Kavanaugh pick threatens EPA policies, FERC authority, lawyers say

The Supreme Court nominee has a track record of curtailing federal regulations and has questioned the constitutionality of independent agencies like FERC.

By Gavin Bade • July 11, 2018

New York power users fear paying twice for clean energy attributes

A group of large electric customers has asked the PSC to ensure a carbon pricing proposal being considered by the state's grid operator does not lead to double payments for some clean energy suppliers.

By Robert Walton • July 11, 2018

Explore the Trendline➔

Electricity Supply and Demand

After nearly two decades of flat demand, U.S. electricity consumption reached an all-time high in 2024 and is expected to continue rising. This trendline brings together the best of Utility Dive’s coverage of emerging trends in supply and demand and the decisions being made today that will impact the power system for years to come. 

By Utility Dive staff

Duke boosts solar in North Carolina, but storage addition brings controversy

The utility launched two programs July 10 that are expected to significantly increase solar power in the state — an RFP for 680 MW of renewable resources and a $62 million solar rebate program.

By Peter Maloney • July 11, 2018

Exelon to spend $140M for FirstEnergy Solutions retail power business

FirstEnergy Solutions filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year. Exelon told federal regulators it expects to close the deal in the fourth quarter.

By Robert Walton • July 11, 2018

Dominion threatens Millstone closure if plant shut out of support program

Connecticut passed a law last year to provide financial relief for the nuclear plant, but the state energy agency could bar it from participating for five years.

By Robert Walton • July 10, 2018

Diamond Generating wins key permits for $1.5B gas plant to power NYC

The 1.2 GW plant in New Jersey's Meadowlands received crucial water permits but still needs air quality authorizations and approval from state and federal agencies. 

By Peter Maloney • July 10, 2018

Wind developers wait for November to see market signals in Maine

After months of a moratorium on wind development, the industry is waiting for this fall's election to see if a new governor will create a more supportive policy environment. 

By Iulia Gheorghiu • July 10, 2018

FERC allows Valley Lateral Pipeline to commence service

New York had sought to block the pipeline, and developers hope the decision means FERC is prepared to overrule the state on other, larger projects. 

By Gavin Bade • July 10, 2018

Despite renewables gains, gas leads new US generation

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's latest energy infrastructure update shows renewable energy is growing, though 62% of 2018 U.S. generation additions through the end of May have been gas.

By Robert Walton • July 8, 2018

Arizona regulator seeks efficient path for 80% clean energy rule

Commissioner Andy Tobin proposed July 5 to merge his Arizona Energy Modernization Plan into the state's existing Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff framework.

By Robert Walton • July 7, 2018

California lawmakers push 100% clean energy bill closer to governor's desk

If approved by the California Assembly and signed by Gov. Jerry Brown, the state would target 100% renewables and emissions-free energy by 2045.

By Robert Walton • July 6, 2018

Future of Minnesota Power gas plant uncertain after ALJ ruling

Administrative Law Judge Jeanne Cochran found the utility did not give enough consideration to alternatives such as wind and solar power, energy efficiency or even a small gas-fired peaking plant.

By Peter Maloney • July 5, 2018

Surging heat fuels power demand records in 3 US markets

PJM, NYISO and ERCOT hit July power demand records in the past week, but the real test for the Texas operator will come later in the summer, when demand is forecast to approach its reserve margin. 

By Gavin Bade • July 5, 2018

DOE funds fossil fuel generation cybersecurity, operational enhancements

The U.S. Department of Energy has selected 15 projects to receive $8.8 million in federal funding to develop "innovative technologies that enhance fossil energy power systems."

By Robert Walton • July 5, 2018

FERC rejects ISO-NE Mystic waiver, orders quick fuel security reforms

Regulators said ISO-NE's waiver request was too broad, but directed it to file a short-term cost recovery proposal for the natural gas plant, as well as broader market changes. 

By Gavin Bade • July 3, 2018

EPA finds 20 states don't need more ozone pollution reductions to be 'good neighbors'

The agency has proposed to conclude the 2016 Cross State Air Pollution Rule Update satisfies the "good neighbor" obligations in the 2008 National Ambient Air Quality Standards, rather than updating the rule.

By Robert Walton • July 3, 2018

PG&E to replace 3 gas plants with world's biggest battery projects

The projects would eliminate the need to keep three Calpine plants running as reliability must-run resources and shore up congestion issues.

By Peter Maloney • July 3, 2018

NRC employees fear reprisals when raising issues, leaked commission study shows

The study, acquired by the Union of Concerned Scientists, shows employees at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission fear a "negative consequence" for utilizing the agency's Differing Professional Opinion program.

By Robert Walton • July 3, 2018

As the power sector transforms, can utilities and customers find common ground on ratemaking?

Rates are based on rate case assumptions about a utility's revenue need, but different ways to calculate that can serve the utility or its customers.

By Herman K. Trabish • July 2, 2018

FERC rejects PJM capacity market reform proposals, seeks quick resolution

In a 3-2 decision, the commission rejected PJM Interconnection's proposals to address capacity market failures, and instead initiated an expedited paper hearing to expand the minimum offer price rule.

By Robert Walton • June 30, 2018

Powelson to leave FERC deadlocked on gas pipelines, grappling with resilience

Republican FERC Commissioner Robert Powelson said Thursday he will leave in mid-August, giving more weight to the two Democratic members' opposition of natural gas pipeline certifications.

By Iulia Gheorghiu • June 29, 2018

Sempra to sell 2.6 GW renewable portfolio, gas storage assets

The divestitures mark the start of a three-phase effort to "optimize" the company's business portfolio and come amid increasing pressure from activist investors.

By Peter Maloney • June 29, 2018

South Carolina cuts SCE&G rate 15%, imperils proposed Dominion-SCANA merger

The ball is in Dominion's court after the South Carolina legislature voted to cut rates and soften the blow from the failed V.C. Summer nuclear project.

By Peter Maloney • June 28, 2018

Assuring grid reliability in California — a view from Commissioner Randolph

A decade and a half after the energy crisis, market behavior and a changing portfolio have triggered new moves to ensure California has enough affordable generation to meet demand.

By Liane M. Randolph • June 28, 2018

GE streamlines focus on renewables, gas turbines and power services

The global conglomerate is searching for the sweet spot for its gas turbine business, intending to sell its distributed power unit and its interest in oil services.

By Robert Walton • June 26, 2018