The SMUD Energy Research & Development (ER&D) Department was interested in supporting expanded Distributed Generation (DG) within its service territory. SMUD assigned IEC Corporation to investigate and review existing DG strategies or plans put forward by DG experts or other utilities, via white papers, industry data, and surveys of identified utilities with successful DG programs. After initial research, IEC then summarized the key elements of a successful distributed generation strategy, and provided expert recommendations for SMUD to consider in the formulation of new policy or operational guidelines to support expanded DG within its service area. These recommendations were provided within framework of SMUD’s Strategic Objectives, Board Policies, existing programs, and the greater regional characteristics. It is anticipated that these recommendations will then be submitted to the Board of Directors for inclusion into the greater Integrated Resource Plan for SMUD.