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Energy Regulation

All articles tagged with #energy regulation

FERC Blocks PJM’s Data Center Curtailment Rules, Citing State Jurisdiction
energy-policy1 day ago

FERC Blocks PJM’s Data Center Curtailment Rules, Citing State Jurisdiction

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) rejected the core components of PJM Interconnection’s plan to manage large loads, specifically the Interim Resource Adequacy Service (IRAS) framework. This framework allowed data centers to connect without matching new generation if they agreed to be curtailed during grid emergencies. FERC ruled that these provisions intrude on state jurisdiction over retail rates and discriminate against large customers. While FERC approved the definition of large loads and a registry system, it blocked the curtailment rules, potentially prolonging high capacity prices in the PJM region.

FERC Halts PJM Data Center Auction Over Cost Allocation Flaws
energy-policy13 days ago

FERC Halts PJM Data Center Auction Over Cost Allocation Flaws

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has partially rejected PJM Interconnection’s plan for a backstop power auction, delaying the process intended to address capacity shortfalls driven by data center demand. FERC Chairman Laura Swett criticized the proposal as a 'mess' filed at the last minute, citing issues with cost allocation and collateral requirements. PJM has suspended its planned September 30 start date to revise the plan, while states face pressure to implement local rules for large loads.

California strikes deal on data-center energy rules to curb grid costs
politics1 month ago

California strikes deal on data-center energy rules to curb grid costs

California lawmakers reached a compromise on two bills to regulate data-center electricity use, directing the CPUC to craft special rates and require funding for grid upgrades and wildfire mitigation. The move aims to prevent data-center costs from being passed to other customers and to support clean energy goals, but faces objections from tech companies worried about higher costs and from communities concerned about water use, noise and utility bills as data centers expand across the state.

Warren Demands Transparency From PE Firms Over Data Center Investments
business4 months ago

Warren Demands Transparency From PE Firms Over Data Center Investments

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, the ranking member on the Senate Banking Committee, sent letters to BlackRock, Blackstone, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and KKR seeking detailed information on their data-center investments, including changes to financial structures and operations, as well as any overlaps with energy utilities. She asks for documentation on regulatory risk mitigation and assurances that their footprint in energy supply and demand won’t drive higher consumer costs. Respondents have declined comment or not yet replied. The move highlights mounting political scrutiny of data centers amid AI growth and rising energy prices.

Michigan AG Nessel Plans Intervention in DTE's $456M Rate Hike Request
energy-regulation2 years ago

Michigan AG Nessel Plans Intervention in DTE's $456M Rate Hike Request

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel plans to intervene in DTE Energy's $456 million rate hike request, criticizing it as "absurd" and questioning the need for such a substantial increase. DTE argues the hike is necessary for grid improvements and service reliability, but Nessel's office contends that the company has failed to justify previous cost increases. The Michigan Public Service Commission will consider the request, with a history of approving lower rate increases than initially sought by utilities.

Michigan Attorney General Steps in as DTE Energy Seeks $450M Rate Hike
energy-regulation2 years ago

Michigan Attorney General Steps in as DTE Energy Seeks $450M Rate Hike

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel intervened in DTE Electric Company's request for a $450 million rate increase, criticizing the timing and lack of accountability. Just four months ago, DTE was approved for a $368 million rate hike, costing the average residential customer $100 or more annually. Nessel aims to prevent residents from bearing additional costs without quantifiable benefits and has also raised concerns about DTE's five-year distribution plan lacking utility accountability.

"OUCC Recommends Substantial Cut in CenterPoint's Proposed Rate Increase"
energy-regulation2 years ago

"OUCC Recommends Substantial Cut in CenterPoint's Proposed Rate Increase"

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) is recommending a significant reduction to CenterPoint Energy Indiana’s proposed $118.8 million (16%) base rate increase, suggesting an increase of $33.1 million (4.5%) instead. The recommendation follows testimonies from thirteen OUCC witnesses and extensive community engagement, with specific proposals to maintain customer service charges, decrease the utility’s authorized return on equity, and implement consumer protections. CenterPoint Energy's rebuttal testimony is due on Apr. 9, 2024, with a final order from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission expected in the fall.

"Biden Appoints Willie L. Phillips, Jr. as Full-Time Chair of FERC"
energy-policy2 years ago

"Biden Appoints Willie L. Phillips, Jr. as Full-Time Chair of FERC"

President Biden has appointed Willie L. Phillips, Jr. as the Chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), an independent agency that regulates the interstate transmission of natural gas, oil, electricity, and other energy projects. Phillips, who has served as a FERC Commissioner since November 2021 and as Acting Chair since January 2023, brings over 20 years of legal expertise in utility regulation, bulk power system reliability, and corporate governance. His appointment comes as the Biden Administration aims to address the climate crisis and achieve a clean electricity grid by 2035, with FERC playing a crucial role in advancing these goals.

"February 2024 Commission Meeting: Sunshine Notice"
energy-regulation2 years ago

"February 2024 Commission Meeting: Sunshine Notice"

The February 2024 Commission Meeting will cover topics such as electric power sales, oil industry charges, market assessments, hydropower licensing, natural gas safety, and FERC staff reports. The meeting will also address public participation through the Office of Public Participation, providing resources on how to effectively participate in FERC events and educational materials on energy markets and projects. Additionally, the meeting will discuss enforcement matters such as investigations, audits, and compliance in the energy industry.