Energy Storage, Regulation, Solar, Sourcing Renewables  -  March 25, 2020

Solar and storage falls under essential work in COVID-19 crisis, CALSSA says

The California Solar + Storage Association has concluded that solar energy and energy storage project construction is considered “essential work” under the guidelines released under the state’s COVID-19 Shelter in Place order.

CALSSA released in a memo March 21 a plan for the industry to continue work under the new conditions while observing practices of social distancing. The organization came to the conclusion that the industry is included as an essential service through the mention by the State Public Health Office of electricians who maintain the essential operation of residents, those involved in construction projects and works necessary for the manufacturing of materials and products needed for energy.

The State of California also specifically identified the energy sector as one of the sixteen essential industries during this time. These references also mirror guidelines put into place for essential industries by individual localities in California.

CALSSA also identified issues that are occurring around permitting of new projects as other building offices are closed down. They released a separate memo on March 23 outlined a solution in what they called a plan of “no-touch permitting”. This would largely entail moving the permitting process to online and inspections being done through photos or live videos.

Despite the fact that energy workers are able to continue work under these new Shelter in Place rules, CALSSA also emphasized the importance of adhering to responsible social distancing and personal hygiene measures as recommended by the CDC to slow the transmission of the coronavirus.