Discussions abound on emerging trends in the electric utility industry, such as Vehicle to Grid (V2G) and Building to Grid (B2G). Customers, also, are emerging as a viable grid resource, as utilities explore demand response and Customer to Grid (C2G) as the next wave of reserve potential.

Photovoltaic (PV) facilities do more than provide energy over the course of the year. PV facilities also impact electrical grid distribution systems. Specifically, PV systems reduce loading on the distribution lines by displacing remote sources of energy. What is the implication for T&D system investment and reliability?

California aims to build a million solar roofs within 10 years. Two primary questions are at the heart of the successful path forward in California, and beyond: How are PV customers’ electric use patterns different from other residential customers? To what extent does PV mitigate peak demand?

California and Texas media have picked up on customer concerns surrounding new smart meters—surfacing questions on how new advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) devices will affect their bills, and apprehensions about the “accuracy” of these new solid-state devices. Current results of forensic activity have shown that, in general, meters are very accurate measurement device. However, activities [...]

The Virtual Power Plant is the working title assigned to the modern electric system architecture and operations envisioned by utility industry leaders. The VPP integrates the operation of supply- and demand-side assets to meet customer demand for energy services in both the short- and long-term. It’s the evolution of the present-day power plant, so it [...]