Energy Storage Gaining Momentum

According to Strategic Directions in the Electric Utility Industry recently published by Black & Veatch, the #1 concern for U.S. electric utilities is the aging infrastructure, which topped the list of operational issues by those survey surpassing reliability and regulation, which were #2 and #3. However, it was interesting to see three other issues listed in the top-ten:

• Water management viewed as a “Potential Game Changer” and Energy Storage gaining momentum.
• Lack of understanding and funding represent greatest obstacles for Smart Grid implementation.
• Electric Vehicles will impact utilities’ annual load over time.

Now that the Federal government has published its A Policy Framework for the 21st Century Grid, perhaps there will be more focus on education, funding and adopting new technologies to address the country's aging infrastructure.