Ten public interest groups are contesting the U.S. Department of Energy’s decision to extend the operating life of the J.H. Campbell power plant. Their challenge focuses on an order mandating the plant’s continued operation, raising objections related to financial burdens and potential environmental consequences. Originally scheduled for retirement in 2021, with a portion slated to…

A recent assessment by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which oversees the stability of the power grid, initially flagged the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) as facing a heightened risk of electricity shortages during periods of extreme stress. This classification, designated as “elevated” or “high” risk, prompted concern about the region’s power supply.…

The reliability of electrical grids is facing increasing challenges during shoulder seasons—the transitional periods between peak summer and winter. Traditional grid management approaches, often based on historical data and forecasts of peak loads, are proving inadequate for these dynamic conditions. These shoulder seasons, like spring and fall, experience volatile weather patterns, creating unpredictable spikes or…

American Electric Power (AEP) has recently revealed updates to its executive leadership, signifying a strategic move to bolster the company’s legal and technological capabilities. The utility giant, one of the nation’s largest electricity producers and transmission operators, is reshaping its team to support its ambitious growth strategy and substantial $54 billion investment planned from 2025…

Louisiana electricity customers could soon see their monthly bills increase by roughly $8 as Entergy seeks approval for rate hikes to fund necessary upgrades to the state’s power grid. These investments are largely driven by the burgeoning data center industry and the substantial power demands they place on the infrastructure. An estimated $470 million has…

Recent power disruptions, referred to as load shedding, have impacted regions like Louisiana, New Mexico, and even Europe, serving as stark reminders of the vulnerabilities facing modern electrical systems. I collaborate with Oklahoma’s electric utilities to prevent similar occurrences within our state. Load shedding isn’t a new practice; organizations like the Southwest Power Pool (SPP),…

A conflict has emerged concerning the oversight of electricity markets managed by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). MISO has formally requested the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to restrict the authority of the Independent Market Monitor, also known as Potomac Economics, which is tasked with ensuring fairness and competition within MISO’s operational area. This…

Earthrise Energy, based in Arlington, Virginia, has finalized a $630 million financing package for a solar project in Illinois. The project, a 270 MWac facility in Gibson City, is slated to begin operations in 2026. Earthrise is pioneering a strategy that leverages existing fossil fuel infrastructure and transmission lines to accelerate the growth of renewable…

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…