Duke Energy has struck a deal to build a microgrid-ready combined heat and power (CHP) project for Duke University. Pending state regulatory approval, the utility giant will own, build and operate the 21-MW plant under a 35-year agreement with the university. The $55 million project, which will be fueled by natural gas, will be located on the … [Read more...]
Another Big US Storm, Another Argument for Microgrids
January 29, 2016 By
Big storms offer a good argument for microgrids. And last week's blizzard in the eastern United States was no exception, based on government data released today. The Energy Information Administration reports that more than one million electricity customers lost power when the record-setting blizzard swept across 14 states. Customers with … [Read more...]
Playing Nice: What the Duke Energy Microgrid Test Bed Teaches
January 25, 2016 By
Integrating – not just adding distributed energy resources – is the key to strengthening the new grid. That realization is what led to the Duke Energy microgrid test bed, created with the help of an intriguingly named ‘Coalition of the Willing.’ The impetus for the project goes back to a few years ago, when the utility saw the explosive growth … [Read more...]
Who are the Ubers of Energy & How do They Create Energy Brands?
January 5, 2016 By
Why are Duke Energy and other utilities so good at being the “Ubers of energy” and creating appealing energy brands while other energy companies are struggling to establish clear and attractive brands? In this podcast (click on the player above to listen), Fridrik Larsen, CEO of Larsen Energy Branding--likely the first CEO in the world to get a … [Read more...]
Demand Response World Forum Oct. 13-15 Looks at DR's Role in Grid Modernization
September 30, 2014 By
Energy professionals from around the world will gather for the Demand Response World Forum 2014 in Costa Mesa, California, October 13-15 . The international event will explore the latest automated demand response (ADR) technologies and strategies for meeting the changing energy landscape of the 21st Century. Over 40 speakers will join technology … [Read more...]
Industry Insiders _Not_ Surprised that Utilities Like Microgrids
July 28, 2014 By
So it turns out that utilities like microgrids, contrary to the notion – almost lore – that they dread them as economic disruptors or technical headaches. In fact, utilities view microgrids as a business opportunity. That was the finding of a recent project that I had the pleasure of working on with the nice folks at Utility Dive, who … [Read more...]
A New Day for Energy Efficiency in North Carolina
October 31, 2013 By
The North Carolina Utilities Commission issued an important ruling this week that reaffirms the importance of energy efficiency as the fastest and cheapest way to reduce pollution from fossil fuels, protect the health of our families and promote our economy. The ruling approved a new “shared savings" program that allows Duke Energy to make … [Read more...]
