As solar energy became a larger and larger portion of California electricity generation, there were rising concerns about the infamous “duck curve.” Solar energy was starting to dominate midday electricity generation, forcing curtailments even, while peak electricity demand in the evening was a tad too late for solar to be … [continued]
In the US, the “duck curve” is a California phenomena. It’s a change to the legacy way of operating generation on the grid. The last time there was a signifiant change, and all of this was predicted long before it happened, there was too much solar during the middle of … [continued]
Global temperatures have broken long-standing records over the last month. Local utility companies have been in constant contact with their customers, offering small hints about energy conservation. Extreme heat generally translates into high electricity demand, and that can lead to rolling blackouts or outages that leave thousands without electricity. In … [continued]
A very unique change in the shape of the electric load met by conventional power plants develops when increasing levels of PV are added to the system. This phenomenon was first observed and published in a paper by NREL in 2008. The phenomenon was then later confirmed in more detail … [continued]
California has been a leader in the installation of solar power plants and wind power plants for many years now (despite its recent anti-rooftop solar shift via “Net Metering 3.0”). That has led to more and more of its electricity generation coming from renewables. The trend has been going on … [continued]
As more solar capacity has come online in California, grid operators at the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) have observed a drop in net load (or the demand remaining after subtracting variable renewable generation) in the middle of the day when solar generation tends to be highest. When graphed for … [continued]
Researchers are finding ways to reduce curtailment of solar during the day and move the power to the evening high demand period. Batteries, particularly in concert in a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), and now teamed with larger community batteries, may be the key. Can they put the duck to sleep? … [continued]
As more solar capacity has come online in California, grid operators at the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) have observed a drop in net load (or the demand remaining after subtracting variable renewable generation) in the middle of the day when solar generation tends to be highest. When graphed for … [continued]
Unlocking the Value of Electric Mobility Technologies to Drive Efficiency and Reliability Across the Power System
The dreaded duck curve is getting all bent out of shape by COVID-19, and a new open source renewable energy project aims to seize the moment.
