News

Study explores blockchain challenges, opportunities

A new report from the Congressional Research Service explores the opportunities and challenges associated with the expanded use of Bitcoin and its underlying blockchain technology in the energy sector. While the two technologies are related, they are also distinct and in the report, “Bitcoin, Blockchain and the Energy Sector,” represent two separate lines of inquiry.

New Mexico senator moves to impeach utility commissioners as tensions rise over San Juan closure

Dive Brief: The New Mexico state legislature is looking into an impeachment proceeding for three of the state's five utility regulators as tensions mount over implementation of the state's comprehensive clean energy bill. State Sen. Jacob Candelaria, D, on Wednesday "asked legislative lawyers to begin exploring impeachment" of Commissioners Jefferson Byrd, Valerie Espinoza and Theresa Becenti-Aguilar.

EPA Provides Resilient, Renewable Energy Study Results to Culebra, Puerto Rico

Culebra, Puerto Rico – In its continuing efforts to help the Caribbean recover from the long-term impacts from Hurricanes Irma and Maria, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have published the results of a study to take steps to provide renewable energy through a hybrid microgrid to the Puerto Rico island of Culebra.

New York issues redo of Northern Access denial, but FERC order may void impact

Washington — New York has again denied a water quality certification for the Northern Access 2016 gas pipeline project. But the action may be undercut by the fact that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in August 2018 already found New York's review of the project waived because the state exceeded a Clean Water Act timeframe in which to act.

CAISO marks first phase of reliability coordinator operations

The California Independent System Operator recently became the official reliability coordinator of record for 16 electricity balancing authorities and transmission operators primarily in California, and one in Mexico.

ERO Enterprise Leaders to Address State of Reliability at FERC Technical Conference

Leadership from the ERO Enterprise will participate on a panel at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's annual technical conference on reliability issues of the bulk power system Thursday. The conference, which is open to the public, begins at 9 a.m. Eastern at FERC's headquarters.

Statement on Commissioner Cheryl LaFleur's Departure Announcement

During her nine years of service, Commissioner LaFleur has been a source of wisdom and stability at FERC. I will never forget the kindness she offered me when I came to the Commission.

The U.S. Accounted for 98% of Global Oil Production Growth in 2018

Earlier this month BP released its Statistical Review of World Energy 2019. The Review provides a comprehensive picture of supply and demand for major energy sources on a country-level basis. Each year, I do a series of articles covering the Review's findings.

Carbon pollution import tax proposed by Biden and Inslee would be unworkable, economists warn

Presidential candidates Joe Biden and Jay Inslee both took a shot at China and other heavy-polluting countries this week by releasing climate change plans that would tax imports of carbon-intensive goods.​

British Columbia Law Requires 100% Clean Vehicle Sales by 2040

All light duty cars and trucks sold in British Columbia must be emissions-free by 2040 under a law passed by the provincial government.

John Thomas Miller, Jr., EBA Past President passed away June 8th

John Thomas Miller, Jr., an attorney and father of nine children, passed away in his sleep on June 8th, surrounded by his family. John served as President of the Federal Energy Bar Association (1990-1991). Details of his life and funeral service are listed below.

Russian Sanctions Response Hits Energy Cooperation: Fuel for Thought

Russia seems to be entering a new stage of sanctions adaptation, building on its growing technological capabilities in energy, as well as access to alternative sources of financing to become less dependent on cooperation deals with Western companies.

Almost All U.S. Coal Production Is Consumed for Electric Power

Coal is one of the main sources of energy in the United States, accounting for 16% of its primary energy production in 2018 according to EIA’s Monthly Energy Review. Nearly all of the coal consumed in the United States is produced domestically, and most is consumed by the electric power sector to generate electricity, while some is exported.

Where Is the Microgrid Market Headed?

Increasingly, today’s electric power grids are interacting with microgrids and in more complex ways. Yet, much work needs to be done to integrate microgrids and flexible demand into the wide-area synchronous grid to enable broader, fairer, and smoother participation in grid service markets, which should help reduce electric costs and improve service reliability for all. Studies indicate that renewable generation microgrids are now competitive with gas generation for reliability and cost.

Senate targets nuclear, carbon capture support as pressure mounts for Republican climate response

Federal energy officials are calling for an increased focus on carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technologies, as well as advanced nuclear, as the Senate tees up climate-focused bills to counter the House's Green New Deal legislative package.

This federal agency is quietly, profoundly shaping climate policy

Some of the most consequential decisions about how the US government deals with climate change are being made by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), an agency few people are aware exists and even fewer people track closely.

Maryland's Renewable Energy Target: 50% by 2030

Half of Maryland's energy will come from renewable sources by 2030 under a bill that is set to become law Friday -- without Gov. Larry Hogan's signature.

San Francisco eyes purchase of PG&E grid assets to increase power independence

San Francisco is considering buying portions of Pacific Gas & Electric's grid that serve the city to continue its "power independence" while avoiding paying for distribution service it says is increasingly expensive.

Department of Energy to award $79M for bioenergy research and development

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $79.3 million in funding for bioenergy research and development earlier this month. The department expects to award between 28-49 grants, with amounts up to $10 million.

China still most attractive renewables market despite subsidy cuts: EY

China is the most attractive market for investment in renewable energy for the fourth year in a row and growth there is set to continue despite the country’s efforts to trim subsidies, a report by UK accountancy firm Ernst & Young.

NERC to analyze first potential cyberattack on US grid

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) told Utility Dive it will conduct a root cause analysis to determine what caused a utility to temporarily lose visibility to certain parts of its supervisory control and data acquisition system.

Department of Energy Authorizes LNG Exports from the Driftwood and Port Arthur LNG Projects

Today, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the signing of two long-term orders authorizing the export of domestically produced liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Tellurian Inc.'s Driftwood LNG export facility to be built in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, and Sempra Energy’s Port Arthur LNG export project to be built in Port Arthur, Texas.

Alberta enacts law that could cut energy flows to British Columbia

The new Alberta government has enacted a law enabling it to restrict the flow of oil and gas to neighboring British Columbia, raising the stakes in a dispute between Canada's westernmost provinces over the Trans Mountain pipeline.

New York's plan to make 50,000 buildings super-efficient

New York City passed the most aggressive climate bill in the nation in April, and the city got it done in a truly New York way. The Climate Mobilization Act is the city's effort to abide by the Paris climate-change agreement even after the Trump administration withdrew the U.S. from the global accords.

New French energy law puts off difficult climate decisions

France has set more ambitious targets to cut carbon emissions by 2050 but few measures will take effect on President Emmanuel Macron's watch as the "yellow vest" protest movement limits his scope for environmental protection.

Cuomo adds $280M for New York energy storage projects

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo offered up $280 million this week for energy storage projects in the state that grow the industry and drive down deployment costs. The funding is part of a $400 million investment that supports reaching 3,000 megawatts of energy storage by 2030.

Supreme Court Clears Path for States to Subsidize Nuclear Power

States that want to subsidize nuclear power plants got a boost from the U.S. Supreme Court April 15 when it refused to hear a petition challenging a lower court decision that certain subsidies do not interfere with federal regulatory authority. Challengers say the question now is left to federal regulators.​

What you need to know about energy pricing as market complexities grow

Because energy consumption is one of the largest operating expenses for a data center or manufacturing operation, it’s important that owners and operators understand the potential for price volatility here in the United States.

Energy equity: Bringing solar power to low-income communities

YALE UNIVERSITY--Millions of Americans lack access to solar energy because they cannot afford the steep upfront costs. Now, more than a dozen states are adopting “community solar” programs that are bringing solar power and lower energy bills to low-income households from New York to California.

Indiana GOP advances coal rescue bill that would pause utility plant builds

UTILITY DIVE--An Indiana House committee on Wednesday advanced a bill that would pause utility procurement of new generation resources in a bid to save aging, expensive coal power plants slated to retire in the state.

Colorado drillers face tougher rules under energy-law revamp

HOUSTON CHRONICLE--Colorado’s legislature passed a sweeping overhaul of the state’s oil and natural gas laws, giving local governments more power to regulate drilling in one of the nation’s top crude-producing regions.

European Court rules German renewable energy subsidy allowed under EU law

JURIST--The European Court of Justice ruled Thursday that Germany did not violate EU law when the member state implemented a renewable energy surcharge to help level the energy market for its domestic renewable energy providers.

Puerto Rico passes 100% clean energy bill; will natural gas imports get in the way?

INSIDECLIMATE NEWS--A rapid remake of the hurricane-torn territory's power supply won’t be easy, and a utility's natural gas infrastructure plans could make the goal hard to meet.

Banks Funneled $1.9 Trillion Into Fossil Fuels Since Paris Agreement

CLEANTECHNICA--A new report published this week shows that 33 global banks provided $1.9 trillion to fossil fuel companies since the adoption of the Paris Climate Agreement at the end of 2015 and that the amount of fossil fuel financing has increased in each of the past two years.

Maine lawmakers try again to get the state's microgrid law right

ENERGY NEWS NETWORK--Amid complaints that the state’s current law is unworkable, legislators revive a vetoed bill under a new governor.

Energy Minister Stathakis' Houston visit heralds new energy future for Greece

THE NATIONAL HERALD--HOUSTON – George Stathakis, Greece’s Minister of Environment and Energy, visited Texas last week to meet with energy industry leaders and the many Hellenes working in various segments of the energy sector both in the industry and academia.

FERC seeking comments on improvements to electric transmission incentives policy

DAILYENERGYINSIDER--The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) recently announced that it is seeking comments on potential improvements to its electric transmission incentives policy.

New Mexico Governor signs landmark clean energy bill

U.S.NEWS--Making good on a campaign promise, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed landmark legislation that will mandate more solar panels and wind turbines as the state sets ambitious new renewable energy goals.

EPA chief tells world to buy "cleaner" American energy

HOUSTON CHRONICLE--EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler claimed Monday that U.S. fossil fuels were "cleaner" than those from other countries, encouraging foreign customers to buy American oil, coal and natural gas.

Hungry for green power, tech giants choose between utilities, independent developers

UTILITY DIVE--As tech companies and other large energy consumers are increasingly focusing on shifting toward a cleaner power supply, they face a choice to work with utilities or directly with developers.​

As No-Deal Brexit Looms, Ireland Braces For Energy Isolation

FORBES--Since it separated from the United Kingdom in 1921, the Republic of Ireland has remained closely tied to its neighbor. The connections have run the gamut, from culture to economy to energy.

Energy suppliers ordered to stop passing on higher costs to customers

N.J. SPOTLIGHT--Tens of millions of dollars on the line as third-party suppliers dispute Board of Public Utilities’ order not to increase fixed rate during term of contracts.

Finland wants EU to agree plan for net-zero carbon footprint

REUTERS--BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Finland wants the European Union to agree to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint by 2050, Environment Minister Kimmo Tiilikainen said on Monday as the bloc’s ministers met to discuss a climate protection plan.

US Energy Storage Broke Records in 2018, but the Best Is Yet to Come

GREENTECH MEDIA--The U.S. energy storage industry delivered record deployments in 2018, driven by a strong fourth quarter for utility-scale projects.

Poland to invest in solar panels as power prices rise

REUTERS--WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland expects its power capacity to increase by at least 200 megawatts (MW) annually in coming years thanks to planned incentives for smaller electricity consumers to invest in solar panels, the entrepreneurship and technology minister said.

EPA: Carbon emissions from power plants rose in 2018 amid higher electricity demand

UTILITY DIVE--Carbon emissions from U.S. power plants rose 0.6% in 2018 to nearly 1.93 billion tons, according to data the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released on Wednesday.

Germany's government coalition divided over draft Climate Action Law

CLEW--The first draft of Germany’s Climate Action Law, presented last week, has laid bare conflicting views within the German coalition government over how the country should meet its climate targets. The proposal has drawn criticism from Chancellor Angela Merkel’s CDU party, the economically liberal FDP and industry association BDI, but has been welcomed by the Social Democrats – the party of Environment Minister Svenja Schulze who is responsible for the bill – as well as by renewables industry​

SEU 2019 survey: Uncertainty mounts in the clean energy transition

UTILITY DIVE--Utilities in the U.S. are moving to a cleaner, more distributed power system, Utility Dive's sixth annual sector survey shows, but are unclear about how they will get there.

After moratorium, North Carolina looks offshore for wind energy potential

ENERGY NEWS NETWORK--A ban on land-based wind projects expired, but industry leaders say new onshore development isn’t a current priority.

PJM to ask FERC to invalidate its energy market rules after stakeholder impasse

UTILITY DIVE--The governing board of the PJM Interconnection on Wednesday directed its staff to file a proposal with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to invalidate and reform the rules of its energy market, sparking criticism from renewable energy supporters and its market monitor.

Puerto Rico's Utility PREPA Plans To Divide Island Into Renewable Energy Microgrids

FORBES--After the catastrophe caused by 2017’s Hurricane Maria, many Puerto Ricans were left without electricity for months. Now, the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) has put forward a plan to radically reform electricity access on the Caribbean island.

Sheila Hollis Wins Legacy Award

In a ceremony in London on November 27, 2018, Petroleum Economist honored Sheila Hollis, EBA Past President and Paul E. Nordstrom Award Winner with the 2018 Legacy Award.

How FERCs New Ruling Is Upending the Countrys Biggest Capacity Market

A 3-to-2 party-line vote to undo and replace PJM’s capacity market will cause major uncertainties for state-subsidized renewables and nuclear.

U.S. subsidies may not save some coal, nuclear plants slated for closure

Several major U.S. operators of nuclear reactors and coal plants said they had not changed plans to close plants in coming years, even after the White House said it would take emergency steps to subsidize struggling operators.

Trump Administration May Give Mouth-To-Mouth To Resuscitate Coal Industry

The Trump administration may try to resuscitate the coal industry by using laws that, in effect, conclude that national security is at stake because the reliability of the electric grid is at risk. That is a hard case to make both to Congress and to the public, which is experiencing stable electricity prices and cleaner options.

Previous FERC chairs trade views on pipeline policy, nuclear power credits

Former chairmen of the commission offered competing views on frontburner topics in gas and power sector regulation at the annual Energy Bar Association meeting last week.

Former FERC Chairs Reminisce, Sound Off at EBA

The Energy Bar Association closed its annual meeting last week with a panel discussion with five former FERC chairs whose terms collectively spanned two decades. The former chairs offered entertaining anecdotes about the past while expressing pride over the growth of competitive markets — and frustration over forces they said threaten them.

Overheard at EBA Annual Meeting

FERC Chairman Kevin McIntyre, the luncheon speaker on the second day of the Energy Bar Association annual meeting last week, said he’s often asked about his priorities as head of the commission. “I love this because it suggests I get to pick,” he said to laughter.

Panel Debates Need for Changes in FERC Merger Policy

Should FERC should begin requiring supply curve analyses in its merger reviews? It’s a no-brainer to Cynthia Bogorad, who has attempted to submit them as an intervenor challenging acquisitions.

Industry Awaits FERC Response to Emera Remand

FERC’s delay in responding to a 2017 appellate ruling vacating its order on New England transmission rates has created the risk of an endless series of “pancaked” rate cases, a panel told the Energy Bar Association’s annual meeting last week.

Time for New FERC Enforcement Rules?

It’s been 10 years since FERC revised its enforcement policy guidelines, and former commission attorneys David A. Applebaum and Todd Mullins think it might be time for a check-up.

Uncertainty on transmission rate policy seen as cloud over US infrastructure investment

Transmission owners and customers continue to play a wait-and-see game as questions over transmission rates linger at the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that could have a chilling effect on investment at a time when state and local climate change goals are adding to the need for new infrastructure.​

McIntyre links fuel security questions with resilience proceeding

The chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Tuesday linked questions of power plant fuel supply to the agency's grid resilience proceeding, saying it "sure would be convenient" if regulators can identify specific generator attributes to compensate in order to strengthen the nation's grid.

California's Solar Roof Law Will Raise Housing And Energy Prices But Do Little To Reduce Emissions

California’s new solar roof mandate will make housing more expensive, increase electricity prices, and transfer wealth upwards. What it won’t do is significantly reduce carbon emissions. The deployment of solar has been the main driver of high and rising electricity prices in California, which currently produces more solar energy than it can use.

McIntyre Urges Participation in FERC Infrastructure Process Reviews at EBA Annual Meeting Speech

At his keynote speech during EBA's 2018 Annual Meeting, FERC Chairman Kevin McIntyre urged participation in public comment periods for a pair of orders related to the certification of natural gas pipelines and other energy infrastructure regulation. Last month the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issued a notice of inquiry (NOI) that could lead to a revision of its policies regarding the review and authorization of interstate natural gas transportation facilities under section 7 of the Natur​

India added more energy capacity from renewables than coal last year

For the first time ever, India has added more production capacity from renewable energy in a year than from conventional sources like coal.

World is not on track to meet UN's 2030 sustainable energy goals

As renewable energy costs fall, poor countries are making progress, but billions of people are still left with polluting fuels for cooking and transportation.

Lawmakers want to relax rules on renewable energy

Homeowners and businesses that invest in renewable energy would get more freedom from regulations that favor “monopoly utilities” under recently introduced bipartisan legislation.

Big electric utilities want to change federal law requiring them to buy renewable energy

Stateside has been looking into changes to the Public Utility Regulatory Policy Act (PURPA). The federal act requires electric utility companies to buy energy from solar, wind, and other renewable generators as long as they don’t have to pay more than it costs to generate that power themselves. Michigan Congressman Tim Walbergwants to end PURPA. We recently talked to the Congressman and a solar energy provider, but we felt like we needed to know more about PURPA itself.

Virginia efficiency programs due for windfall, but will it be well spent?

Energy efficiency advocates worry regulators will be too conservative when evaluating cost-effectiveness. Virginia energy efficiency programs will get a $1 billion boost over the next decade, but how much bang for the buck the state gets for that money will hinge on how utilities and regulators decide to spend the money.

Illinois energy law revives renewables while aiding nuclear

Nearly a year and a half after passage, Illinois' Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) is beginning to bear fruit as seen in a revival of renewable energy development in the state, though it is also increasing costs in some areas.

French court slams renewable energy schemes

The report by auditors was to a finance committee meeting at the French senate last week. It noted the spending on mechanisms to support renewables was estimated at €5.3 billion in 2016 and is set to grow in the future. The vast majority of this spending (€4.4 billion) backed renewable electricity, while a total of €567 million went to renewable heat, although this sector is key to achieve France’s climate targets, according to the auditors.

FERC issues NOI seeking comments on gas pipeline evaluations

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on April 19 issued a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) seeking comment on its evaluation process for interstate natural gas pipelines, as well as a new order reforming generation interconnection processes. The NOI seeks comment on how FERC evaluates the need for pipelines, its use of eminent domain, the environmental impact of pipeline projects and the efficiency of FERC's permitting process.

Egypt is ready to be an energy hub for Europe, investment chief says

With gas production in full swing across a number of sites in Egypt, the country is ready to become a key exporter of energy in the region and beyond, the chairman and founder of investment firm Qalaa Holdings told CNBC. "In the oil and gas sectors Egypt remains a very important player," Ahmed Heikal, told CNBC's "Capital Connection" on April 23. Heikal said there was impetus for Egyptian gas to flow to European markets via terminals in Idku and Damietta.

Another blackout in Puerto Rico underscores urgent need for better leadership

Yet another island-wide power outage in Puerto Rico highlights the urgent need for progressive policy reforms that can keep the lights on once and for all in the U.S. commonwealth. The Puerto Rican Senate is facing an opportune moment along these lines next week as it holds a public hearing on a misguided plan by Gov. Ricardo Rosselló to essentially give up on the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) and turn it over to private interests.

FERC commissioners troubled by reliability vulnerabilities tied to fuel security in parts of US

Although natural gas and power prices were relatively low across the US last year, fuel-security issues plaguing New England and Southern California led to some close calls for grid operators tasked with keeping the lights on, commissioners reflecting on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's 2017 state of the markets report said April 19.

The Trump administration just hatched another plan to buoy coal and nuclear

The Trump administration is mulling the use of a Truman-era law to make good on the promise to restore the coal industry, according to a April 19 report from Bloomberg. The Defense Production Act of 1950 offers the president power to implement subsidies for domestically produced materials in the name of national defense and also claims “it is necessary and appropriate to assure the availability of domestic energy supplies.”

Double Your Efforts To Cut Out The Carbon Or Face More Regulation, Cement Makers Told

Making cement is one of the most polluting activities on the planet when it comes to greenhouse gases and if companies do not reduce their emissions much more effectively in coming years, they are likely to face much tougher regulation, a new report says. The first reason the sector is so polluting is that so much is produced. Cement is the key ingredient in concrete, the second-most consumed substance on earth after water.

Are State Agencies Best Equipped to Manage Energy Industry Needs, Protect Groundwater?

The growth of American energy production in the last decade has been a remarkable success of technology and innovation. Already its impacts on the economy and national and international politics are clear. If production continues to grow, America is on track to being one of the world’s largest producers. To achieve that goal, however, will require effective regulation as much as new technology.

Utilities, Grid Operators Tell FERC They Need Real-Time Data to Better Manage DERs

Utilities and grid operators stressed the need for real-time information on distributed energy resources to a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission panel in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday. FERC organized the conference to gather information on the challenges of integrating DERs into the wholesale power market, which makes up about three-quarters of the country’s electricity supply.

Court Questions FERC Change on ISO-NE Renewable Exemption

A three-judge panel of the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday questioned whether FERC had changed its position without adequate explanation in its approval of ISO-NE’s renewable technology resource (RTR) exemption from its minimum offer price rule (17-1110). New England generating companies — including NextEra Energy Resources, NRG Power Marketing and PSEG Energy Resources & Trade — sued the commission last year over the exemption, which allows 200 MW of renewables annually (up to a 600-MW​

Unlike PJM, grid operator MISO not seeking changes to power plant payments

The Midwest’s primary transmission grid operator doesn’t see a looming reliability crisis as utilities phase out uneconomic coal and nuclear plants. In response to a call for input on electric grid resilience issues, MISO told federal regulators last month that it is confident in its ability to plan new generation as older plants retire. The position puts it in contrast with its neighbor to the east, the PJM Interconnection, which asked for new rules that critics say would benefit coal and nucle​

Federal coal's day in court

An obscure decision by a federal judge has prompted an important question for policymakers mulling energy policy: Does federal coal mined in the West have a bigger impact on global climate change than it does on the nation’s economy?

In Illinois, the humble utility pole meets the smart grid

The wooden utility pole has changed little since it was first used in the mid-19th Century to string telegraph line between cities. At a test site in Champaign, Illinois, though, researchers are getting a glimpse at how the humble utility pole could get a reboot for the smart grid era.

Chinas pressure to stop energy projects dents economic growth in Vietnam

Vietnam faces a pinch to economic development as China pressures it to stop exploring in a disputed sea for oil and natural gas, two important fuel sources for the fast-growing Southeast Asian country, analysts say. Spanish driller Repsol last month quit a Vietnamese-approved project at Vanguard Bank in the South China Sea, apparently under pressure from China, foreign media reports and political experts say. Now Vietnam is considering a $4.6 billion gas exploration project with ExxonMobil off i​

Virginia Supreme Court makes it easier for utilities to look for renewable energy

The Virginia Supreme Court has upheld a case that makes it easier for big electric users to shop around for renewable energy. The court upheld an earlier decision by state regulators allowing large customers to purchase 100 percent renewable energy from an independent producer without restrictions.

Can Russia maintain European energy dominance?

Currently, more than half of the energy consumed in the EU is imported extraterritorially. Of that share, Russia supplies 37.4 percent of gas consumed by the member states. With the decline of domestic resources, this amount is likely to increase. Critics fear that Europe’s energy security is under strain as Moscow has been accused of wielding energy exports as a weapon in conflicts with its neighbors​

Smart transmission: How FERC can spur modernization of the bulk power system

The world's largest machine needs an upgrade — and it's costing consumers big money. America's 7 million miles of transmission and distribution system wires, often called the planet's biggest networked machine, have an estimated value as high as $2 trillion. Built up over a century, the network supports the world's largest economy, but there are mounting worries it is not keeping up with the times.

Arizona law backed by utilities declaws clean energy mandates

Arizona utilities could violate the state’s clean energy standards for nominal penalties under a law Gov. Doug Ducey (R) signed March 23. His signature ends less than two weeks of debate among lawmakers over fast-tracked legislation aiming to preemptively declaw higher renewable energy mandates a group wants to bring to voters this year. Arizona’s largest electric utility, Arizona Public Service Co., pushed the measure.

FERC among targets of Iranian hackers charged by DOJ

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is among the targets of alleged Iranian hackers indicted by the U.S. Justice Department on March 23. Nine members of an Iran-based company stole data from hundreds of universities and dozens of companies around the world, DOJ said, acting in many cases on behalf of Iran's government. The Department of Labor and state governments in Hawaii and Indiana were also targeted.

Russian attacks on energy grid spark alarm

Revelations about Russian cyberattacks on the U.S. energy grid are sparking new fears in Washington about the growing threat to the energy sector. The developments have some officials worried that Moscow or another nation state could execute a disruptive cyberattack targeting the U.S. power grid.

Energy Secretary Rick Perry says there's 'sheer optimism' in US energy industry despite tariff concerns

Concerns about trade wars, the future of NAFTA and impending steel and aluminum tariffs loomed over a major energy conference this week, but U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry said the overall tone in the energy industry is one of "sheer optimism."

The flip side of FERC's landmark storage order: A call for states to take action

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Order 841 aims to reduce barriers to the deployment of energy storage in wholesale power markets. It lays the foundation for the energy storage market to grow by as much as five fold to 50 GW over the next decade. But at least half of that potential growth would depend on the development of state, not federal, policies to support energy storage, according to a new report by The Brattle Group.

If energy becomes free in the future, how will that affect our lives?

Technology is making the cost of many things trend towards zero. Things we used to have to pay a lot for are now cheap or even free—think about how much it costs to buy a computer, make long-distance calls, take pictures, watch movies, listen to music, or even travel to another state or country. Down the road even more of our day-to-day needs will join this list—including, possibly, electricity.

FERC issues storage, reliability orders, calls conference on aggregated DERs

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Feb. 15 issued new orders on energy storage participation in wholesale power markets and frequency response services provided by generators.

Major DOE NOPR supporters skip rehearing requests at FERC

Major supporters of a Department of Energy plan to subsidize coal and nuclear generation did not file for a rehearing at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission after the agency rejected the plan last month.

Canada unveils law to change how energy projects are assessed

The Canadian government, seeking to address unhappiness about the potential environmental impact of major projects, on Feb. 8 unveiled draft legislation to change how oil pipelines and mines are assessed.​

Energy industry prods Congress to back permitting reform in Trump's infrastructure push

Pipeline and power-sector lobbyists pushed Congress Feb. 8 to speed up permitting for energy infrastructure projects built in the U.S. President Trump is expected to make permitting reform a key piece of his infrastructure investment plan to be announced in the coming weeks.

2017 The Honorable Chief Judge Curtis L. Wagner, Jr. ALJ Reception, join us on October 16, 2017.

ALJ Reception Information and Sponsorship

Solar and wind power face serious threats from the Trump administration

Solar and wind power face serious threats from the Trump administration

Energy tax credits in final budget deal

Tax credits for nuclear power, carbon sequestration and small natural gas and renewable energy technologies were included in a Congressional budget deal that passed in the early hours of Feb. 9 and was later signed by President Trump.

Avoiding blackouts with 100 percent renewable energy

Researchers propose three separate ways to avoid blackouts if the world transitions all its energy to electricity or direct heat and provides the energy with 100 percent wind, water and sunlight.

Chatterjee: FERC must be more friendly to landowners

Neil Chatterjee, one of three Republican commissioners on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, said last week the commission should be more “friendly” to landowners as it evaluates its policies on reviewing applications for interstate pipelines.

Renewables overtake coal in European electricity supply

Good wind conditions and huge investment into wind energy have helped the European Union generate more electricity from renewable energy sources like wind, solar and biomass than from coal in 2017, a new study has shown.

FERC's resilience order may suggest reliability tweaks, rather than novel solutions

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has asked stakeholders to identify risks to grid resilience and propose solutions.

The forgotten renewable: Geothermal energy production heats up

Three and a half hours east of Los Angeles lies the Salton Sea, a manmade oasis in the heart of the Mojave Desert. It was created in 1905, when a canal broke and the Colorado River flooded the desert for more than a year.

EIA: Wind to beat hydro as leading US renewable resource in next 2 years

Hydroelectric facilities have historically generated the largest share of United States' renewable energy, but according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, that could change this year as WIND'S RAPID GROWTH CATCHES UP to hydro.

Britain will probably see a higher risks of blackouts after Brexit

Britain probably will risk more energy supply shortages after leaving the European Union, a panel of lawmakers from the House of Lords said, adding to pressure on the government to bring forward measures that protect consumers from higher costs.

Energy industry: Include us in infrastructure plan

As the Trump administration looks to upgrade the nation’s aging infrastructure, energy companies are asking the White House to avoid approaching the venture with tunnel vision.

McIntyre: FERC ex parte rules 'worked perfectly' in FirstEnergy coal plant case

The chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission said he will speak with commission staff about a recent ex parte communication between a FirstEnergy lawyer and FERC regulator on the commission regarding a decision on a power plant sale.

European Union moves to strengthen renewable-energy goals

European lawmakers have backed measures that would substantially raise the European Union’s clean-energy ambitions.

FERC approves PennEast pipeline

The controversial PennEast pipeline, a 120-mile natural gas line that would cut through Northampton County on its way from the Marcellus Shale production area to New Jersey, received federal approval Jan. 19. In its 106-page decision, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission said the market benefits PennEast will provide outweigh any adverse effects it could have on existing shippers, other pipelines, landowners and communities.

House GOP looks to give FERC final say on natural gas exports

Republicans and Democrats sparred Jan. 19 over legislation to make the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission the gatekeeper for approving natural gas exports.

FERC's McIntyre says tax cut issues on the table

Chairman Kevin McIntyre said yesterday that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is looking into what the agency could do to ensure that rates paid by consumers reflect the large decline in the federal corporate tax rate enacted late last year.

Regulatory ruling leaves energy companies wondering what future holds

Should electricity customers have to keep paying extra each month to subsidize noncompetitive nuclear and coal plants?

Final tax law suspends energy cuts to Western states

Western states no longer have to worry about losing millions in energy royalties due to the high cost of the new tax package.

FERC proposes mandatory reporting of attempted cybersecurity compromises

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has proposed a revision of the Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Reliability Standards to enhance awareness of existing or developing cybersecurity threats to the nation’s energy infrastructure.

Europes power generation industry evolves

The European Union (EU) is unequivocally continuing down a path of global climate and energy leadership while bringing online more carbon-neutral fuel systems throughout its 28 member states, closing in on the 2020 goal of a 20 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from 1990 levels.

FERC: Demand response fell 10 percent in power markets in 2016

A new analysis by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission concludes that in organized wholesale markets, demand response was called on to meet 5.7 percent of peak demand in 2016

Trump's huge offshore drilling plan unlikely to spark a 'gold rush' for energy industry

The Trump administration made waves on Thursday by announcing it will open virtually all federal offshore waters to oil and gas drilling.

FERC rejects DOE NOPR, kicking resilience issue to grid operators

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Monday rejected a proposal from the Department of Energy to subsidize to coal and nuclear plants, instead turning to regional grid operators to assess how best to enhance the resilience of the power system.

Germany energy consumers paid to use power over Christmas as supply outstrips demand

German ENERGY consumers were paid to use power over the Christmas period, thanks to a slump in demand, warm weather and plenty of wind power on the grid, trading data shows.

Tax overhaul breeds uncertainty for clean energy business

Lawyers and accountants in the renewable energy industry are poring over the details of the tax overhaul President Trump signed into law recently, trying to figure out what companies will lose or gain.​

Challenges galore for Indias clean energy industry

From yoga guru Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali Ayurved Ltd diversifying into solar equipment manufacturing to companies amassing dry powder to bid for a mammoth 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar and wind contracts, India’s clean energy space is expected to witness a lot of action in 2018.

Solar and wind power face serious threats from the Trump administration

Podcast: Five Terms that are Key to Successful ADR

4 regions use capacity markets to help ensure adequate resources, but FERC has not fully assessed their performance

Stakes Are High for Solar Power as Puerto Rico Rebuilds