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California, June 5, 2025 – The Engine Technology Forum (ETF) has formally requested revisions to California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) Guidebook, specifically the tenth edition, currently under review by the California Energy Commission (CEC). Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director of the ETF, spearheaded the filing, highlighting concerns about the guidebook's current framework and its potential impact on engine-powered technologies vital to California’s energy landscape.

The RPS Guidebook serves as a crucial resource for developers, utilities, and policymakers navigating California’s ambitious renewable energy goals. The ETF’s intervention underscores the need for a more inclusive and technologically comprehensive approach to achieving these goals. The Forum's filing isn’t a rejection of renewable energy; rather, it’s a call for a realistic assessment of all available technologies, including those utilizing advanced engine technologies.

Why the Focus on Engine Technologies?

California's energy needs are complex and varied. While solar and wind power are undeniably important, they are intermittent sources. Engine technologies, particularly those utilizing renewable fuels like biodiesel, renewable natural gas (RNG), and hydrogen, offer a reliable and dispatchable power source. These technologies can provide grid stability, backup power during peak demand, and power for applications where renewables alone aren’t feasible – such as heavy-duty transportation, microgrids, and industrial facilities.

The ETF argues that the current RPS Guidebook doesn't adequately recognize or incentivize the contribution of these engine-powered solutions. Specifically, the Forum’s filing raises concerns about the treatment of renewable fuels used in internal combustion engines and the potential for unfairly penalizing these technologies when they can play a crucial role in decarbonization.

Key Points of the ETF’s Request:

• Expanded Definition of Renewable Energy: The ETF urges the CEC to broaden the definition of renewable energy to encompass fuels derived from renewable sources, regardless of the technology used to convert them into power.
• Recognition of Dispatchability: The Guidebook should explicitly acknowledge the value of dispatchable renewable energy sources, including those powered by engines, in ensuring grid reliability.
• Level Playing Field: The Forum advocates for a fair and transparent evaluation process that doesn’t disproportionately disadvantage engine technologies compared to other renewable energy sources.

Looking Ahead

The ETF’s filing marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over California’s renewable energy future. By advocating for a more inclusive approach, the Forum aims to ensure that all viable technologies – including advanced engine technologies – are considered as California strives to meet its ambitious climate goals. The CEC’s response to the ETF’s request will be closely watched by stakeholders across the energy sector, as it could shape the future of renewable energy development in California and beyond.

Allen Schaeffer stated, “We believe a comprehensive and technologically neutral approach is essential to achieving California’s clean energy objectives. We hope the CEC will carefully consider our recommendations and ensure that the RPS Guidebook reflects the full potential of all available resources.”