Redwood Coast Energy Authority
633 3rd Street, Eureka, CA 95501
Phone: (707) 269-1700 Toll-Free (800) 931-7232 Fax: (707) 269-1777 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.redwoodenergy.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Jefferson Community Center Auditorium (different location) April 24, 2025 1000 B Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Thursday, 3:30 p.m.
Any member of the public needing special accommodation to participate in this meeting or access the meeting materials should email [email protected] or call (707) 269- 1700 at least 3 business days before the meeting. Assistive listening devices are available.
Pursuant to Government Code section 54957.5, all writings or documents relating to any item on this agenda which have been provided to a majority of the Board, including those received less than 72 hours prior to the Committee’s meeting, will be made available to the public at www.RedwoodEnergy.org.
NOTE: Speakers wishing to distribute materials to the Board at the meeting, please provide 13 copies to the Board Clerk.
THIS IS A HYBRID IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL MEETING.
The RCEA Board of Directors holds in-person hybrid meetings. When attending, please be courteous to those who choose to wear a mask.
To participate in the meeting online, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81972368051. To participate by phone, call (669) 900-6833 or (253) 215-8782. Enter webinar ID: 819 7236 8051.
To make a comment during the public comment periods, raise your hand in the online Zoom webinar, or press star (*) 9 on your phone to raise your hand. You will continue to hear the meeting while you wait. When it is your turn to speak, a staff member will prompt you to unmute your phone or computer. You will have 3 minutes to speak.
You may submit written public comment by email to [email protected].
Please identify the agenda item number in the subject line. Comments will be included in the meeting record but not read aloud during the meeting.
While downloading the Zoom application may provide a better meeting experience, Zoom does not need to be installed on your computer to participate. After clicking the webinar link above, click “start from your browser.”
OPEN SESSION Call to Order
1. ROLL CALL - REMOTE DIRECTOR PARTICIPATION
1.1. Approve teleconference participation request for this meeting by Director pursuant to Brown Act revisions of AB 2449 due to an emergency circumstance to be briefly described.
1 RCEA April 24, 2025, Board of Directors Meeting Agenda
2. REPORTS FROM MEMBER ENTITIES
3. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
This time is provided for people to address the Board or submit written communications on matters not on the agenda.
At the conclusion of all oral communications, the Board may respond to statements. Any request that requires Board action will be set by the Board for a future agenda or referred to staff.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters on the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine by the Board and are enacted in one motion. There is no separate discussion of any of these items. If discussion is required, that item is removed from the Consent Calendar and considered separately. At the end of the reading of the Consent Calendar, Board members or members of the public can request that an item be removed for separate discussion.
4.1 Approve Minutes of March 27, 2025, Board Meeting.
4.2 Approve Disbursements Report.
4.3 Accept Financial Reports.
4.4 Approve the following amendment to extend the Professional Service Agreements for RuralREN North startup activities through May 31, 2025:
1. Amendment No.2 with Sierra Business Council in the amount of $390,754,
2. Amendment No. 1 with Lake Area Planning Council in the amount of $88,884, and
3. Amendment No. 1 with Mendocino Council of Governments in the amount of $88,436,
and authorize the Executive Director to execute all applicable documents.
4.5 Award professional services agreement to Energy Resources Integration to perform the NREN commercial energy assessment for a not to exceed value of $200,000 and authorize the Executive Director to execute all applicable documents.
5. REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
Items removed from the Consent Calendar will be heard under this section.
6. STUDY SESSION ON ELECTRICITY AFFORDABILITY
6.1. RCEA staff prepared this study session to help the Board and community better understand electricity rates, electricity bills and what drives electricity costs. Staff will also focus on what RCEA is doing about high electricity costs and how you can help.
Board and community members are invited to ask questions after the informational presentation.
7. OLD BUSINESS – None.
8. NEW BUSINESS – None.
2 RCEA April 24, 2025, Board of Directors Meeting Agenda
9. STAFF REPORTS
9.1 Executive Director’s Report
10. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Any request that requires Board action will be set by the Board for a future agenda or referred to staff.
11. ADJOURNMENT
NEXT REGULAR MEETING
Thursday, May 22, 2025, 3:30 p.m.
Wharfinger Building upstairs Great Room (new location), 1 Marina Way, Eureka, CA 95501 Online and phone participation will also be possible via Zoom. 3 This page
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STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item # 1.1
AGENDA DATE: April 24, 2025
TO: RCEA Board of Directors
FROM: Eileen Verbeck, Deputy Executive Director
SUBJECT: Member Teleconference Participation
BACKGROUND
Since emergency Brown Act meeting law changes went into effect in 2020 due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the RCEA Board of Directors, Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and the subcommittees of those bodies met online with no physical, public meeting location.
Governor Newsom signed AB 361 into law in September 2021, which allowed these bodies to continue meeting completely virtually without publishing each member’s participation location while the COVID state of emergency continued and state or local officials recommended social distancing measures or the RCEA Board determined that meeting in person posed health and safety risks.
The COVID-19 State of Emergency ended on February 28, 2023, and RCEA Board and CAC meetings returned to meeting in-person at a physical location, with allowances under existing Brown Act rules or new AB 2449 Brown Act rules should a Board or CAC member need to participate from a remote location for certain reasons. If another state of emergency is declared, these bodies may be able to return to completely remote meetings.
SUMMARY
RCEA Board Directors may attend up to two meetings per year from a remote location without making the location accessible to the public for the following reasons:
1. “Just cause”
a. To provide childcare or caregiving need to a child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse, or domestic partner;
b. Due to a contagious illness that prevents the member from attending in-person; c. Due to a need related to a physical or mental disability as defined in Government Code sections 12926 and 12926.1 not otherwise accommodated; and d. Due to travel while on official business of the legislative body or another state or local agency.
2. “Emergency circumstance” due to a physical or family medical emergency that prevents the member from attending in person.
If a Board Director would like to attend the meeting remotely due to an emergency circumstance, the Board will take action by majority vote to approve the Director’s remote participation. A vote is not necessary for a request to attend remotely for just cause. A brief 5
description, protecting the Director’s (or Director’s family member’s) medical privacy, needs to be provided in both cases.
The remotely participating Board Director needs to publicly disclose at the meeting before any action (vote) is taken, whether anyone 18 years of age or older is present in the room at the remote location with the Director, and the general nature of the individual’s relationship with the Director.
If the Board Director anticipates needing to participate remotely for more than 2 meetings per year, staff recommends arranging for a publicly and ADA accessible space with visual and audio meeting capabilities from which to participate.
Staff asks to be notified one-week in advance, if possible, of remote meeting attendance so the Director’s publicly and ADA accessible remote meeting address can be published in the agenda, if required per Brown Act open meeting laws.
Current Remote Participation Requests
As of the writing of this staff report, there have been no remote director participation for “just cause” or “emergency circumstances” requests.
RECOMMENDED ACTION (if needed)
Approve teleconference participation request for this meeting by Director pursuant to Brown Act revisions of AB 2449 due to an emergency circumstance to be briefly described. 6 Redwood Coast Energy Authority
633 3rd Street, Eureka, CA 95501
Phone: (707) 269-1700 Toll-Free (800) 931-7232 Fax: (707) 269-1777 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.redwoodenergy.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS DRAFT MEETING MINUTES
Wharfinger Building, Bay Room March 27, 2025
1 Marina Way, Eureka, CA 95501 Thursday, 3:30 p.m.
Vice Chair Sheri Woo called a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Redwood Coast Energy Authority to order on the above date at 3:30 p.m. Notice of this meeting was posted on March 21, 2025.
PRESENT: Natalie Arroyo, Skip Jorgensen, Jason Ramos, Elise Scafani, Sarah Schaefer, Jack Tuttle, Frank Wilson, Vice Chair Sheri Woo. ABSENT: Chair Scott Bauer, Michael Gerace.
STAFF AND OTHERS PRESENT: Business Planning and Finance Director Lori Biondini, Infrastructure Planning and Operations Director Dana Boudreau, Executive Director Elizabeth Burks, Power Resources Director Richard Engel, Demand Side Management Director Stephen Kullmann, Board Clerk Lori Taketa, Deputy Executive Director Eileen Verbeck.
REPORTS FROM MEMBER ENTITIES
Director Arroyo was deployed with the Coast Guard Reserves to Los Angeles after the recent wildfires. She witnessed hazmat waste disposal challenges while cleaning up burnt electric car and home power wall lithium-ion battery waste. Director Schaefer participated in the CivicWell conference focusing on disaster preparedness and resilient response to current federal administration actions. RCEA’s work is well-known within the Community Choice Energy community.
CONSENT CALENDAR
4.1 Approve Minutes of February 27, 2025, Board Meeting.
4.2 Approve Disbursements Report.
4.3 Accept Financial Reports.
4.4 Reappoint Norman Bell to the Community Advisory Committee for a 2-Year Term Ending March 31, 2027.
4.5 Accept Community Advisory Committee 2024 Annual Report.
4.6 Accept RCEA’s 2024 Supplier Diversity Report and 2025 Annual Plan.
4.7 Accept Quarterly Regulatory & Legislative Policy Engagement Report.
4.8 Approve Payment of California Community Choice Association Annual Dues up to $131,835 for Fiscal Year 2025-26.
4.9 Hold Regular RCEA Board Meetings:
With a Study Session on Affordability on April 24, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Jefferson Community Center, 1000 B Street, Eureka, and
Beginning May 22, 2025, at Wharfinger Building Upstairs Great Room, 1 Marina Way, Eureka, at 3:30 p.m.
7 RCEA February 27, 2025, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes
4.10 Approve Task Order Services Agreement with Schatz Energy Research Center for Programmatic Research and Development Technical Support Services For $250,000 Through June 2028 and Authorize the Executive Director to Execute All Applicable Documents.
M/S: Scafani, Schaefer: Approve Consent Calendar items.
The motion passed with a unanimous vote. Ayes: Arroyo, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: Bauer, Gerace. Abstain: None.
Vice Chair Woo confirmed that a Community Choice Energy (CCE) quorum was present.
OLD CCE BUSINESS
6.1. Weighted CCE Voting
Executive Director Burks reported on how state law limits Community Choice Aggregation participation to cities and counties. Prior to RCEA’s formation, member agencies deliberated at length and agreed on partially weighing votes for CCE business items, which is reflected in RCEA’s Joint Powers Agreement. All members are encouraged to participate in CCE business discussion, regardless of whether they can vote on the item. All contracts are brought to the full Board for consideration. Categories of CCE and non-CCE business are outlined in the Board Operating Guidelines. There was Board member support to work toward revising state law to allow Tribal nations to participate fully in Community Choice Energy agency boards. There were no public comments on this item.
M/S: Schaefer, Arroyo: Accept updated and unchanged Community Choice Energy weighted Board vote distribution.
Direct staff to revise the RCEA Board Operating Guidelines to require a full Board, non-CCE business vote for:
1. Setting of overall CCA program objectives,
2. Determining power content targets,
3. Procurement strategy and procedures,
And to allow the Chair to call for a roll call vote in randomized order for CCE business items, at their discretion.
The motion passed with a unanimous vote. Ayes: Arroyo, Jorgensen, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, Wilson. Noes: None. Absent: Bauer, Gerace. Abstain: None. Non-Voting: Ramos, Woo.
OLD BUSINESS
8.1.RePower Humboldt, RCEA Strategic Plan Update
Directors from RCEA’s departments (Power Resources, Demand-Side Management, Infrastructure Planning, Business Planning and Finance, Administration) reported on work toward RCEA’s strategic plan goals accomplished in 2024. The directors also described current year strategic plan priorities. There was no public comment on this agenda item. 8 RCEA February 27, 2025, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes
8.2.Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN) Update Presentation Demand-Side Management Director Kullmann described programs the NREN will offer. Staff requested an additional Demand-Side Management Program Specialist to focus on over-the-phone energy assessments and to assist with NREN programs. NREN funds would pay for the position. There was no public comment on this item.
M/S: Arroyo, Jorgensen: Receive an update on the NREN program and approve the addition of a Demand Side Management Program Specialist to the RCEA organizational chart.
The motion passed with a unanimous vote. Ayes: Arroyo, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: Bauer, Gerace. Abstain: None.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1.Annual Regulatory & Legislative Policy Platform Review and Federal Activity Update Executive Director Burks presented proposed changes to RCEA’s Policy Platform to streamline language and processes, reflect NREN’s establishment, add language regarding Diablo Canyon decommissioning and nuclear waste storage, and to address increased affordability concerns, energy efficiency program funding scrutiny, and changing federal policy. The draft reflects Community Advisory Committee recommendations. The Board discussed adding language to support full Tribal Nation membership and participation in community choice aggregation decision-making. Director Ramos described how the state considers Tribal nations to be public agencies while the CPUC does not, which limits Tribal nations’ grant funding pursuits. Director Ramos did not prioritize lobbying the CPUC to change this definition, but others expressed that adding such policy platform language could be helpful should other Tribal nation councils join RCEA. The Board directed staff to incorporate suggested changes to the 2025 Policy Platform for Board approval at a future meeting. There were no public comments.
9.2. Update on Offshore Wind
Executive Director Burks reported on RCEA’s role in offshore wind development as outlined in RePower Humboldt, the agency’s strategic plan, RCEA’s current engagement, and other potential engagement opportunities based on discussions with involved community entities and staff. The Community Advisory Committee prioritized RCEA’s support of a small-scale offshore wind pilot project similar to the CADEMO Project being developed in state waters off Lompoc, CA.
Board directors supported RCEA involvement in: offshore wind small pilot project development; joint public outreach with organizations such as Cal Poly Humboldt, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Oregon State University supporting Humboldt port development; regional electricity transmission planning; developing centralized procurement for locally-generated offshore wind energy; education and training through partnerships and a learning center; and ensuring local community benefits for locally-sourced energy. Directors requested RCEA messaging on what offshore wind development will mean for customer electricity bills, energy reliability, and what benefits customers will experience. There were no public comments.
9 RCEA February 27, 2025, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes
STAFF REPORTS
10.1 Executive Director’s Report (Information only)
Executive Director Burks reported on the Tribal Energy Resilience and Sovereignty microgrid project’s federal funding status, and project partners’ contact with stakeholders at a tribal energy summit and with state agencies that identified potential alternative funding sources should previously encumbered federal funds not materialize. The May Community Advisory Committee meeting will focus on committee goal setting and working groups. There were 119 customer phone calls in February, most of them regarding net billing tariff solar payments.
Sixteen customers asked to leave RCEA electricity service. All but one chose to stay with RCEA after learning how the agency works. Executive Director Burks shared information about upcoming California Air Resources Board and Humboldt County workshops on medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and offshore wind, respectively. There were no public comments.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Director Arroyo requested a presentation by the Humboldt Transit Authority on the status of hydrogen projects in the region.
Vice Chair Woo adjourned the meeting at 5:27 p.m.
Lori Taketa
Board Clerk
10 Accrual Basis Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Disbursements Report
As of February 28, 2025
Type Date Num Name Memo Amount
Liability Check 02/14/2025 ACH Ascensus Payroll - deferred compensation -14,058.67 Liability Check 02/14/2025 ACH EDD Payroll -8,944.01
Liability Check 02/14/2025 ACH Internal Revenue Service Payroll -38,211.09 Liability Check 02/14/2025 ACH Ascensus Payroll - deferred compensation -12,857.31 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 ACH Leapfrog Power, Inc Jan 2025 - RA -36,740.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 ACH Sonoma Clean Power Authority Jan 2025 - Flex RA -261,000.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 WIRE PG&E Voluntary Allocation Aug 2024 Forecast Price- VA -674,152.40 Check 02/14/2025 19251 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -240.09 Check 02/14/2025 19252 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -674.12 Check 02/14/2025 19253 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -472.52 Check 02/14/2025 19254 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -544.81 Check 02/14/2025 19255 NEM Customer VOID: Ck 19255 $164.81, reissued on 3/14/25 0.00 Check 02/14/2025 19256 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -17.30 Check 02/14/2025 19257 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -63.73 Check 02/14/2025 19258 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -147.74 Check 02/14/2025 19259 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -10.26 Check 02/14/2025 19260 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -16.62 Check 02/14/2025 19261 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -437.84 Check 02/14/2025 19262 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -175.00 Check 02/14/2025 19263 NEM Customer NEM Account Closeout -4.58 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19264 Arcata Police Department Livescan screening -114.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19265 Ascensus 09/01/2024-11/30/2024 Recordkeeping Fee -1,058.25 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19266 AT&T RCAM Router charges: 12/19-01/18/25 -163.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19267 AT&T RCAM dedicated line charges: 01/29-02/28/24 -942.39 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19268 AT&T Long Distance Phone charges 01/25 - 02/24/2025 -138.51 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19269 Baker Tilly US, LLP Jan 2025 Audit Services -43,050.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19270 Biondini, L. CSMFO Annual Conference, Per Diem meals -209.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19271 Braun Blaising & Wynne, P.C. CCE Regulatory and Legal - Dec 2024 -3,429.81 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19272 Busick, B. Jan 2025 Mileage Reimbursement -151.41 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19273 City of Arcata Jan 2025 Utility User Tax -18,615.63 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19274 City of Arcata Jan 2025 Excessive Energy Use Tax -2,851.86 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19275 City of Eureka-Water 633 & 917 3rd St water bills -260.68 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19276 City of Eureka - Wharfinger Wharfinger Rental-Board & CAC 08/22-12/17/24 -645.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19277 Donald Dame CCE Consulting services- Jan 2025 -393.75 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19278 Enterprise Car rentals Jan 2025 -253.41 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19279 Eureka Rubber Stamp Qty 7 Board meeting nameplates -119.69 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19280 Humboldt Bay Coffee Co. Jan 2025: 2 invoices for office coffee -77.85 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19281 Law Offices of Nancy Diamond Jan 2025 Legal Services -1,036.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19282 Local Worm Guy Jan 2025 compost service 633 & 917 3rd St -96.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19283 Mission Linen & Uniform Service Feb 2025: mat cleaning and supplies -77.82 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19284 Newport Group Participant Fees for Retirement Plan - Q12025 -1,010.61 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19285 North Coast Cleaning Services, Inc. 633 & 917 3rd St Cleaning Services - Jan 2025 -1,090.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19286 NYLEX.net, Inc. Parts & Labor for qty 2 UAP-HD-NANO AP switch -1,280.14 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19287 Optimum Business-633 633 3rd St: Phone & Internet 12/28-01/27/2025 -1,103.54 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19288 Optimum Business-633 633 3rd St: Phone & Internet 01/28-02/27/2025 -1,105.45 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19289 Orick Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership 2025 -60.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19290 Quarles & Brady LLP TERAS Legal Services - Dec 2024 -1,239.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19291 Recology Humboldt County 917 3rd St. garbage service Jan 2025 -74.54
11 Accrual Basis Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Disbursements Report
As of February 28, 2025
Type Date Num Name Memo Amount
Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19292 Recology Humboldt County 633 3rd St. garbage service Jan 2025 -110.05 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19293 Redwood Community Radio 3 invoices: Radio underwriting -2,340.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19294 SDRMA WC Labor Law Posters 2025 -21.95 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19295 Secretary of State Form SF-405 Copies Fee -6.50 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19296 Times Printing Company Jan 2025: customer move-in & late notices -1,932.69 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19297 Ubeo Business Services 633 3rd St Printer Charges: 01/06-02/05/25 -167.73 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19298 Woodley Island Ship Shop Jan 2025: 3 E-Bike Voucher -1,900.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/14/2025 19299 Amazon.com Jan and Feb 2025 invoices -3,107.70 Paycheck 02/14/2025 ACH Employees Payroll -94,433.43
Bill Pmt -Check 02/18/2025 ACH The Energy Authority Power Resources services - Jan 2025 -3,076,487.23 Check 02/18/2025 ACH VISA VISA 2291: Stmt 12/20/2024-01/21/2025 -9,562.55 Check 02/18/2025 ACH VISA VISA 4133: Stmt 12/20/2024-01/21/2025 -1,168.58 Check 02/20/2025 Debit Umpqua Bank Service Charge -78.70 Check 02/20/2025 Debit Umpqua Bank Service Charge -252.59 Bill Pmt -Check 02/24/2025 ACH The Energy Authority CAISO Invoice #CISO021925-FEB -5,280.84 Bill Pmt -Check 02/27/2025 ACH Snow Mountain Hydro, LLC Jan 2025 Electricity Generation -136,051.45 Bill Pmt -Check 02/27/2025 WIRE EDPR CA Solar Park LLC II Jan 2025 Contract Energy -538,334.19 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH Ascensus Payroll - deferred compensation -15,991.30 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH Ascensus Payroll - deferred compensation -13,399.66 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH CICCS Coalition for Controlling Insurance Feb 2025 EAP Premiums -66.98 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH Colonial Life March 2025 Additional Coverage Premiums -3,352.18 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH EDD Payroll -8,807.39
Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH Internal Revenue Service Payroll -38,203.79 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH Keenan March 2025 Health Premiums -46,266.65 Liability Check 02/28/2025 ACH Principal Life Insurance Company March 2025 Premiums -135.10 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 ACH CalPine Corporation Metering services - Jan 2025 -63,821.39 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 ACH Humboldt Sawmill Co. Dec 2024 & Jan 2025 Electricity Generation -866,960.20 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 WIRE CA Community Power Training: Qty 2 FERC Anit-Market Manipulation -407.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 WIRE PG&E Voluntary Allocation Sept 2024 Forecast Price- VA -191,832.96 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 WIRE Sierra Business Council NREN Partner Funding: pre-launch -463,629.50 Liability Check 02/28/2025 19300 Ameritas - Dental March 2025 Premiums -2,864.96 Liability Check 02/28/2025 19301 Ameritas - Vision March 2025 Premiums -513.92 Check 02/28/2025 19302 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Yearly Payout-Reissued -1,648.62 Check 02/28/2025 19303 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -326.75 Check 02/28/2025 19304 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -507.52 Check 02/28/2025 19305 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -195.00 Check 02/28/2025 19306 NEM Customer 2024 NEM Payout-Transitional -182.64 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19307 Aiqueous, LLC DSM database support hours -15,000.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19308 AT&T RCAM data charges 02/07-03/06/25 -330.21 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19309 Busick, B. Feb 2025 Mileage Reimbursement -173.11 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19310 Carter Properties Office Lease - 917 3rd March 2025 -2,375.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19311 Frontier Energy, Inc. NREN Program Consulting - Jan 2025 -19,814.25 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19312 Hooven & Reese, Inc. 4 invoices: EVSE construction in progress -26,955.46 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19313 Humboldt HyCycle Feb 2025: 1 E-Bike Voucher -999.64 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19314 Law Offices of Susie Berlin NREN Legal - Jan 2025 -3,570.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19315 Mission Linen & Uniform Service Mat cleaning services & supplies -250.44 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19316 Moss Adams LLP Progress billing for TERAS services -5,000.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19317 NYLEX.net, Inc. Onsite network support services - Mar 2025 -4,059.00
12 Accrual Basis Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Disbursements Report
As of February 28, 2025
Type Date Num Name Memo Amount
Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19318 Pacific Paper Company Office Supplies -179.78 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19319 PG&E CCA Jan 2025 CCE Billing/Collection Charges -21,599.90 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19320 PG&E EV Account EV stations 01/02-02/02/2025 -2,007.52 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19321 PG&E Office Utility 01/06-2/03/2024 utilities for 917 3rd Street -753.68 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19322 PG&E Office Utility 01/14-02/11/2025 utilities for 633 3rd Street -1,578.34 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19323 Pierson Building Center 633 3rd St: Facility supplies-Plate Light Control -14.19 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19324 Revolution Bicycles Feb 2025: 1 E-Bike Voucher -500.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19325 Times Printing Company Late notice customer mailers -695.39 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19326 Winzler, John Office Lease - 633 3rd St. March 2025 -7,946.31 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19327 The Engine is Red NREN Marketing - Jan 2025 -34,600.00 Bill Pmt -Check 02/28/2025 19328 The Engine is Red NREN Marketing - Jan 2025 -22,000.00 Paycheck 02/28/2025 ACH Employees Payroll -93,601.38
TOTAL -6,983,768.72
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14 Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Profit & Loss Budget vs. Actual
July 2024 through February 2025
Jul '24 - Feb 25 Budget % of Budget
Ordinary Income/Expense
Income
Total 4 GRANTS AND DONATIONS 3,100.00 0.00 100.0%
5 REVENUE EARNED
Total 5000 · Revenue - government agencies 4,995,715.70 8,502,834.00 58.75% Total 5100 · Revenue - program related 5,932,251.71 5,950,888.00 99.69% Total 5300 · Revenue - interest on deposits 1,052.33 0.00 100.0% Total 5400 · Revenue-nongovernment agencies 307,709.50 501,000.00 61.42% Total 5500 · Revenue - Electricity Sales 46,231,818.10 80,442,685.00 57.47% Total 5 REVENUE EARNED 57,468,547.34 95,397,407.00 60.24% Total Income 57,471,647.34 95,397,407.00 60.24%
Gross Profit 57,471,647.34 95,397,407.00 60.24%
Expense
Total 6 WHOLESALE POWER SUPPLY 40,001,567.77 64,768,112.00 61.76% Total 7 PERSONNEL EXPENSES 3,122,677.24 5,388,452.00 57.95% Total 8.1 FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS 582,684.61 1,152,207.00 50.57% Total 8.2 COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH 100,799.87 276,200.00 36.5%
8.4 PROFESSIONAL & PROGRAM SRVS
8400 · Regulatory 79,598.43 164,300.00 48.45%
Total 8410 · Contracts - Program Related Ser 324,123.42 3,179,444.00 10.19% 8420 · Accounting 77,259.00 290,000.00 26.64%
8430 · Legal 81,381.70 280,000.00 29.07%
8450 · Wholesale Services - TEA 576,621.32 875,603.00 65.85% 8460 · Procurement Credit - TEA 95,104.33 150,000.00 63.4% 8470 · Data Management - Calpine 512,514.58 855,276.00 59.92% 8480 · Customer Billing - PG&E 173,008.08 272,714.00 63.44% 8490 · NREN Partner Funds 463,629.50 2,836,190.00 16.35% Total 8.4 PROFESSIONAL & PROGRAM SRVS 2,383,240.36 8,903,527.00 26.77% Total 8.6 INCENTIVES & REBATES 140,026.87 965,605.00 14.5% Total 9 NON OPERATING COSTS 64,759.90 129,000.00 50.2%
Total Expense 46,395,756.62 81,583,103.00 56.87%
Net Ordinary Income 11,075,890.72 13,814,304.00 80.18%
Net Income 11,075,890.72 13,814,304.00 80.18%
15 Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Balance Sheet
As of February 28, 2025
Feb 28, 25
ASSETS
Current Assets
Checking/Savings
1010 · Petty Cash 300.00
1060 · Umpqua Checking Acct 0560 309,053.07
1071 · Umpqua Deposit Cntrol Acct 8215 5,666,802.46
1075 · Umpqua Reserve Account 2300 30,000,000.00
1077 · JP Morgan Chase Act 74999 399,967.48
Total Checking/Savings 36,376,123.01
Total Accounts Receivable 125,855.10
Other Current Assets
1101 · Allowance for Doubtful Accounts -11,456,625.37
1103 · Accounts Receivable-Other 17,760,924.57
1120 · Inventory Asset 18,614.90
1205 · Prepaid Insurance 51,367.24
1210 · Retentions Receivable 32,176.31
Total Other Current Assets 6,406,457.65
Total Current Assets 42,908,435.76
Total Fixed Assets 9,905,647.13
Other Assets
1700 · Security Deposits 4,202,456.19
Total Other Assets 4,202,456.19
TOTAL ASSETS 57,016,539.08
LIABILITIES & EQUITY
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Total Accounts Payable 3,748,744.10
Total Credit Cards 19,167.95
Other Current Liabilities
2002 · Deposits Refundable 1,013,130.01
2011 · NEM Escrow Liability 225,433.23
Total 2100 · Payroll Liabilities 191,823.88
Total 2200 · Accrued Expenses 28,932.56
Total Other Current Liabilities 1,459,319.68
Total Current Liabilities 5,227,231.73
Total Long Term Liabilities 5,999,931.06
Total Liabilities 11,227,162.79
Equity
3900 · Fund Balance 34,713,485.57
Net Income 11,075,890.72
Total Equity 45,789,376.29
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 57,016,539.08
16
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item # 4.4
AGENDA DATE: April 24, 2025
TO: Board of Directors
PREPARED BY: Patricia Terry, Senior Portfolio Manager
Lexie Perez, Senior Contracts and Grants Manager
SUBJECT: Amendments to Professional Service Agreements with Sierra Business Council, Lake Area Planning Commission, and Mendocino Council of Governments for RuralREN North Startup Services
Background
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) issued Decision D.24-09-031 (Decision), effective September 26, 2024, that approves the Northern California Rural Regional Energy Network (RuralREN North or NREN) to deliver energy efficiency programs to underserved rural customers located within 17 specified counties.
In December 2024, the Board approved adjustments to the RCEA Fiscal Year 24-25 budget to accommodate anticipated NREN pre-launch costs. The approved budget adjustments included funds to cover the additional costs included in the proposed contract amendment.
In January 2025, the Board approved Amendment No.1 to the Professional Services Agreement with Sierra Business Council to cover NREN startup activities.
Summary
RCEA, serving as Lead Portfolio Administrator, entered into Professional Services Agreements (Startup Agreement) with Sierra Business Council (SBC), Lake Area Planning Commission (LAPC), and Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG) to perform startup services leading up to the implementation phase of the NREN programs. Under these agreements, partner activities include strategic portfolio planning, program design, marketing and branding, and reporting to the CPUC. The funds have also helped with supporting existing staff and bringing on and training new staff that will implement NREN programs. These agreements covered services and associated budgets through March 31, 2025, when staff anticipated the implementation agreements would be in place.
The partners have expended most of the funds from the existing contracts and the implementation agreements are currently being developed for finalization in May. In addition to the continued activities in the current Startup Agreements, the partners will perform additional startup activities including website development, pilot project launches, and customer outreach. Therefore, Staff is requesting that the Board approves amendments to extend the term, add to the scope, and increase the agreement budgets for additional work past the current March 31, 2025 term end. 17
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
These amendments to the Startup Agreements includes the following budget additions:
• SBC Amendment No.2 – addition of $390,754.00 to the contract budget • LAPC Amendment No.1 – addition of $88,884.00 to the contract budget • MCOG Amendment No.1 - addition of $88,436.00 to the contract budget These expenses will be recovered through NREN revenue.
EQUITY IMPACTS
RENs in general, and the NREN in particular, are designed to reach customers that otherwise are not being reached by existing ratepayer-funded programs. The NREN programs will ensure that hard-to-reach, disinvested, disadvantaged, and underserved rural customers are provided an equitable level of CPUC energy program service and support and are empowered to better manage their energy use and cost through increased awareness, support resources, a trained workforce and access to financing to improve their homes and businesses.
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS
Approve the following amendment to extend the Professional Service Agreements for RuralREN North startup activities through May 31, 2025:
• Amendment No.2 with Sierra Business Council in the amount of $390,754, • Amendment No. 1 with Lake Area Planning Council in the amount of $88,884, and • Amendment No. 1 with Mendocino Council of Governments in the amount of $88,436 and authorize the Executive Director to execute all applicable documents.
ATTACHMENT
None.
18
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item 4.5
AGENDA DATE: April 24, 2025
TO: Board of Directors
PREPARED BY: Patricia Terry, Senior Portfolio Manager
Lexie Perez, Senior Contracts and Grants Manager
SUBJECT: NREN Commercial Sector Needs Assessment Services Contract Award Background
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) issued Decision D.24-09-031, effective September 26, 2024, that approves the Northern California Rural Regional Energy Network (RuralREN North or NREN) to deliver energy efficiency programs to underserved rural customers.
Summary
RCEA, serving as Lead Portfolio Administrator of NREN, issued RFP-25-602, a solicitation for energy efficiency program needs assessments for the residential and commercial (non-residential) customer sectors. These needs assessments will provide data on the NREN communities’ interests and priorities, barriers to participation in existing energy efficiency programs, and information customers need to make energy decisions. The assessments will include an analysis of all current energy efficiency and decarbonization programs available in NREN regions, identification of the gaps in programs reaching NREN customers, and an analysis of existing and proposed NREN programs’ ability to meet the identified needs of the NREN communities. Staff sent the RFP to multiple qualified firms and posted it publicly on RCEA’s website.
On April 7, 2025, RCEA received only one complete, responsive, and responsible bid from Energy Resources Integration, LLC for the commercial sector needs assessment services. RCEA did not receive any proposals for residential sector needs assessment services. Energy Resources Integration’s proposal is for a not to exceed (NTE) budget of $200,000.
Energy Resources Integration is qualified to perform this work, having experience working with small and medium businesses in rural areas and performing these types of assessment services. Staff recommends authorizing RCEA to enter into an agreement with Energy Resources Integration to perform the NREN commercial needs assessment.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
This profession services agreement has a not to exceed budget of $200,000. These expenses will be recovered through NREN revenue.
EQUITY IMPACTS
RENs in general, and the NREN in particular, are designed to reach customers that otherwise are not being reached by existing ratepayer-funded programs. The NREN commercial needs assessment will ensure that hard-to-reach, disinvested, disadvantaged, and underserved rural non-residential 19
customers receive the support they need from NREN’s energy programs and are empowered to better manage their energy use and cost through increased awareness, support resources, a trained workforce and access to financing to improve their homes and businesses.
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS
Award professional services agreement to Energy Resources Integration to perform the NREN commercial energy assessment for a not to exceed value of $200,000 and authorize the Executive Director to execute all applicable documents.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Energy Resources Integration Response to RFP-25-602
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Proposal For:
Redwood Coast Energy Authority
RFP-25-602
NREN Sector Needs Assessments
Commercial Sector
Submitted By:
Energy Resources Integration, LLC
April 7, 2025
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
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Commercial Sector Needs Assessment
Contents
Commercial Sector Needs Assessment............................................................................................................................... 2 Cover Letter.................................................................................................................................................................. 3 Our Approach........................................................................................................................................................... 4 Our Team ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Company Information................................................................................................................................................... 6 Exhibit A – Firm’s Business Information................................................................................................................... 6 Statement of Qualifications.......................................................................................................................................... 7 Qualifications and Experience (Firm and Personnel)............................................................................................... 7 Resumes................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Availability.............................................................................................................................................................. 18 References............................................................................................................................................................. 18 Project Fee Proposal................................................................................................................................................... 21 Additions, Deletions, Exceptions ................................................................................................................................ 25 22 3
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
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Cover Letter
Dear Redwood Coast Energy Authority Team,
Energy Resources Integration (ERI) brings together deep technical expertise, policy insight, and hands-on implementation experience to support the Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) and the Northern California Rural Regional Energy Network (Northern Rural Energy Network or NREN). Our proposed team is designed to meet the specific needs of this project—offering complementary strengths in energy engineering, efficiency program strategy, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. We have 14 years of successful collaborations with utilities, CCA’s, REN’s, and public agencies across the West Coast, with a particular focus on helping non-residential energy users overcome barriers to efficiency and decarbonization.
ERI views every energy project as an opportunity to improve the world and believes in doing more while using less.
We are a private engineering firm focused on a simple, guiding mission: developing a sustainable future for our planet through cost-effective energy management. We strive to educate, innovate, and execute strategies for businesses to foster a clean energy future. The ERI team strongly believes in the crucial importance of reducing energy usage as a key mechanism for reducing GHG emissions and inherently strive to further this goal to help our communities and the environment. Since 2011, ERI has supported over 20 utilities across eight states and worked with hundreds of commercial, industrial, and agricultural businesses as an energy advisor to support and accomplish their sustainability goals. Our headquarters is based in San Francisco, California.
We are known by our utility clients and end-use customers as knowledgeable, diligent, and reliable. Some of our recent work includes:
• Conducted ASHRAE Level 1 and 2 energy audits and benchmarking for businesses and public sector facilities, engaging directly with building operators to identify efficiency opportunities. • Advised clients on Building Performance Standards and decarbonization planning, helping small commercial and public agencies navigate complex regulatory and program landscapes. • Led emerging technology field assessments for rural and niche commercial facilities (e.g., data centers, indoor agriculture, refrigerated storage), including stakeholder interviews and performance evaluation. • Delivered custom energy solutions through utility programs—covering new construction, retrofits, and retrocommissioning—for healthcare, biotech, food processing, and small businesses. • Designed and executed market characterization studies to evaluate customer needs, technology adoption barriers, and program reach across diverse non-residential sectors. • Provided hands-on technical support to commercial customers, including lighting, HVAC, and process system optimization tailored to operational and financial constraints. • Facilitated bid procurement and contractor selection for energy projects, incorporating workforce and implementation readiness into project planning.
ERI regularly collaborates with utilities, contractors, and technology vendors to identify energy savings opportunities, evaluate program participation barriers, and inform the development of effective, customer-centered programs. Our work supports the full lifecycle of energy efficiency projects—from technical assessment and baseline modeling to measure selection, program design, and measurement and verification.
Relevant examples include:
• Served as a utility technical reviewer for commercial and industrial retrofit projects across California, providing insight into technology applicability and program alignment. 23 4
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• Advised commercial building owners, small businesses, and public agencies on efficient system design and operations for HVAC, lighting, and process loads, with an emphasis on budget constraints and operational needs.
• Supported utility program design by identifying gaps in participation, recommending program delivery enhancements, and helping define technical criteria that align with underserved customer priorities and workforce readiness.
Stemming from our program support in the commercial buildings industry, ERI provides direct to customer support to identify, review, and manage the implementation of energy efficiency solutions. Our experienced staff model various system designs and technology options (lighting, HVAC, controls) to establish a solution that optimally balances efficiency, production, and financial priorities. Once modeled we support product selection and installation through our network of equipment manufacturers, vendors, and trade associations.
Our Approach
ERI has over a decade of experience supporting IOU and REN programs across California’s rural communities. We recognize the unique challenges faced by customers in these underrepresented areas and take pride in providing engineering expertise that makes energy efficiency more accessible. Our direct involvement with all 17 rural counties has given us deep insight into the barriers these communities face—and more importantly, the strategies that have proven successful in increasing program participation. ERI will achieve all the deliverables and scope of work set by NREN by leveraging our following strategies:
• Leverage our network of California business contacts for cost-effective and agile community outreach and multi-modal communication methods and marketing campaigns • Prioritize hard-to-reach commercial utility customers in disadvantaged communities to highlight unique barriers and achieve a measurable impact of energy efficiency program concepts on diverse segments of commercial building decision makers
• Apply specialized data analysis methods trusted by the most rigorous U.S. utility programs to create informed, detailed program recommendations by territory • Suggest program tools and resources with the benefit of historic experience implementing California utility programs
ERI will manage the six program scopes and five deliverables: a timeline of deliverables, report on demographic data, raw outreach data, mid-project check-in, and final report. ERI’s proposed approach for the study leverages our firm’s demonstrated skill in commercial energy efficiency program management and studies for utilities and energy efficiency organizations.
Our Team
ERI is well-positioned to lead the non-residential sector needs assessment for NREN communities, with direct experience supporting small businesses, public agencies, and contractors across rural California. Our team leads — Eric Noller, Principal and Project Director; Ethan Clifford, Engineering Manager; and Gretchen Schimpelpfenig, Senior Engineer—offer deep knowledge in energy engineering, program design, customer engagement, and workforce barriers. We have led similar efforts to identify customer needs, assess gaps in program access, and recommend actionable strategies for improving participation in energy efficiency and decarbonization initiatives. Our team is 24 5
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
especially attuned to the needs of underserved commercial sectors and has a strong track record of conducting interviews, focus groups, and surveys to inform program development rooted in real-world conditions.
We are excited about the opportunity to support RCEA and the NREN team in advancing equitable, community-driven energy solutions. Thank you for considering our proposal.
Sincerely,
Eric Noller
Principal
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Company Information
Exhibit A – Firm’s Business Information
Length of time your firm has been in business 14 years
Length of time at current location 14 years
List types and business license number(s) if applicable Limited Liability Company, 201135710024 Names and titles of all officers of the firm Eric Noller, Principal Is your firm a sole proprietorship doing business under a different name? If yes, please indicate sole
proprietorship name and the name you are doing
business under:
q Yes
ü No
Please indicate your Federal Tax Number
Is your firm incorporated? ü Yes
q No
Name and remittance address that will appear on
invoices
Eric Noller
150 Sutter Street #762
San Francisco, CA 94104
Physical Address: 433 California Street, Suite 530
San Francisco, CA 94104
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
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Statement of Qualifications
Qualifications and Experience (Firm and Personnel)
Energy Resource Integration (ERI) has proven to be a trusted partner in driving sustainability through energy efficiency since its founding in 2011. The company has a track record of delivering clear, actionable solutions that not only meet but often exceed client expectations. By combining in-depth technical knowledge, broad industry experience, and a focus on achieving real-world impact, ERI is uniquely positioned to support the NREN’s goals.
Diverse Expertise and Whole-Building Focus
ERI’s team is composed of highly skilled engineers and energy professionals with diverse expertise. The team brings a unique combination of market transformation knowledge, program design experience, and technical specialization across key industry segments such as hard-to-reach commercial customers and those impacted by stringent building performance standards. This breadth of knowledge allows ERI to tackle complex energy efficiency challenges with tailored solutions that drive measurable results. With over a decade of experience in the field, ERI has consistently delivered successful outcomes, helping thousands of customers meet their energy efficiency and sustainability goals.
We specialize in reaching owners and property managers of commercial buildings because of their larger energy use and the measurable impact of efficiency projects on cost of operations; ERI has focused on that type of business for much of our program implementation and direct consulting work.
Owner’s Rep Mindset with Clarity of Communication
Building standards and energy systems are complex. We focus on bridging this complexity with clarify of communication and actionable steps for building owners and operators. A philosophy of being a “translator” for our clients is deeply embedded in how ERI works – helping them to understand complex standards, financial metrics, and technical solutions. We do this through narrative-driven, example-based, and visual tools. Things like case studies, planning templates, sample upgrade pathways, and storytelling frameworks are used in our communication.
Market Research and Education Experience
Our engineering services encompass a broad range of capabilities that align with the NREN’s objectives. These include conducting market research and characterization for energy efficiency programs, energy modeling, and emerging technology market assessments. ERI’s expertise in identifying and assessing industry-level energy savings potential is critical for uncovering new opportunities to support market transformation. Furthermore, the company’s experience delivering utility-funded educational initiatives, which offer courses on energy efficiency and environmental regulations to Commercial & Industrial (C&I) customers, will be a valuable skill our team will apply when creating recommendations for NREN’s commercial building energy efficiency program tools and resources to drive the adoption of best practices across the commercial building market.
Leader in Emerging Technology Advancement
ERI has deep experience in identifying emerging technologies and evaluating their potential impact on energy savings. Over the past five years, ERI has completed eight emerging technology market characterizations and has five more in progress, with several of these studies including multi-site field demonstrations. This hands-on approach not only informs clients about new technologies but also provides them with measure package recommendations to help commercial buildings adopt these innovations successfully. The company’s continued investment in cutting-edge research positions ERI as a leader in identifying and advancing the next generation of energy efficiency solutions.
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Commercial Building Experts
We have demonstrated extensive expertise in navigating the commercial building market, particularly in helping organizations comply with evolving building performance standards. In addition to their expertise in market characterization and energy efficiency, ERI has a strong track record of working with customers to implement new construction technical assistance and efficiency incentive programs. This ongoing work ensures that ERI is always up to date on the latest trends and best practices in the commercial building sector.
Seamless Program Development Approach
ERI’s well-established process for conducting market studies and developing program tools ensures that clients receive cost-effective, high-quality results. The company’s research reports deliver not just data, but clear, actionable recommendations that can be used to launch and optimize energy efficiency programs. In conjunction with our research efforts, ERI develops case studies that emphasis the impacts and results of our work. The studies focus on developing visually compelling literature that provides informative content to the reader. ERI’s approach emphasizes collaboration, allowing the team to work closely with clients to model, analyze, and implement strategies that achieve program goals with maximum impact. With a focus on efficiency and results, ERI’s process has consistently helped clients achieve their objectives on time and within budget.
Stakeholder Engagement to Drive Results
One of ERI’s key strengths is an ability to engage diverse commercial building market segments. Through a combination of innovative outreach and targeted engagement strategies, ERI has proven success in fostering adoption of energy efficiency measures across various customer types. For example, ERI’s set target response rates for recent emerging technology study outreach activities such as surveys, interviews, site visits, and field demonstrations have been met or exceeded in 2023 and 2024 by over 120%. This versatility in engaging different audiences will be a valuable asset in supporting the NREN’s outreach and education efforts as it works to build a more sustainable energy future.
Relevant firm experience and staff experience from the past two years is described below:
When developing new programs, it is crucial to emphasize a strategic approach for program design that targets the specific customer segment to ensure success. The overarching objective is to create a program that caters to the specific needs of the customer segment, maximizing both participation and energy savings. Key elements include identifying customer behaviors, preferences, and pain points, and tailoring incentives or solutions that align with their goals. Market segmentation plays a vital role in targeting the right audience, allowing for customized outreach and solutions for various communities or customer types, whether residential, commercial, or industrial. By focusing on these aspects, new programs can effectively drive engagement, deliver sustainable outcomes, and improve customer satisfaction. The following are examples of how ERI has leverages these strategies historically to support program design.
Pacific Gas and Electric Technical Services
Since 2011, ERI has supported PG&E’s energy efficiency programs with a focus on customized incentives and deemed measure offerings for commercial and industrial customers. Our work spans integrated energy audits, self-generation feasibility studies, building modeling, retro-commissioning, QA/QC, technical review, and emerging technology assessments. ERI engages directly with businesses, contractors, and public sector customers to identify savings opportunities and navigate program participation. We support program development by contributing to measure design, workpaper development, and database tools, and offer feedback on customer engagement 28 9
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
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strategies informed by our field experience. Our team regularly networks with trade allies and professional organizations to stay connected to workforce needs and promote participation in utility programs. This on-the-ground approach helps us identify participation barriers and deliver targeted outreach that improves access to programs for underrepresented non-residential customers, resulting in long-term energy and cost savings.
Emerging Technology Programs
ERI leads market studies as part of our emerging technology program support for CalNEXT and the Statewide Gas Emerging Technologies Program. These studies focus on understanding broad to unique customer segments to guide the IOU stakeholders in making programs and measures. One market study is active and four have been completed since 2023 (Ice Arena Vortex Water Treatment, Controlled Environment Agriculture HVAC, Smart Controls for Indoor Farms, and Fault-Managed Power Systems for Non-Residential Buildings); these have all focused on non-residential customers throughout California. We leverage literature reviews, surveys, interviews, site visits, and utility data to understand sector-specific decision-making and business drivers. The outcomes of these studies and research were to inform the IOUs on strategies for demand-side management, leading to improved program design, expanded rebates, and targeted emerging technology initiatives. ERI’s goal was to enable more effective market transformation by uncovering customer motivations and aligning energy efficiency interventions with real-world business priorities.
Strategic Market Engagement and Outreach
ERI works with PUCs and IOUs to support their customers in engineering services to identify energy saving actions.
Through these efforts, ERI supported designs and executed customer-specific outreach strategies across California for utility-funded studies. Six outreach phases are active (Greenhouse Root Zone Heating and Wastewater Energy Transfer) or have been completed since 2023 (see Market Characterization Studies listed above) using data-driven tools, digital platforms, and community-based approaches to increase energy literacy. ERI strives to build lasting relationships with large, multi-site customers through retrofits, retro-commissioning, and behavioral initiatives— advancing long-term market transformation. Through these efforts, ERI has enhanced participation among all sizes of commercial businesses through a tailored approach, supporting equitable access for broad, scalable adoption of energy efficiency solutions.
Advancing Building Performance Standards and Putting Them into Action ERI advances the adoption and impact of Building Performance Standards (BPS) by supporting commercial new construction energy efficiency programs, commercial buildings decision makers, and municipalities with benchmarking, performance tracking, and actionable insights. Our team leverages data from benchmarking ordinances, construction records, and certifications to develop large-scale performance insights and pilot tools (in collaboration with partners like LBNL). We support BPS-aligned policy and program design by identifying voluntary upgrade trends, co-benefits (comfort, valuation, reliability), and customer motivations.
Tool and Resource Development
ERI leads Pacific Energy Center educational courses. Four courses are active or have been completed since 2023 (Farm Electrification, Indoor Agriculture Resiliency, Renewable Energy for Field Farms, Renewable Energy for Field Farms); these have focused on providing tools and resource for commercial farmers and growers. Our engineering team creates a variety of resources for utilities to support their programs through education and measure development. Supporting these rural customers allows ERI to develop resources for best serving the communities. 29 10
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The graphic below describes the project’s organization and staffing chart.
ERI’s proposed team is structured to ensure strong leadership, technical rigor, and seamless project coordination across all aspects of the non-residential sector needs assessment. Eric Noller, PE, will lead the team as Program Director, providing overall project oversight, ensuring alignment with NREN and RCEA goals. Ethan Clifford, PE, will serve as Technical Director, guiding the development of research tools, data analysis methods, and final recommendations. He will ensure technical consistency and quality across all deliverables.
Tyler Pakulski will lead Outreach & Engagement, coordinating with local stakeholders, community-based organizations, and contractors to schedule interviews, focus groups, and surveys. Keely Esper will manage Project Administration, ensuring smooth internal coordination, deliverable tracking, and schedule adherence.
Supporting the research and analysis, Gretchen Schimpelpfenig, PE, will oversee Research Management, including the design of interview and survey instruments and the synthesis of findings. Brad Watterud, PE, will lead quantitative data analysis, integrating demographic and program data with field findings. Stephan Phillips will coordinate and conduct raw data collection through interviews, surveys, and stakeholder outreach in targeted communities. Together, the team brings a complementary mix of skills and experience to meet the goals of the project efficiently and strategically.
Eric Noller, PE
Program Direction
Ethan Clifford, PE
Technical Direction
Gretchen
Schimelpfenig, PE
Research Management
Brad Watterud,
PE
Raw Data Analysis
Stephan Phillips
Raw Data Collection
Tyler Pakulski
Outreach & Engagement
Keely Esper
Project Administration
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Resumes
Gretchen Schimelpfenig, PE – Project Lead & Primary Point of Contact Gretchen Schimelpfenig is a Senior Energy Engineer where she is responsible for implementing energy efficiency and emerging technology programs and providing direct consulting services. Gretchen has eight years of experience in the commercial buildings industry and has worked for 11 years in the energy industry. She has a background in commercial buildings and has designed and implemented energy efficiency programs in Vermont and California.
Gretchen is a registered Professional Civil Engineer in California. She was a Schneider Fellow at the U.S. Green Building Council in Washington, D.C. in 2014.
Education
• M.S., Civil Engineering, Stanford University ‘14 - Sustainable Design & Construction • B.S., Architectural Engineering, University of Wyoming ‘12 Licenses and Certifications
• Professional Civil Engineer (P.E.) California #C86962 Experience
• Leads emerging technology assessments and market studies for electric and natural gas utilities in California and Illinois.
• Designs and implement efficiency programs for the commercial, agricultural, and industrial sectors. • Recruits program participants and develop measure savings. • Teaches commercial, industrial, and agricultural continuing education courses for utilities. • Provides design support and direct consulting services to businesses and municipalities across the United States.
• Executes curriculum & training, business and utility consulting, and benchmarking services for commercial building decision makers.
• Designed and implemented commercial energy efficiency programs for Burlington Electric Department (Vermont) 2018 – 2020.
• Produced benchmarking reports for Burlington 2030 District members including 12 buildings for the City of Burlington 2017-2018.
• Leads the team for C&I emerging technologies projects for SCE, PG&E, and SDG&E, and SCG in California since 2023:
o Wastewater Energy Transfer (study launching, no ETCC link yet) o https://www.etcc-ca.com/reports/enabling-non-residential-electrification-and-efficiency-fault-managed-power-systems-fmps o https://etcc-ca.com/reports/smart-controls-data-driven-indoor-agriculture-field-evaluation o https://etcc-ca.com/reports/root-zone-heating
• Led the team for 2023 -2024 C&I emerging technologies projects for SCG in California:
o https://etcc-ca.com/reports/ice-arena-vortex-water-treatment o https://etcc-ca.com/reports/cea-and-greenhouse-hvac-market-technology-study 31 12
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Eric Noller, PE – Program Direction & Quality Control
Eric Noller is the Founder and Principal of ERI. He specializes in innovative utility program implementation, emerging technology studies, and sustainability planning. Mr. Noller leads ERI’s efforts in supporting utilities, municipalities, and private-sector clients with energy and water studies, technical program support, emerging technology assessments, and decarbonization strategies. Eric has 22 years of experience in the commercial buildings industry and has worked for 17 years in the energy industry. As Principal of ERI, Mr. Noller provides strategic leadership, overseeing business development, client engagement, and company growth. Under his direction, ERI has become a trusted partner for business and utility clients, helping them evaluate projects based on investment value, energy and cost savings, operational benefits, and long-term performance. Mr. Noller is committed to expanding ERI’s impact by fostering innovation, building strong industry partnerships, and driving sustainable energy solutions that align with evolving market needs.
Education
• M.S., Mechanical Engineering, San Jose State University ‘10 • B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of California San Diego ‘03 Licenses and Certifications
• Professional Mechanical Engineer (P.E.) California #M37303 Experience
• Facilitates execution of engineering projects and scheduling to exceed client expectations within accelerated timelines.
• Meets with clients to assess energy consuming equipment, discuss high-level goals, and determine cost-reducing opportunities to reduce energy consumption and improve facility operations. • Directs ERI strategy and operations for energy efficiency program design and implementation, including cross-cutting sectors, diverse end-users, and regions throughout the Western United States. • Leads efforts on over 200+ energy audits, 500 technical reviews, and 100 retro-commissioning projects. • Works closely with project stakeholders to ensure success of key energy efficiency projects. • Worked with Google, Inc. to manage their New Construction projects, evaluated designs for energy efficiency, made recommendations for energy efficiency measures, used eQuest to model the proposed designs, determine potential energy savings, and wrote reports summarizing the projects. • Leads program design efforts, having contributed to the design of 16 commercial building programs nationwide since 2011, including both retrofit and new construction. • Utilized data, open-source tools, and course-corrective enhancements to facilitate an integrated engagement of commercial buildings.
• Directs strategic approach for utility program consulting through initiatives such as development of new measures and resources to streamline advanced building upgrades. 32 13
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Ethan Clifford, PE – Technical Lead & Engineering Manager Ethan Clifford is ERI’s Engineering Manager. Mr. Clifford leads energy audits, re-commissioning, and technical reviews of commercial buildings, municipal and industrial facilities, refrigerated warehouses, wastewater treatment plants, pump stations, and oil & gas market sectors for energy efficiency and self-generation projects. Ethan is a registered Professional Mechanical Engineer with nine years’ experience within the energy industry. Ethan participated in the Department of Energy’s Industrial Assessment Center program at San Francisco State University.
Education
• M.Eng., Mechanical Engineering, UC Berkeley ‘14 - Advanced Energy Technologies • B.S., Mechanical Engineering, San Francisco State University ‘13 Licenses and Certifications
• Professional Mechanical Engineer (P.E.) California #M37902 Experience
• Provides technical expertise and engineering support to utility Demand Side Management (DSM) programs including California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah. • Oversees ERI engineering team for the assignment and deliverable of technical review/quality control of technical reports for utility incentives for program, tariff, regulatory and engineering compliance. • Manages entire project lifecycle from scoping and customer engagement, to internal budgeting and scheduling through project development and post-installation savings verification to meet client expectations and timeline requirements.
• Analyzes logged data and utility interval meter data for various systems and facilities to determine operation and power draw for engineering analysis, energy balancing, and system modelling. • Performed over 250 energy audits from site scoping studies, targeted studies, ASHRAE Level 1 & 2 audits, to investment grade audits to identify & quantify energy efficiency, self-generation opportunities, and waste minimization measures.
• Created and performed models and simulations on various systems and technologies such as: Water and Wastewater Treatment, Industrial Refrigeration (Ammonia & Freon), Advanced Pumping Systems, Cooling Towers and Chilled Water Systems, Variable Speed Applications for Pumps and Fans, High Efficiency Lighting & LEDs, Air Handling & HVAC Systems, Chilled & Hot Water Systems, Heat-Rejection Systems & Technologies, and Oil & Gas Mineral Extraction and Processing. • Supports and manages Emerging Technology projects in California for electrical and natural gas technologies
• Implemented over 50 Custom Calculated incentives for IOU program within California. • Coordinated and audited over 400 customers throughout California and the Northwest to identify energy and sustainability opportunities.
• Lead and coordinated workshops for market assessment studies to identify barriers and interventions to improve program adoption.
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Brad Watterud, PE – Senior Engineer – Technical Research & Analysis Brad Watterud is a Senior Engineer at Energy Resources Integration, LLC. Mr. Watterud has extensive experience providing energy audits and finding savings opportunities for a wide variety of customers, including commercial and municipal buildings, industrial and food processing plants, and controlled environment agriculture facilities. Brad has ten years of experience in the energy efficiency and commercial buildings industry. His expertise includes commercial HVAC retrocomissioning, data analysis, savings measurement and verification, and energy model development.
Education
• B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis ‘14 Licenses and Certifications
• Professional Mechanical Engineer (P.E.) California #M42633 Experience
• Conducts energy audits for non-residential facilities, including commercial and municipal buildings, manufacturing plants, refrigerated warehouses, and controlled-environment agriculture. • Identifies energy savings opportunities from onsite observation of energy consuming systems, and trended and logged data of system operation.
• Develops whole-building and system-level energy models to accurately estimate energy savings for proposed efficiency measures.
• Develops measurement & verification plans to ensure energy savings and performance of installed energy efficiency measures are accurately quantified.
• Guides interaction and dialogue with diverse stakeholders, both internal and external, to provide value-added expertise to influence energy efficiency measures and project adoption. • Investigates potential and feasibility of distributed generation systems at client facilities, including photovoltaic solar, battery storage, and fuel cell systems. • Oversees associate engineers in development of energy savings calculations, audit reports, and project submission packages.
• Reviews third-party energy efficiency project submissions to ensure technical accuracy, appropriate level of rigor, and compliance with energy efficiency program rules. 34 15
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Stephan Phillips – Associate Engineer – Research Support & Data Collection Stephan Phillips is an Associate Engineer at Energy Resources Integration, LLC. Mr. Phillips performs energy audits, recommissioning, and technical reviews of commercial buildings, municipal sites, and industrial facilities for energy efficiency projects. Stephan has 8 years of experience in the commercial buildings industry and has worked for 4 years in the energy industry. Stephan obtained his Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from San Francisco State University where he completed research on thermal storage systems and participated in the Department of Energy’s Industrial Assessment Center program.
Education
• B.S. Mechanical Engineering San Francisco State University, ‘24 Experience
• Utilizes analytical tools and measurement techniques to evaluate the performance of energy systems and equipment.
• Prepares high quality written reports of analysis findings and recommendations for energy efficiency measures in accordance with client standards to ensure tariff compliance. • Writes and implements measurement and verification plans and fully understands and communicates the risk factors and implications when appropriate.
• Performs Technical Review of incentive, on-bill financing, and NMEC projects to ensure technical accuracy, appropriate level of rigor, and compliance with energy efficiency program rules. • Works closely with clients, utilities, and vendors to gather information and effectively analyze utility rates to identify areas for improvement.
• Coordinates projects to ensure seamless execution of energy-related initiatives and share professional-grade engineering reports to effectively communicate assessment findings. • Operated and maintained industrial HVAC systems including marine boilers, pumps, forced draft blowers, and heat exchangers.
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Tyler Pakulski – Outreach & Engagement Lead
Tyler Pakulski is an Outreach Specialist at Energy Resources Integration, LLC. Mr. Pakulski leverages his communication skills to connect with potential clients and organizations to support ordinance requirements, program support and implementation, custom projects, and more. Mr. Pakulski has a background in customer service, technical support, and B2B sales, spanning 13 years in various industries.
Education
• High School Diploma, Champlain Valley Union High School ‘11 Experience
• Program outreach to customers in accordance with program requirements. • Confirmation of eligibility and enrollment into programs, Support customer with enrollment documentation, Identification of potential opportunities and preliminary scoping of measures. • Provides influence support and documentation.
• Educates customers on program phases and requirements. • Leads and manages outreach support staff, sets and achieve sales activity quotas needed to achieve goals, in terms of numbers of calls, emails, social media outreach, and site visits required to achieve savings targets per program and per sector.
• Provides strategic input and feedback to leadership on sales, marketing, and outreach opportunities, successes, and challenges.
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Keely Esper – Project Coordinator
Keely Esper is the Project Coordinator at Energy Resources Integration, LLC. Ms. Esper holds a background in Political Science and Environmental Studies, graduating with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Environmental Studies Department for her work. She is an accomplished office administrator and manager with over 12 years of experience in a variety of industries. Keely is a practiced verbal and written communicator, and prides herself on attention to detail and organizational skills.
Education
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) Political Science, Environmental Studies, Sacramento State University ‘12 Experience
• Oversees administrative tasks including project set-up and close-out, compiling project reports, document management, accounts payable & receivable, and contact/lead database. • Gathers resources and information for upcoming projects. • Communicates clearly with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project progresses smoothly and efficiently according to timeline.
• Ensures appropriate resource allocation to achieve project team objectives. • Coordinates schedules (e.g., team meetings, calendar management, etc.) • Ensures project milestones and deadlines are met.
• Guarantees that all projects adhere to company standards and safety protocols essential for maintaining quality and minimizing risks.
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Availability
ERI proposes to lead and coordinate NREN’s Commercial Sector Needs Assessment because our nimble team can effectively communicate and collaborate with our internal teams and external RCEA partner(s) to deliver a high-quality streamlined product on time with an integrated schedule. Project management activities will ensure accurate project reporting, timely production of project deliverables and invoices, and streamlined document management.
References
Company Name
Project Name Customer Energy Solutions Services
Reference Information
Scope of Work
Project Start and End
Dates
2011 to Present
Approximate Cost Multiple projects under MSA with various cost levels 38 19
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Company Name
Project Name Energy Management Support
Reference Information
Scope of Work
Project Start and End
Dates
2011 - Present
Approximate Cost Multiple projects under MSA with various cost levels 39 20
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
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Company Name
Project Name Energy Auditing and Retro Commissioning
Reference Information
Scope of Work
Project Start and End
Dates
2019 - 2021
Approximate Cost
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
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Project Fee Proposal
ERI proposes to deliver a Commercial (Non-Residential) Sector Needs Assessment from May – October 2025 (six months). Figure 1 describes ERI’s forecasted schedule for completion of the major deliverables and milestone dates for a Commercial Sector Needs Assessment for a total labor hours estimate of 1,053 hours and cost estimate of $220,302.
Scope Deliverable ID Task / Deliverable End Date Labor Hours Non-Labor Fees Total Fee May-25 Jun-25 Jul-25 Aug-25 Sep-25 Oct-25 A KO meeting 5/5/2025 $
A 1 Timeline for deliverables 5/12/2025 $
B Leverage existing data 5/16/2025 $
B Collect new demographic data 5/23/2025 $
B 2 Report on demographic data 5/30/2025 $
C Survey development (100 commercial respondents) 5/30/2025 $ C Non-English outreach 8/29/2025 $ $
C Tribal community outreach 8/29/2025 $ $
C Survey/interview/focus group data collection 8/29/2025 $ $ C Interviews (10 interviews) 8/29/2025 $
C Focus Group discussions (7 discussions) 8/29/2025 $
C 3 Raw outreach data 9/8/2025 $
D Demographic data segmentation (regions, sectors, customer groups) 6/13/2025 $ D Demographic data analysis (anecdotal & directional) 7/11/2025 $ D Quantitative data vis 7/25/2025 $
D Qualitative data vis 7/25/2025 $
D 4 Mid-project check-in (analysis & findings to date) 8/11/2025 $ E NREN commercial program recommendations by territory 9/19/2025 $ E NREN financial assistance levels/structures for comm customers 9/19/2025 $ E HTR and underserved recommendation highlights 9/19/2025 $ F Draft needs assessment 9/26/2025 $
F Solicit community feedback 10/10/2025 $
F Connect NREN with key stakeholders for program dev & outreach 10/20/2025 $ F 5 Final Report 10/27/2025 $
$ $
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Table 1 provides an hourly rate sheet and labor hours estimate for the project period.
TABLE 1. ERI HOURLY RATES
Year Principal Engineering
Mgr
Engineering
Project Lead
Senior
Engineer
Project
Engineer
Project
Coordinator
2025 $ $ $ $ $ $
Table 2 shares a fee schedule for non-labor fees (reimbursable expenses) and percentage markup. There will be no subcontractors on the project.
TABLE 2. ERI EXPENSE SCHEDULE
Marketing
(Gift Cards)
Non-English
Translation
Services
Tribal
Outreach
Services
Expense $ $ $
Markup 5% 5% 5%
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
See Table 3 for a detailed personnel-hour estimate by personnel classification for the major portions of the work broken down for each Scope of Work task.
TABLE 3. ERI ESTIMATED LABOR HOURS BY TASK
SCOPE OF
WORK
PRINCIPAL ENG
MGR
ENG
PROJ
LEAD
SR ENG PROJ
ENG
PROJ
COORD
TOTAL
A
B
C
D
E
F
TOTAL LABOR
HOURS
TABLE 4. ERI FEE PROPOSAL BY TASK
SCOPE OF
WORK
PRINCIPAL ENG
MGR
ENG
PROJ
LEAD
SR ENG PROJ
ENG
PROJ
COORD
Expenses TOTAL
A $ $ $ $ $ $ $
B $ $ $ $ $ $
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Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
C $ $ $ $ $ $ $
D $ $ $ $ $ $
E $ $ $ $ $ $ $
F $ $ $ $ $ $
TOTAL LABOR
HOURS
$ $ $ $ $ $
The method of compensation shall be based on a time and expense basis subject to a not-to-exceed amount to complete the tasks detailed in the Scope of Work over the contract period. Proposed rates shall be effective for the term of the contract. 44 25
Proposal for RCEA RFP-25-602 for NREN Sector Needs Assessments – Commercial Sector 433 California St. Suite 530, San Francisco, CA
415-500-2654 | ERIpacific.com
Additions, Deletions, Exceptions
ERI has no additions, deletions, or exceptions to the Standard Agreement. 45 This page
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STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item # 6.1
AGENDA DATE: April 24, 2025
TO: Board of Directors
PREPARED BY: Elizabeth Burks, Executive Director
SUBJECT: Study Session on Affording Electricity
BACKGROUND
California electricity bills are the second highest in the nation, behind Hawaii. In 2015, California electricity rates were about one-third higher than the national average. By 2024, electricity rates were over 80% higher. RCEA staff fielded 1,727 customer calls in 2024. Many of the calls concerned the following topics:
• High electricity bills,
• Questions on why RCEA is on their bill and whether RCEA is an extra charge. • Solar Net Energy Metering (NEM) questions, and
• Customers inquiring about how to opt out of RCEA.
RCEA staff prepared today’s study session to help the Board and community better understand electricity rates, electricity bills and what drives electricity costs. Staff will also focus on what RCEA is doing about high electricity costs and how you can help.
SUMMARY
Today’s study session will cover:
• Understanding your electricity bill.
• What is in RCEA rates compared to PG&E rates?
• What are customers paying for in their electricity bill? • What are the cost drivers?
• How many RCEA customers receive CARE/FERA discounted rates? • How does government policy impact rates?
• How are RCEA’s energy-related costs trending?
ALIGNMENT WITH RCEA’S STRATEGIC PLAN
Today’s study session aligns with the following RCEA mission strategies:
• 1.4.8 Develop Programs that Foster Social Equity.
47
• 1.5.2 Hold Regional Energy Forums—Serve as a forum for addressing countywide energy issues.
• 4.2.4 Provide Outstanding Customer Service to RCEA Customers.
EQUITY IMPACTS
Between 16- 21% of Humboldt County residents live below the federal poverty level. Finding ways to address electricity affordability will favorably impact our community in general, and low-income households in particular.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Staff preparation for and participation in today’s study session fall within budgeted staff costs.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
This is an informational learning session. Staff are not recommending any specific Board action at this meeting.
Any request for action resulting from this study session will be set by the Board for a future agenda or referred to staff.
ATTACHMENTS
Staff will present slides and information at the meeting. These will be available beginning April 25, 2025, at https://redwoodenergy.org/about/governance/public-meetings/. 48 STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item # 9.1
AGENDA DATE: April 24, 2025
TO: Board of Directors
FROM: Beth Burks, Executive Director
SUBJECT: Executive Director’s Report
SUMMARY
Executive Director Beth Burks will provide updates on topics as needed.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
None. (Information only.)
ATTACHMENT
None.
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