Volume I, No. 6

December 11, 2008

Grid Neutral Guidebook

The Department of General Services recently released the Grid Neutral:  Electrical Independence for California Schools and Community Colleges step-by-step guidebook on how to achieve energy savings and generate electricity on school campuses.  According to the State & Consumer Services Agency Secretary Rosario Marin, who announced the new publication at the Green California Schools Summit in Anaheim, the guidebook will help “school officials to invest smartly in green technologies and cut their production of greenhouse gases,” a key target of the landmark climate change law enacted with the passage of AB 32 in 2006.

In an effort to produce the guidebook, the Division of the State Architect commissioned the brightest minds in planning, energy efficiency, energy generation, financing, and maintenance and operations.  The guidebook addresses issues that school districts should consider in its energy savings and production plans, including: 

• Comprehensive Planning
• Measuring Grid Neutrality
• Designing for Energy Efficiency
• Available Energy Generation Technologies
• Involvement, Training and Education of Maintenance & Operations
• Funding Options

The Grid Neutral guidebook is a great step in the right direction toward educating school practitioners about available energy technologies and options, including how to fund what can be costly capital investments.  As is the case with almost anything, however, the proverbial devil in the details still holds.  That is, as school districts explore options to employ at their campuses it is prudent to be cautious, thoughtful, and diligent in analyzing the details of their investments and contract proposals to ensure that they align with their comprehensive plans and long-term, as well as short-term, goals.

Click here for a copy of the guidebook.

~ Patti Herrera

pherrera@m-w-h.com