Capgemini launches Digital Utilities Transformation services

Capgemini launched its new digital transformation offering for utilities and the digital utilities transformation “User Group Forum”. The service is designed to accelerate the adoption of digital by utilities, transform the way they interact with and understand customers, and drive efficiencies across their organization internally. Customers will have direct access to studies, thought leaderships and technology demonstrations. 

LaGrange County REMC installs Sensus FlexNet Utility Communications Network

LaGrange County REMC began deploying a Sensus FlexNet utility network and iCon A electric meters for its more than 7,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers across parts of four counties in northern Indiana. The utility recently concluded construction and installation of its five base stations. LaGrange made a decision to forego a pilot program and move straight into implementation, which is expected to be fully complete within the next five to six years as legacy meters are replaced with digital meters from Sensus.

Duke Energy Renewables completes Notrees Battery Storage Project

Duke Energy Renewables, part of Duke Energy's Commercial Businesses, completed its 36-MW energy storage and power management system at its Notrees Windpower Project in west Texas. The system completed testing and became fully operational in December 2012. Xtreme Power designed and installed the 36-MW capacity Dynamic Power Resource at Notrees and will continue to operate the system. In addition to increasing the supply of renewable energy during periods of peak demand, the system will help stabilize the frequency of electricity traveling throughout the power grid.

People (February 2013)

Duke makes executive changes post-merger; Integrys names new CFO, utility president; NRECA and RESA elect officers; Denise Bode resigns from AWEA; plus executive changes and appointments at PG&E, Sempra, Entergy, AEP, and others.

Partnering on Pipeline Safety

The state regulator’s perspective on gas infrastructure inspections and investments.

As aging pipelines bring safety concerns, regulators and utilities must cooperate to ensure investments deliver the greatest value for customers.

Franchise Fracas

Will Boulder be the last city to go muni? Don’t bet on it.

When the goals of a utility and its host community aren’t in sync, breakups happen.

Digest

(February 2013) LA and Burbank enter 250 MW PPA with Sempra’s Copper Mountain Solar 3 project; ABB wins $225 million turnkey PV project contracts; NextEra acquires 165-MW Cimarron I wind project; PG&E builds gas pipeline control center; ITC energizes 227-mile transmission line in Midwest; plus contracts and announcements from Survalent, Landis+Gyr, Dell, DNV, Sensus, Itron, Elster, Ameresco, Constellation, Duke, People’s Natural Gas, and others.

First Refusers

Order 1000, the RTOs, and the power of incumbency.

In Order 1000, FERC wanted—among other things—to open grid development to private developers. But FERC’s natural allies—the regional transmission organizations—are refusing to go along with this new vision.

Siting for Success

Using a trial-based approach to improve a project’s chances before state siting boards.

Project development isn’t getting any easier. Using a trial-based approach can improve a project’s chances before state siting boards. And time-tested principles of planning, discovery, and argument lay the groundwork for an effective appeal.