The electric grid managed by the California Independent System Operator (ISO) continued to top renewable energy records in 2020, including historic peaks for solar and wind generation, and renewable energy serving load, according to the company's Annual Statistics fact sheet posted today (Feb 18).
Some highlights of the fact sheet include:
- A historical peak of 81.8% of renewables serving load on May 2.
- A historical solar generation peak of 12,016 megawatts (MW) on June 29.
- Historic wind generation peak of 5,318 MW on April 30.
- Electricity demand reached a peak of 47,236 MW on Sept. 6, reflecting high use during hot summer temperatures.
The document is designed to help the public easily access key data about its power grid and wholesale energy market, as part of its commitment to transparency and raising awareness about the high-voltage electric system during its transition to clean energy.
The data is a valuable technical resource as the ISO manages growing amounts of renewable energy resources into its grid to support the state's climate goals. The statistics also illustrate the benefits of regional collaboration through its Western Energy Imbalance Market (EIM), and emerging technology and market policies geared to reliably decarbonizing the system.
To view the ISO's energy peaks and historical data by month, view Key Statistics on the News webpage. Follow the ISO's real-time supply and demand, along with other valuable energy data points, at the ISO's Today's Outlook. Download the ISO Today mobile app on your device, and follow us on Twitter at @California_ISO.
The California Independent System Operator (ISO) is a nonprofit public benefit corporation dedicated, with its partners, to continuous improvement and secure operation of a reliable grid operated for the benefit of consumers. It provides comprehensive grid planning, open and nondiscriminatory access to one of the largest networks of high-voltage transmission power lines in the world, and operates a $9 billion competitive electricity market. Recognizing the importance of the global climate challenge, the ISO is at the forefront of integrating renewable power and advanced technologies that will help provide a sustainable energy future efficiently and cleanly.
The Western Energy Imbalance Market (EIM) Governing Body is the governing authority designed by regional stakeholders with delegated authority from the ISO Board of Governors to resolve rules specific to participation in the Western EIM.
Contact:
Elizandra Casillas | ecasillas@caiso.com
Anne Gonzales | agonzales@caiso.com
