Reforming your utility’s energy vision

 
New York’s Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) initiative means big changes for New York utilities. Under REV, utilities without dynamic load management programs were directed to develop such programs and file draft tariffs for them for implementation during the summer of 2015. Many utilities deployed small load control programs this year and are submitting plans for expanded programs in 2016. As you navigate the future of demand response in New York, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

With revised dynamic load management tariff filings due December 1, EnergyHub can help utilities figure out the right way to expand their existing direct load programs and bring additional choice to customers. To meet the REV requirements, and to create the most effective program possible, we recommend combining Bring Your Own Thermostat℠ and utility-installed program strategies. Employing both options allows your utility to bring down cost significantly while providing a single platform that can address both energy efficiency and demand response needs. 

Another challenge we’ve seen is the lack of smart meter deployment in New York State, causing concerns about how utilities can use M&V to meet tariff requirements. The good news is that there are two methodologies already being employed by regional transmission organizations (RTOs). One is statistical sampling, for which a new methodology was adopted by PJM earlier this year. And in the past, NYISO has approved methodology around using thermostat runtime and deemed savings for M&V. These two methods allow you to verify that your program has achieved its goals even if you’re unable to deploy smart meters.

The NY REV requirements continue to evolve. As the idea of a distributed energy resource (DER) marketplace grows, we see opportunities to both connect to that marketplace and to provide a marketplace for your customers. While our platform today includes mostly thermostats, we’re working with many other types of device vendors to include control of larger loads as well. And as requirements grow to incorporate technologies such as solar power and energy storage, we can help you figure out ways to work within homes to manage the load shifting that’s going to be required as more and more renewable generation comes onto the grid.

As the tariff filing date approaches, EnergyHub continues to help New York utilities understand which program options are available to them as they expand their existing programs, and how to design these programs to best suit each utility’s needs. Interested in learning more about how we can help you navigate REV and the dynamic load management tariff? Reach out to us at [email protected].

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