Strategy & Planning

The Regulators' Dilemma: Part One

Virtual Power Plants

“With the rise of VPPs, our utility clients need to engage with customers in different ways to enroll in these assets and make sure they are available to dispatch in a reliable way for full decarbonization.”

Virginia Chair the New Leader at MACRUC

MACRUC

“Even though there are differences of opinions, I try to establish common goals, with both MACRUC and NARUC. I always stress the importance of a Commissioner’s role to ensure reliable and affordable service. Also, I make sure there are opportunities for dialogue and collaboration.”

Two Minutes on the Soapbox: Chorus of Cowbells Greeted My Last Words

From the Editor

PUF has hosted the Summer Summit Soapbox Luncheon at NARUC’s midsummer conference. It’s become an institution practically. And a beloved one at that. This summer’s edition featured two-minute speeches by the Chairs of the New York, Wyoming, and Washington Commissions, the former Chair of the Maryland Commission, and a former FERC Commissioner.

Practical Realities of the Clean Energy Transition

Pedal to the Metal

“Another practical reality is that emerging energy supply technologies expected to contribute to net-zero goals are not yet available at the scale or cost required for broad deployment. Bringing new energy supply technology options to market has historically taken multiple decades.”

Data Centers: Challenges and Opportunities for Utilities

AEIC

“Data center energy use in the U.S. has doubled over the past three years and is expected to grow nearly sixty-seven percent from twenty-one to thirty-five gigawatts by the end of the decade, according to FERC. EPRI reports that by 2030, data centers could account for up to nine percent of all U.S. electricity consumption.”

The Nuclear Renaissance of Today and Tomorrow

Acceleration Over Next Decade

“The U.S. Department of State’s Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of SMR Technology – or FIRST – program, supports the development of nuclear energy innovation with partner nations.”

The Next Act For Utilities M&A

Flipping the Script on the Past

“State regulatory commissions can be demanding in how they evaluate proposed mergers, such as by applying the public interest standard and distributing net synergy benefits (after costs-to-achieve) between customers and shareholders.”

The Power Industry, Presently and Projected

Risk Mitigation Takes Center Stage

“Investing for more reliable, resilient power grids, using the most advanced tools and techniques, must now be considered standard operating procedure for power companies.”

Innovation: Colette Honorable

Exelon Innovation Summit

“The multi-year rate plans meet a number of objectives for us. We can say upfront, ‘Commission and customer, this is how we plan to invest in the infrastructure over three years, over five years. Hold us accountable.’ That creates certainty, transparency.”