In a significant move to advance energy equity, Clean Power Alliance (CPA) has approved a new initiative to construct its first virtual power plant (VPP) by providing 300 low-income households with solar panels and battery storage at no cost. The program, a partnership with climate technology firm Haven Energy, is set to launch in spring 2025 and targets customers enrolled in or eligible for California’s CARE or FERA assistance programs.
A Commitment as CPA Expands Clean Energy Access, Builds Virtual Power Plant
The initiative directly addresses the financial barriers that often prevent vulnerable communities from accessing renewable energy. Each participating home will be outfitted with a 5kW solar photovoltaic system and a 20kWh battery storage unit. A key feature is that a minimum of 20% of the battery’s capacity is reserved for the homeowner, providing crucial backup power during grid outages. After five years, participants will gain full ownership of the systems, with all upfront installation costs covered through federal tax credits and other incentives managed by Haven Energy.
“Expanding clean energy requires intentional actions,” stated CPA Board Chair Deborah Klein Lopez. “I am proud of CPA for leading programs that strengthen energy reliability. I thank my fellow board members for making equitable access a reality.”
How the Virtual Power Plant Strengthens the Grid with CPA Expands Clean Energy Access
By networking these 300 individual systems, CPA will create a VPP capable of dispatching a combined 4.8MWh of clean energy. This allows the utility to reduce demand on the grid during peak hours, enhancing overall reliability and stability. CPA anticipates this innovative model will generate more than $380,000 in resource adequacy cost savings within the first three years alone.
“CPA is taking another step in managing peak energy demand while lowering costs,” said Ted Bardacke, CPA’s Chief Executive Officer. “This new solar program gives low-income customers an affordable way to transition to clean energy.”
The collaboration is designed for mutual benefit. “This collaboration is a game-changer,” said Vinnie Campo, CEO of Haven Energy. “Zero-cost solar and battery systems will make low-income households more resilient against outages and rising energy costs.”
Investing as CPA Expands Clean Energy Access, Builds Virtual Power Plant for a Cleaner Future
This program is part of a broader strategy by CPA to accelerate the clean energy transition. The organization increased its customer program investment by over 30% for the 2024-25 fiscal year to fund initiatives that help customers save money and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Officials are also exploring an expansion of the VPP model to include multifamily properties in the future.
As the fourth-largest electricity provider in California, Clean Power Alliance delivers affordable, renewable energy to three million residents and businesses across 33 communities in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Haven Energy focuses on deploying distributed energy resources in underserved communities, integrating them into VPPs to lower electricity costs and improve grid stability.
Sources
- Clean Power Alliance Impact Report Highlights Advancements in …
- Expansion of CPA Service, New Renewable Energy Projects and …
- 2024: A Year of Growth and Advancements in Support of Customers …
- Clean Power Alliance Annual Impact Report Spotlights a Year of …
- 2024 Impact Report | Clean Power Alliance
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