Distributed Energy Resources Can Provide Valuable Grid Services
Distributed energy resources (DERs) are typically small-scale power resources that are interconnected across the distribution system. In addition to generating, storing, and modulating the use of electricity, DERs can provide a range of other services to the electric grid. These services can play a critical role in meeting local demand, easing localized constraints, and improving reliability. DERs have the potential to provide these services more quickly, at less cost, and with fewer community burdens than traditional grid infrastructure solutions.
Examples of DERs include, but are not limited to
- Solar + storage projects
- Smart devices, such as thermostats
- Stand-alone battery energy storage systems
- Electric vehicles (EVs)
While DERs are deployed broadly in Massachusetts today, we have only begun to tap their potential to respond to location-specific needs on the distribution grid. One key to unlocking this value is determining the appropriate, effective level of compensation for DERs that provide valuable grid services. This calculation is complex, requiring a balance between incentivizing reliable participation, keeping costs affordable for all customers, and ensuring equitable opportunities for participation.
What is the Grid Services Study?
The Grid Services Study is an initiative that creates
- An initial compensation framework for DERs providing location-specific grid services to the distribution grid, including exploring the value that using DERs flexibly can provide in Environmental Justice communities.
- An implementation roadmap intended to guide the longer-term development of programs for using DER flexibility to support the distribution grid.
MassCEC is leading the Grid Services Study, the concept for which emerged through the Commonwealth’s Electric Sector Modernization Plan (ESMP) process. We’re proud to facilitate the collaboration of our project team, which includes representatives from
- the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
- the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office
- the state's three investor-owned utilities -- Eversource, National Grid, and Unitil
The project is supported by our consulting partners Energy and Environmental Economics (E3) and Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and will include engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Expected Project Timeline
Process Step |
Timing |
|---|---|
Work begins |
October 2024 |
Future stakeholder workshops |
To be announced |
Stakeholder Workshop 1 |
December 16th, 2024: |
Opportunities for stakeholder input |
To be announced. |
Work concludes; final report released |
Summer 2025 |
Get involved in the study!
Stakeholder Workshop 1
Discover how distributed energy resources (DERs) are reshaping the electric grid and the opportunities this creates for workforce innovation.
This workshop explores the value of DERs, equitable compensation mechanisms, and the skills needed to support Massachusetts’ clean energy transition.
Gain insights into future grid services and how your role can drive impactful change in the energy landscape.