The evolving demands of modern power grids necessitate the adoption of advanced technologies that can provide enhanced efficiency, reliability, and flexibility. Smart transformers are at the forefront of this technological revolution, offering a range of capabilities that significantly improve the management and operation of electrical grids. This article explores the latest advancements in smart transformer technology, their key features, benefits for real-time monitoring, load management, and fault detection, integration with smart grids and IoT devices,...
Calling utilities and regulators to move forward with new ideas A significant regulatory barrier stands in the way of innovation in Canada’s gas and electric utility sectors. Current regulatory practices were designed for existing and relatively low-risk technologies rather than innovative new...
Using enterprise tools to secure wireless field area communication networks BY BERT WILLIAMS, ABB Tropos Wireless Communication Systems Utility grid modernization applications such as automated metering infrastructure (AMI), distribution automation (DA), substation automation (SA), and mobile...
How utilities can move forward using electric vehicles BY BEAUDRY KOCK, Recargo Until recently, North American electric utility reps might have understood electric vehicles in one dimension only: potential adverse impacts on the power grid. However, as knowledge and understanding have grown, such...
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) recently hosted the Co-Located Load Conference, a significant event that focused on resource adequacy, energy reliability, and the challenges of ensuring sufficient electricity supply amidst changing grid dynamics. As the energy landscape continues to...
Alliant Energy has officially brought Iowa’s largest solar facility online, marking a significant milestone in the state's renewable energy landscape. The 200-megawatt (MW) Pleasant Creek Solar project, located in Linn County, is now operational and supplying clean electricity to Alliant...
Texas is at a pivotal crossroads in its energy policy, with legislative actions that could significantly reshape the state's electricity landscape. A recent report by Aurora Energy Research, commissioned by the Texas Association of Business, warns that proposed restrictions on renewable energy...
Duke Energy Florida has announced plans to build four new utility-scale solar energy facilities across the state, aimed at adding 300 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy to the grid. This expansion is part of the company’s broader strategy to increase its solar generation capacity and...
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has launched a review of the rules surrounding the colocation of large energy consumers, such as data centers, with power plants within the PJM Interconnection region. This review follows concerns raised by stakeholders, including major energy...
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) failure to act on ISO New England's (ISO-NE) proposed interconnection reforms is raising alarms, as it could prevent up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of new resources from participating in the region's upcoming capacity auction. The delay, if unresolved,...
Puerto Rico's electric utility, LUMA Energy, recently revealed plans to integrate nearly 1 GW of renewable energy and over 700 MW of energy storage into the island’s power grid. This initiative is part of a broader effort to move away from fossil fuels and to enhance the resilience and...
