In late October, 2017, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) released its third triennial review of the Multi-Value Project (MVP) electric transmission portfolio, which is an update of previous analyses performed to understand the how these 17 transmission lines, approved in 2011, continue to show benefits to the MISO region. The report describes how these projects, which cross multiple states in the Midwest, continue to deliver benefits above and beyond what was initially expected. Continue reading »
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Q&A: Can Regional Competitive Wholesale Markets for Electricity Function alongside State Energy Policies?
November 29, 2017 in Energy Systems Author: Franz LitzAs states have increasingly moved to implement state-specific energy policies, tensions have grown between these states and the regional wholesale electricity markets that serve them. Although regional transmission organizations (RTOs) oversee the markets and manage the electricity grid, states’ right to pursue certain energy policies—such as renewable portfolio standards and tax incentives for preferred generation resources—is raising fundamental questions. Continue reading »
How Carbon Disclosure Platforms Can Help Cities Translate Commitments into Action
November 28, 2017 in Communities Author: Abby FinisNote: This blog is the first installment of a two-part series on carbon disclosure.
Carbon disclosure is the practice of reporting and managing emissions through credible reporting platforms, consistent with global standards and protocols. Cities around the globe have committed to reducing their impact on climate change and are using these entities to monitor and demonstrate their progress. Established disclosure platforms are available to cities to measure their impact while providing insights into their energy use that can be used to identify opportunities for more effective practices and policies. Continue reading »
GPI Staff Picks for Fall: What We’re Reading, Listening to, and Watching
November 28, 2017 in News & Press Author: Jennifer ChristensenFollow this new series that will feature GPI staff picks throughout the year. From podcasts to the latest analysis, you can check out what we’re interested in right now. Continue reading »
New Paper Examines Regional Electricity Markets
November 27, 2017 in Energy Systems Author: Franz LitzAs states have increasingly moved to implement state-specific energy policies, tensions have grown between these states and the regional wholesale electricity markets that serve them. Continue reading »
Minnesota GreenStep Cities is a voluntary challenge, assistance and recognition program to help cities achieve their sustainability and quality-of-life goals. For the past seven years, cities have been recognized at three step levels for taking and reporting action. In 2016, the program introduced Steps 4 and 5, which allow cities to measure and track the impact of their actions. The following includes highlights of what we have learned so far. Continue reading »
Please join me in welcoming GPI’s newest staff person, Jill Rook, who will be working as a program assistant with the fossil energy team. Jill brings a great deal of experience, including a Master’s of Science in Science Technology and Environmental policy from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. Continue reading »
Utilities, Companies, and Local Governments Discuss Opportunities for Collaboration on EVs in Minnesota
November 20, 2017 in Transportation & Fuels Author: Katelyn BocklundEarlier this fall, the Great Plains Institute hosted our third annual Energy Innovation Celebration with a focus on “Solutions from the Ground Up.” Ahead of the big event, the Metro Clean Energy Resource Team, in collaboration with Drive Electric Minnesota, hosted a pre-workshop focused on electric vehicles (EVs). More importantly, the workshop invited conversations centered around collaboration among utilities, local governments, and corporations on how to increase EV adoption in Minnesota. While the workshop helped to confirm some things we already knew, it also brought forth new context from additional voices in the room. Continue reading »
Midcontinent Power Sector Collaborative Tours General Motors’ Battery Lab
November 18, 2017 in Transportation & Fuels Author: Katelyn BocklundAs part of its September quarterly meeting, the Midcontinent Power Sector Collaborative (MPSC) had the unique opportunity to tour General Motors’ Battery Lab and learn about the power behind electric vehicles. Led by GM employee Douglas Drauch, the tour consisted of multiple stops including the Pack Lab, Cell & Module Lab, and Shaker Room. Continue reading »
Getting a Good Deal: Solar Garden Subscriptions for Local Governments
November 15, 2017 in Communities Author: Trevor DrakeSince its launch in 2014, Xcel Energy’s solar garden program in Minnesota has driven a growing conversation about solar energy options and opportunities, especially among local government staff and elected officials. Local governments are sought after as solar garden subscribers for their large and often stable electric loads, excellent credit scores, and interest in opportunities to reduce energy costs and meet public goals on clean energy. Continue reading »
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