Tesla is working on technology for “a scalable hierarchical energy distribution grid” that could revolutionize how the electrical grid distributes solar power. To date, Tesla’s energy division, Tesla Energy, mostly involved deploying distributed solar power and energy storage assets. But last year, CEO Elon Musk said that “Tesla Energy is becoming a distributed global utility […]
Ex-Tesla exec wants to increase utility control of DERs, and has a smart panel to do it
The new electric panel combines smart metering capabilities with remote control of energy use in residences, while easing installation of solar, energy storage and EV chargers. Behind the meter (BTM) resources are increasingly being brought online and several utilities want to capitalize on the trend. The key, according to Tesla Energy’s former lead on products, […]
Let’s reduce wholesale market costs by tapping the full potential of DERs
The cost and performance of distributed energy resources (DERs) have improved faster than anyone would have expected. Between 2010 and 2017, residential rooftop solar system costs fell over 60%, and lithium-ion battery prices fell 79%. Inverter prices have also fallen, while their functionality has improved in ways that enable the integration of higher penetrations of […]
Planning for a Distributed Energy Future
We surveyed utility executives, customers, and regulators. Here’s what they had to say. Utilities are beginning to accommodate renewable energies, but many wonder if it is enough to keep up with consumer demand and prepare for new regulations. Utility executives report solar has the biggest impact on their operations while regulators report a wider range […]
Sowing the Seeds of Grid Interoperability
By Christine Stearn and Tim Wolf “Plug-and-Play DER Challenge” Seeks Industry Solutions to Address Technology Silos The nation’s power grid is undergoing more disruptive change than at any point since its inception more than a century ago. The proliferation of distributed energy resources (DERs) and new models of customer engagement have added significant complexity. Simultaneously, […]