David J. Unger

The Latest from David J. Unger

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For grid resiliency, Midwest utility joins others in sharing critical transmission equipment

By David J. Unger . 2 November 2017
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As energy transactions become more complex, Chicago firm seeks to simplify

A Chicago-area startup is garnering the attention of major industry players with a cloud-based platform for settling energy trades in the decentralized, digital 21st century.

By David J. Unger . 13 October 2017
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‘Platform’ model will be key for Illinois’ future power grid

The concept of the power grid as a “platform” — a hub that coordinates energy transactions between various producers and consumers rather than a one-way delivery system — is central to the way Illinois is building a blueprint for its grid of the future.

By David J. Unger . 5 October 2017
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Illinois utilities begin to design community solar programs under new energy law

Illinois utilities and regulators are putting into motion plans for community solar programs under the state’s Future Energy Jobs Act that passed last year.

By David J. Unger . 14 September 2017
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Advocates expect continued growth in Illinois clean energy jobs

A recent report highlighting the expansion of the clean-energy workforce in Illinois reflects a broader trend toward a Midwestern power system that is more networked, more decentralized, and more dependent on solar, wind and other renewable energy sources.

By David J. Unger . 13 September 2017
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Funding for Illinois researchers to address advancements in power conversion

Four teams of researchers in Illinois will receive millions of dollars in federal funding to advance projects in power electronics and converting forms of electricity, which is becoming increasingly necessary for a more efficient and distributed power grid.

By David J. Unger . 5 September 2017
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How an Illinois utility used wind, solar and storage to power a microgrid for 24 hours

Ameren, in partnership with S&C Electric, a Chicago-based smart-grid engineering firm, successfully completed a 24-hour “islanding” test earlier this month at the utility’s newly built microgrid in Champaign, Illinois, using wind, solar and battery storage.

By David J. Unger . 31 August 2017
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Chicago group aims to draw more investors to cleantech startups

A Chicago-based cleantech accelerator plans to use a $1 million Department of Energy grant to develop “a novel investment model designed to attract a new class of investors to early-stage cleantech businesses.”

By David J. Unger . 28 August 2017
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In Illinois, smart thermostats seen as key energy management tool

Illinois’s largest utility, state regulators, environmental and consumer advocates recently rallied together in Chicago in support of an inconspicuous but powerful gadget: the smart thermostat.

By David J. Unger . 1 August 2017
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Illinois shows examples of 'integrated approach' needed for climate targets

The global energy system is evolving, but not fast enough to meet decarbonization goals aimed at curbing the worst impacts of climate change, according to an International Energy Agency report released in Chicago last week.

By David J. Unger . 5 July 2017