News of the week

Texas power customers face 800% price increase due to weekend heat

As searing temperatures grip Texas, the state's power grid faces unprecedented challenges, driving electricity prices to surge by over 800%. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) reported that on Sunday, power prices escalated to more than $2,500 per megawatt-hour, a staggering increase from the previous day's peak of $275. The surge in demand has strained the grid, narrowing the surplus power capacity, potentially prompting emergency measures. Despite this, ERCOT possesses additional reserves to meet the heightened demand.

ERCOT issued a weather watch due to forecasted high temperatures and increased demand, while large portions of the state remain under heat advisories and warnings. Dallas and Fort Worth are taking precautions, setting up cooling centers and adjusting city activities to mitigate the impact of extreme heat.

As Sunday's peak power usage was projected to hit an all-time high of 84.4 gigawatts, the situation became more critical during sunset when solar generation wanes, intensifying the strain on power supplies.

To read more, click here.

MMUA announces additional "Interacting on the Issues" sessions

In June, we had excellent meetings with commissioners and utility leaders about the benefits of local control of municipal utilities and the challenges facing the industry. We also took a look at the outcome of the 2023 legislative session, discussed implications, and sought feedback on priorities for the coming year.

By popular demand, we are going back on the road this fall! Please consider joining us for a session at one of our four locations around the state. We can't wait to hear from you and learn how we can help to enhance and promote the great work you do.

Join the MMUA government relations team and peers from your region to discuss the implications of new laws, explore solution opportunities, and network with others committed to protecting, promoting, and strengthening hometown utilities.

There is no cost to attend, however registration is required for planning purposes. Encourage your whole commission to attend and learn about how commissioners can help champion hometown utilities. You can learn more and register by clicking on the links below.

September 18—New Ulm

September 27—Grand Rapids

October 3—Detroit Lakes

October 4—Marshall

California risks losing billions in federal community solar incentives

California faces a time-sensitive opportunity to tap into federal incentives worth billions for implementing its Community Renewable Energy Bill (AB 2316), designed to bring the benefits of community solar and storage to over a million residents, including low-to-moderate income households. Despite leading in solar adoption, California trails in the community solar sector, making AB 2316 a vital move to expand renewable energy capacity and reduce utility bills.

AB 2316's successful execution hinges on the design and implementation of programs like the Net Value Billing Tariff (NVBT), supported by the Coalition for Community Solar Access. NVBT guarantees bill credits for low-income subscribers, simplifies billing, removes credit score barriers, and requires energy storage for grid reliability. Swift CPUC approval of NVBT is crucial to accessing extra incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act before they expire, driving rapid community solar project development.

By embracing NVBT, California could lead in community solar, accelerate renewable energy capacity, and save billions in transmission costs, benefiting both consumers and utilities. As the clock ticks, CPUC's approval can unlock significant benefits and elevate California's solar landscape.

To read more, click here.

Last chance to register for Overhead School and MN Lineworkers Rodeo

Registration closes on Monday, August 14 for Overhead School and the Minnesota Lineworkers Rodeo.

One of our most popular programs, Overhead School offers participants valuable technical training on numerous topics that are specific to overhead electrical, taught by experienced instructors. Participants will rotate through hands-on sessions covering equipotential grounding, troubleshooting, system maintenance, and much more. To learn more and register, click here.

The Rodeo is also a very popular event for MMUA members and their families! It offers all lineworkers an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone as you challenge yourself to complete three different events safely, accurately and proficiently. To register, click here.

Sponsorship opportunities for the Rodeo are still available as well. We look forward to seeing you in Marshall!

Funding opportunities

MN Department of Commerce announces revamped website for funding opportunities

Information on funding for energy related projects is now being shared online by the Division of Energy Resources at the Minnesota Department of Commerce (MNDOC). 

The New Energy Programs page joins with the existing Federal Funding opportunities page to provide additional insight for Minnesotans on new state funding for energy opportunities and programs. Details on the new rebates, grants, and other programs will be added to the site as the programs are developed by MNDOC to make those funds accessible to all Minnesotans.

You are encouraged to bookmark this new page for future reference: New Energy Programs / Minnesota Department of Commerce - Energy (mn.gov); updates are currently included for the EV Rebate Program and Heat Pump Rebate Program. Please plan to check back frequently for future updates; you can also stay current by signing up for MNDOC's newsletter at this link.

Looking ahead

Regional Safety Workshops—Following the popularity of the summer sessions, MMUA is going back on the road with more regional workshops. You can learn more and register by clicking on the links below.

September 18—New Ulm

September 19—Brookings, SD

Stepping Into Leadership—Designed for those who are new to a supervisory role or current supervisors and leaders who wish to improve their leadership skills. Participants will have 56 hours of instruction delivered in a mix of in-person and virtual settings over a 14-month period. The new cohort will begin on October 4. You can learn more and register by visiting the program's webpage.

Cross Training School—Learn how to safely assist in electrical work. Register by September 15 for the best rate. The school will be held at the MMUA Training Center in Marshall from October 10-12. Please click here to learn more and to register.

Tree Trimming Workshop—Registration is open. This workshop is intended for any municipal employee responsible for tree work; it’s not just for lineworkers. It will be held at Brainerd Public Utilities from October 17-19. Please click here to learn more and register.

As always, thank you for your association with MMUA and your commitment to delivering excellent service through locally owned utility assets in your community. Have a great week!

Christian Glanville

Marketing and Member Relations Manager

Direct: 763.746.0727 / Cell: 612.655.0598

Fax: 763.551.0459

cglanville@mmua.org | www.mmua.org

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