Off Peak: Past PUF Pieces
From PUF in early 1929
The Greensboro Gas Co. suspected a residence was consuming more gas than was recorded by meter. Piping was found hidden in the walls to bypass the meter.
October Birthdays: George Westinghouse, and Greats of the U.K., Italy, Russia, France
It was Westinghouse that shortened the typical American work week from six days to five and a half.
Westinghouse saw disadvantages in Thomas Edison’s direct current-based systems, preventing a grid of centralized power stations.
PUF Top 20 Financial Performers
PSEG, NextEra, Wisconsin Energy, OGE Energy, Pinnacle West, IDACORP, etc.
The PUF Top 20 Financial Performers were selected through a four-year average ranking of profit margin, dividend yield, free cash flow, return on equity, return on assets, and sustainable growth.
Modernizing PURPA
Should FERC rewrite rules or let states make reforms?
Idaho has a problem with PURPA. So does North Carolina, and other states in between. Utilities have complaints too. Consider industry groups like EEI, representing investor-owned companies, NRECA, representing co-ops, and even NARUC, representing state utility regulators. Each has proposed new rules to fix PURPA, a longtime favorite of enviros. And don’t forget Berkshire Hathaway.
Don't Cry for Utility Shareholders, America
Maybe Steve Huntoon Was Right
We decided to check out the numbers. Utilities earned more than the cost of capital in most years. Utility investors earned an average market return, while taking a lower than average risk.
Intersection of DER, Energy Efficiency, DR
Three Initiatives That Fit and Complement
Energy efficiency and demand response need to align with the broader purpose of distributed resources.
Future Service-Oriented Utility
What is value of going digital?
We see the potential for a large pot of value for utilities, sitting in clouds of smart meter data.
A Mindset to Mimic
What if Utilities Were Lead Like Amazon?
Reflect for a moment on the Amazon story. Yes, it’s a different type of business. But take careful note of how their leader’s mindset has shaped the outcomes.
Finishing Transmission Planning Reforms
No Way to Get There Without FERC Acting Now
Ineffective interregional transmission policies, not technical or economic barriers, are the chief factors holding up the construction of new interstate transmission. This will not change without FERC intervention.
Active Grid
Where Smart Energy Meets Internet of Things
Imagine what could be achieved if the current modernized grid evolved to be even more dynamic, a complete solution encompassing electricity, gas and water.