The Rise of Distributed Energy Resources in Demand Response

In an article for Utility Dive, Navigant Research discusses why utilities are focused on adding more DER to demand response programs

Utilities approach to demand response has recently changed from an emergency-based program to a grid management resource. As this shift continues, more distributed energy resources (DER) are being added, meaning more supply and load that can be influenced by utilities to balance the grid. 

In an article for Utility Dive, Brett Feldman, research director at Navigant Research, explained why utilities are focused on adding new DER to their demand response programs, including developing larger packages of DER, aimed at operating electric systems in a much cleaner and more efficient manner. 
He noted a predicted rise in spending on Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs, which will eventually increase the number of connected devices.
"[Bring Your Own Thermostat] programs have been a growing trend and we see that continuing and extending beyond thermostats to other types of devices," Feldman said. "Eventually we'll get into connected appliances, but it will take time. ... EVs and storage will be the main ones over the next several years."
Additionally, a new wave of demand management strategies has allowed some utilities to defer infrastructure upgrades. Feldman noted that strategies such as non-wire alternatives will continue to attract interest, allowing some utilities to delay or avoid major investments.

Read the Full Utility Dive Article

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