“Pry open” VPP markets by ensuring VPP providers may access customer data, groups say
Two groups allege that utilities are blocking virtual power plant aggregators from accessing the meter data they need to provide a VPP. The groups call for using antitrust law to “pry open” VPP markets.
Arizona task force roadmap prioritizes virtual power plants and distributed solar to cut energy costs
Arizona’s Energy Promise Taskforce released 31 recommendations calling for the accelerated deployment of virtual power plants and distributed solar to meet a projected 40% increase in peak demand.
Minnesota PUC approves utility battery program while deferring VPP decisions
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission approved 50 MW to 200 MW of utility-owned storage while requiring Xcel Energy to study the grid value of distributed resources.
New York can’t afford to wait: we need modern meter socket adapter rules now
New York is facing a dual crisis of energy affordability and bottlenecks to new generation interconnection. The New York Public Service Commission can take action to make affordable technologies available to New Yorkers.
All emerging cyber threats targeting power infrastructure at a glance
Researchers in Morocco analyzed cybersecurity challenges in smart grids, highlighting AI-driven detection and defense strategies against threats like distributed denial-of-service, false data injection replay, and IoT-based attacks. They recommend multi-layered protections, real-time anomaly detection, secure IoT devices, and staff training to enhance resilience and safeguard power system operations.
Vote Solar testimony urges North Carolina to adopt distributed storage over gas
Regulatory filing highlights 400 MW of untapped battery capacity in Duke Energy’s long-term resource plan.
Maine becomes third state to pass plug-in solar legislation
The Pine Tree State joins Utah and Virginia in advancing a law that establishes rules for small plug-in solar generation devices.
Colorado House passes legislation to legalize plug-in solar for renters
The Colorado House of Representatives passed a bill to legalize plug-in solar systems for renters and multifamily residents, establishing a regulatory framework for portable arrays that connect directly to standard home outlets.
PJM states could lower electric bills by enabling retail choice with household batteries
As state governors across the PJM grid region “have expressed alarm over capacity prices” that drive up electric bills, retail choice models that can quickly deploy thousands of distributed batteries can make consumers “the primary source of new capacity,” says the author of a new report.
NV Energy demand charge proposal threatens Nevada rooftop solar
A proposed shift in rate design could undermine the economic value of distributed generation and complicate the state’s energy transition goals.
