PGE: Leaders in new smart technology. What’s Next?

Event Details

Electricity demand is expected to grow more than 30% in the next decade due to the large data centers and utilization of AI technology in homes, buildings, and transportation requirements. Fortunately, PGE is up to the challenge with advanced EV charging technology and the expansion of electrical grids and transmission capabilities.

To learn more about their plans to tackle these issues while planning for more people to use smart technology in their homes and businesses, we invite you to join us for an informative session with PGE representatives.

This is an excellent opportunity to hear directly from PGE about their plans to address these challenges and to ask any questions you may have. Don’t miss out on this chance to stay informed and engaged on important energy issues in our region.

Presenters:

Binh Lu, Consumer Energy Solutions Manager, PGE
Elyssia Lawrence, Transportation Electrification Senior Manager, PGE

Presentation Summary

Binh Lu: Residential Energy Solutions

• Introduction and Background: Discussed the impact of climate change, heatwaves, and winter storms on energy demand and the need for raising rates. Highlighted PGE’s investment in renewable energy (wind turbines, solar panels) and infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs).
• Decarbonization Goals: Explained Oregon’s House Bill 2021, which mandates PGE to be 100% decarbonized by 2040. Discussed the closure of the last coal plant and the shift towards virtual power plants.
• Smart Grid and Flexible Demand: Introduced technologies like smart thermostats, energy storage, and smart panels to create a flexible and responsive grid. Highlighted the Smart Battery Pilot, which allows customers to use their batteries to support the grid and receive compensation.
• Future Initiatives: Mentioned the development of portable batteries for emergencies, support for customers with solar panels and batteries, and the importance of customer participation in demand response programs.

Elyssia Lawrence: Commercial Energy Solutions and Transportation Electrification

• Commercial Programs: Discussed the creation of an energy emissions tool for commercial customers to assess and reduce their carbon footprint. Highlighted programs like multifamily water heater programs and commercial managed charging.
• EV Support and Infrastructure: Addressed the growing need for EV infrastructure, the role of public charging stations, and workplace charging. Explained the importance of planning and managing EV load to control costs and support grid stability.
• Equity and Accessibility: Emphasized the importance of equitable access to EV infrastructure, supporting low-income and multifamily housing, and integrating EVs into the broader energy system.
• Wildfire Resiliency and Renewable Investments: Discussed PGE’s wildfire resiliency plan, investments in wind and solar farms, and the challenges of balancing increased energy demand with decarbonization goals.

Q&A Highlights

Question 1: Future of EV Charging Locations

Question: “Do you see most EV charging at home in the future, or do you see an expansion of electrical charging stations?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: Majority of charging currently happens at home. Public and workplace charging will expand, but home charging will remain predominant due to the convenience of charging while vehicles are parked for longer periods.

Question 2: Cost of Installing EV Charging Stations

Question: “How much does it cost to purchase and install an EV charging station in a public parking lot? And do you need to make any adaptions to a home outlet to be able to charge your car?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: Installing a level 2 charger in a public parking lot costs about $17,000 per port. Fast charging infrastructure can cost around $150,000 due to extensive underground work. Residential installations without panel upgrades range from $2,000 to $3,000. Rebates are available for low-income customers.

Question 3: Federal and State Subsidies for Solar

Question: “What exactly does the federal and the state of Oregon offer in the way of subsidies for solar panels?”

Answer: Binh Lu: The federal government offers a 30% tax credit for equipment and installation costs. The state of Oregon may have additional subsidies, but verification is needed.

Question 4: Recent Rate Increases by PGE

Question: “Over the last two years, PGE has requested approximately a 25% increase. Can you explain why the industrial entities are not seeing the same increases as residential customers?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: Rate increases are driven by residential cooling, EV charging, and grid upgrades to support solar. Residential infrastructure requires more extensive upgrades compared to industrial entities, which usually need fewer but larger capacity transformers.

Explanation: The presenter justifies the higher rate increases for residential customers by pointing out the extensive infrastructure needed to support residential electrification and renewable energy integration. This highlights the different infrastructural demands between residential and industrial sectors.

Question 5: Future Rate Increases

Question: “With demand for electricity projected to grow by 30% over the next decade, can we expect more rate increases?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: Rate increases depend on utility investments and cost recovery needs. While back-to-back increases are not typical, future rate changes will reflect the costs of grid upgrades and supporting growing energy demand.

Explanation: The presenter acknowledges the likelihood of future rate increases but explains that they are contingent on necessary investments and regulatory approval.

Question 6: PGE’s Wildfire Prevention Measures

Question: “How do you protect against wildfires?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: PGE has invested in wildfire resiliency, including proactive power shut-offs during high-risk conditions and increased infrastructure inspections using drone technology. These measures are aimed at preventing large-scale fires..

Question 7: Solar Farm Investments and Profitability

Question: “Are large solar panel installations by Madras and Redmond PGE owned or private capital run? How profitable are these?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: PGE owns some solar farms, while others are operated by private entities. Profit margins and rates of return are negotiated with the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Specific financial details are not provided.

Question 8: Consideration of Nuclear Energy

Question: “Does PGE ever consider putting together nuclear facilities in the future?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: Current Oregon laws do not support nuclear energy, so it is not part of PGE’s portfolio. However, nuclear energy is utilized in other parts of the world, indicating potential future consideration if laws change.

Question 9: Balancing Energy Demand and Decarbonization Goals

Question: “How do you plan to meet the 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and 100% by 2040 with a 30% increase in energy demand?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: PGE is investing in creative solutions like virtual power plants, demand response programs, and renewable energy projects to balance increased demand with decarbonization goals.

Question 10: Income-Qualified Bill Discounts

Question: “Does PGE offer any discounts for income-qualified customers to help with energy bills?”

Answer: Elyssia Lawrence: PGE provides bill discounts for income-qualified customers to reduce the energy burden. Eligibility is determined based on income and participation in energy assistance programs.

Key Takeaways

• Emphasis on Home Charging: Home charging is seen as the most convenient and likely dominant method for EV owners, but significant investment in public and workplace charging is also anticipated.
• Infrastructure Costs: Installing EV charging infrastructure varies greatly in cost depending on the location and type of charger, with significant investment required for fast charging capabilities.
• Support for Renewable Energy: PGE highlights federal and potential state subsidies for solar energy, encouraging adoption through financial incentives.
• Rate Increases Justification: Residential rate increases are primarily driven by the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades to support new technologies and increased energy demand.
• Wildfire Resiliency: Proactive measures and technological investments are crucial in preventing wildfire-related power outages and ensuring safety.
• Mixed Ownership of Renewable Projects: Solar and wind projects involve both PGE and private capital, with profitability regulated by the PUC.
• Nuclear Energy Considerations: Current laws prevent nuclear energy development, but future consideration is possible if regulatory conditions change.
• Balancing Growth and Decarbonization: Innovative solutions like virtual power plants and demand response programs are key to meeting emission reduction targets amidst growing energy demand.
• Support for Low-Income Customers: PGE provides bill discounts for income-qualified customers, demonstrating a focus on equity and affordability.