DG+IG update: Renewables integration and policy solutions - Clean Coalition
A row of solar panels under a blue sky with fluffy white clouds, capturing solar energy.

DG+IG update: Renewables integration and policy solutions

Recently, the Clean Coalition modeled how intelligent grid solutions can support the integration of high penetrations of renewables onto the grid.

Craig Lewis


As a key step in ensuring that from 2020 onward at least 50% of all new energy generation in the United States comes from local sources, the Clean Coalition continues its Distributed Generation + Intelligent Grid (DG+IG) Initiative to prove that local renewables connected to the distribution grid can provide at least 25% of the total electric energy consumed within the distribution grid while maintaining or improving grid reliability.

Recently, the Clean Coalition modeled how intelligent grid solutions – such as demand response, advanced inverters, and energy storage – can support the integration of high penetrations of renewables onto the grid. Thefirst modelproves that DG+IG enables system operators to maintain grid reliability by keeping power in balance. Upcoming models will illustrate the impact of DG+IG on voltage and frequency. Collectively, the three models – energy, voltage, and frequency – will illustrate how a fully integrated DG+IG power system reduces the need for expensive peaker plants to provide back-up power and grid services.

The Clean Coalition also releaseda roadmapto guide the country’s timely and cost-effective transition towards a modern power system. The roadmap includes summaries of key – and readily available – IG technologies, as well as policy recommendations.

Craig Lewis

Founder and Executive Director

Craig founded the Clean Coalition in 2009 and has over 30 years of experience in policy and technology innovation, including the proliferation of Solar Microgrids and Community Microgrids. Prior to founding the Clean Coalition, Craig held numerous positions in the wireless, semiconductor, banking, and renewable energy industries. Previously VP of Government Relations at GreenVolts, he was the first to successfully navigate a solar project through California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard solicitation process. Craig was energy policy lead on Steve Westly’s 2006 California gubernatorial campaign. His resume includes senior government relations, corporate development, and marketing positions at leading wireless, semiconductor, and banking companies such as Qualcomm, Ericsson, and Barclays Bank. Craig received an MBA and MSEE from the University of Southern California and a BSEE from the University of California, Berkeley.

Copyright © 2023 Clean Coalition
Site Design: FIREANT STUDIO