LACSD Lancaster & Palmdale

Fully Integrated Microgrids with Solar, Battery Storage & Diesel Generation

CHALLENGE

Los Angeles County, the most populous in the nation, requires large-scale facilities to safely process and manage its substantial waste. Electricity is the Los Angeles County Sanitation District’s (LACSD) largest operating expense, driving its need for affordable, sustainable, and stable energy solutions.

To address this, LACSD issued a request for proposals to build photovoltaic systems for its Palmdale and Lancaster wastewater treatment plants. However, after reviewing submissions, they lacked a clear way to determine which proposal offered the best value and savings.

SOLUTION

Pacifico stepped in to help LACSD assess policies, incentives, and technologies to maximize long-term savings and renewable energy potential. Through a detailed review of the district’s supply contracts, we determined the optimal size for both battery storage and photovoltaic systems.

By submitting timely interconnection requests, Pacifico secured full net metering treatment for these facilities. Additionally, the team obtained incentive funding for the battery storage system through the California Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) to offset battery costs.

RESULTS

Currently under construction, these projects will enable LACSD to lock in electricity rates below those of CA utilities and third-party suppliers, maintaining stable costs over a 25-year energy services agreement (ESA).

Additionally, the batteries will offset peak site usage to reduce demand costs in addition to providing a sustainable source of backup power.

The facilities will operate on 100% renewable energy while seamlessly integrating with existing diesel generation backup power systems, ensuring uninterrupted operation during grid disruptions.