Utilities

Distributed energy resources

Two California bills would push utilities to get more out of their grids

The state’s three big utilities typically overbuild to meet peak demand. The legislation would order them to try virtual power plants and smarter grid tech instead.

By Jeff St. John . 30 April 2026
Heat pumps

New winter rates saved at least $37M for Massachusetts heat-pump owners

Rhode Island and New York are in the early stages of considering similar discounts for households that install the electric, clean-heating technology.

By Sarah Shemkus . 30 April 2026
Clean aluminum

America’s big new aluminum smelter is still waiting on a power deal

Global supply shocks spurred by the Iran war are bolstering the case for domestic production. But the plant still hasn’t secured its electricity supply.

By Maria Gallucci . 30 April 2026
Energy efficiency

Why are blue states scapegoating energy efficiency?

Energy-efficiency programs yield long-term benefits for utility bills and the climate. We found three reasons why Democrats are looking to cut them anyway.

By Sarah Shemkus . 28 April 2026
Utilities

Supreme Court won’t hear appeal in Ohio utility bribery case

It’s the end of the line for the only two people serving prison time related to the HB 6 scandal, which cost utility customers big and stymied clean energy.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 27 April 2026
Utilities

Duke Energy’s proactive grid upgrades under fire from electric co-ops

In North Carolina, the utility has a unique new approach to improve its grid and add solar, but co-ops are complaining to FERC about the cost.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 24 April 2026
Virtual power plants

As utility costs rise, can ‘background’ smart thermostats offer relief?

Millions of smart thermostats auto-adjust temperatures to cut power bills or prioritize clean energy. Some utilities are mulling how that tech can help the grid, too.

By Jeff St. John . 20 April 2026
Data centers

Georgia Power will now let data centers bring their own clean energy

Large customers served by Georgia Power will soon be able to secure new solar and battery projects. But will that help reduce reliance on new gas plants?

By Jeff St. John . 15 April 2026
Geothermal

Vermont’s first neighborhood geothermal project prepares to break ground

The gas utility and affordable housing developers building the system are pressing on with their plan despite the Trump administration’s funding clawbacks.

By Sarah Shemkus . 14 April 2026
Utilities

What to expect as Ohio utility corruption trial heads for a do-over

The trial for two former FirstEnergy execs on criminal charges linked to the HB 6 scandal ended with a hung jury. A retrial is scheduled for September.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 14 April 2026