Electric Utilities, Grid Managers Highlight Summer Reliability, Marcellus Shale Impacts

As several regions of the state experience hot and humid temperatures this week, the Energy Association of Pennsylvania, the Electric Power Generation Association, and PJM Interconnection advised the Public Utility Commission they are expecting normal demands for electricity during the summer months while maintaining enough power for emergencies.

 

The presenters discussed forecasted load and capacity; generation and transmission for summer 2009; environmental considerations; plant additions and retirements; Marcellus Shale drilling’s potential impact on electric utility service; and the perspectives of electric distribution companies.

 

PJM, based in Pennsylvania, is the electricity grid operator for 13 states and the District of Columbia. PJM predicts that customers will drive the net peak demand this summer to 136,310 megawatts, compared to the all-time peak of 144,644 megawatts on August 2, 2006.

 

PJM expects to have a total reserve margin of 30 percent, which is the extra power on hand to meet unanticipated demand.

 

Electric Power Generation Association members own and operate more than 145,000 megawatts of generating capacity. The EPGA reported that coal inventories, nuclear units and natural gas storage levels are sufficient to meet peak demand and also discussed reliability risks, including environmental challenges.

 

The Energy Association of Pennsylvania member companies serve over 8 million electric and natural gas customers in the Commonwealth. EAP reported that Pennsylvania electric distribution companies are working to enhance reliability by promoting Smart Grid collaboration; investing in infrastructure; and working to address an aging workforce and attract new employees.

 

Pennsylvania One Call System Inc, a nonprofit corporation that promotes safety by providing a communications network among designers, excavators and facility owners also presented. PA One Call discussed the damage impact on utility reliability for 2009 and the potential impact of the Marcellus Shale drilling on electric utility service.

 

The PUC's own Bureau of Conservation, Economics and Energy Planning also presented an overview of Pennsylvania's electric power grid and demand.