News

In an opinion piece for the Albuquerque Journal, United's Michael Barrio and Brian Turner discuss how New Mexico can meet growing energy demand by maximizing the use of distributed energy resources (DERs) and virtual power plants (VPPs). The article calls on state leaders to establish clear policies that unlock the full potential of existing advanced energy technologies to lower costs and strengthen grid reliability for all New Mexicans.

Canary Media reports that Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a series of virtual power plant bills, AB 44, AB 740, and SB 541, despite strong bipartisan support in the California legislature. The article quotes United's Edson Perez, who said this was a huge missed opportunity to tap the value of rooftop solar, batteries, and EVs that could cut costs and boost grid reliability.

Canary Media reports that Illinois lawmakers are considering a bill (HB 4120) that would establish a basic virtual power plant (VPP) program and require the state's two largest utilities to propose their own VPP programs by 2027. United's Samarth Medakkar spoke to the benefits of VPPs in lowering electricity costs and reducing strain on the grid during times of peak demand.

California lawmakers passed two virtual power plant (VPP) bills—AB 44 and AB 740—that now await Governor Newsom's signature, reports PV Magazine. United's Edson Perez spoke to the benefits of VPPs in reducing grid strain, lowering energy costs, and increasing grid reliability, urging Governor Newsom to sign the bills into law.

Canary Media reports that Assembly Bills 740 and 44 continue to advance with provisions to expand virtual power plant programs in California, while last-minute amendments stripped away key provisions from Senate Bill 541. United's Edson Perez warned that California can’t afford to sideline tools that make the grid cleaner, more resilient, and more affordable. 

The Bakersfield Californian reports that Assembly Bills (AB) 740 and 44—which aim to further integrate virtual power plants (VPPs) in California's energy system—are currently under consideration in the State Legislature. United's Edson Perez spoke to the benefits of VPPs in reducing energy costs, meeting load growth, and increasing grid resilience.

Canary Media reports on the potential funding cuts to California's Demand Side Grid Support (DSGS) virtual power plant (VPP) program, which has proven highly cost-effective and reduces reliance on fossil-fueled power plants. United's Edson Perez stated that VPPs are vital for the state to enhance grid reliability, increase affordability, and meet rising load growth.

Canary Media reports on California's Demand Side Grid Support (DSGS) program, facing over $100 million in proposed budget cuts, putting the future of virtual power plants at risk. United's Edson Perez cautioned that repeated funding cuts undermines California's efforts to keep the lights on during grid emergencies. 

The Center Square covered a recent House Energy Committee hearing on electric transmission and emerging load growth in the Northeast. Industry experts, including United's Chloe Holden, spoke to the benefits of implementing grid-enhancing technologies, advanced transmission technologies, and virtual power plants as a way to meet growing energy demand.