FERC’s upcoming agenda includes several key items related to pipeline infrastructure, hydroelectric projects, and jurisdictional matters. The proceedings, structured around Certificates, Hydroelectric, and Miscellaneous sections, involve various applications and petitions requiring the Commission’s consideration. Regarding Certificates, items C-1 through C-3 primarily address natural gas transportation. Texas Connector Pipeline, LLC, is seeking modifications to its existing…

The US battery energy storage (BESS) market is currently experiencing substantial growth nationwide, building on significant expansion in 2024. This rapid expansion is largely attributable to decreasing costs in battery manufacturing, a trend that analysts at Rystad Energy anticipate will continue for the next five to seven years due to ongoing design innovations. Despite potential…

California’s electrical grid faces mounting pressures from climate change impacts like extreme heat and wildfires, the increasing need for renewable energy sources, and rising electricity demand. The current system struggles to effectively and affordably manage these challenges. A potential solution, explored through the experiences of other states, lies in establishing a State Transmission Authority (STA).…

The electricity landscape of the Western United States is undergoing a significant shift, fragmenting into distinct power markets and creating geographical divisions previously unseen. This “balkanization” of the West presents a complex situation with multiple stakeholders and varying perspectives on the optimal path forward. Colorado is currently exploring integration with the Southwest Power Pool (SPP),…

California’s renewable energy curtailment is a growing concern. In April alone, the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) had to curtail 919 GWh of solar and wind power. Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates a 29% increase in curtailment from 2023 to 2024, overwhelmingly driven by excess solar generation. CAISO’s website clearly illustrates…

North American electricity providers are facing escalating concerns regarding their ability to reliably meet demand, a situation known as resource adequacy. This issue, highlighted recently at a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) conference, carries the potential for increased blackout risk, as warned by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which estimates over half of…

California’s electricity future is facing significant changes following the California State Senate’s passage of SB 540, a bill establishing a regional electricity market spanning the Western United States. Consumer Watchdog, a prominent consumer advocacy group, has issued a press release highlighting concerns surrounding this legislation, sparking debate and drawing criticism from environmental and consumer protection…

California Grapples with Increasing Solar and Wind Curtailments Despite Renewable Energy Growth A surge in renewable energy capacity in California is creating a new challenge: curtailments of both solar and wind power. As solar and wind farms generate increasing amounts of electricity, the state is finding it difficult to consistently integrate this power into its…

California’s renewable energy progress is creating a surprising hurdle: curtailments. The state is now witnessing a substantial rise in the amount of solar and wind power that’s generated but ultimately unused, effectively shut down. Data reveals a 29% increase in these curtailments compared to the previous year. While California boasts considerable solar and wind capacity,…