Getting Ready for Competition in Japan
Lessons from Abroad
A comprehensive analysis of Japanese investments in the U.S., Mexico, the U.K., and Australia. From a team expert in the fast-changing electric industry in Japan.
Fortnightly Magazine - October 2016
Texas Solar Two Step
Different Outcomes in State’s Two Distinct Markets
Texas highlights the importance of market structures and economics in the growth of solar deployment. Driven by customer interest and policy objectives, distributed and utility-scale solar has thrived in municipal and cooperative service territories. The same has not been true in the competitive wholesale market with retail choice.
Book Review: Gretchen Bakke's Meditation on The Grid
Sweeping Generalizations, Unsupported Statements, Conjecture, Speculation
Bakke’s background guarantees we will get a fresh perspective that has favorably garnered the attention of The Wall Street Journal and Canada’s National Post.
Active Grid
Where Smart Energy Meets Internet of Things
Imagine what could be achieved if the current modernized grid evolved to be even more dynamic, a complete solution encompassing electricity, gas and water.
Finishing Transmission Planning Reforms
No Way to Get There Without FERC Acting Now
Ineffective interregional transmission policies, not technical or economic barriers, are the chief factors holding up the construction of new interstate transmission. This will not change without FERC intervention.
A Mindset to Mimic
What if Utilities Were Lead Like Amazon?
Reflect for a moment on the Amazon story. Yes, it’s a different type of business. But take careful note of how their leader’s mindset has shaped the outcomes.
Future Service-Oriented Utility
What is value of going digital?
We see the potential for a large pot of value for utilities, sitting in clouds of smart meter data.
Intersection of DER, Energy Efficiency, DR
Three Initiatives That Fit and Complement
Energy efficiency and demand response need to align with the broader purpose of distributed resources.
Don't Cry for Utility Shareholders, America
Maybe Steve Huntoon Was Right
We decided to check out the numbers. Utilities earned more than the cost of capital in most years. Utility investors earned an average market return, while taking a lower than average risk.
Modernizing PURPA
Should FERC rewrite rules or let states make reforms?
Idaho has a problem with PURPA. So does North Carolina, and other states in between. Utilities have complaints too. Consider industry groups like EEI, representing investor-owned companies, NRECA, representing co-ops, and even NARUC, representing state utility regulators. Each has proposed new rules to fix PURPA, a longtime favorite of enviros. And don’t forget Berkshire Hathaway.