Building an interactive web mapping tool to support distributed energy resource planning using public participation GIS

Abstract

Community solar projects involve the installation of large PV systems whose net outputs are then virtually allocated to customers at other locations. They represent a relatively new model of distributed energy resource (DER) implementation that could help overcome some historical barriers to low-income, disadvantaged community, renter household participation in the ongoing renewable energy transition. Siting community solar assets is a thick and inherently geographic problem however, one which relates to historical patterns of energy infrastructure investment, local urban development, and community socio-demographic change. Creating a more equitable energy system will require planning tools which better coordinate the DER adoption decisions of individual property owners with the grid operators. Interactive decision support tools based on web maps are well suited to addressing this need for improved information sharing and coordination. However, such tools need to be designed and implemented through a process of public participation with stakeholders who explicitly focus on social and environmental justice. Here we describe the process by which one such tool was developed. We also report on several important findings derived from its use relating to current imbalances between local DER supply potential and the grid integration capacity limits which exist within Southern California's disadvantaged communities.