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PUR Guide 2012 Fully Updated Version

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FERC

Frequency Regulation

Not Just for Reliability Anymore
In a recent order, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) said that by paying the wrong price for the ancillary service known as frequency “regulation,” system operators have encouraged too many gas-fired turbines and other conventional fossil power plants to supply regulation service.

Transmission Rate Incentives

Did FERC Jump the Gun?
In an October order, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) trimmed the authorized rate incentive for the RITELine transmission project by one-third. The action prompted Commissioner Moeller to ask whether the commission is retreating from its incentive policy on needed transmission lines.

Gas Demand Response

As more natural gas is used for power generation, more volatility can be expected in gas markets. Demand response might provide a tool for managing that volatility, but is it technically feasible? And will gas customers accept it?

Up in Smoke

PJM auction jettisons 6.9 GW of coal-fired generation
Demand-side resources claim a growing share of the market, bringing lower costs and environmental benefits.

Managing Overgrowth

Vegetation Management and FERC Compliance
An integrated approach can trim the cost of keeping utility rights of way clean -- and green.

Killing the Electric Car ... Again!

EV Policy Dilemma
Perverse policy signals are pitting utilities against the EV revolution. Will regulators give utilities the incentives they need to pave the way for electric transportation?

States' Rights, Gamed Markets

RTO Bidding Rules
FERC OK's PJM's capacity price floor, but questions remain about 'legitimate interests.'

Making Solar Grid-Friendly

Why integrating utility-scale solar will follow the wind model.
If made fully “grid-friendly,” utility-scale solar ought to be able to act like a traditional power plant — aiding voltage stability and supporting grid integrity during transmission system disturbances.

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