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158 projects found for:
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Topic: Energy Efficiency & Load Response
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New England Markets Services for NEPOOL Alternative Resource Sector Clients
Clients: Conservation Services Group, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation, EnerNOC
Since 2005, Synapse has provided monitoring and representation services for CSG and small companies associated with CSG who have recently become NEPOOL members in the new NEPOOL Alternative Resources sector. In 2006, VEIC became a NEPOOL member and a Synapse client for whom Synapse provides information and representation services. In 2007, EnerNOC became a Synapse client for whom Synapse provides monitoring and information services. The Alternative Resources sector is comprised of providers of energy efficiency, renewable, distributed generation, and demand response resources. Project ongoing.
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New England Markets Services for Consumer Advocate Clients
Clients: Connecticut Office of Consumer Counsel, New Hampshire Office of the Consumer Advocate, Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General
Since 2001, Synapse has engaged in NEPOOL and ISO New England committee and working group meetings on behalf of New England consumer advocate clients. NH OCA and CT OCC are NEPOOL members of the End Use sector and Synapse provides representation services (voting) in addition to the monitoring and information services provide to all three consumer advocate clients. Project ongoing.
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Wholesale Markets
Client: Conservation Services Group
Synapse represents and advises Conservation Services Group and a coalition of their renewable energy clients in their participation in ISO-NE and PJM wholesale markets. We advocate for the inclusion of energy efficiency, demand response, distributed generation, and renewable generation in all aspects of their participation in wholesale capacity, energy, and ancillary services markets. Project ongoing.
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Forward Capacity Market
Client: Cape Light Compact
Synapse assists the Cape Light Compact with various aspects of their participation in the New England Forward Capacity Market (FCM).
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State Energy Planning
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse is assisting the Division of the Rate Counsel on the state of New Jersey's Energy Master Planning (EMP) process. Our work includes reviewing input assumptions and modeling methods for electric sector policies. Key policy options considered in the NJ EMP include energy efficiency programs, reform of the auction for Basic Generation Service, establishment of a state power authority, and various efforts to promote renewable energy and ensure reliable electricity service at reasonable cost to consumers. Project ongoing.
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Review of PEPCO's DSM Mechanisms
Client: Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia
Synapse is assisting the Office of the People's Counsel of the District of Columbia (OPC) review and analyze Potomac Electric Power Company's (PEPCO's) Application for its "Blueprint for the Future". PEPCO filed this application on April 4, 2007 with the D.C. Commission for authorization to establish a demand side management (DSM) cost recovery mechanism, an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) rate adjustment mechanism, a DSM collaborative, and an AMI advisory group that it plans to implement in all of its service territories. Synapse's findings will likely be presented in testimony before the D.C. Commission. Project ongoing.
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Residential DLC Proposal Evaluation
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Evaluation of cost-effectiveness of residential DLC proposals filed by Jersey Central Power & Light. Analysis of various components of the estimated costs, including equipment costs and payments to DLC participants, and of the estimated benefits, including the disposition of payments made by PJM to the utilities for the reductions in demand achieved through DLC. Project ongoing.
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FCM Assistance
Client: Cambridge Energy Alliance
Synapse assists the Cambridge Energy Alliance with various aspects of their participation in the New England Forward Capacity Market (FCM). Project ongoing.
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Demand Resources in Wholesale Markets
Client: Project for a Sustainable FERC Energy Policy
Synapse is performaing and evaluation and integration of demands resources into wholesale energy, capacity, and ancillary services markets. A [articular focus is on the integration of energy efficiency resources into the RPM capacity market. Project ongoing.
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Analyses of Proposed Demand Response Programs
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
For this project, Synapse is performing an analysis of demand response programs proposed by each of New Jersey's electric distribution companies and of proposals by curtailment service providers. Project ongoing. Download Direct Testimony
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NEPOOL/ISO-NE
Client: Connecticut Office of the Consumer Counsel
For this project, Synapse is performing research and analysis of the New England bulk power system and representation in the New England stakeholder process. A focus is on markets, reliability, and transmission issues. Project ongoing.
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Assessment of Proposal for Landlord Submetering
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Multi-Employer Property Trust (MEPT) Journal Square Urban Renewal applied to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities for a ruling to enable it to submeter and charge tenants in its new project for electricity, in lieu of utility submetering. The proposal was tied to a plan to use in-house fuel cells to generate electricity. The project evaluates the application from the viewpoints of energy conservation and consumer protection. Project ongoing.
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End Use Forecasting Model
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse is assisting and reviewing the incorporation of end-use components into the Nova Scotia load forecasting modeling. Project ongoing.
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New Jersey Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Policies and Programs
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse is providing wide-ranging technical and policy support relating to clean energy programs and energy efficiency policies, budgets, programs, evaluations, and cost recovery. Project ongoing.
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Midwest ISO Planning and Demand Resources
Client: Project for Sustainable FERC Energy Policy
Synapse is assisting stakeholders in Midwest ISO to advocate for the inclusion of demand resources, energy efficiency, and demand response in MISO markets and transmission planning. Project ongoing. Download Report
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State Efficiency Plans
Client: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
Synapse is assisting ACEEE with their efficiency plans for five states by developing avoided cost values as well as fuel costs and utility investments. Project ongoing.
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Protocols Used to Evaluate, Measure and Verify Savings from Energy Efficiency Programs
Client: Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships
Synapse is providing technical assistance and advice to NEEP in a project that is 1) determining how states in the Northeast and Middle Atlantic measure the energy savings from their energy efficiency programs and 2) evaluating how these energy savings are in turn converted into displaced emissions that air regulators can consider as part of their air quality plans. Project ongoing.
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Future of Electric Utilities
Client: Ceres
Synapse was retained to advise CERES on issues related to the long-term future of regulated electric utilities. Specific topics included financing of de-carbonization efforts and ratemaking issues for energy efficiency. Project ongoing.
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Review and Comment on Virginia Electric and Power Company's First IRP
Clients: Southern Environmental Law Center, Chesapeake Climate Action Network, Appalachian Voices, Sierra Club
Synapse is providing consulting assistance in the drafting of formal comments on Virginia Electric and Power Company's IRP. Issues include resource planning, load forecasting and energy efficiency programs. Project ongoing.
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Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act
Client: Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
In 2008, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick signed the Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA). Through the establishment of a series of regulatory programs, the Act hopes to mitigate Massachusetts greenhouse gas emissions to 10-25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 and by 80 percent by 2050. Synapse is working in conjunction with Eastern Research Group to assist the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources in strategy and policy development and coordination, along with modeling to project the costs and impacts of potential policies. Project ongoing.
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Demand Side Management in Rhode Island
Client: Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
Synapse consults for the Division regarding ongoing electric and gas DSM matters in Rhode Island. This involves ongoing work with the RI DSM Collaborative, set up in 1991. In 2007, Synapse's Tim Woolf prepared testimony supporting a settlement among multiple parties on the design and funding for natural gas demand-side management programs in the state for 2007-2008. This groundbreaking settlement will result in increased energy efficiency in Rhode Island and offers to help increase efficiency of delivery of both electric and gas DSM programs, which will be jointly developed and implemented for future years. Project ongoing. Download Testimony
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Energy Efficiency Programs For the Municipal Aggregator on Cape Cod
Client: Cape Light Compact
The Massachusetts restructuring law enables municipal aggregators to implement energy efficiency programs with funds raised from all customers through a system benefits charge. More than six years ago, Synapse designed the energy efficiency programs that are being provided by the Cape Light Compact, the municipal aggregator on Cape Cod. Since then, Synapse has assisted the Compact in obtaining approval of its Energy Efficiency Plan from the Massachusetts regulatory body. Synapse continues to assist the Compact with refining the design of the efficiency initiative, which includes improvements to existing programs as well as innovative new programs and three year plans to comply with the Green Communities Act. Project ongoing. Download Report
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Developing US Climate Policy
Client: Regulatory Assistance Project
Synapse is providing assistance to the Regulatory Assistance Project to help inform and participate in state, regional, and national discussions on climate policy. These include but are not limited to: RGGI, WRCAI, CA, as well as the several bills that are currently being considered in Congress. The focus of these efforts is to assure that robust energy efficiency, DSM, and renewables are integrated into the various climate programs underway and under development, to help achieve the goals of stabilizing the earth's climate, increasing energy security, and maximizing consumer benefit. Project ongoing.
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NEPOOL Representation for Renewable, Demand Response, Distributed Generation and Energy Efficiency clients
Client: Conservation Services Group
The New England Power Pool recently opened its governance structure to allow renewable and alternative power producers to become voting members. CSG, along with a coalition of its affiliates, hired Synapse to represent Renewable, Demand Response, Distributed Generation, and Energy Efficiency interests by participating in committee discussions and voting on key issues. Major contributions include successful lobbying for the inclusion of utility, state-mandated, and merchant energy efficiency projects as qualified capacity in New England's recent capacity market structure (pending FERC approval). Project has continued for additional clients. Project completed in January 2006.
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Review of Energy Efficiency Programs in Rhode Island
Client: Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
Synapse represented the DPUC Staff in a collaborative process to oversee and provide input concerning energy efficiency programs offered by National Grid, the state's primary electric utility. This work encompassed all aspects of energy efficiency program design and implementation, including efficiency measure assessment, program delivery options, program budgeting, cost-benefit analyses, utility performance incentives, and other relevant regulatory policies. Project completed in December 2005.
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Clean Energy Action Plan for States
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse contributed four chapters to EPA's guidebook of policies that states can implement to advance clean energy activities. These chapters address
1) integrating energy efficiency and renewables into air quality planning,
2) integrating energy efficiency and renewables into state and regional energy planning,
3) identifying and describing the financial incentive (and disincentive) mechanisms for clean energy and energy efficiency associated with state-level ratemaking structures for electric and gas utilities, and
4) the role of clean energy in integrated resource planning and portfolio management. The guidebook can be found on the EPA's website. Project completed in December 2005.
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New Jersey Utility Proposals for Residential Direct Load Control (DLC)
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Each of New Jersey's four major electric distribution utilities has filed residential DLC proposals. Three utilities proposed expenditures to improve the operability of their legacy programs and one utility proposed to introduce a program. Synapse helped the Division of Ratepayer Advocate evaluate and developed comments regarding the cost-effectiveness of those proposals. We analyzed various components of the estimated costs, including equipment costs and payments to DLC participants, and of the estimated benefits, including the disposition of payments made by PJM to the utilities for the reductions in demand achieved through DLC. Project closed June 2010 Download Report
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Review and Critique CMP MPRP Application
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
In conjunction with Lanzalotta Associates, Synapse performed a review and critique of the CMP application for a 1.5 billion transmission project in Maine, MPRP. Project completed June 2010. Download Direct Testimony
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Review of South Carolina Electric and Gas Company's Proposed DSM Programs
Clients: Southern Environmental Law Center, South Carolina Coastal Conservation League
Synapse provided expert witness services in a proceeding to review SCE&G's proposed DSM programs. Topics included cost-benefit testing, inclusion of carbon costs, cost allocation, and DSM services for hard-to-reach customers including limited-income customers. Project completed May 2010.
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White Paper on Alternative Ratemaking Mechanisms Used by Investor Owned Electric Utilities
Client: Arkansas Public Service Commission Staff
For the Arkansas Publice Service Commission, Synapse prepared a whitepaper describing ratemaking mechanisms that U.S. electric utilities have implemented to align their financial incentives with the pursuit of energy efficiency. Project completed May 2010.
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Energy Efficiency Potential in the Dakotas
Client: Plains Justice
Synapse prepared two separate reports that describe the potential for energy efficiency (EE) in North Dakota and South Dakota, and the economic and jobs benefits that could occur from developing and implementing EE programs in these states. Both states lag others in developing their EE programs and have electricity consumption rates that are 20-30% higher than the U.S. national average. Despite low electricity rates, the high rate of energy consumption results in residents of both states spending higher shares of their per capita incomes on energy bills than residents of other states, including those with higher electricity rates. The reports show that EE programs that result in energy savings equal to 1% and 2% of annual electricity sales would save ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars by 2020 and lead to the creation of thousands of new jobs. Project completed April 2010. Download Report
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Testimony on the Ratemaking Implications of Baltimore Gas and Electric Company's Proposed Smart Grid Initiative
Client: Maryland Office of the People's Counsel
Synapse conducted an analysis of the projected costs and benefits of BGE's proposed Smart Grid Initiative as well as the proposed allocation of Initiative costs among rate classes and the design of the proposed Smart Grid Charge. Project completed April 2010. Download Testimony
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Testimony on the Ratemaking Implications of the Request by Potomac Electric Power Company and by Delmarva Power and Light Company to Deploy Advanced Meter Infrastructure
Client: Maryland Office of the People's Counsel
For the Maryland Office of People's Counsel, Synapse analyzed the projected costs and benefits of the AMI proposed by PEPCO MD and Delmarva MD respectively, as well as the rate and bill impacts of those proposals. Project completed April 2010. Download Direct Testimony
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Health and Water Co-Benefits of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in Utah
Client: State of Utah Energy Office
Synapse was contracted by the State of Utah to estimate the water and health co-benefits of implementing energy efficiency (EE) and increasing renewable energy (RE) resources in Utah. This modeling-based exercise drew upon power system expertise at Synapse, civil engineering at Tufts University, and emissions-receptor modeling from the Harvard School of Public Health. New EE and RE resources reduced in-state demand, which reduced some aspects of in-state generation. Synapse and team members identified current and future water and health externalities from baseline generation and load growth; co-benefits are identified as the difference between externalities from baseline generation and the EE / RE scenarios. For this project, Synapse modified an in-house statistically-based hourly dispatch model, developed using publically-available historical generation and emissions data. Future build-out and resource replacement were explicitly modeled. Total generation and emissions from each scenario were used to estimate externalities and associated costs: water consumption was based on reported water use for unit-specific cooling systems; the externality cost of water was the regional marginal cost of water, derived from transaction data; Mortality and morbidity were calculated from the formation, dispersion, and geographically distributed population uptake of primary and secondary particulates and ozone; externality values were based the statistical value of life and healthcare costs for hospital visits and lost productivity. Project completed March 2010. Download Report
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Energy and Environmental Integration in China
Client: Regulatory Assistance Project
Synapse Senior Associate Chris James was retained to work with RAP on the following areas: improving integration of energy and environmental policies in the ministry of environmental project and the grid operators; adopting policies to improve energy efficiency for the industrial sector and multi-pollutant strategies for air quality. The project involved direct meetings with Chinese government officials, who are primarily located in Beijing. Several short papers have been written to help Chinese officials with emissions trading, the U.S. RGGI program, output-based emissions standards and multi-pollutant approaches for air quality. Project completed March 2010. Download Report
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Advanced Metering in Maryland
Client: Maryland Office of the People's Counsel
Synapse assisted the Maryland Office of People's Counsel by reviewing filings regarding Baltimore Gas & Electric's pilot AMI program, including the program design and choice, accelerated DSM implementation, technology options, cost-benefit analysis, cost recovery mechanisms and the level of sufficient recovery, and alternatives to the program. Synapse also conducted a similar review of filings by PEPCO and Delmarva to take actions similar to BGE. Project completed March 2010.
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FCM Working Group 2009
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
Synapse assisted the Maine OPA in its participation in the FCM Working Group that is considering changes to the FCM rules in 2009. Project completed March 2010.
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Review and Analysis of Delmarva Power Integrated Resource Plan
Client: Delaware Public Service Commission Staff
Synapse is evaluating the Integrated Resource Plan filing of Delmarva Power and Light. Synapse is reviewing the way in which the plan complies or does not comply with state directives on integrated resource planning and provision of default service supply. Synapse is also providing advice to the Commission on related issues with Delaware's RFP for new generation to be long-term contracted with Delmarva. The first phase of the project was completed in 2009, and a second phase is underway to review a forthcoming (Fall 2010) IRP from Delmarva Power and Light.
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Testimony Regarding A Conservation Enabling Rider Proposed by Centerpoint Energy Resource Corporation
Clients: Izaak Walton League, Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy
Synapse analyzed a pilot gas rate decoupling mechanism, a Conservation Enabling Rider, proposed by Centerpoint Energy. Project completed March 2010. Download Direct Testimony
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Setting Numerical Demand Side Management Goals for Multiple Florida Utilities
Clients: Natural Resources Defense Council, Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Synapse provided expert witness services for a multi-utility proceeding before the Florida Public Service Commission concerning setting new ten-year goals for utility electric DSM programs. Synapse testimony focused on DSM ratemaking, cost-effectiveness testing, and selected program design issues. Project completed March 2010. Download Testimony
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Recommendations for Electric Utility DSM Programs in Virginia
Clients: Southern Environmental Law Center, Appalachian Voices, Sierra Club
Synapse provided expert witness services in a proceeding to establish numeric savings goals and program policies for electric utility DSM programs. Topics included cost-benefit testing, inclusion of carbon costs, cost allocation, and DSM services for hard-to-reach customers including limited-income customers. Project completed in 2010. Download Testimony
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Iowa Energy Efficiency Stakeholder Collaborative
Client: Plains Justice
Synapse provided technical advice and guidance to Plains Justice, which was a stakeholder in a process to implement the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) order to increase the quantity of energy saved by energy efficiency measures to 1.5% annually. Earlier, Synapse testified in an IUB hearing that this level of savings was both achievable and cost-effective. Project completed March 2010.
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Testimony Regarding the Smart Meter Technology Plans Filed by Allegheny Power and the FirstEnergy Companies
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
Synapse analyzed the policy and ratemaking implications of the Company filings, the level of projected benefits of the proposed Smart Meter Plans relative to their projected costs, the uncertainty associated with those benefits, and the allocation and rate design issues underlying the cost recovery proposals. Project completed March 2010. Download Direct Testimony
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Mississippi PSC Consideration of New PURPA Standards
Client: Sierra Club
Synapse provided expert witness services during the Mississippi PSC's consideration of several newly enacted PURPA standards relating to resource planning and DSM. Project completed in 2010.
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Carbon Constrained Electric System Integrated Resource Plan
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse was retained to collaborate with Nova Scotia Power on an update to its Integrated Resource Planning process. The planning was done subject to a hard cap on system carbon dioxide emissions, and other constraints. The resulting reference plan included aggressive development of wind and biomass, and rapid ramp-up of energy efficiency programs. Project completed February 2010.
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Nova Scotia Power, Inc. Demand-Side Management Plan
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse prepared a review of and testimony on the NSPI 2010 DSM program, budget, and cost recovery proposal. Project completed February 2010.
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Analysis of Ontario Power Authority Integrated Power System Plan
Client: Pollution Probe
The project reviewed, critiqued and provided expert testimony on distributed generation and demand response aspects of Ontario Power Authority's proposed "Integrated Power System Plan". Project completed 2010.
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Philadelphia Gas Works Demand-Side Management Plan
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
Synapse reviewed PGW's 5-Year DSM program and cost recovery proposal. Project completed August 2010
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Supporting a Cleaner Energy Mix in Nevada
Clients: Western Resource Advocates, Nevadans for Affordable Reliable Clean Energy
Synapse assisted Western Resource Advocates and its local affiliate, NCARE, in developing a clean energy planning model to show how renewable resources can meet Nevada's future power needs and produce economic benefits at minimal cost to ratepayers. Synapse developed a clean development model that shows how transmission investments support renewables, along with aggressive development of renewable and energy efficiency potential in the state, can more than meet Nevada's electricity needs without relying on expensive and CO2-emitting new resources such as a proposed coal plant. Project completed November 2009. Download Testimony
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Vermont State Energy Efficiency Utility Structure
Client: Conservation Law Foundation
Synapse provided expert witness services to the Vermont Conservation Law Foundation during litigation on new organizational models for the Vermont Efficiency Utility, a leading example in the nation of independent third-party administration of electric energy efficiency programs. Project completed in 2009. Download Prefiled Testimony
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Customer Perspectives on Delivery of Energy Efficiency
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
For this project, Synapse researched and analyzed concerns that consumer organizations have raised regarding energy efficiency programs in general and ratepayer funded efficiency programs in particular. Project completed in 2009.
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Ohio Regional Transmission Organization Evaluation
Client: Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Synapse assisted the Ohio OCC in responding to a request for comments issued by the Ohio Commission regarding the benefits of participation in RTOs and, specifically, whether Ohio should join a single RTO (Midwest ISO or PJM) rather than continue to participate in both RTOs. The responses, developed jointly by Synapse and the OH OCC, answered a series of detailed questions posed by the OH Commission. Synapse developed an initial set of responses and then a reply set of responses that addressed the comments field by other parties to the proceeding. Project completed in 2009. Download Report
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Japan Energy Efficiency Tour
Client: Unión Fenosa
This project involved arranging meetings for Union Fenosa with Japanese and Korean organizations that produce energy efficiency products and services (e.g., high efficient heat pump and zero emission house) or are engaged in energy efficiency related programs and policies; and visiting Japanese organizations with the delegates of Union Fenosa and providing them technical and translation help so that they were able to gain and understanding of Japanese energy efficiency products, services, programs and policies. While the main focus was on efficiency, renewable energy and distributed generation technologies were also studied during the tour in Japan. Project completed in September 2009.
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Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Alaska
Client: Center for Climate Strategies
Synapse provided facilitation, policy and technical analyses for the Alaska climate change action planning process. Project completed September 2009.
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Review KCPL IRP-Supply Side-Renewables
Client: Missouri Department of Natural Resources
For this project, Synapse reviewed KCPL's IRP for consistency with law on the supply side, for renewable resources. Tom Franks, of Optimal Energy, acted in a subcontractor role and focused on aspects of demand-side management. Project completed September 2009.
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Technical Advice on Rhode Island Demand-Side Management Programs
Client: Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
Synapse served as a technical advisor to Division on all DSM activity, mainly through participation in DSM collaborative meetings. Project completed September 2009.
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Demand Side Management Analysis
Client: Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia
Synapse was hired to review plans proposed by the local distribution company (PEPCO) to provide energy efficiency and demand response programs to consumes in the District of Columbia. Prior to any significant work on this project, the DC Commission approved a proposal for a stand-alone efficiency utility. Due to this decision, our client effectively abandoned its analysis of PEPCO's programs and ended the contract. Project completed August 2009.
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National Energy Efficiency Study: No Need To Wait
Client: Environmental Defense
Synapse sought to determine the ability of energy efficiency and agriculture offsets to provide Greenhouse gas reductions in order to meet goals of S 2191 (Lieberman-Warner Bill). Project completed August 2009. Download Report
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Avoided Costs for Clean Energy Studies
Client: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
For this project, Synapse looked at high level projections of long-term electricity supply prices and avoided costs as inputs to state-specific clean energy potential studies. Project completed June 2009.
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Energy Efficiency Program Review
Client: Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
On behalf of Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, Synapse reviewed the Duke Energy Save-A-Watt Energy Efficiency Plan Proposal. The review is focused on Duke Energy's proposed programs and the proposed cost recovery mechanism. Also, joint intervenor comments on a Rulemaking Proceeding have been formally filed by the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, Environmental Defense and the Southern Environmental Law Center with the North Carolina Public Utilities Commission. Concurrently, communications consisting of feedback and recommendations on the Save-A-Watt proposal occurred with Duke Energy. Project completed in 2009. Download Duke NC Testimony
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Evaluation of Duke Energy's Save-A-Watt Proposal in Indiana
Client: Citizens Action Coalition of Indiana
On behalf of Citizens Action Coalition in Indiana, Synapse reviewed the Duke Energy Save-A-Watt Energy Efficiency Plan Proposal. The review focused on Duke Energy's proposed programs and the proposed cost recovery mechanism. Project completed May 2009. Download Testimony and Exhibits
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Interstate Power and Light Company's Proposed Energy Efficiency Program
Clients: Community Coalition, Plains Justice
Synapse was retained by Plains Justice to participate in the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) docket for the IPL energy efficiency case. Synapse reviewed IPL's filings, their annual reports, and their proposed plans to achieve the objectives of IUBs order. Direct and rebuttal testimony were prepared and submitted. Briefings for Iowa agency heads and legislators were planned for the first quarter of 2009. Project completed May 2009. Download Testimony
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Analyses of Proposed Decoupling Pilot Projects
Client: Izaak Walton League
Synapse performed analyses of proposed decoupling polices and pilot programs. Project completed in March 2009.
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Comments Regarding IRP in Connecticut
Client: AARP
Synapse prepared comments for the AARP to be submitted to the Connecticut Energy Advisory Board in February 2008. Completed in February 2009. Download Comments
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Energy Efficiency Tracking System
Client: Cape Light Compact
The Cape Light Compact contracted for a custom energy efficiency tracking system that will enable to them to better track all aspects of their energy efficiency program installations and improve customer service. Synapse assisted The Cape Light Compact in ensuring that all critical system requirements have been met by the database provider. Project completed February 2009.
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Electric Company Rate Case
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse assisted the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board with a variety of rate case issues including electric load forecasting, demand-side management, and power plant depreciation. Project completed in February 2009. Download Testimony
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Customer Perspectives on Delivery of Energy Efficiency
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
For the U.S. EPA, Synapse researched and analyzed concerns that consumer organizations have raised regarding energy efficiency programs in general and ratepayer funded efficiency programs in particular. Project completed in 2009.
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Evaluation of DLC and AMI Proposals
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Project work included evaluating the cost-effectiveness of residential DLC and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) proposals filed by Public Service Electric and Gas. Project completed February 2009.
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Analysis of Duke Ohio Save A Watt Proposal
Client: Natural Resources Defense Council
Analysis of Duke Energy Ohio's proposed "Save-a-Watt" program, which would institutue financial incentives program for Demand-Side Management.
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Demand Side Management Rulemaking
Clients: Sierra Club, Oklahoma Sustainability Network
The Sierra Club and the Oklahoma Sustainability Network retained Synapse to provide support in a state Commission rulemaking on demand side management (DSM) by electric utilities. Synapse provided assistance in drafting comments, attended workshops and negotiation meetings, and advised on strategy and economic impacts. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission adopted a new DSM rule as a result of this proceeding. Project completed in 2009.
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NEPOOL/ISO-NE
Client: New Hampshire Office of the Consumer Advocate
For this project, Synapse researched and analyzed New England's bulk power system and representation in the New England stakeholder process. The major focus was on markets, reliability, and transmission issues. Project completed in 2009, with extension projects continuing into 2010.
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Central Vermont Public Service Alternative Regulation
Client: Conservation Law Foundation
Synapse provided litigation support to CLF in evaluating CVPS's proposed alternative regulation plan. Project completed July 2009.
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Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Maryland
Clients: Center for Climate Strategies, Maryland Climate Change Commission
Synapse facilitated a workgroup to develop, prioritize, and recommend action items that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Residential, Commercial, and Industrial (RCI) sector. Project completed in July 2008.
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Climate Change Planning in Florida
Client: Environmental Defense
Synapse provided assistance to Environmental Defense as part of Florida's climate change planning process. Work included analysis of policy options, review of legislation being considered, and development of a white paper to promote renewable development in the state. Project completed December 2008.
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The Cape Light Compact FCM Assistance
Client: Cape Light Compact
Synapse assisted The Cape Light Compact with their participation in New England's Forward Capacity Market (FCM). Tasks includef preparation of M&V plans, estimation of future capacity values, and monthly calculation of installed capacity. Project completed December 2008.
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Cape Light Compact Energy Efficiency Program
Client: Cape Light Compact
Synapse assisted The Cape Light Compact with data management, planning, state reporting, FCM participation, and other aspects of their Energy Efficiency program. Project completed December 2008.
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Drafting Division of Capital Asset Management's RFP for Demand Response
Client: Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management
Synapse was enlisted by the DCAM to aid them in the drafting of an RFP for Demand Response services at state-owned facilities. Specifically, Synapse was asked to use their pre-existing detailed knowledge of the ISO-NE's Forward Capacity Market to review the draft RFP. We provided numerous comments and suggestions that would allow RFP respondents to offer more complete proposals that would maximize benefits to the Commonwealth from participation in the FCM. Project completed in 2008.
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Integrated Resource Planning and Demand-Side Management in Nova Scotia
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse was retained to collaborate with Nova Scotia Power on its Integrated Resource Planning process. Synapse reviewed the input assumptions and developed a modeling plan. The IRP analysis used the Strategist model. Synapse's work on this IRP included research on a wide range of issues including the DSM potential study, the fuel price forecasts, the construction costs of new generating capacity, the integration of variable output wind to the NS grid, the prospects for and implications of future carbon emissions regulations, and the evaluation of alternate resource plans. Project completed 2008. Download Biewald Testimony
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Connecticut HEDD Analysis
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse was contracted by the US EPA to evaluate the air quality impacts from generators that operate during high electric demand days (HEDD) in Connecticut. Based on an evaluation of future electric demand, Synapse evaluated effects of increased energy efficiency and installing additional air pollution controls on the ability of Connecticut to attain compliance with EPA ozone standards. Synapse constructed a stochastic model using emissions reference data from EPA's emissions tracking system. The model enabled electricity demand to be grown to 2020, using ISO-NE load forecasts and Synapse's knowledge regarding future Connecticut energy and environmental policies. Model results predicted which generating unit would satisfy demand for each hour, and at what load condition, based on electricity demand. The project is on-going; a final report is expected to be issued prior to the end of summer 2008. Download Report
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Review of Proposed Demand-Side Management and Greenhouse Gas Rules
Client: Ohio Consumers' Counsel
The Ohio Consumer Counsel retained Synapse to critique proposed rules on energy efficiency portfolio standards and greenhouse gas reporting. Synapse also assisted in preparation of comments filed by OCC. Project completed October 2008.
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New Jersey Demand Response Pilot Project
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse analyzed alternative demand response pilot project proposals in the state of New Jersey, participated in a working group process to develop DR program, and recommended "piggy-back" of the demand response program onto the PJM demand response mechanisms. Project completed in September 2008.
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AmerenUE Proposed 2008 Integrated Resource Plan
Client: Missouri Department of Natural Resources
This project consisted of a review of the 2008 integrated resource plan filed by AmerenUE. Project completed in 2008.
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PJM Regional Transmission Organization
Client: Ohio Consumers' Counsel
This project consisted of a two year effort in coordination with Pennsylvania, Maryland, and District of Columbia advocates to monitor RTO activities in PJM. The central focus was on RPM development, market monitoring, transmission planning, and load forecasts. Project completed in 2008.
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Analysis of Real-time Pricing Program
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
For this project, Synapse reviewed the reasonableness of a proposed residential real-time energy pricing program and suggested changes in design as well as alternative programs. Project completed in 2008. Download Testimony
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The Electricity Industry at a Glance
Client: National Regulatory Research Institute
The National Regulatory Research Institute (NRRI) retained Synapse to prepare a primer on the U.S. electric industry for public utility commissioners and public utility commission staff. The primer provides basic information on the U.S. electric industry. It assumes only a basic understanding of the nature and purpose of utility regulation. While it addresses issues related to ratemaking, it is not an introduction to rate setting. Section I reviews the overall nature of the industry and of power production and use. Section II breaks down the industry into segments and discusses their recent and current status and organization. Section III (written by Scott Hempling of NRRI) covers regulatory jurisdiction, while Section IV identifies some of the critical issues facing the industry and its regulators. Project completed in November 2008. Download Report
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Evaluating the Reliability Pricing Mechanism and Analysis of Wholesale Power System Issues
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
Synapse provided services to the Pennsylvania Office of the Consumer Advocate regarding several wholesale power system issues. Our major focus was on PJM's Reliability Pricing Model (RPM) proposal for a new capacity market structure. Our work in this regard included participation in settlement discussions in the summer and fall of 2006, as well as significant effort on developing a process for implementing reliability and economic transmission system upgrades and the cost allocation metric associated with those upgrades. In addition, we perform periodic work on Market Monitoring and Demand Resource issues. Project completed August 2008.
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Developing Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Strategies for South Carolina
Client: Center for Climate Strategies
Synapse coordinated a statewide effort to identify and evaluate potential state policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the state of South Carolina. Synapse's focus was on policies that would affect the electricity supply and demand sectors, including reducing the carbon footprint of the generation mix and improving the efficiency of energy use in the state. More about this project and Synapse's contributions can be found at http://www.scclimatechange.us/. Project completed in June 2008.
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Analysis of Need for Proposed Transmission Line
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
Synapse and Lanzalotta Associates analyzed the proposed $1 billion TrAIL 500 kV transmission line from southwestern Pennsylvania to northern Virginia for the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate. Their findings included recommendations to implement energy efficiency and demand response in the West Penn Power service territory of Allegheny Power to reduce local loading, and to reinforce the 138 kV system in the area, instead of building one portion of the proposed line, the segment between 502 Junction and Prexy in PA. The findings also included a recommendation for more rigorous analysis of the overall need for the remaining portion of the line between 502 Junction and Loudoun (No. VA), given PJM's minimal analysis of the effect of federal CO2 regulation on the claimed PJM dispatch efficiencies and production cost savings associated with the line. Project completed in May 2008. Download Fagan Testimony
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Energy Efficiency in Reliability Pricing Model
Client: Conservation Services Group
This project looked at integrating energy efficiency (EE) into the PJM capacity market (Reliability Pricing Model) through the PJM stakeholder process. Synapse developed a whitepaper and many related documents for the stakeholder process. Overall, the project was a short-term effort to push EE integration. Project completed in 2008.
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Potential Avoided Energy Costs
Client: National Grid USA
For Niagara Mohawk service territory in New York State, Synapse developed projections of electric energy and capacity costs which will be avoided due to reductions in electricity use and natural gas costs that will be avoided due to reductions in natural gas use. Deliverables included detailed projections for an initial fifteen year period beginning in 2007 and escalation rates for another fifteen years from 2022 through 2037. Project completed May 2008.
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Increasing Demand Response in Maine
Client: Maine Public Utilities Commission
Synapse was retained by the Maine Public Utilities Commission to evaluate the potential for increasing demand response in Maine. Project work involved estimating the potential for incremental peak load reduction in Maine, describing the most promising demand response technologies, describing the most promising policies and programs to capture the demand response potential, identifying and discussing potential barriers, and suggesting steps to encourage increased demand response in the state. Project completed in March 2008.
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Review of AMP-Ohio's Proposed Coal-Fired Generating Plant
Clients: Natural Resources Defense Council, Ohio Environmental Council, Sierra Club
Synapse evaluated American Municipal Power's proposed 960 MW coal-fired power plant in Meigs County, Ohio and whether AMP-Ohio had adequately considered the risks associated with that proposed plant in its resource planning for its member communities. Synapse also examined the costs (including construction costs and the cost of CO2 regulations) of the proposed plant and of alternatives to the proposed plant. Synapse found that AMP-Ohio had not prudently evaluated the potential for further increases in the project's cost or the likely costs of federal regulations of greenhouse gas emissions. The Ohio Power Plant Siting Board approved the plant. Project completed January 2008. Download Report
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Analysis of Sub-Transmission Reinforcement Alternatives in the Saco Bay
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
In conjunction with Lanzalotta Associates, Synapse evaluated the proposal by Central Maine Power to upgrade local area supply from 34.5 kV to 115 kV in Southern Maine. Synapse assessed the ability for conservation, energy efficiency, and demand response to reduce projected load increases and allow for a less expensive upgrade to the local sub-transmission system. Synapse and Lanzalotta are jointly sponsoring testimony before the Maine Public Service Commission. Project completed December 2008. Download Surrebuttal Testimony
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Review of Alliant Energy's Proposed Coal-Fired Power Plant in Wisconsin
Clients: Clean Wisconsin, Wisconsin Citizens Utility Board
Synapse evaluated the economics of a proposed coal plant in southern Wisconsin. Project completed in 2008. Download Schlissel Testimony
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PJM Regional Transmission Organization
Client: Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia
Synapse was involved in a three year effort in coordination with PA , MD, and OH advocates to monitor RTO activities in PJM. The central focus of the project was on RPM development and also market monitoring, transmission planning, and load forecasts. Project completed in 2008.
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TURN California Allowance Allocation
Client: The Utility Reform Network (TURN)
For this project, Synapse provided comments to TURN for submission to the California Public Utilities Commission (CA PUC) for Greenhouse Gas Docket R 06-04-009 CPUC . Project work included attending a CA PUC workshop held in San Francisco on May 6, 2008 on greenhouse gas and E3 carbon allocation modeling. Project completed December 2008.
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Mississippi Integrated Resource Plan Testimony
Client: Sierra Club
The Sierra Club retained Synapse to provide testimony on the proper goals, approach, and methods for IRP preparation by Mississippi's electric utilities. Synapse provided prefiled and oral testimony on IRP, supply planning, T&D issues, energy efficiency and load control, and related topics in the Mississippi Commission's generic proceeding on resource planning. Project completed in 2008. Download Steinhurst Testimony
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State Climate Change Action Plans
Clients: Stockholm Environment Institute, Center for Climate Change Strategies
Provided analytical assistance to SEI/CCS and evaluated a number of policies/programs to tackle climate change including utility energy efficiency programs and renewable energy portfolio standards. More specifically we evaluated costs of and energy and emissions savings from those policies/programs. Project completed in 2008.
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Analysis of EE/DR Options in Lieu of Transmission Upgrades in Saco Bay
Client: City of Saco Bay
For this project, Synapse analyzed energy efficiency and demand response alternatives to a proposed transmission upgrade in the Portland, ME area. Project completed in 2008.
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Decoupling Analysis
Client: The Energy Consortium
For this project, Synapse analyzed issues associated with proposals to decouple annual revenues of electric distribution utilities from their annual kWh deliveries. Download Report
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Florida Climate Action Team
Client: Environmental Defense
In August 2007, Governor Crist of Florida appointed the Florida Governor's Action Team on Energy and Climate Change. Environmental Defense is a member of the Action Team that will be developing Florida's Energy and Climate Change Action Plan. Synapse assisted Environmental Defense in evaluating energy supply and energy efficiency policies that will be discussed by the Action Team during the first phase of this process. Synapse also assisted Environmental Defense identify strategies to help the state achieve its greenhouse gas reduction goals. Project was completed in December 2007.
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Wholesale Market Issues and Transmission Planning in PJM
Client: Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia
Synapse provided the Office of the People's Counsel with assistance in evaluating PJM's proposed Reliability Pricing Model (RPM) for capacity markets. On behalf of DC OPC and other consumer advocates in the PJM wholesale power system, Synapse reviewed, proposed modifications, and intervened in a contested process at FERC to determine the final design of the RPM capacity market. Synapse provided assistance to DC OPC in all phases of the review, comments, technical conferences, and settlement processes, and our efforts helped secure modifications to the model that will save state ratepayers in PJM hundreds of millions of dollars annually. In addition, Synapse assisted the Office with transmission planning for economic and reliability upgrades (including cost allocation). Project completed in November 2007.
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Greenhouse Gas Reduction Policy Working Groups in Colorado
Client: Center for Climate Strategies
Synapse facilitated two Working Groups of the Colorado Climate Action Panel (CAP) to develop state policies that will lead to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the Energy Supply (ES) and Residential, Commercial, and Industrial (RCI) sectors in Colorado. The Working Groups included representatives from state and local governments, utilities, businesses, the building and green energy sectors, environmental groups, and the research community.
In addition to facilitating these Working Groups in the development of state policy proposals, Synapse analyzed the cost of and potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a number of policy mechanisms. For the energy supply sector, these include expanded use of renewable energy, recapture of waste energy, improved efficiency of new and existing power plants, and reduction of natural gas leakage. The workgroup also identified opportunities for the use of distributed renewable resources at customer sites, exploitation of small hydropower resources and other small renewables, and considered adoption of a carbon price. For the residential, commercial, and industrial sector, policies included expanded demand-side management, improved building codes and enforcement, combined heat & power, and other energy efficiency measures.
The workgroup identified a total of 15 policies for the energy supply sector and 11 policies for the residential, commercial, and industrial sector that offer the potential for significant greenhouse gas reductions in the state. Project completed November 2007.
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Tampa Electric Co. Demand-Side Management Assessment
Client: Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Review of the electric DSM programs of Tampa Electric Company (TECO or the Company), and identification of increases the Company could achieve to its planned DSM impacts on energy requirements and peak demands. Testimony of David Nichols identified additional potential based on two cost-effectiveness perspectives. Testimony was filed in FL Public Service Commission Docket No. 07-0467-EI concerning the determination of need for a new TECo power plant. TECo withdrew its application before the testimony was scheduled to be heard by the Commission. Project completed in 2007. Download Testimony
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Unbundling of Street Lighting Tariffs for Village of Woodstock
Client: Town of Woodstock, VT
Synapse advised the Village of Woodstock, Vermont, regarding Central Vermont Public Service's street lighting tariffs, unbundling of street lighting service, and improving efficiency and cost of street lighting service in rate design litigation before the Vermont Public Service Board. Project completed in September 2007.
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Decoupling Support to Conservation Law Foundation - New England
Client: Conservation Law Foundation
Synapse provided consulting and advice to the Conservation Law Foundation in support of development of a regional approach to decoupling. Project completed in August 2007.
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Review of Resource Options
Client: Vermont Natural Resources Council
Synapse provided a review and assessment of energy options for VNRC's use in considering positions on potential energy policy legislation. Project completed in August 2007.
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Companion Scenario Analysis
Clients: Conservation Law Foundation, Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships
For this project, Synapse reviewed a ISO-NE Scenario Analysis report and developed a Companion Report that evaluated two additional scenarios for greater EE, DR, renewables, and reduced carbon resources. Project completed in 2007. Download Report
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Wholesale Market and Transmission Analyses in PJM
Client: Ohio Office of Consumer Counsel
Synapse provided the Ohio Office of the Consumer Counsel and other consumer advocates with assistance in evaluating PJM's proposed Reliability Pricing Model (RPM) for capacity markets. Synapse reviewed, proposed modifications, and intervened in a contested process at FERC to determine the final design of the RPM capacity market. Our efforts helped secure modifications to the model that will save state ratepayers in PJM hundreds of millions of dollars annually. In addition, Synapse assisted the Office with transmission planning for economic and reliability upgrades (including cost allocation). Project completed in July 2007.
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Displaced Carbon Dioxide Emissions Conference Coordination
Client: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, & A/C Engineers
Synapse was asked to assist with the coordination and documentation of a conference of experts on the calculation of carbon emissions displacement held in April 2007. Specific tasks included development of the meeting agenda, documenting the workshop proceedings and preparation of a draft workshop report, solicitation and coordination of participant input on the report, and preparation of a final workshop report. Synapse's experts on displaced emissions calculation were also participants in the conference. The final report was completed in June 2007. Download Report
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Demand Side Management and Advanced Metering in Pennsylvania
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
Synapse represented the staff of the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate in the demand-side management (DSM) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) workgroup. We reviewed various aspects of DSM and AMI initiatives, prepared documents on good practices in these areas, recommended specific programs from other states, and participated in the workgroup. Project completed in June 2007.
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Review of Nova Scotia Power Incorporated (NSPI) Load Forecast Methodology
Client: Tellus Institute
Synapse was asked to review the reasonableness of NSPI's load forecasting methodology for resource planning purposes. Synapse assessed whether NSPI should develop a methodology to produce an end-use forecast. Project completed in June 2007.
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White Paper on Least Cost Electricity Procurement for Standard Offer Service in Rhode Island
Client: Rhode Island Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Working Group
In collaboration with Raab Associates, Synapse provided a summary overview of the background to, and context for implementation of the Least Cost Electricity Procurement in Rhode Island and an outline of the major issues associated with its implementation. Project completed in June 2007. Download Whitepaper
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Legislative Support for the Municipal Aggregator on Cape Cod
Client: Cape Light Compact
On an ad hoc basis, Synapse provided analytical and technical support to the Cape Light Compact in their effort to improve relevant state legislation and regulations. Project completed in May 2007.
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Avista Utilities Rate Case
Client: Washington Office of the Attorney General
For this project, Synapse reviewed Avista Utilities proposals for funding of low income programs, a power cost only rate case (PCORC) mechanism, changes in its accounting treatment of DSM Program costs, recovery of fixed costs lost to DSM and investments in advanced meters. Project completed in 2007. Download Testimony
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Executive Order Energy Policy Study
Client: Delaware Public Service Commission Staff
Provided research and consulting support to PSC Staff in the preparation of an energy policy study mandated by an Executive Order of the Governor. Project completed in April 2006. Download Report
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Review of Energy Efficiency Programs in Rhode Island
Client: Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
Synapse represented the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers Staff in a collaborative process to oversee and provide input concerning energy efficiency programs offered by National Grid, the state's primary electric utility. This work encompasses all aspects of energy efficiency program design and implementation, including efficiency measure assessment, program delivery options, program budgeting, cost-benefit analyses, utility performance incentives, and other relevant regulatory policies. Project completed in December 2006.
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Transmission Planning Process in Vermont
Client: Conservation Law Foundation
Pursuant to a Vermont Public Service Board Order in Docket No. 7801, a mediated negotiation process was established to review the process by which VT electric utilities conduct transmission system planning with a particular focus on the evaluation of non-transmission alternatives (NTAs) that could include energy efficiency, demand response, or distributed generation resources. Synapse assisted CLF, a party to Docket 7801, in the mediated negotiation process. Synapse also provided direct and rebuttal testimony that urged the VT PSB to reject the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) submitted by the majority of the utility parties and the Department of Public Service. The VT PSB issued a decision on June 20, 2007. In the Order, the VT PSB largely accepted the provisions of the MOU and, after a lengthy discussion, rejected CLF's positions. Project completed in December 2006. Download Testimony
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Introduction to Generation Technologies for Regulators
Client: National Regulatory Research Institute
Synapse provided technical consulting to NRRI in the preparation of a report on the factors regulators should understand and consider when deliberating on the selection between generation technologies. Project completed in December 2006.
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Regulatory Tools for Electricity Portfolio Management
Client: National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners
Synapse was hired by the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) to conduct an analysis and write a report on electricity portfolio management. Specifically, the paper critiques available models used for portfolio management and resource acquisition and provides advice for regulators on how to choose and utilize such models in making regulatory decisions. Measures for evaluating risks and hedging strategies are discussed, with an emphasis on the perspective of customers and regulators. Project completed in September 2006. Download Report
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Integrated Resource Planning for a Municipal Electric Utility
Client: City of Tallahassee
Synapse assisted the Tallahassee electric company in preparing an integrated resource plan. We played an advisory role to the electric company planners in four ways:
(a) reviewing the potential for demand-side management,
(b) assisting in developing strategies to assess large amounts of energy efficiency and renewable resources,
(c) developing methods to account for environmental factors, including CO2 emissions, and
(d) developing methods for evaluating and selecting among different electricity resource options. Project completed in September 2006.
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EPACT 2005 Development
Client: Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia
Assist in the development of positions on various issues in EPACT 2005
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Review of Proposed Coal-Fired Generating Facility in the Upper Midwest
Client: Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy
Synapse evaluated whether there are supply and demand-side alternatives to the proposed Big Stone II coal-fired generating facility that are technically feasible and economically cost-effective. Synapse also investigated whether the applicants included appropriate emissions control technologies in the design of the proposed facility and whether the applicants appropriately reflected the potential for the regulation of greenhouse gases in the design of the proposed facility and in their analyses of the alternatives. Project completed in September 2006. Schlissel & Sommer Testimony 5/19/06
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VELCO Northwest Reliability Project
Client: Town of Charlotte, VT
Synapse Assisted the Town of Charlotte, Vermont in its participation before the Vermont Public Service Board in Docket No. 6860. The particular issue in dispute was the extent to which cost recovery would be available on a regional (New England) basis for various components of the new 115kV line being proposed by VELCO. Synapse provided analysis and testimony for the town and participated in hearings before the Public Service Board. Project completed in September 2006. Download Testimony
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Energy Efficiency Program Design and Policy Development
Client: Nevada Bureau of Consumer Protection
Synapse participated in a collaborative process to develop energy efficiency programs for Nevada Power Company and Sierra Pacific Power Company. The work included developing policies to support utility energy efficiency programs, developing mechanisms to account for the environmental and economic benefits of energy efficiency, and designing energy efficiency programs with an emphasis on low-income programs. Project completed in August 2006. Download Testimony
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Energy-Economic Situation Analysis of the Northern Forest
Client: Northern Forest Center
Synapse prepared a high level "thought" piece for the client, presenting the important issues and trends in the energy sector in the Northern Forest Region, a 34 county area stretching from Oswego, NY, across northern Vermont and New Hampshire, to eastern coastal Maine. The data collection, research and final report preparation were carried out on a compressed schedule of approximately one month to meet the needs of the client. Primary data, tables and detailed explanations were provided in separate appendices. The paper was written to be thought provoking, to raise critical issues and opportunities that will frame stakeholder dialogue, further analytical study and decision-making for the next phases in the development of the economic adjustment strategy, and to identify and choose among sustainable development options and recommendations in the Northern Forest region. It introduced the important issues, trends, priorities and realities of the energy sector in the 34-county region and set them in context with energy issues and trends from relevant regions elsewhere in the nation. The paper was future oriented, synthesizing key issues and concepts drawn from data and the conclusions of previous analytical work, including detailed economic modeling studies previously conducted by Synapse to measure employment and air pollution impacts of regional strategies for renewable energy and energy efficiency. Project completed in May 2006. Download Report
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Air Emissions, Efficiency, and Renewable Energy
Client: Citizens Action Coalition of Indiana
Synapse reviewed SIGECO's (Vectren's) environmental compliance plan and prepared testimony addressing system planning, the proper role of DSM and renewables in compliance planning, and the need to anticipate climate policy and carbon prices. Synapse's analysis and recommendations are presented in the testimony of Bruce Biewald in Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Cause No. 42861. Project completed in May 2006.
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Displaced Emissions Website
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse was asked by the United States EPA to develop content for the EPA's Clean Energy Website on the calculation and evaluation of displaced pollutant emissions resulting from energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. The website content includes a description of several approaches that could be used to calculate displaced emissions, as well as descriptions of their applicability, resource requirements, and precision. The product is to be available as a "decision support" tool for anyone involved in energy efficiency or renewable energy projects to help them assess the emissions benefits of their efforts. Project completed in April 2006.
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Evaluation of Proposed Increase to Maine Energy Efficiency "System Benefit Charge"
Clients: Natural Resources Council of Maine, Environmental Defense
Synapse performed a costs and benefits assessment of one part of proposed legislation to increase the system benefit charge for energy efficiency spending in Maine from 1.4 mils/kWh to 3.0 mils/kWh. Bob Fagan of Synapse testified before the Utilities and Energy Joint Committee of the Maine legislature on the issue. Synapse demonstrated the net economic benefits of increasing the charge and urged the committee to pass the legislation. Project completed in March 2006. Download Testimony
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Broadband Over Powerlines
Client: Utility Consumers' Action Network
Synapse evaluated the potential benefits and costs associated with the deployment of Broadband Over Power lines (BPL) in a utility's service territory. The potential benefits of BPL include the ability to use the existing power lines and the wiring inside homes and other buildings to offer enhanced energy services and load control, to facilitate the use of distributed generation, for automatic meter reading, to provide internet and other informational services to customers, and for increased system monitoring and outage detection. Project completed in March 2006.
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Mohave Generating Station Alternatives/Complements Study
Client: Southern California Edison
Synapse teamed with Sargent & Lundy to evaluate a set of supply- and demand-side technologies to replace or complement power flowing to Southern California Edison (SCE) from the coal-fired Mohave Generating Station in southern Nevada. The consultant team reported to a group of stakeholders including SCE, consumer and environmental advocates, the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe. Technologies evaluated included IGCC with and without carbon capture and sequestration, wind, various solar technologies, and a unique option comprised of DSM procurement in nearby states coupled with a power purchase of "freed up" supply imported into California. Synapse was responsible for development and characterization of the DSM procurement option, as well as estimates of projected fuel prices, output profiles, emission costs, economics of carbon sequestration, various tribal issues, and employment impacts on and off the affected reservations. Project completed in February 2006. Download Report
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Broadwater Energy LNG Terminal Alternatives Analysis
Client: Connecticut Fund for the Environment
Synapse was asked to evaluate alternatives to the Broadwater LNG import facility, proposed as a floating storage and regasification facility to be located in Long Island Sound. Synapse concluded that the region does not have a pressing need for a new baseload resource to provide natural gas, and the region's energy needs for the next decade can readily be met through energy efficiency, implementation of existing renewable energy goals, expanded use of combined heat and power, and repowering of existing power plants. Finally, we found that there are other options for increasing gas supply to the region which would be far preferable to the Broadwater proposal. The most promising of these includes two LNG import facilities already under construction in Eastern Canada, together with the planned expansion of the Maritimes and Northeast pipeline from Eastern Canada into the northeastern United States. Project completed in February 2006. Download Report
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Air Emission Reduction Strategy in Nova Scotia
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse was retained to analyze and critique NSPI's application for an air emissions strategy to meet Provincial emission compliance regulations. Our focus was upon the alternatives and methodology used by NSPI to determine its preferred option for SO2 and NOx reduction. We reviewed the Company's STRATEGIST model runs. Project completed in January 2006. Download Testimony
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Regional Energy Issues in Wholesale Electricity Markets
Client: Union of Concerned Scientists
Synapse provided representation services for the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) on regional energy issues as they relate to wholesale electricity market structures and policies. Most of the Synapse work on this project occurs within the context of NEPOOL and ISO New England committee meetings as part of a load coalition in the NEPOOL End User sector. On behalf of UCS, Synapse focused on interconnection and operational issues associated with intermittent (wind, hydro, solar) and small generation projects. We also monitored proposed changes to the Generation Information Systems (GIS or certification process) for New England tradable certificates. Project Completed in September 2005.
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Methods of Estimating Emission Reductions from Energy Efficiency and Renewables
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse analyzed different methods to estimate emission reductions from energy efficiency measures and renewable energy generation. Building on previous work for the Commission for Environmental Cooperation, Synapse evaluated methods that rely on power system dispatch models and methods that rely on simplifying assumptions to estimate emission reductions. The project objective was to help state and local air officials determine the best method for estimating emission reductions in a given situation, given key characteristics of the local power system and the amount of resources available for this assessment. Project completed in July 2005. Download Report
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Feasibility Study for Advanced Energy Efficiency and Alternative Energy Technologies
Client: Low-Income Energy Affordability Network of Massachusetts (LEAN)
With a grant from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, Synapse performed a feasibility study of opportunities for advanced energy efficiency and alternative energy technologies. The overall goal of the study was to develop a list of technologies that will eventually be provided through low-income efficiency programs currently offered in Massachusetts. The study first addressed a list of all renewable technologies and emerging efficiency technologies that might be applicable to single-family and multi-family homes in Massachusetts. Synapse then screened these technologies on the basis of costs, savings, cost-effectiveness and applicability to develop a priority list of potential technologies. Those technologies remaining on the priority list were reviewed further for implementation issues related to low-income housing. Project completed in June 2005. Download Report
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Assessment of the Impact of Renewables and Energy Efficiency Policies in New England
Clients: Regulatory Assistance Project, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse assisted RAP in evaluating the effects of recent state policies relating to renewable energy and energy efficiency on air emissions and the regional economy. The work, conducted for the U.S. EPA, included estimating the effect of programs such as utility efficiency funding and renewable portfolio standards since 2000, including avoided air emissions and impacts on regional jobs, income, and output. Project completed in June 2005. Download Report
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Electric Utility Rate Design
Client: AARP
Synapse analyzed proposed changes to Green Mountain Power's electric rate designs. William Steinhurst prepared testimony recommending the modification of tariffs for residential customers to improve fairness and encourage energy efficiency. Project completed in June 2005. Download Testimony
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Avoided Costs for Energy Efficiency Programs in New Brunswick
Client: New Brunswick Power Company
Synapse assisted New Brunswick Power in developing avoided costs for proposed energy efficiency programs. The programs were intended to be supported with a system benefits charge and to be implemented by an independent energy efficiency utility in New Brunswick. The analysis included a review of production cost model results, avoided energy costs, avoided capacity costs, avoided transmission and distribution costs, and consideration of greenhouse gas emission reduction credits. The analysis also included an assessment of the potential rate impacts of the efficiency programs. Project completed in March 2005.
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Public Interest Participation Within the New England Power Pool
Clients: Union of Concerned Scientists, Clean Water Action, MassPIRG
The New England Power Pool recently opened its governance structure to allow non-profits and other customer representatives to become voting members. UCS, along with a coalition of public interest groups, hired Synapse to represent consumer and environmental interests by participating in committee discussions and voting on key issues. Project completed in 2005.
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Review of Minnesota Electric and Gas Utility Avoided Costs
Client: Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor
Synapse reviewed the avoided costs used by the four electric utilities in Minnesota for their Conservation Improvement Programs. The analysis included a description of "best practices" for estimating avoided costs, a review of each utility's methodology and assumptions, a comparison of avoided cost results across all four utilities, and a set of recommendations for future avoided cost estimates. Synapse reviewed avoided energy, avoided generation capacity, avoided transmission, and avoided distribution costs. Synapse further reviewed the methodology used to estimate avoided gas demand costs. Project completed in December 2004.
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Review of Natural Gas Energy Efficiency Programs in Indiana
Client: Citizens Action Coalition of Indiana
Synapse evaluated the policy basis for natural gas energy efficiency programs for the Vectren North service territory in Indiana. William Steinhurst prepared testimony critiquing the Company's lack of programs and recommended establishing a clear mandate for implementing cost effective efficiency programs, a system benefit charge, and an independent third party DSM administrator. Project completed in November 2004. Download Testimony
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Evaluating Simplified Methods of Estimating Displaced Emissions in Electric Power Systems
Client: North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC)
Building on our 2003 work for the North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC), Synapse analyzed several non-modeling based methods of estimating emission reductions from energy efficiency and renewable energy. Based on a review of numerous papers, Synapse identified three common methods of estimating emission reductions using simplifying assumptions about power system dynamics. Synapse assessed the extent to which each of these methods was likely to provide an accurate and credible assessment of emission reductions. The most promising method sought to identify the marginal generating unit(s) in the relevant system based on a load curve analysis. The report identified several aspects of this method that need to be further investigated to determine how robust the method is. Project completed in November 2004. Download Report
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Review of Electric Energy Efficiency Programs in Indiana
Client: Citizens Action Coalition of Indiana
Synapse evaluated the Public Service of Indiana's current and proposed energy efficiency programs. William Steinhurst prepared testimony critiquing these programs and recommended the establishment of a clear mandate to implement cost effective efficiency programs, a system benefit charge, and an independent third party DSM administrator. The results of this evaluation were presented in testimony before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. Project completed in October 2004. Download Testimony
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Performance Based Regulation
Client: Conservation Law Foundation
Synapse, working with the Conservation Law Foundation, examined the potential for performance-based regulation to encourage greater reliance on energy efficiency and renewable energy resources by Green Mountain Power. Project completed in August 2004.
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Evaluation of BC Hydro's Energy Efficiency Programs
Client: Sierra Club of Canada, BC Chapter
Synapse conducted a comprehensive assessment of BC Hydro's Power Smart energy efficiency programs. The assessment included the review of program design, program cost-effectiveness, program budgets, and BC Hydro's assumptions regarding program costs and benefits. The analysis indicated the Power Smart programs to be highly cost-effective and well-designed, and that the Company should pursue additional efficiency opportunities. Synapse also found that the rate impacts of the Power Smart programs are likely to be small and should not hinder the Power Smart programs or their expansion. The results of the analysis were provided in direct testimony of Tim Woolf, filed before the British Columbia Public Service Commission on April 20, 2004. Project completed in August 2004. Download Testimony
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Development of a Clean Power Plan for the West
Client: Western Resource Advocates
Synapse and Tellus Institute developed a plan for the aggressive implementation of energy efficiency and renewable resources in seven Interior West states. The analysis included PROSYM electricity market simulation modeling, a technical assessment of cost-effective energy efficiency opportunities, a technical and economic assessment of renewable resource potential, and the development of policies for overcoming market barriers to these clean resources. The study also assessed the role of renewable and distributed generation resources in addressing transmission constraints. Project completed in May 2004. Download Report
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Strategic Review of NEEP Residential Efficiency Initiatives
Client: Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships
In the second half of 2004, the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships undertook a comprehensive review of its energy efficiency initiatives, with the goal of modifying its suite of initiatives to reflect developments in the efficiency product markets, as well as the evolving interests of its Initiative Sponsors. Synapse conducted a qualitative assessment of the existing residential initiatives, as well as several new and enhanced initiatives. The review included interviews with several key players in the relevant efficiency markets, assessed the potential for regional strategies, assessed the potential role for NEEP, and ranked initiatives according to several evaluation criteria. The results were presented in a paper entitled, "NEEP Strategic Initiative Review: Qualitative Assessment and Initiative Ranking for the Residential Sector." Project completed in October 2004. Download Report
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Development of Load Response Programs in New England
Client: Union of Concerned Scientists
Synapse worked with UCS to encourage the development of effective load response programs in New England and to ensure that such programs were consistent with the long term goal of environmental quality. This project identified options for "clean" load response, determined how to incorporate these options in load response programs, and worked through stakeholder and regulatory processes to develop effective load response programs. In addition, Synapse participated in regional coordination efforts on load response with Pace Energy Center and Project for Sustainable FERC Energy Policy. Project completed in December 2003.
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Energy Efficiency Programs For the Municipal Aggregator on Cape Cod
Client: Cape Light Compact
The Massachusetts restructuring law enables municipal aggregators to implement energy efficiency programs with funds raised from all customers through a system benefits charge. Synapse designed the energy efficiency programs that are being provided by the Cape Light Compact, the municipal aggregator on Cape Cod. Synapse also assisted the Compact in obtaining approval of its Energy Efficiency Plan from the Massachusetts DTE. Synapse further assisted the Compact with designing Phase II of the efficiency initiative, which included improvements to existing programs as well as innovative, new programs. Project completed in December 2003. Download Report
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Review of Emission Reductions from Renewables & Energy Efficiency in North America
Client: North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC)
Synapse reviewed recent efforts to estimate emission reductions from renewable energy and energy efficiency in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The CEC was interested in developing a comparable methodology to calculate displaced emissions from these technologies across North America. Working with consultants in Mexico and Canada, Synapse assessed recent efforts to quantify the benefits of energy efficiency and renewables and presented the key methodological challenges and best practices in such quantification efforts. Project completed in September 2003. Download Report
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A Clean Electricity Plan for the Hudson River Valley
Client: Pace Law School Energy Project
Synapse developed a clean electricity plan for the Hudson River Valley. While the plan explored options for reducing electricity use and adding new renewable generation throughout the Valley, it focused on reducing the environmental impacts of four, older power plants on the lower Hudson River: Bowline, Lovett, Danskammer and Roseton. As part of the work, Synapse modeled the future operation of these plants in a "business-as-usual" scenario, prioritized action in terms of the plants' environmental impacts and assessed a variety of options for reducing the water and air impacts from the plants. Project completed in August 2003. Download Report
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Integrated Resource Planning Regulations in Nevada
Client: Nevada Bureau of Consumer Protection
The Nevada Public Utilities Commission opened a docket to revisit the integrated resource planning regulations that have guided utility planning over the last decade. The regulations have been updated to account for new renewable portfolio standard requirements in Nevada, as well as recent developments in the electricity industry. Synapse assisted the BCP in providing comments at Commission workshops and in recommending modifications for the new regulations. Topics included the identification and evaluation of appropriate supply-side resources, the design and evaluation of demand-side resources, the integration of demand and supply-side resources, load forecasting, accounting for environmental impacts, and cost recovery issues. Project completed in June 2003.
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Long-Term Forecast of Energy Efficiency Potential
Client: Cape Light Compact
Synapse estimated the potential for implementing cost-effective efficiency programs on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard through the year 2015. The estimates were based on efficiency measures and programs included in the Compact's Energy Efficiency Plan: 2003-2007, and thus were based on real-world efficiency opportunities. The study investigated several different scenarios, including one to eliminate future load growth and one to stabilize CO2 emissions. Project completed in May 2003. Download Report
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A Clean Air Plan for Queens County
Clients: Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Coalition Helping Organize a Kleaner Environment, Keyspan Energy
Synapse investigated the sources of air pollution in Queens County, assessed their local impact on air quality, and recommended remedies for the sources causing the greatest threat to public health. The study included evaluations of energy efficiency resources, unit repowering, emissions control technologies, and other options for improving air quality. The PROSYM model was used to develop a cohesive clean air plan for the county. Project completed in May 2003. Download Full Report
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Modeling Demand Response In New England
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse performed a comprehensive assessment of the emissions impacts of demand response programs in New England. As ISO New England continues to refine its nascent electricity markets, there is widespread interest in facilitating demand response (DR) -- the ability for customers to respond to high prices by reducing electricity use or producing their own electricity onsite. There is also widespread interest in the net air emissions impacts of DR.
Synapse assessed the net emissions impacts of selected DR programs using the PROSYM/PROMOD dispatch model. The programs assessed included the economic DR program proposed by ISO New England for the summer of 2003, an economic DR program proposed by the New England Demand Response Initiative (NEDRI) for the summer of 2004, and several scenarios that explored key variables and uncertainties in these programs. In addition, Synapse modeled several energy efficiency programs in order to compare the emissions impacts of these programs to the DR programs. For all programs assessed, Synapse explored both the emissions impacts of DR operation and the impacts of new DR capacity on ISO unit commitment. Project completed in May 2003. Download Report
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Energy Plan for the City of New York
Client: Resource Insight
Synapse conducted multi-area electricity market simulation analysis using the PROSYM-MULTISYM model to support analysis of generation, transmission, and demand-side resource options available to serve electric service needs in New York City. Project completed in April 2003.
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Review and Critique of Hydro-Québec's Energy Efficiency Plan
Client: Régionaux de l'Environment du Québec
Synapse reviewed and critiqued the Hydro-Quebec Energy Efficiency Plan: 2003-2006, and investigated opportunities for improvement or expansion. The review focused on the design of residential programs, as well as budgetary priorities and rate impacts. It also included a comparison with leading energy efficiency programs offered by US electric utilities. Project completed in April 2003. Download Testimony
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