D. C. Regulators Address Rate Design, Microgrids in Grid Modernization Order

The District of Columbia Public Service Commission issued an order outlining the initial steps to achieve the vision of Power Path DC, which was launched last August to advance the next phase of the agency’s grid modernization efforts, according to a Jan. 29 news release. The order approves a set of recommendations from the PowerPath stakeholder process, including adopting a distribution system planning process, reconvening the rate design working group, establishing a microgrid proceeding, and defining non-wires alternatives. The agency directed the Potomac Electric Power Company to file a residential time-of-use rate proposal. The district has a goal of achieving 50 percent emissions reduction and 100 percent Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard in 2032.

Power Path replaces MEDSIS that was launched in 2015 to “modernize the distribution energy delivery system for increased sustainability.” The initiative embraces the vision and guiding principles of MEDSIS, while also incorporating the district’s clean energy goals and climate policies in decision-making to evolve the energy delivery system.

This approval, the first of a series of orders in the district’s grid modernization proceeding, outlines the critical next steps that the commission and stakeholders will need to embark on to achieve the PowerPath vision. The order also approves the creation of a secure data sharing portal, pilot projects governance board, and a new retail choice website to provide information about third-party energy suppliers.