At the heart of the DCP lies Customer Engagement, a critical component that ensures the program's success. Sparkfund, with its extensive experience working with over 1,800 unique commercial and industrial customers and developing proposals worth nearly $3 billion in energy projects, plays a vital role in this process.
Sparkfund conducts direct customer outreach and engagement under the utility brand, fostering trust and credibility among customers. By utilizing white-label marketing and educational materials approved by the utility, Sparkfund ensures a cohesive and consistent message that aligns with the utility's goals and values.
Unlike traditional VPP aggregators, the DCP model adopts an educational approach rather than a sales-focused one. Sparkfund's dedicated outreach team engages with customers to explore the benefits of extending the value of the grid into their buildings, including sustainability, resilience, and reliability. By communicating the direct and indirect benefits of hosting grid assets, such as increased resiliency, lower energy costs, and contributing to a more affordable grid, Sparkfund empowers customers to make informed decisions.
The DCP views buildings as valuable grid resources. Sparkfund's strategic approach aligns with this vision, engaging customers in targeted geographies selected by the utility to unlock the highest grid value. By focusing on areas where DERs can have the most significant impact, the DCP demonstrates the potential for buildings to play a crucial role in optimizing grid performance and reducing costs for all customers.
The DCP demonstrates a strong commitment to energy equity by extending access of DER technologies and deployment in underserved communities. By ensuring access to the benefits of distributed energy technology for all customers, the DCP model promotes energy justice and reduces energy burden disparities. Sparkfund's Customer Engagement efforts align with this goal, working to engage and educate customers in these communities and facilitate their participation.
The Distributed Capacity Program represents a paradigm shift in the deployment of DERs. By leveraging Sparkfund's expertise in engaging commercial and industrial customers, the DCP ensures a cohesive, educational, and utility-branded approach that maximizes grid value and promotes energy equity. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like the DCP, with its focus on Customer Engagement, will play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable, resilient, and affordable future for all.