Thanks for the comments ocrenter and others. For those following this thread, I’ve done some research which I think anyone with a passing interest in solar, pools, or TOU, will find very interesting.
First, if I’m reading the following articles correctly, “Time of Use”, (TOU) can not be forced on the consumers until Jan. 1, 2018 at the earliest. At that time, the PUC is supposed to have a plan in place for mandatory TOU. Of course, that is right around the corner (2 1/2 years). References:
Then, trying to get even more info, I wrote to the head CPUC (Calif Public Utilities Commission) Commissioner, Michael Picker, to see if he could give some guidance as to what will happen with TOU. To his credit (and my surprise!) he wrote back. I’ve copied the exchange below. I’m not inclined to wait until June 21st to make a decision on whether or not to get solar for pool. As Mr. Picker alludes to, the vote might be delayed. I think I’ll just hope that they are wise enough to take into account that there are a lot of folks with pool solar heating.
Comments, advice, flames welcome as always.
-Dave
Me:
Dear Michael Picker,
I am hoping you can answer a simple question that I could not get resolved by contacting SDG&E nor the PUC help line (800-649-7570).
I am considering putting in solar heating for my pool. As you know, the water in a pool must be circulated and it requires very little extra electrical power to pump the water to the roof where it can be heated by the sun for free. Currently this is a much cheaper option than heating with natural gas, once the initial investment (~$6000.00) is made. However, if “Time of Use” (TOU) was to become mandatory, this would no longer be the case. Currently, I am able to change my hours for pumping the pool water to anytime during the day or night, but with solar heating, the pumping must be done during the hottest parts of the day (typically 11am-5pm).
Do you know if TOU will become mandatory and if so, when? Do you know if there will be any provision for pool owners who are trying to save energy (and money) by using solar heating?
I have contacted SDG&E. They referred me to the PUC help line. Their answer was that “no one knows the minds of the commissioners and there is no way to find out”. I refuse to believe that is the case in a democracy. The commissioners answer to the governor, who answers to the citizens.
I appreciate your help in this matter.
Sincerely,
Michael Picker:
We are in the midst of a proceeding regarding rate reform, and will decide if and when TOU pricing will be mandatory as part of that. Currently, that matter is scheduled for a vote on June 21. But things change and get delayed…
Commissioner Michael Picker
California Public Utilities Commission
505 Van Ness, Fifth Floor
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 703-2444 [email protected]
And, the state constitution says that we are independent decision makers, appointed by the Governor, and confirmed by the Legislature. We are a quasi-judicial agency, and, for many decisions, have a painful and complex process of hearings, and make our decisions based on the published record, as a panel of judges would. So, in most respects, SDG&E is correct.
Commissioner Michael Picker
California Public Utilities Commission
505 Van Ness, Fifth Floor
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 703-2444 [email protected]
