The Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s market efficiencies, regional coordination, and other grid management strategies generated an estimated $5.1 billion in benefits last year, according to a March 6 press release. This brings the total benefits to over $50 billion since the Value Proposition analysis began in 2007. The grid operator’s Value Proposition analysis identifies and…...
The Michigan Public Service Commission on Feb. 27 approved a staff proposal establishing financial incentives and penalties for electric utilities to improve their performance and enhance grid reliability. The proposal includes metrics to measure utility performance about reliability, safety, and other factors that will encourage utilities to expedite distribution system upgrades and improve grid reliability…....
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission on Feb. 21 approved Xcel Energy’s Upper Midwest Integrated Resource Plan, which outlines the utility’s energy resource portfolio for 2024-2040 to improve reliability, energy efficiency, and affordability. The plan includes measures to protect consumers against excessive prices, protect grid systems against extreme weather, integrate more renewable energy resources, and reduce…...
The U.S. offshore wind industry is grappling with a changing landscape amid policy changes and economic challenges. President Donald Trump’s recent executive action halting offshore wind leasing and permitting has come as a major setback for the industry. While projects that have already secured…Read the full report…...
The U.S. offshore wind industry is grappling with a changing landscape amid policy changes and economic challenges. President Donald Trump's recent executive action halting offshore wind leasing and permitting has come as a major setback for the industry. While projects that have already secured federal approvals and financing are expected to move forward, prolonged permitting delays could stall momentum and deter future investment.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), and NERC’s Regional Entities have initiated a joint performance review of the bulk power system during the cold weather events during January, which included a multi-day polar vortex that impacted majority of the U.S. with colder weather from January 19-24. During the…...
The California Public Utilities Commission on Jan. 30 updated its electric transmission siting rules to streamline planning and permitting processes and expedite transmission infrastructure projects. The changes to the process are part of proceedings initiated in May 2023 and modifications to General Order 131-D to accelerate new transmission upgrade projects as California’s electric demand increases…....
The U.S. Energy Department on Jan.13 selected utility companies in several states for its Utility and Grid Operator Technical Assistance program designed to assist utilities and grid operators with the knowledge and expertise required to develop resilient and secure grid infrastructure. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in partnership with Idaho National Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley…...