V. Backup Power Systems Not Installed on the Customer's Premises --Plan of Action

Section 2892.1 addresses backup power systems not located on the customer's premises. The first step in the investigation will be to determine the telecommunications service providers' current standards and practices applicable to their backup power systems. The second step will be to obtain the telecommunications service providers' and other interested parties' recommendations for reliability standards, and the associated costs and benefits.

To this end, CD is directed to convene a technical workshop of subject matter experts to inform the Commission in this matter. The workshop to discuss "backup power systems not installed on the customer's premises" will be held June 6, 2007. CD will provide timely notice on the Commission's Calendar and to the service list.

The outcome of the workshop will be an informational request that will seek more detailed information, concerns and issues related to backup power systems that are not installed on the customer's premises. The request will direct respondents to provide recommendations along with associated implementation costs and benefits.

The request will be sent to all telecommunications service providers and other interested parties. Upon receipt of the responses to the request, CD will compile the information into a report that:

1. Identifies the concerns and issues that the Commission must address, including whether the best practices have been implemented, and an assessment of the feasibility of zero greenhouse gas emission fuel cell systems to replace diesel generators for such backup power systems;

2. Identifies recommendations presented and their level of support;

3. Identifies a recommended course of action, as well as any other viable options;

4. Discusses the costs and benefits of implementing the recommended course of action; and

5. Identifies any concerns or issues that remain to be addressed.

The draft report will be sent to the parties for comment. Upon receipt of the comments, CD, in consultation with the assigned Commissioner, will prepare a revised draft report, which will be provided to the parties for comment.⁷ A proposed decision, which adopts a final report, then will be prepared.

⁷ As explained in greater detail in footnote 5, CD may evaluate a gradation of possibilities, and it will specify its recommended options in accordance with the requirements of §§ 776, 2872.5 and 2892.1.