Introduction
The ALCA was started by Mark Martinez (Southern California Edison) and Joe Kelly (Paragon) to provide a forum that allows participating utilities to share knowledge on their specific load control programs, while gaining insight and suggestions from colleagues at other utilities. The ALCA considers “advanced load controls” as those that use advanced communications, reliability or price triggers, linkages to meter reading and/or energy manager-type equipment. Examples of advanced technology suitable for discussion at ALCA meetings includes: Internet driven communications, gateway type technologies, cable communications, fiber-optic communications, two-way RF technology, advanced power line carrier technologies, AMR or AMI interfaces, etc.
Who can participate in the ALCA?
The Advanced Load Control Alliance is open to any utility and its personnel that are using, planning to use, or considering the use of advanced load control technology to shed or curtail loads in residential, commercial, or industrial customer sectors.
When Does the ALCA meet?
The ALCA meets twice a year, in the Spring and Fall of each year. Meetings can occur at different times/months based on the need of the participants. The Spring meetings focus on issues like program design, marketing, securing resources, installations, incentives, etc; while the Fall meetings are aimed at evaluations, results, technology issues, etc. However, all meetings carry elements of the entire program and are of benefit to participants.
What does it cost?
There are no fees for membership or for attending meetings. The costs of providing the meeting (including conference rooms, refreshments, etc.) are borne by the hosting utility. The invited participating vendors have usually volunteered to coordinate social events and dinners, however that is not a requirement to be a participating vendor. Thus the only costs carried by an attendee to the meetings are transportation and lodging. Meetings are planned far enough in advance to permit attendees the option of securing discounted, advanced purchase airline tickets.
Why should I attend?
If you are using or considering using advanced load control technology, this alliance serves you well because it gives you a chance to share non-confidential information with colleagues in a professional but informal environment. Information gathered will help you initiate or improve your load control program. You’ll learn from other utility’s successes and problems. Unlike a conference, attendance at the ALCA meeting is limited, thus you’ll be able to interact with colleagues easily. You will also benefit by expanding your network of colleagues in the load control arena. ALCA participants are encouraged to network with each other after the meetings. This alliance was designed to assist you in performing your role as an advanced load control professional.
How does one participate?
Participation requires attending the meeting and sharing information on your program(s). The sharing of information is by Power Point presentations, handouts, or discussions. The discussions of specific topics are set in the agenda and are undertaken in a relaxed but focused manner. Attendees offer questions, answers, comments, and suggestions as they see fit, but are always accomplished in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration. There a no officers or organizational “superstructure” thus you will not be asked to assume any responsibilities outside of the meeting.
Utility hosting of meetings
Utilities volunteer to host a meeting by providing the meeting planning activities and the location and meeting refreshments. The expense to hosting a meeting is usually within the budget guidelines of in-house meetings. The process of meeting at utilities helps to foster the networking relationship among ALCA participants.