Smart grid technology may be deployed in a manner to maximize the benefit and minimize the cost to ratepayers and to achieve the benefits of smart grid technology. The commission, in consultation with the Energy Commission, the ISO, and electrical corporations, shall evaluate the impact of deployment on major initiatives and policies including:

(a) Implementation of new advanced metering initiatives.

(b) Achievement of the renewables portfolio standard program requirements and the need to operate the smart grid of the future with a substantial increased percentage of electricity generated by eligible renewable energy resources.

(c) Achievement of state goals for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases as set forth in the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 and other state directives.

(d) Achievement of the energy efficiency and demand response goals as required by Sections 454.5 and 454.55 and other state directives.

(e) Modernizing the aging utility grid infrastructure.

(f) Meeting the future energy growth needs of the state with new and innovative technologies and methods that utilize the existing assets more efficiently, result in a less environmentally adverse net impact on the state, meet stringent costs versus benefit assessments, and provide the ratepayers with new options in meeting their individual energy needs.

(g) Implementation of technology to improve worker safety, protection, and productivity.

(Added by Stats. 2009, Ch. 327, Sec. 1. (SB 17) Effective January 1, 2010.)