Energy Infrastructure Modernization

NARUC CPI works to advance an understanding of innovative technology possibilities among members. Current topics include: coal modernization and carbon management; natural gas infrastructure modernization; grid-interactive efficient buildings; smart grid; and electric vehicles.

Electricity System Transition

As the U.S. electric grid continues to change, NARUC CPI has been working to help state public utility commissions address evolving grid planning challenges and opportunities. Current topics include: distribution systems and planning; comprehensive electricity planning (through the NARUC-NASEO Task Force on Comprehensive Electricity Planning); performance-based regulation; valuation; and, transmission-distribution system coordination (through the National Council on Electricity Policy).

Critical Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, and Resilience

CPI supports state commissions as they work to ensure the energy system is safe, secure, and resilient. Commissions are charged with overseeing public utilities who routinely deal with threats to ongoing system operations, such as physical or cybersecurity activities, routine or extreme weather events, and limitations in supply chains or workforce capacity. NARUC’s efforts generally focus on partnering with subject matter experts across the federal, state, local, and private sectors to explore topical issues, develop valuable decision-support resources, and deliver training to inform regulatory decision making. Targeted NARUC resources are available related to critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, energy emergency management, electric grid resilience, and microgrids.

These activities are coordinated with the Committee on Critical Infrastructure and Staff Subcommittee on Electric Reliability and Resilience.

Emerging Issues

NARUC CPI identifies emerging challenges and connects state commissions with expertise and strategies to navigate complex decision-making. This work includes support for commissions to explore new topics as they arise through monthly innovation webinars, quarterly commission staff surge calls, and ad hoc direct technical assistance.

Innovation Webinars

Every month, the NARUC Center for Partnerships & Innovation organizes an Innovation Webinar on an emerging issue in electricity regulation. Held on Thursdays from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET, these educational webinars are open to the public.

With support from the U.S. Department of Energy, CPI is pleased to connect its members and the public with new research, subject-matter experts, and diverse opinions on a variety of issues relevant to public utility commissions. Presentation slides and recordings for past webinars are posted on this webpage.

Upcoming Innovation Webinars:

Long Duration Storage: What’s on tap?

Thursday, October 13, 2022 | 4:00 - 5:00 PM Eastern

Long Duration Storage technologies, defined as technologies providing 10 hours or more of energy storage, are a critical part of reaching our country’s carbon emissions goals. Long duration storage is vital to integrating renewable energy into the grid during times of high demand to support reliability and resilience. This webinar will provide information on different long duration storage projects currently under development and provide prospective on how these technologies will help to shape our energy future.  

Moderator: Hon. Carrie Zalewski, IL

Speakers:
Michael Purdie, Director of Regulatory Affairs and Markets, National Hydropower Association

Greggory Kresge, Sr. Manager, Utility Engagement and Transportation Electrification – US Energy, World Resources Institute

Dr. Kevin Harrison, Program Manager, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Jason Houck, Sr. Manager, Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Form Energy

Register Here

Search through the selection of publications developed by the Center for Partnerships & Innovation.