Why Local Solar for All Costs Less

For more information about the value of local solar and other distributed energy resources, visit SolarForCT.org

DETAILS

Year: 2022

Topics: Distributed Energy Resources; The Connecticut Grid

Organizer: PACE and CTEN

A new Study, Why Local Solar For All Costs Less: A New Roadmap for the Lowest Cost Grid, should change CT’s clean energy narrative. The basis of the Study is a computer model that is terrific at evaluating the best mix of utility scale and local energy resources. The model, called WIS:dom, takes a far more granular, dynamic view than typical utility planning tools do, around the constantly changing factors such as the interface between the distribution and transmission systems, price of wholesale electricity, demand, and weather patterns, while considering much smaller geographical areas than are commonly considered.

The results were clear. The least expensive way to get to clean energy for all is by adding in a large dose of distributed solar + batteries to existing plans for utility scale solar, wind and battery storage. This recipe works because it smooths out the demand for electricity by reducing peak demand periods, which are a significant driver of both supply and distribution costs. Join us for a discussion of the Study’s methods, conclusions, and the significance for Connecticut.

Our speakers will include:

• Karl Rabago of Local Solar For All is a nationally known energy analyst on the Study’s methodology and its national implications

• Kaitlin Kelly O’Neill – from Coalition for Community Solar Access, on how the model was run for the state of New York

• Nathan Phelps – from Vote Solar, who will cover the significance of the Study for Connecticut

Below are the Zoom recordings for the March 2022 CT Energy Network webinar – Why Local Solar for All Costs Less – presented by Karl Rabago of Local Solar for All (Part 1), Kaitlin Kelly O’Neill of Coalition for Community Solar Access (Part 2), and Nathan Phelps of Vote Solar (Part 3). Also included is a short video about distributed energy resources (DERS) – what they are and why they’re important.

SLIDE DECKS

Presenter Bios and Presentations by Karl Rabago and Kaitlin Kelly O’Neill are below.