Eversource Energy has introduced targeted load management pilots in Massachusetts, focusing on specific substations grappling with high solar penetration or summer-peak congestion. The programs aim to alleviate grid stress and could be expanded in coming years, a company spokesperson indicated.
The pilots zero in on distribution-level challenges, where solar generation can cause reverse power flows or voltage issues, and summer air conditioning loads push infrastructure to capacity. By managing demand at these pinch points, Eversource hopes to defer costly substation upgrades and enhance reliability.
No specific cost or capacity figures were disclosed for the pilots. The utility is testing load control as a grid asset, potentially integrating customer-side batteries or smart thermostats to shift demand away from peak periods. Success could inform similar strategies across its New England service territory.
Massachusetts' aggressive renewable portfolio standards have driven high solar adoption, creating technical and regulatory pressures on distribution utilities. These pilots reflect a broader industry shift toward targeted, non-wires alternatives to traditional grid investment.
A potential limitation: load management programs depend on customer enrollment and behavior, which can be inconsistent. If participation lags or savings fail to materialize, the anticipated benefits may not offset the program costs.