Blog
Microgrids a Hot Topic–Again
There has been an explosion in interest about microgrids and what they can do in the past decade. But there are also concerns about what some unintended consequences might be. Ironically, the electric utility business started from a collection of microgrids, but the...
FERC Order 2222 Opening up DER to Wholesale Market
FERC directs regional grid operators to revise their tariffs to establish DERs as a category of market participants. While this does not immediately change the landscape, the new rules could provide an opportunity for smaller generation from companies like Helios...
EV Charging in 15 Seconds?
An interesting but misleading claim. Estonia-based Skeleton Technologies has announced with a flourish that it has a graphene-based ultracapacitor for EVs. Because ultracapacitors accumulate static charges rather than store chemical energy, they do indeed recharge...
We Are Humbled
The huge outpouring of support in our August fundraising campaign was many things—unexpected, amazing, gratifying—and humbling. We are glad to have earned your trust and respect. We intend to treat your generosity well, and keep expanding our services and our...
Emerging Opportunities Discussion with V. John White, Exec Director of CEERT
We recently had the pleasure of interviewing V. John White, the 30-year veteran Executive Director of the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technology (CEERT). CEERT has been in the lead on many of the regulatory and legislative changes that have pushed...
Hot and Overcast, Part 2
Here we are again with rotating blackouts because power supplies are not adequate at certain hours. This surely can’t be the case for ever. People hate the inconvenience. Utilities hate doing it even more because it makes people so mad. How did we get here? ...
Mark Henwood – Founding CleanStart
I founded CleanStart with Gary Simon and have been a board member for CleanStart from its beginning in 2005. Now I have enjoyed being part of the revitalized CleanStart. I have witnessed CleanStart set the example on how to help entrepreneurs and startups succeed and...
Dan Koellen – Support CleanStart
I have been a board member for CleanStart from its beginning in 2005 and have enjoyed being part of the revitalized CleanStart. I have witnessed CleanStart set the example on how to help entrepreneurs and startups succeed and invigorate the community around clean...
Hot and Overcast: Why We Need Innovation.
In the past week, the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) has issued a number of Flex Alerts. Flex Alerts are voluntary calls for consumers to conserve energy. On social media SMUD shared this call. It might seem like renewable energy has made this a new...