EPIC Funding and Program Improvements

The California Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) program supports energy innovation by funding applied research and development, technology demonstration and deployment, and market facilitation projects. Funded by ratepayers and administered by the California Energy Commission and investor-owned utilities, EPIC projects have helped advance new technologies and test pre-commercial emerging energy solutions.

This week the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved a new Order Instituting Rulemaking (R.19-10-005) to “review the EPIC program, consider whether and how to continue funding the program, and to consider appropriate administrative and programmatic changes to improve the program.”

Among other things, the new EPIC rulemaking will consider post 2020 funding levels, and how best to build on the program administration changes currently being implemented in the IOU Research Administration Plan (RAP) proceeding and Policy + Innovation Coordination Group (PICG) process.

Comments on the Rulemaking are due 45 days from issuance of the OIR. More information about the EPIC program is available on the CPUC and CEC websites.

Ellison Schneider Harris and Donlan attorneys can assist clients interested in learning more about EPIC or applying for EPIC grants.

Contact: Lynn Haug or Samantha Neumyer