29. Transition Period

In D.08-12-039, we approved monthly budgets for existing demand response activities, and made provision for those activities to continue through the end of 2009, if necessary. That decision provided that bridge funding would end no later than three months after the effective date of a final decision in this docket, or on December 31, 2009, whichever comes first.

Many demand response programs are seasonal, with participation either limited to or concentrated in the summer months. This decision is being approved in midsummer of 2009, meaning that new programs or significant program changes cannot be implemented before midsummer 2009. Based on the three-month transition period allowed in the Bridge Funding decision, it is very possible that some programs will not be implemented or modified based on this decision until fall 2009, when some demand response activities may no longer be operating, and others may technically be operational but expect few if any events before the end of the year. Also, customers participate in demand response activities based on an understanding of the specific program's requirements or characteristics, and may wish to discontinue their participation or change to a different activity if the requirements or characteristics change.

In order to minimize administrative difficulties and avoid customer confusion, we authorize the utilities to implement the modifications to policies and program rules affecting existing programs adopted in this decision not later than January 2010, unless otherwise required in this decision. New programs and pilots shall be implemented in 2010, unless otherwise noted in this decision. SCE, SDG&E, and PG&E shall each file one or more Tier 1 compliance advice letters within 90 days of the date of this decision updating their tariffs to be consistent with the requirements of this decision and noting the date on which those changes will take effect.