Inequitable access to distributed energy resources due to grid infrastructure limits in California

Persistent social disparities in the adoption of distributed energy resources (DERs) have prompted calls for enabling more equitable uptake. However, there are indications that limits inherent to grid infrastructure may hinder DER adoption. In this study we analysed new integration across California’s two largest utility territories. We found reduce access solar photovoltaics less than half households served by these utilities, and electric vehicle residential load electrification goals. connected results demographic characteristics also exacerbate existing inequities: increasingly Black-identifying disadvantaged census block groups disproportionately photovoltaic capacity based on circuit hosting capacity. Our illuminate need equity goals be an input design policies prioritizing upgrades. There racial wealth energy, although potential is not well understood. Brockway et al. estimate impact limitations California.