Natural Gas Research and Development Program, 2017-2018 Proposed Budget

Assembly Bill 1002 (Wright, Chapter 932, Statutes of 2000) authorizes the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to impose a surcharge on all natural gas consumed in California. These monies fund energy efficiency programs and public interest research and development projects benefitting natural gas ratepayers. In 2004, the CPUC issued Decision 04-08-010, which designated the California Energy Commission as the administrator for the research funds. The Energy Commission manages the Natural Gas Research and Development program, which supports energy-related research, development, and demonstration not adequately provided by competitive and regulated markets. Each year, the Energy Commission submits a proposed program plan and funding request to the CPUC for review and approval.
This staff report, Natural Gas Research and Development Program Proposed Program Plan and Funding Request for Fiscal Year 2017-18, describes the Energy Commission’s proposed research initiatives in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy infrastructure. The recommendations are based on input from California stakeholders, research institutions, and governmental partners. These initiatives were carefully chosen following an ongoing public outreach process seeking suggestions for research initiatives from California researchers.
The proposed research funding for fiscal year 2017–18 is $24 million, and the budget plan covers the period from July 1, 2017, through June 30, 2018.