Innovative Solutions to Tackle the Northeast’s Peak Demand
The Northeast energy system is undergoing a major transformation driven by rising load, extreme weather, retirements of older generating fuels, the growth of renewable resources, and the electrification of heating and transportation sectors. ISO-NE and distribution utilities all predict upward pressure on peak demand, both during summer and winter periods which pose reliability risks and will be expensive if left unaddressed. The challenge of peak demand may vary across the region, and solutions may differ in the short and long-term. Innovative technologies and new services can meet the challenge of peak demand to make our energy grid more flexible and resilient, and that can help contain system cost. The solutions are many, including battery storage, solar + storage, demand response (DR), grid modernizations, distributed energy resources (DERs), smart meters, and more. Market reforms and state policies also may be key to support adoption of these new resources and successfully integrate them into our energy system. This panel will demonstrate what’s at stake and explore how to tackle peak demand in the Northeast.