Maximizing the value of photovoltaic installations on schools in California

In this study, 22 rate structures from the top three electric utilities in California were evaluated. These utilities are Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E). These rate structures were used to assess PV value and annual savings for schools in each of the three utility service territories. Two case studies were also conducted for actual schools in Berkeley (Berkeley High School) and San Diego (Lewis Middle School). These case studies can be found in Appendix A and Appendix B. Rate impacts are dependent on individual school load profiles, which vary from one school to another. The rate option that minimizes a school's electricity expenses often does not remain the most economical choice after the school installs a PV system. The complex interaction between PV generation, building load, and rate structure makes determining the best rate a challenging task. These results are not intended to represent all schools in California. Schools considering a solar installation should evaluate their facility's unique load profile and use this report as a guide to analyze the potential impacts of a PV system. The report results are intended to explore rate structure elements that are typically beneficial for PV installations and to help identify general trends for the impacts of rate structures on schools with solar systems.