Clean energy coalition supports proposed FERC revision of interconnection process

The following are comments made by representatives of clean energy and emerging technology groups who support FERC taking action:

• "AEE supports FERC's ongoing efforts to remove barriers to the deployment of advanced energy. FERC is taking much-needed action to modernize the rules governing our transmission system by streamlining the process for interconnection of new resources. The Commission's proposed action would allow for more cost-effective and speedy deployment of renewable energy and energy storage systems, unlocking the benefits--like reduced costs and improved reliability--these technologies can provide to consumers and the grid." – Arvin Ganesan, Vice President for Federal Affairs, Advanced Energy Economy (AEE).
• “ACORE applauds the Commission for seeking to remedy the regulatory hurdles that have historically inhibited renewable energy sources equal access to the transmission system. Given the large and increasing role renewables play in powering America’s electricity markets, we are pleased to join with our partners in supporting the proposed improvements to the interconnection process.” -- Gregory Wetstone, ACORE President and Chief Executive Officer.
• “We agree with FERC that the time is ripe for regulatory and policy changes to interconnection processes to ensure lower costs for consumers. The Commission’s proposal, if finalized, will help remove barriers to cleaner, renewable sources of electricity that can help meet the growing needs of millions of Americans. It will facilitate the ongoing transformation of the grid in a timely, reliable and cost-effective manner. This effort will help expedite the development of new generation, like wind energy, which the vast majority of Americans want more of.” – Tom Kiernan, Chief Executive Officer, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)
• “The Energy Storage Association is encouraged by FERC taking up the issue of streamlining regulations and eliminating barriers for interconnection of flexible and reliable energy storage technologies. Simplified interconnection procedures will lower costs for all ratepayers, and will help speed our transition to a more efficient, resilient, and affordable energy grid. With the rapid acceleration of energy storage on the grid, the industry recognizes that regulations need to be modernized to keep pace with innovation – and this will be a significant step towards an integrated, flexible grid.” – Matt Roberts, Executive Director, Energy Storage Association

AWEA and ESA are filing separate comments on the proposed rule that provide greater detail on their respective views.