Utility presenters from National Grid and Eversource walked municipal energy managers through the interconnection workflow — applications, screening, study and service agreements — and demonstrated hosting‑capacity and headroom maps to help site rooftop and ground‑mounted solar.

Puerto Rico enhances energy production while boosting agricultural activity through new markets.

News about MSI Press authors; Excerpts from MSI Press authors' books; Carl's Cancer Compendium information; tips for authors

News about MSI Press authors; Excerpts from MSI Press authors' books; Carl's Cancer Compendium information; tips for authors

The Southeastern Power Pool (SPP) is proposing a new initiative, Expedited Resource Interconnection Agreement Services (ERAS), designed to significantly streamline the process for connecting new power generation sources to the electrical grid. This proposal arrives amidst growing pressure to integrate renewable energy and other innovative power technologies into the existing energy infrastructure. The core of the plan involves a focused framework aimed at accelerating the interconnection process, a critical step in expanding grid capacity. Broadly, both state regulators and utility companies are expressing support for the SPP’s ERAS proposal. They view it as a vital measure to address increasing energy needs and to effectively incorporate renewable energy resources. However, the plan isn't without its detractors. Concerns have been voiced by independent power producers (IPPs) and some renewable energy developers, who worry about the potential for unintended consequences and an uneven playing field. A primary concern revolves around the possibility of the expedited process inadvertently favoring incumbent utilities. IPPs are concerned that the framework could create an advantage for established utilities at the expense of newer entrants into the energy market. Transparency is another key point of contention, with some questioning the clarity of decision-making processes within the proposed framework. Furthermore, the adequacy of the interconnection study process itself is being scrutinized, with some arguing that it may not be sufficiently rigorous in assessing the impact of new generation projects. Specific criticisms include the potential for utilities to manipulate forecasts, effectively "gaming" the interconnection studies, and a call for more independent oversight and review of the entire process. The need for modernized grid infrastructure and the rapid rise in renewable energy development are the underlying factors driving the push for accelerated interconnection procedures. The SPP’s proposal, while aimed at addressing these challenges, highlights the complexities and competing interests within the evolving energy landscape.

Skye Stanfield queries SCE on accuracy of hosting hour reduction data and total counts.