Innovative Utility Offerings at the Distribution Edge: Case Studies from Around the Globe

Travis Lowder, Jeffrey Logan, Emily Chen

Research output: NRELTechnical Report

Abstract

The global evolution of the electricity sector - from deregulation, to higher penetrations of DERs, to digitization and changing consumer preferences - has delivered the utility industry to an inflection point. The vertically integrated, regulated model that persisted over most of the 20th century is undergoing a transformation, and utilities worldwide are responding with new approaches to the provision of products and services. This report catalogs several of these innovative approaches to incorporate new technologies such as electric vehicles, meet societal goals for a cleaner, more efficient electricity system, and empower consumers to make smarter energy choices and provide system benefits. The report comprises a series of 10 case studies across six continents, and features solutions touching on energy supply, energy efficiency, lighting, transport, data, heating and cooling, and rural/off-grid solutions. The diversity of products, programs, and markets documented illustrates the extent of the shift underway. Ultimately, the report demonstrates that utilities will continue to serve as critical partners in a global energy transition, and have been actively engaged in securing their position as such.
Original languageAmerican English
Number of pages37
DOIs
StatePublished - 2019

NREL Publication Number

  • NREL/TP-7A40-73800

Keywords

  • customer satisfaction
  • novel products
  • tariffs
  • transformative technology
  • utilities

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