Utilities news covering electricity, power grids, energy providers, utility regulations, and power infrastructure developments.
An islandwide blackout struck Jamaica on Friday night, affecting all 2.8 million residents. By Saturday morning, power was restored to about 500,000 of 700,000 customers, with full restoration expected within hours. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz called the situation 'unacceptable' and demanded a full report from JPS within 24 hours.
This commentary argues that US utility companies are driving up electric bills through a flawed business model that prioritizes capital investment over efficiency. It contends that guaranteed returns on infrastructure projects incentivize overbuilding and cost-shifting to consumers, while regulators fail to hold utilities accountable, leading to record profits and rising household expenses.
This commentary argues that Virginia's data center boom is raising electricity bills in West Virginia, partly due to the same utility serving both states and West Virginia's reliance on coal. It contends that cheaper renewable energy could lower costs but is hindered by state policies protecting coal plants.
This commentary argues that while Maryland leaders criticize PJM for rising electricity prices, leaving the regional grid could introduce new costs and risks. It contends that the debate overlooks the complexities and potential downsides of exiting PJM, suggesting a more cautious approach is warranted.
The Karnataka government exempts residential buildings up to Ground+3 floors or Stilt+4 floors on plots up to 2,400 sq ft within Greater Bengaluru from needing occupancy certificates for electricity connections. The one-time exemption applies to buildings completed by May 31, 2026, with a 20% variation limit. Power companies must inspect and verify compliance before granting connections.
Duke Energy received a $61.8 million DOE grant for upgrades at its Roxboro plant in North Carolina, with $28.4 million in taxpayer funds and $44 million in ratepayer matching. The upgraded units are set to retire by 2034, amid coal ash cleanup and new natural gas plant plans.
This commentary profiles David Mills, the new CEO of the largest US power market, and argues that his leadership will be critical in preventing summer blackouts. The article uses a personal anecdote about beekeeping to illustrate the challenges he faces, suggesting that the power grid's problems require careful management.