Virtual Power Plants and Energy Justice

Virtual power plants (VPPs) are networks of decentralized energy resources (e.g., batteries, solar, EV chargers) that are aggregated and operated to support the electric grid in a manner similar to a traditional power plant. Because VPPs can be an excellent way to add flexible, carbon-free capacity to the grid, policymakers and industry are increasingly interested in them. However, VPPs run the risk of exacerbating existing inequalities. Emphasizing energy justice when planning VPPs can improve outcomes. As part of the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA)’s VPP Acceleration Initiative, this webinar will explore opportunities to incorporate energy justice into state and utility VPP programs.

Adam Warren, former Director of the Accelerated Deployment and Decision Support Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, will present an overview of the relationship between VPPs and energy justice. He will explain the inequity risks of VPPs and offer five practical design principles for justice-centered VPPs. Lisa Morris, Energy Services Planner at Vermont Electric Cooperative, will discuss the utility’s recent Vermont Income Qualified Residential Battery Storage Program, which is an example of how to help low-income customers as part of a VPP program. CESA Executive Director Warren Leon will moderate.