The Rise of Solar and how it is Changing the Power Sector

This presentation will examine the salient dynamics that are reshaping the contemporary power sector. The talk will open with an initial framing that discusses the major trends that are impacting today’s power markets,... [ view full abstract ]

This presentation will examine the salient dynamics that are reshaping the contemporary power sector. The talk will open with an initial framing that discusses the major trends that are impacting today’s power markets, paying particular attention to the recent rapid expansion in solar generation additions. The factors driving this contemporaneous rise in solar power will be reviewed, and current and future solar economics will be discussed. Following this, the presentation will turn to the broader issue of distributed energy resource (DER) adoption, and the opportunities and challenges that the integration of greater levels of DER on the grid will yield. The presentation will close with some reflections on the business model innovations that are altering how consumers consider their energy services, and on the resulting challenges for traditional utilities and the continuing efficient operation of the grid.