Marking a significant step forward in the energy sector, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has reconfirmed its dedication to essential provisions within Order No. 2023, which serves as a pivotal interconnection decree.
Industry Support and Anticipated Changes
Back in July 2023, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) applauded the proposed changes by FERC, recognizing the pivotal nature of the reforms for instilling accountability. The association specifically highlighted the commendable effort by the Commission to impose penalties on those utility and transmission owners who fail to address interconnection applications promptly.
SEIA’s Response to FERC’s Recent Affirmation
SEIA’s senior director of energy markets and counsel, Melissa Alfano, issued a statement on the latest development:
“FERC’s recent enforcement of penalties against utility and transmission operators who don’t process interconnection applications swiftly sets a tone of steadfastness towards substantial interconnection reform,” Alfano stated. “This resolution sends a vigorous message underscoring the Commission’s intent to uphold fairness and enforce accountability within the interconnection procedures.”
She continued, “Over the past ten years, a critical issue has been the tendency of utilities to delay interconnection requests, leading to a significant backlog—approximately two terawatts—of solar and storage projects awaiting grid connection. The affirmative rules established by FERC will introduce transparent expectations and outline necessary repercussions in the face of inactivity.”
Alfano concluded, “The sustaining of these crucial components in Order No. 2023 by FERC is commendable, and such actions are key to fostering comprehensive interconnection reforms that bolster a robust clean energy economy. SEIA is eager to continue collaborating with FERC and our members to ensure the full implementation of Order No. 2023.”
The persistence of FERC in enforcing these reforms signifies an important evolution in the nation’s approach to energy distribution and paves the way for a more effective, equitable process for integrating solar and storage solutions into the grid, much to the benefit of the expanding clean energy landscape.
