Although it may seem straightforward to integrate energy storage into state energy markets, the characteristics that make storage so valuable and attractive also make it challenging to address in policy and regulatory contexts.
interconnection 
The Evolution of Hosting Capacity Analysis as a Grid Modernization Tool
For anyone in the distributed energy industry, the term “hosting capacity analysis” is one to know. Hosting capacity analysis (HCA) is a new analytical tool that can help states and utilities plan for and build a cleaner electric grid that optimizes customer-driven distributed energy resources (DERs), such as rooftop solar and energy storage.
Interconnection Workshop at Solar Power Southeast
What’s working and what’s not working with interconnection in the Southeast and across the country? Join IREC and SEIA at Solar Power Southeast in Atlanta on May 14, 1:00-4:30 and find out!
Cornerstone for Next Generation Grid Activities: Forecasting DER Growth
Focused on a relatively uncharted frontier in energy planning – distributed energy resource forecasting – IREC regulatory experts examine what a DER forecast is, why it matters, and what states, regulators and utilities should consider as they navigate future grid planning efforts.
Want to Prevent Interconnection Gridlock? Make a Plan!
Despite the astoundIng increase of grid-connected solar from 2005 to 2013, U.S. utilities and developers still face interconnection challenges. With proper planning, however, and using integrated distribution planning (IDP), states can overcome major interconnection challenges, including closed circuits, that are hindering the integration of renewables.
Report Guides States to Optimize Modern Electric Grid
An in-depth guide released by IREC, Optimizing the Grid: A Regulator’s Guide to Hosting Capacity Analyses for Distributed Energy Resources, will help states manage the grid redesign with new analytical tools and the benefit of lessons learned from states leading the way.
Knowledge is Power: Access to Grid Data Improves the Interconnection Experience for All
Just as we reach for mapping technologies when we’re on the road, there are many proven and emerging tools that applicants, utilities and regulators can use to improve transparency and access to grid data in the interconnection process.
State Policies Will Continue to Drive the Clean Energy Revolution
The strength of our foundations will be both a theme and a measure of resilience in 2017. As considerable changes permeate the federal landscape and seep into our economic, environmental, social and energy spheres, the foundations upon which historic clean energy growth has been built will be put to the test. State and local governments will remain at the epicenter of clean energy deployment and policy innovation.
Interconnection: The Key to Realizing Your Distributed Energy Policy Dream
Imagine a state that has enacted all of the policies that the public and clean energy providers have asked for: an aggressive renewable portfolio standard, a robust grid modernization plan, far-reaching shared renewables. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, people are celebrating and getting ready to build new projects — perfect, right?
Thumbs Up for Illinois Proactive Action on Interconnection
While we cheer every time a new state announces opportunities for expansion of solar energy, our applause reaches a crescendo when we see a state anticipate and plan for the resulting demand from consumers. Illinois just earned a well-deserved thumbs…
