Comments on Proposed Decision

The proposed decision of Commissioner Michael R. Peevey in this matter was mailed to the parties in accordance with Section 311 of the Public Utilities Code and comments were allowed under Rule 14.3 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure. The decision was also mailed to the parties in R.04-03-017, in which D.06-01-024 issued, and to the parties in R.06-03-004, in which the petition was originally filed. Comments were filed by Petitioners, PG&E, SCE, and jointly by SDG&E and SoCalGas. Reply comments were filed by Petitioners and SCE. Several parties ask for clarification of the pilot program budget. Petitioners reargue their request for higher solar water heating incentive levels. SCE asks for the ability to comment on any pilot program budget changes. SDG&E/SoCalGas question whether the Commission can meet the deadlines in AB 1470 (Pub. Util. Code §§ 2866 and 2867.1) if the pilot program is extended.

In response to comments, the decision has been modified to clarify that the Commission allocated a maximum of $3 million in D.06-12-033 for the pilot program, and the current budget is $2.59 million, as authorized by ruling. Energy Division may approve pilot program budget changes, not to exceed $3 million, if that is deemed necessary for proper program evaluation, but CCSE may pursue minor alterations to its pilot program plan with Energy Division. Comments that merely reargued earlier positions were not considered. SCE may comment on the pilot program budget by participating in workshop which this order directs Energy Division to hold on the pilot program evaluation plan. With regard to the concern raised by SDG&E/SoCalGas, we will allow the extension of the pilot, if budget funds allow, to provide program continuity as we comply with the mandates of AB 1470 in designing a statewide program.