Sean Walters

A new rule from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is paving the way for long-term transmission planning. By expanding market and grid access, this rule will accelerate the integration of clean energy resources like offshore wind across the country. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3R4aBdH #offshorewind #cleanenergy #renewableenergy

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Is market design hurting or helping ERCOT BESS? In the latest episode of Transmission, Gary Cate of Fluence sits down with Modo Energy - USA to chat all things market design. ▶ How market design varies across RTOs and ISOs in the US. ▶ Top market design considerations for accelerating renewable deployment. ▶ Policy hot topics for battery energy storage. Full episode linked in the comments 🔗

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🌟 Exciting News! 🌟  I am moderating a panel today at Intersolar IESNA TX on "Creating Connections: An Examination of Energy Storage and Distributed Generation." Please join if you are attending. We’ll explore how energy storage and distributed generation are shaping the future of the grid in Texas and beyond, with insights from experts leading this transition. At Derapi, we see every day how crucial seamless integrations are for unlocking the full potential of energy storage and distributed generation. This session will dive into the opportunities and challenges of building the future DER-friendly grid. Whether you’re passionate about energy storage, distributed generation, or digital solutions like the Derapi API, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 📅 Tuesday November 19, 1:30 pm, Room 604  🔗 Panel Session Information And if you can't make it, but are in Austin, let's connect later today or tomorrow! Reach out.  #IESNATX #EnergyStorage #DistributedGeneration #CleanEnergy #APISolutions

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We were so proud to partner with Dominion Energy for this natural gas distributed generation microgrid project at West Fort Cavazos, TX! This microgrid will be capable of providing long-term resiliency by isolating a portion of the Fort Cavazos Distribution Grid (covers 43 Fort Cavazos facilities) and utilizing natural gas PowerSecure PowerBlocks® to produce the capacity to continue to operate in the event of loss of utility power. During times of high stress on the ERCOT electricity grid, the DG System will enable Fort Cavazos to avoid high electricity costs, and in some cases earn revenue, through real-time price avoidance and programs such as Emergency Response Service, LR and Peak Capacity Avoidance. https://bit.ly/4bUaLvC #microgrid #USArmy #resilience

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Understanding the Role of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) in Shaping Our Energy Future As Texas faces growing power demands and the ongoing transition to clean energy, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) plays a pivotal role in regulating and overseeing the state's power grid, managed by ERCOT. Despite the significant reforms implemented since the 2021 freeze, questions about the reliability and sustainability of the Texas grid persist. The recent appointment of Gilbert Hughes, a former American Electric Power executive, as ERCOT's new vice president of public affairs signals a renewed focus on communications and government affairs. However, the actions and priorities of the PUCT will determine the future stability and affordability of our energy system. The PUCT is responsible for ensuring consumer utility bills remain affordable, overseeing the administration of the $10 billion Texas Energy Fund to develop new natural gas power plants, and spearheading efforts to make Texas a leader in nuclear power. Commissioners like Jimmy Glotfelty and Lori Cobos are key figures in these initiatives, focusing on nuclear power studies and transmission line buildouts, respectively. Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The commission's response to recent storms, such as Hurricane Beryl, has come under scrutiny, with formal investigations launched into CenterPoint's storm response. The PUCT's mandate to strengthen power lines and poles against extreme weather is critical as climate change exacerbates weather conditions. While more high-profile entities often overshadow the PUCT's role, it remains central to addressing whether the Texas grid is truly "fixed." The agency’s expanded commission, now comprising five members, is tasked with balancing the urgent need for grid reliability with the pressures of an evolving energy landscape. As we move forward, the importance of the PUCT's decisions cannot be overstated. Stakeholders must stay informed and engaged, ensuring that the commission's actions align with the broader goals of grid resilience and cost-effectiveness. Grid Monitor is free to try. No credit card required. #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #StormRecovery #Infrastructure #EnergyProfessionals

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🔋 𝐍𝐑𝐆 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 & 𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐓𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐬’𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐀𝐈-𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭 🌐 NRG Energy has teamed up with Renew Home to roll out Texas's largest AI-powered virtual power plant (VPP), set to debut for customers in spring 2025. Using advanced Google Cloud technology, this nearly 1-gigawatt VPP will improve the resilience of the Texas energy grid while helping households save on energy costs. The initiative includes distributing hundreds of thousands of smart thermostats, such as Vivint and Nest, provided with professional installation at no cost to eligible customers. These smart devices will automatically adjust HVAC settings to optimize energy usage during off-peak hours, when electricity is cleaner and more affordable. In the future, the VPP could also include batteries and electric vehicles, providing a robust and flexible energy resource. Stay updated with the latest insights by visiting xpylon.com. https://lnkd.in/dyaZcNMd #EnergyTransition #IT #AI #TexasEnergy

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The Senate ENR Committee held an important hearing last week about growing energy demands from new, large-load data centers coming online and electricity demand growing 3X faster this decade than in prior decades. This growth represents a major opportunity for our industry, and the need for a comprehensive solution that includes holistic reforms to all federal infrastructure permitting will help America realize a lower-carbon future while still satisfying the country’s energy needs. My letter to the Committee outlining this need and a pragmatic solution can be found here: https://lnkd.in/gvCyPFkw

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Are You Navigating Texas’ Energy Maze Without a Map? Texas energy professionals, here’s a snapshot of today’s key developments: ❓ ERCOT Alternatives: ERCOT issued another RFP to explore alternatives to Braunig Units & CenterPoint’s mobile generation. How might this impact grid reliability next summer? ❓ Grid Resilience: El Paso is building a resilient grid for the future. What does this mean for West Texas? ❓ Cleaner Grid Trends: Six charts show how the U.S. grid is becoming cleaner. Is Texas leading the charge? ❓ Mobile Generators Debate: Could Houston’s mobile generators be the key for CPS Energy to keep the grid stable this summer? ❓ Solar Transformation: A coal-fired power plant near San Antonio will switch to solar, backed by a $1.4B federal grant. Could this signal a larger trend? ❓ Consumer Protections: New PUCT rules aim to protect consumers in mobile power generation usage. What safeguards are now in place? Staying on top of these developments is critical, but keeping track of everyupdate, proposal, and trend can be overwhelming. That’s where Grid Monitor steps in. Our tools and insights help you: 🔍 Track regulatory updates, including filings, meeting summaries, and RFPs. ⚡ Organize key topics across ERCOT, PUCT, and legislative developments. 📧 Stay ahead with our daily Power Breakfast News delivered directly to your inbox. Grid Monitor makes navigating Texas’ dynamic energy landscape easier, clearer, and faster. Don’t just keep up—stay ahead. Try Grid Monitor for free and simplify your regulatory navigation today: https://lnkd.in/etqDECkr #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #Solar #EnergyStorage #PUCT #CleanEnergy

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Demand Response and Addressing Financial Struggles As Texas braces for another summer of above-average temperatures, ERCOT's calls for electricity conservation are becoming a norm. This strategy, alongside innovative solutions like demand response programs and battery storage systems, is crucial for managing our energy supply and maintaining grid reliability. Embracing Demand Response: ERCOT is expanding demand response programs to incentivize users to reduce their electricity usage during peak demand periods. This approach not only helps manage the supply shortage but also aims to alleviate risks from transmission issues, particularly in areas like San Antonio. By securing commitments from industrial power users, ERCOT is enhancing its ability to mitigate emergency conditions and ensure a stable power supply throughout the summer. Addressing Financial Struggles: Amid these technical advancements, many Texans are struggling to keep up with their electricity bills, especially during extreme weather. A recent survey by Payless Power found that one-third of Texans paid their electric bills late at least once last year, with many falling behind during periods of high demand. Despite these challenges, the introduction of demand response programs and advancements in battery storage are steps towards mitigating the financial strain on consumers. The Role of Battery Storage: Again, a recent study by Aurora Energy highlights the significant impact of battery energy storage systems (BESS) during extreme weather conditions. In the summer heat of 2023, BESS freed up over 3GW of natural gas power plants during peak hours, saving an estimated $750 million in day-ahead market costs and dispatching up to 2GW of power during low ERCOT reserves. ERCOT projects that around 20 GW of battery storage will be required by 2035 to meet growing electricity demands, with current capacity at approximately 4 GW and expected growth to 8.4 GW by the end of the year. Preparing for Higher Costs: As we prepare for what is expected to be one of the hottest summers on record, it's important to stay informed about potential increases in electricity prices. David Kinchen, COO of Energy Ogre, notes that current rates have risen, with some plans reaching up to 16 cents per kilowatt-hour. However, improvements in grid infrastructure and renewable energy sources should help meet the state’s energy demands, potentially reducing the frequency of conservation alerts and easing the burden on consumers. Staying informed about these developments and leveraging innovations in battery storage and demand response programs are essential for navigating the challenges ahead. By enhancing grid resilience and embracing new strategies, we can work towards a more reliable and cost-effective energy future for Texas. #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #BatteryStorage #EnergyInnovation #Resilience #EnergyProfessionals

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Demand Response and Addressing Financial Struggles As Texas braces for another summer of above-average temperatures, ERCOT's calls for electricity conservation are becoming a norm. This strategy, alongside innovative solutions like demand response programs and battery storage systems, is crucial for managing our energy supply and maintaining grid reliability. Embracing Demand Response: ERCOT is expanding demand response programs to incentivize users to reduce their electricity usage during peak demand periods. This approach not only helps manage the supply shortage but also aims to alleviate risks from transmission issues, particularly in areas like San Antonio. By securing commitments from industrial power users, ERCOT is enhancing its ability to mitigate emergency conditions and ensure a stable power supply throughout the summer. Addressing Financial Struggles: Amid these technical advancements, many Texans are struggling to keep up with their electricity bills, especially during extreme weather. A recent survey by Payless Power found that one-third of Texans paid their electric bills late at least once last year, with many falling behind during periods of high demand. Despite these challenges, the introduction of demand response programs and advancements in battery storage are steps towards mitigating the financial strain on consumers. The Role of Battery Storage: Again, a recent study by Aurora Energy highlights the significant impact of battery energy storage systems (BESS) during extreme weather conditions. In the summer heat of 2023, BESS freed up over 3GW of natural gas power plants during peak hours, saving an estimated $750 million in day-ahead market costs and dispatching up to 2GW of power during low ERCOT reserves. ERCOT projects that around 20 GW of battery storage will be required by 2035 to meet growing electricity demands, with current capacity at approximately 4 GW and expected growth to 8.4 GW by the end of the year. Preparing for Higher Costs: As we prepare for what is expected to be one of the hottest summers on record, it's important to stay informed about potential increases in electricity prices. David Kinchen, COO of Energy Ogre, notes that current rates have risen, with some plans reaching up to 16 cents per kilowatt-hour. However, improvements in grid infrastructure and renewable energy sources should help meet the state’s energy demands, potentially reducing the frequency of conservation alerts and easing the burden on consumers. Staying informed about these developments and leveraging innovations in battery storage and demand response programs are essential for navigating the challenges ahead. By enhancing grid resilience and embracing new strategies, we can work towards a more reliable and cost-effective energy future for Texas. #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #BatteryStorage #EnergyInnovation #Resilience #EnergyProfessionals

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Demand Response and Addressing Financial Struggles As Texas braces for another summer of above-average temperatures, ERCOT's calls for electricity conservation are becoming a norm. This strategy, alongside innovative solutions like demand response programs and battery storage systems, is crucial for managing our energy supply and maintaining grid reliability. Embracing Demand Response: ERCOT is expanding demand response programs to incentivize users to reduce their electricity usage during peak demand periods. This approach not only helps manage the supply shortage but also aims to alleviate risks from transmission issues, particularly in areas like San Antonio. By securing commitments from industrial power users, ERCOT is enhancing its ability to mitigate emergency conditions and ensure a stable power supply throughout the summer. Addressing Financial Struggles: Amid these technical advancements, many Texans are struggling to keep up with their electricity bills, especially during extreme weather. A recent survey by Payless Power found that one-third of Texans paid their electric bills late at least once last year, with many falling behind during periods of high demand. Despite these challenges, the introduction of demand response programs and advancements in battery storage are steps towards mitigating the financial strain on consumers. The Role of Battery Storage: Again, a recent study by Aurora Energy highlights the significant impact of battery energy storage systems (BESS) during extreme weather conditions. In the summer heat of 2023, BESS freed up over 3GW of natural gas power plants during peak hours, saving an estimated $750 million in day-ahead market costs and dispatching up to 2GW of power during low ERCOT reserves. ERCOT projects that around 20 GW of battery storage will be required by 2035 to meet growing electricity demands, with current capacity at approximately 4 GW and expected growth to 8.4 GW by the end of the year. Preparing for Higher Costs: As we prepare for what is expected to be one of the hottest summers on record, it's important to stay informed about potential increases in electricity prices. David Kinchen, COO of Energy Ogre, notes that current rates have risen, with some plans reaching up to 16 cents per kilowatt-hour. However, improvements in grid infrastructure and renewable energy sources should help meet the state’s energy demands, potentially reducing the frequency of conservation alerts and easing the burden on consumers. Staying informed about these developments and leveraging innovations in battery storage and demand response programs are essential for navigating the challenges ahead. By enhancing grid resilience and embracing new strategies, we can work towards a more reliable and cost-effective energy future for Texas. #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #BatteryStorage #EnergyInnovation #Resilience #EnergyProfessionals

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What’s new in energy this week? Jonathan Goldstein, MBA, CSP-SM, and Lisa Jordan dive into the top stories shaping the industry, including Texas’ $3 billion investment in grid resiliency, American Electric Power’s groundbreaking fuel cell deal, and Texas A&M University’s bold step into nuclear energy innovation. Plus, they tackle winter grid reliability concerns and Oklo Inc’s expansion into advanced nuclear solutions. Stay ahead of the trends impacting energy and utilities—watch the latest episode of "Watt’s New?" now. #EnergyInnovation #GridResilience #NuclearEnergy #EnergyPolicy #CleanEnergy #Utilities #EnergyNews #SmartGrid #Sustainability #CGInfinity

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The addition of 5 GW of energy storage capacity in Texas strengthened reliability during Summer 2024 & helped ERCOT navigate prolonged moments of stress that would traditionally threaten the grid with power outages, finds an ACP analysis. Learn more: bit.ly/3VpTOnz

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After the largest geomagnetic disturbances in over 20 years, NERC is taking a deeper look at best resiliency practices amidst a spike in solar activity. Discover the steps that power stakeholders are taking to address solar disturbances and what this means to you: https://okt.to/fOGyZR #Geomagnetic #SolarStorm #NERC #ExtremeWeather

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What’s Happening in Texas Energy Today? Grid Monitor Keeps You Ahead From the future of Texas' hydrogen economy to ERCOT's winter grid outlook, today’s headlines spotlight the critical trends shaping our industry. Here's a quick rundown of today’s Power Breakfast News—and how Grid Monitor makes navigating these developments effortless: ● Energy Storage: Will new hyperscale battery storage systems transform the data center landscape? Energy Vault is leading the charge. ● Texas Energy: CenterPoint Energy says it's ready for winter. But are Texans prepared for unexpected grid challenges? ● ERCOT: What’s ERCOT predicting for this winter? A deeper dive reveals insights about reliability and lessons from previous winters. ● Hydrogen Economy: Can Texas become a hydrogen hub? UT and industry leaders think so. How will this shape the state’s energy future? ● Flexible Interconnection: A game-changer for community solar—can projects really generate 176% more revenue? Whether you're managing projects, analyzing market risks, or trying to stay informed, Grid Monitor empowers you to tackle it all. Here’s how: 🔍 Smart Agenda: Track key ERCOT, PUCT, and legislative initiatives with ease. 📬 Power Breakfast News: Start your day with curated updates tailored for Texas energy professionals. 📈 Custom Tools: Dive into meeting summaries, project updates, and exclusive reporting to always stay ahead. Grid Monitor turns the flood of data into actionable insights—saving you time and effort. Our tools are designed to simplify ERCOT’s complexity and give you clarity in your decisions. ✅ Try Grid Monitor today for free. No credit card required. https://lnkd.in/etqDECkr #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #EnergyStorage #HydrogenEconomy #SolarGrowth #BatteryStorage Instagram:

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Vitesse Energy, LLC to Buy Bakken Pureplay Lucero in $220MM Deal Vitesse Energy will acquire Lucero Energy Corp.’s Bakken/Three Forks assets, including 25 net remaining locations, 1.9 net DUCs and 20 wells that are candidates for recompletions. Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/gpvguvxb

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The U.S. needs to expand its transmission grid by 60% by 2030 to meet clean energy goals, but delays are costing billions. In the latest episode of The Energy Gang, Ed Crooks speaks with Amy Jaffe and Christina Hayes about the barriers to transmission development and the impact of the Manchin-Barrasso Bill. Listen now. https://okt.to/VRrU1I

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NAVIGATING ERCOT’S EVOLVING ENERGY LANDSCAPE WITH CONFIDENCE In the past week, the Texas energy market has seen remarkable developments. From battery storage records to geothermal energy expansion and ERCOT's innovative efforts to improve reliability, one thing is clear: the energy landscape is evolving faster than ever. Key updates: 1️⃣ Battery Storage Milestones ERCOT now boasts nearly 11 GWh of energy storage capacity, with six new battery systems approved just in September. These batteries are not just infrastructure; they’re game-changers, meeting 8% of statewide demand on certain days, keeping bills low and lights on. 2️⃣ Mobile Generation Projects ERCOT is working with CenterPoint to deploy mobile generators as an alternative to Reliability Must Run (RMR) agreements for CPS units. This innovative step demonstrates how flexibility and quick thinking can address grid constraints effectively. 3️⃣ Geothermal Energy Expansion Austin Energy and federal funding initiatives highlight geothermal’s potential to complement Texas' renewables, providing reliable, low-carbon baseload power. 4️⃣ Texas’ Renewable Leadership Texas is proving its transformation into a renewable energy leader, showcasing projects like Element Energy’s 53MWh second-life battery energy storage system, powered by repurposed EV batteries. The challenge? Keeping up with these fast-paced updates can be overwhelming, especially when each development impacts policies, pricing, and market operations. This is where Grid Monitor comes in. Our platform simplifies ERCOT’s complexities by: ✅ Delivering Smart Agendas that condense hours of meetings into actionable insights. ✅ Offering curated news and real-time updates tailored to your needs. ✅ Centralizing critical filings, agendas, and revisions across ERCOT, PUCT, and legislative sessions. Whether you’re monitoring battery storage developments, geothermal progress, or ERCOT’s market shifts, Grid Monitor ensures you never miss a beat. Stay ahead of Texas’ dynamic energy market with tools designed for professionals who need clarity and precision in their decision-making. Try Grid Monitor for FREE today. No credit card required. https://lnkd.in/etqDECkr #GridMonitor #ERCOT #TexasEnergy #Renewables #EnergyStorage

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