News

PV Magazine reports on RE+ Northeast's panel "VPPs: Maximizing Their Value Through Smart Regulatory Choices," where several advanced energy experts, including United's Kat Burnham, discussed grid modernization strategies, and the role virtual power plants play in creating a more reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective grid.

Advanced energy manufacturing in the U.S. is facing increased business uncertainty amid threats to undo the tax credits that have been fueling record investment. United’s Harry Godfrey spoke with The New York Times about how manufacturing companies look not only at tax programs for building new plants but also market demand for products when weighing future investments.

The Nevada Current reports that Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo has acknowledged the positive impacts of federal programs and spending for the state, but despite this recognition, he has not actively defended these programs against federal rollbacks. United's Harry Godfrey emphasized the widespread uncertainty that the federal funding freezes have caused for both businesses and individuals alike, raising concerns about the future of advanced energy initiatives that have contributed to Nevada's economic growth.

To address potential electricity shortages, PJM Interconnection has proposed measures to expedite the development of new power plants in order to enhance grid reliability. Canary Media spoke with clean energy advocates, including United's Caitlin Marquis, who argued that reforming current interconnection processes and investing in grid expansion could facilitate the integration of advanced energy solutions to meet electricity demand while supporting decarbonization goals.

In Texas, Bandera Electric's virtual power plant (VPP) pilot program is utilizing distributed energy resources to bolster the grid and lower energy costs for consumers. Texas Advanced Energy Business Alliance's Executive Director Matthew Boms spoke with The Texas Tribune about the many benefits of VPPs in creating a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable grid while meeting growing energy demand.

Imperial Valley Press reports on California State Senator Steve Padilla's new legislation that would establish pilot projects designed to develop, finance, and operate electrical transmission lines. United's Edson Perez emphasized the importance of expanding transmission efficiently and affordably to meet growing energy demand across the state.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has approved PJM Interconnection's proposal to expedite the development of new power plants. Erie New Now spoke with United's Jon Gordon who explained that this new approach favors fossil fuels over clean energy solutions and does not address the root of the issue, which is a faulty interconnection process.