Grid operators have always dealt with a number of challenges and some amount of uncertainty from factors such as extreme weather to equipment failures. Now, fluctuating supplies of renewable energy, some of it flowing from consumers with rooftop solar panels outfitted with smart meters, are increasing the number of variables grid operators must consider. Researchers…
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Vampire loads, scarier than you might think
As our world includes more devices, the role of energy consumption by these plugged in devices becomes an increasingly important topic. In fact, a Stanford Study showed that on average, 23% of household electricity consumption in Northern California was not only the result of plugged in devices, but idle plugged in devices. These inactive plug…
Climate Fiction or “Cli-Fi”
A new branch of science fiction that focuses on climate change or global warming is called Climate Fiction or “Cli-Fi” for short. Apocalyptic or post-apocalyptic fiction has been around for a long time, but it generally focused on nuclear war, pandemics, or even zombies. Now with more attention focused on climate change, it is drawing…
How much does that light bulb really cost
Going green is really a mindset, a mindset of not wasting things, not buying things you don’t need or use. One of the areas often mentioned as an early place to go green is lighting. It makes complete sense since lighting is a large percentage of the total electrical expense for offices and residences alike….
EIA expects U.S. electricity generation from renewables to soon surpass nuclear and coal
Renewable energy is usually seen as an important part of a green or sustainability strategy. What have you implemented that is working well in the area of solar, wind, or other renewables? It sounds like the USA is continuing to trend toward increasing renewables according to this article from Energy Information Administration: https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=42655
Consumers Energy to end use of Coal in Michigan
Consumer’s Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, serves almost 7 million residents. It closed seven coal plants in 2016 and plans to close the other five by 2040. Renewable energy would increase from 11 to 43 percent by 2040, and add solar, wind, and battery storage. They also expect to decrease carbon emissions by 80 percent….
Making the Move-In and Move-Out Cycle More Efficient
Most apartment communities will experience roughly 50% turnover each year. The constant cycle of residents moving-in and moving-out is something we all deal with in the multifamily industry. Here is one tip for helping make the process a little more convenient and efficient for our residents. A community in Rockville, MD recently started a program…
Energy thieves, identifying overlooked suspects
You’ve looked at your lighting, you’ve looked at your HVAC, you have even looked at your building envelope. How is it possible to still have high energy use when you have covered these important areas. The suspects might be hiding in plain sight. By taking understanding their role and taking a few easy steps, you…
Regional electricity generation and wholesale price forecasts
Are you responsible for procuring electricity in a deregulated market or for forecasting electricity prices? If so, the following article from Energy Information Administration may come in handy. Check it out before summer cooling season arrives! https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=42355
EIA forecasts natural gas inventories will reach record levels later this year
Could the expected increase of supply of natural gas be good for utility expenses this year? Check out the following article for more details about the prediction from the US Energy Information Administration. https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=42935