Date: November 2024

While it may sound like we’re more than a decade late to the party by focusing on non-controllable, non-dispatchable (NCND) DR programs, it is true that these programs are experiencing a moment of renewed appreciation and consideration by many utilities who are seeing the capacity value of their controllable and dispatchable DR portfolio on the brink of significant derating under proposed capacity accreditation policies. Here, we discuss: 1) why NCND programs must be treated differently and the benefits of “load modifier” treatment of DR programs for a utility, 2) the importance of inward application of scrutiny regarding the capacity value of NCND DR in utility resource planning, and some suggested approaches for valuation, and 3) benefits and drawbacks of NCND DR beyond capacity valuation. We will conclude with some topics for audience discussion regarding the blurry lines of “controllability” and “dispatchability” with respect to mass-market DR (i.e., price-based, technology enabled DR).

Speakers:
Maddie Emerson, TRC Companies
Jessica King, OG&E