Duke Energy, Exelon, Xcel Energy and three other utility companies have urged the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to withdraw a “show cause” order that would eliminate the transmission owner’s right to pay for and profit on network upgrades for interconnecting power projects. The companies argue that the proposal lacks clear Congressional authorization and violates the U.S. Constitution, the Federal Power Act and the Administrative Procedure Act. The order also seeks to compel private enterprise to build, own and operate transmission facilities without a reasonable opportunity to earn a return, violating the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment. The utilities argue that network upgrades cost more when they are funded by transmission owners instead of the interconnection customer.
Solar Dominates US Energy Capacity Growth
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has published data showing that solar accounted for over 75% of US electrical generating
