PG Enhances Grid Safety with Backup Power Transfer Meters Amid Wildfire Challenges

What's Happening?

PG&E, in collaboration with TESCO Metering, is hosting a webinar to address the growing need for reliable backup power solutions due to increasingly severe wildfire seasons. The webinar will introduce Backup Power Transfer Meters (BPTMs), which automatically switch between grid and generator power, enhancing safety and reliability. BPTMs eliminate risks associated with traditional solutions like manual transfer switches. PG&E has deployed over 11,000 BPTMs across Northern California, integrating them with distributed energy resources and bidirectional EV charging to support grid resilience.

Why It's Important?

The deployment of BPTMs is crucial for ensuring grid safety and reliability, especially in wildfire-prone areas. These meters provide a scalable solution for utilities to offer backup power, reducing risks of backfeeding and overloads. The integration with distributed energy resources and EV charging supports a decentralized energy future, aligning with regulatory mandates for smarter backup power access. This initiative enhances customer satisfaction and reduces liability for utilities, while preparing for future energy challenges.

What's Next?

The webinar will outline opportunities for scaling BPTM deployment, aligning with regulatory incentives and grid modernization efforts. Utilities may explore partnerships and strategies to expand backup power access, enhancing resilience in vulnerable communities. The session aims to provide a blueprint for safely deploying BPTMs at scale, offering insights for engineering leads, utility executives, and regulatory strategists.