PacifiCorp to explore full participation in California ISO

The California Independent System Operator Corp. (ISO) and PacifiCorp on Tuesday announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding indicating that the energy company will explore full participation in the ISO as a Participating Transmission Owner.

The memorandum prepares the execution of a joint study on the possibility and benefits of PacifiCorp joining the only competitive wholesale market in the west.

"PacifiCorp has become a valued partner and we are happy that they are exploring the extra value of fully taking advantage of the ISO's state-of-the-art technology, planning talent and full spectrum of market products," ISO CEO and President Steve Berberich said. "PacifiCorp's full participation can make our market much stronger for all current ISO and Energy Imbalance Market participants, and can help lower costs, better leverage assets and reduce emissions across the region.”

PacifiCorp began participating in ISO’s six-state Energy Imbalance Market (EIM) last November. In its first few months in the EIM, PacifiCorp saved millions of dollars, leading to its decision to furthering investigate the partnership. ISO and PacifiCorp will conduct an analysis of the cost and benefits associated with full participation over the next several months.

"PacifiCorp and the ISO are well-positioned to strengthen our existing partnership in order to benefit customers, support clean energy goals and enhance service throughout the West and Pacific Northwest," PacifiCorp CEO and President Pat Reiten said.