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Washington, D.C., June 5, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Engine Technology Forum (ETF) is urging the California Energy Commission (CEC) to reconsider aspects of its Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) Guidebook, specifically within the tenth edition. Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director of the ETF, has formally submitted a filing to the CEC's open docket outlining concerns and proposing revisions.

California's RPS mandates a progressively increasing percentage of electricity generation from renewable sources. The RPS Guidebook serves as a crucial document, providing detailed guidance and technical specifications for compliance. The ETF’s intervention highlights the need for the guidebook to accurately reflect the evolving landscape of engine technology and its potential contribution to renewable energy goals.

Why is the Engine Technology Forum Weighing In?

The ETF represents manufacturers and developers of internal combustion engines, including those utilizing alternative fuels like renewable natural gas (RNG), propane, and biodiesel. These engines, when integrated with technologies like combined heat and power (CHP) and backup power systems, can provide significant benefits in terms of grid stability, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction. The Forum argues that the current guidebook doesn't adequately recognize these benefits, potentially hindering the adoption of engine-based solutions.

Key Concerns and Proposed Changes:

• Recognition of RNG: The ETF emphasizes the importance of fully acknowledging Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) as a significant source of renewable energy. RNG, derived from organic waste, offers a carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative fuel option, particularly when used in CHP systems. The Forum suggests clearer guidelines and incentives for RNG utilization.
• CHP Systems: Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, which simultaneously generate electricity and useful thermal energy, offer superior energy efficiency compared to traditional power generation. The ETF proposes revisions to the guidebook to better account for the efficiency gains achieved through CHP, allowing for greater recognition of their contribution to RPS compliance.
• Grid Services: Engine-based systems can provide valuable grid services, such as frequency regulation and voltage support, helping to stabilize the grid and integrate intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind. The Forum advocates for incorporating these grid service capabilities into the RPS framework.
• Flexibility and Reliability: The ETF highlights the need for flexibility and reliability in California’s energy mix. Engine technologies offer a dependable backup power source and can quickly respond to fluctuations in demand, complementing intermittent renewable sources and ensuring a stable power supply.

Looking Ahead:

The ETF’s filing marks a significant step in advocating for a more inclusive and technologically advanced approach to California’s renewable energy policies. The CEC will review the filing and consider the proposed changes as part of the ongoing update to the RPS Guidebook. The outcome of this process could have a substantial impact on the future of engine technology and its role in achieving California’s ambitious renewable energy targets. The Forum anticipates a constructive dialogue with the CEC and stakeholders to ensure that the revised guidebook reflects the realities of the modern energy landscape.

“We believe that a more nuanced understanding of engine technologies, particularly those utilizing renewable fuels and integrated with CHP systems, is essential for maximizing the benefits of California's RPS,” said Allen Schaeffer. “We are committed to working with the CEC to develop a guidebook that fosters innovation and accelerates the transition to a cleaner, more reliable energy future.”