Our goal is to enable a nearly zero-carbon electric system that can support the additional load brought on by electrification of other energy uses. To achieve this, we take a systems-level approach, working at multiple scales and with a diverse range of key actors.
We work with groups of state environmental and energy regulators to develop and implement decarbonization road maps; within the Midcontinent Independent Systems Operator stakeholder process on market rules and the transmission build-out; with states, utilities, and other interests reforming the utility business model to align financial interests with a low-carbon energy system; and with states, local governments, and other key actors to bring down the implementation (or “soft”) costs of solar and increase consumer demand for zero-carbon electricity.
Geography
Mainly states in the operational footprint of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, PJM, and Southwest Power Pool regional transmission organizations; and other selected states on a case-by-case basis (e.g., Rhode Island).
Our Goals
Over the next three years, our goals are to:
- Develop and implement regional decarbonization action plans by engaging energy and environmental regulators in roughly half of the states in the U.S.
- Establish accurate price signals, fair market rules, and transmission build outs that support a largely decarbonized electric sector by working with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and other organized markets.
- Reduce the implementation (or “soft” costs) of solar projects and transform the market for solar energy deployment by assisting state and local governments in becoming “solar ready” via their policies, permitting, and zoning.
- Increase consumer demand for zero-carbon electricity through technical assistance and collaborative procurement initiatives.
- Implement utility business model and regulatory reform recommendations from the e21 Initiative in Minnesota which is co-led by GPI and the Center for Energy and Environment.
- Align financial incentives for utilities with achieving a low-carbon energy system in 1-3 states. Assist investor-owned utilities in evolving the utility business model and regulatory framework. This would focus on states beyond Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Rhode Island where GPI is already working.
Our Electricity Experts
Have questions? Get in touch with one of our electricity experts.
Reports & Related Materials
e21 Forum Convenes Stakeholders to Explore Consumer-Centric Rates and Performance-Based Compensation
Understanding the Interaction between Regional Electricity Markets and State Policies
The Impact of Wind Generation on Wholesale Electricity Prices in the Midcontinent Market: And Empirical Investigation
Our Outreach
Creating a Modern, Efficient, Electrical System
Drive Electric Minnesota
Facilitated by the Great Plains Institute, Drive Electric Minnesota is a partnership of Minnesota’s electric vehicle (EV) champions, dedicated to encouraging the deployment of EVs and the establishment of EV charging infrastructure through public-private partnerships, financial incentives, education, technical support and public policy. We believe EVs are an important component of energy efficiency and cleaner transportation in Minnesota that is both financially and environmentally sustainable. Advancing EV deployment will have many benefits to Minnesotans, including reduced transportation costs, cleaner air, and energy independence.
e21 Initiative
The e21 Initiative aims to develop a more customer-centric and sustainable framework for utility regulation in Minnesota that better aligns how utilities earn revenue with public policy goals, new customer expectations, and the changing technology landscape.
