Utility Die Top Stories 10/24

A filtered view of the top utility news - built specifically for your mobile device More: Website | Signup Oct.​ 24,​ 2014 Are you getting Utility Dive: Solar? Get the once-weekly Utility Dive publication that focuses on distributed solar, utility-scale solar, solar technology, and regulatory and policy issues. Subscribe now. Top Stories Leverage: How a municipalization threat created a unique energy partnership Organizers in Minneapolis found a novel way to gain the upper hand in negotiations with utilities. Solar Power International 2014: 'The best energy we have had for years' Utility participation in solar’s annual conclave is bigger than ever—right down to the gift bags. Natural gas to surpass coal in PJM fuel mix next year Currently, coal makes up 40% of PJM’s capacity mix and gas is about 30%. Study: Massachusetts, California are most energy efficient states North Dakota and Wyoming rounded out the bottom of the list. Eight automakers test electric car cloud integration for demand response GM, Chrysler and others are testing technology that would allow utilities to wirelessly power down charging stations during peak hours. MISO: Michigan will face 3,000 MW capacity shortfall in 2016 The shortfall does not signal an immediate need for new power plants. Southern Power buys 150 MW solar farm in California Southern Company continues to make waves with more solar.  Duke, PNSC won't charge customers for taxes they don't pay The utilities will charge according to a 5% corporate tax rate, though regulators say they could charge as if it was 6.9%. Study: Less than 30% of energy consumers highly engaged with smart grid Almost all consumers agree reducing energy waste is important, however. Other News NRC to increase oversight of Limerick nuclear power plant TVA Asks for Comments on Proposed Transmission Project Construction Underway on New FirstEnergy Transmission Line in Toledo Area Solar's biggest integration challenge: overgeneration? Penn Power Rebuilds Bessemer Line to Enhance Reliability Electricity distribution investments rose over the past two decades Transmission Line Will Be Rebuilt Next to Energized Line Hydro One Invests to Refurbish Ontario Michigan Interconnection Transmission Circuit How Groundbreaking Is DOE's New $53M Solar Investment? USDA boosts rural electric power with $1.4B in loan guarantees