IPPP Update

by Don Loweburg

(February/March,1994) Since its formation two months ago, the membership of Independent Photovoltaic Power Providers (IPPP) has grown to 21 PV business. IPPP was initially formed to coordinate an organized response to Southern California Edison's (SCE) plans to enter the off-grid energy market. Now, IPPP should seize this opportunity to increase public awareness and acceptance of the availability of independent power systems.

In November, SCE filed an advice letter with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) seeking permission to install remote PV power systems and charge a monthly rate. Members of IPPP collectively and individually filed a significant number of statements opposing SCE's proposal. At the time of publication it is unclear whether the PUC will allow SCE to implement its program.

In either case, independent power providers must expand our efforts to develop a competitive off-grid market in which independent entrepreneurs, not monopolistic utilities, are the power providers. First, we can do this by mobilizing to prevent other utilities from entering the off-grid market. Most importantly, however, we must get the message out to potential customers that PV power is a viable solution to their power needs, that it is already available, and that it works.

As an organization, we need to develop concrete ways of accomplishing these goals. Possible approaches might include:

• A media campaign which would publicize the availability of off-grid systems.
• More workshops to inform and educate potential customers.
• A public relations effort to legitimize the off-grid industry in the eyes of finical lending institutions, so that remote homeowners can obtain financing for independent power systems.

As an industry we need to be proactive rather than reactive. If you are professionally involved in PV, or use PV power and value a strong and independent off-grid industry, please join our organization and help us develop a strategy to both protect the integrity of, and increase the vitality of, our industry. We need your ideas, your input, and your involvement.

Access
IPPP through Don and Cynthia Loweburg at
Offline Independent Energy Systems
PO Box 231, North Fork, CA 93643 • 209-877-7080.