The electric grid is changing from a one-way, centralized control architecture to a two-way, distributed control solution. Parks Associates research finds 12% of U.S. broadband households plan to buy solar panels in 2018. As solar PV panels and electric vehicles enter the market in increasing numbers, grid operators must adapt to the changing load profile and intermittency of both load and supply. This dynamic system creates challenges in generation and transmission as well as the distribution system.

In order to tackle this challenge, energy providers must align incentives for consumers with the needs of the grid. Energy efficiency programs, variable pricing, utility DR programs, and wholesale markets must all function in conjunction to provide stable, reliable, and high-quality power.

Parks Associates examines the changing nature of grid operations and how ISOs will adapt to a rapidly changing environment during the session "Wholesale Market Opportunities" at the ninth-annual Smart Energy Summit. During this session, a panel of experts discusses current wholesale market opportunities and the outlook for market evolution as adoption of distributed energy resources increases.

Panelists include:

• Robbie Berglund, Business Unit Executive, The Weather Company, an IBM Business
• Bob King, CEO, Good Company Associates
• Peter Klauer, Senior Advisor, Smart Grid Technology, California ISO
• Greg Sorenson, PE, CIA, Supervisor, Market Power and Mitigation, Southwest Power Pool (SPP)
• Paul Wattles, Sr. Analyst, Market Design & Development, ERCOT

The 2018 Smart Energy Summit will take place February 19-21, in Austin, TX. The conference agenda addresses the potential benefits of incorporating smart products into energy efficiency and DR programs and the opportunities across converging ecosystems for the market for energy solutions, including connected devices, energy management, utility services, and home control platforms and services. Keynotes will be presented by ChargePoint, Itron, Meritage Homes, Nest Labs, Southern Company, and Vivint Solar. Register today!

Further Reading:

• Smart Home-Utility Partnership Opportunities
• ChargePoint, Itron, Meritage Homes, Southern Company, and Vivint Solar to keynote Smart Energy Summit
• Bundling Home Energy Services is Basis for Competitive Differentiation