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85 projects found for:
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Topic: Renewable Resources
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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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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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New York Emissions
Client: New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
For this project, Synapse is reviewing the effects of New York emissions laws on imports and exports and wholesale electric markets. Project ongoing.
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Proposed Maine Power Connection Transmission Project
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
Synapse and Lanzalotta Associates are performing a review and critique the CMP and MPS application for a new 345 kV transmission line in northern Maine. Project ongoing.
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Renewable Energy Resources from the Outer Continental Shelf
Client: Department of the Interior: Minerals Management Services
Synapse is assisting ERG and the Department of the Interior: Minerals Management Service in identifying and analyzing issues related to the integration of offshore renewable resources into the electrical grid. As part of the ongoing work, Synapse will provide MMS with background information crucial to managing these new resources. The overall project will also identify existing and future infrastructure needs that will be required to responsibly develop offshore renewable resources. 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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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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Regulatory and Economic Analysis of Renewable Portfolio Standards in New Brunswick
Client: New Brunswick Department of Energy
Synapse assisted the Department with the development of regulations for a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) in New Brunswick. One phase of the project included drafting regulations that will cover all aspects of the RPS, including the definition of eligible resources, the renewable target, treatment of imports, compliance mechanisms, generation information systems, and monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. Another phase of the project included conducting an economic analysis of different RPS proposals. This analysis included a comprehensive assessment of the cost and availability of renewable resources in the region, especially wind generation. It also included an assessment of the demand for renewables, a forecast of wholesale market prices, and an estimate of the renewable premiums associated with different RPS proposals. The economic analysis also identified the likely impact of different renewable portfolio standards on electricity prices. Project completed in December 2005. Download Report
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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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Implementation of the Renewable Portfolio Standard in Maryland
Client: Maryland Office of the People's Counsel
Synapse assisted the OPC in addressing many issues regarding the implementation of the renewable portfolio standard law in Maryland. Some of the key issues included the development of the Generator Attribute Tracking System at PJM, ensuring that necessary information is provided and processed appropriately, mitigating any market power problems in the renewable energy credit market, establishing appropriate compliance requirements, and ensuring that the requirements of the RPS law are met. Project completed in August 2005.
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Avoided Costs of Wind Generation in South Dakota
Client: South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Staff
Synapse prepared expert testimony regarding the avoided costs of wind generation in South Dakota. The project included the review and critique of avoided costs proposed by Montana-Dakota Utilities Company, as well as the review and critique of alternative avoided cost assumptions proposed by the wind developer. The testimony covered many aspects of avoided costs, including production cost modeling of energy costs, determination of the appropriate capacity value for wind generation, costs associated with integrating wind into an electricity system, and accounting for the costs of future climate change regulations. Direct testimony was submitted to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission on February 18, 2005. Download Testimony
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Railbelt Integrated Resource Plan
Client: Alaska Conservation Alliance
Alaska Energy Authority hired Black and Veatch (B&V) to develop an IRP for the Railbelt region of Alaska. This is the region that covers the area from roughly Fairbanks to Seward and where the bulk of Alaska's population resides. B&V's IRP evaluated the resources it believes Alaska will require over then next 50 years to meet its energy demand. Synapse developed comments for the client that included an assessment of generation technologies (including renewables), their costs and benefits, transmission and reliability requirements, and what Alaska should consider in its resource planning. Project completed May 2010.
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Testimony Supporting Inputs, Assumptions, and Calculations Regarding AESC 2009 Projections of Avoided Costs
Client: AESC / Massachusetts Avoided Energy Supply Components Study Group
For this project, Synapse prepared testimony describing the major assumptions underlying AESC 2009 and summarizing its major results. Project completed April 2010.
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Cap and Invest: Controlling the Cost of Climate Legislation for Electricity Consumers
Client: Energy Foundation
On behalf of the Energy Foundation, Synapse prepared analysis of and reported on consumer impacts of federal climate legislation with and without supplemental investments in energy efficiency, by state, for the contiguous United States. Although the analysis was based on H.R. 2454 passed by Congress in 2009, the analytical approach and conclusions apply generally to cap-and-trade regulation. Project completed March 2010.
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Certificate of Public Good for Deerfield Wind Project
Client: PPM Energy
Synapse provided expert analysis and testimony in support of a proposed wind farm to be located in Vermont. Our analysis showed that the project will provide needed power, will satisfy renewable energy requirements in the state and the broader region, and provide a hedge against fuel and emissions costs for Vermont ratepayers. Project completed August 2009. Download Testimony
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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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Proposal for Solar Investment
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse provided analysis of Public Service Enterprise Group filing for rate recovery of solar photovoltaic investment and provision of testimony addressing Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) treatment. Project completed March 2009.
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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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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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Highlights of the 2009 AESC Report
Client: Vermont Public Service Board
Synapse prepared a presentation for the Vermont Public Service Board describing the major assumptions underlying AESC 2009 and summarizing its major results. Project completed in 2009.
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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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Analysis of Proposed Bruce to Milton 500 kV Transmission Line
Client: Pollution Probe
Synapse was retained to assess economics of proposed 500 kV line with emphasis on analysis and critique of Hydro One computation of locked-in energy associated with alternative projects. Project completed October 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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Emissions Impact of Green Energy Projects
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse was selected by the EPA's Office of Research and Development to identify and develop a methodology for calculating the emissions impact of "green energy" projects, such as wind power, municipal solid waste, and landfill gas generating resources. The goal was to investigate typical output characteristics of these resources on a regional basis, and to identify fossil fuel-based resources which are most likely to be displaced each hour by the green resources, given the operation of the regional electric power grid. Synapse analyzed industry data on resource operations together with information from the EPA's Clean Air Markets database (http://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/emissions/index.html), to calculate the emissions benefits from green energy projects throughout the United States. Emissions analyzed include CO2, NOx and SO2. The paper is available for downloading on the EPA's website at http://www.epa.gov/ord/NRMRL/pubs/600r08087/600r08087.htm. Project completed in August 2008. Download Report
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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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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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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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Benefits of Clean Energy Programs and Policies
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Clean energy programs and policies can help states achieve their goal of providing a less polluting, reliable, and affordable energy system. Working under Stratus Consulting, Synapse jointly authored a guidebook for evaluating energy system impacts and air emissions reductions from implementing clean energy measures. This guidebook introduces state policymakers and analysts to the concepts, terms, methods, tools, assumptions and models that Public Utility Commissions and utilities use to compare traditional grid electricity with demand and supply-side clean energy resources (e.g., energy efficiency, renewable energy, CHP, and clean distributed generation). Short examples and case studies illustrate the challenges that states face in analyzing clean energy initiatives, as well as the methods they have used to successfully quantify and promote them. Project completed in 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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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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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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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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Wind Energy
Client: Union of Concerned Scientists
This project analyzed issues related to contracting for wind energy. Download Report
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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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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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Integrating Wind Power into British Columbia's Hydro Electric System
Clients: Sierra Club of Canada, BC Chapter, BC Sustainable Energy Association, Peace Valley Environment Association
Synapse examined three interrelated British Columbia wind power issues for a group of BC environmental organizations and provided expert witness testimony. We analyzed BC Hydro's $3/MWh "firming" premium used at the evaluation stage of their 2006 RFP for energy resources. Synapse also reviewed the liquidated damages (LD) provisions of BC Hydro's standard contract for wind energy providers and summarized existing wind integration operational cost studies. Synapse concluded that the firming premium is not supported as the storage and ramping capability of BC Hydro's hydroelectric resource base is more than sufficient to allow for monthly rather than hourly scheduling. Synapse also concluded that the LD provisions could cause wind projects to appear more expensive than they actually are. Lastly, Synapse recommended detailed technical analyses be conducted to analyze the impact of varying levels of wind penetration on BC Hydro's operational costs. The BC Commission order (May 2007) did direct BC Hydro to look carefully at wind capacity projections. Project completed in February 2007. Download Testimony
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Economic and Environmental Benefits of Glebe Mountain Wind Farm
Client: Catamount Energy
Synapse was asked to provide prefiled testimony in a 248 proceeding (Certificate of Public Need) on behalf of Catamount Energy, Inc., outlining the economic and environmental benefits of a proposed wind farm in Glebe Mountain, Vermont. Synapse evaluated the need for new energy resources in Vermont, the demand for renewable energy to fulfill state Renewable Portfolio Standards in the region, and the economic benefits of clean energy and displaced emissions. In addition, Synapse evaluated how the proposed project conformed to the Vermont Electric Plan. Project completed in April 2006.
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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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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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Cape Light Compact Cooperative Investigation
Client: Cape Light Compact
Synapse provided technical and managerial support to the Cape Light Compact as part of the Compact's investigation of cooperative business models that may assist the Compact in furthering its goals. Project completed in November 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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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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Economic and Environmental Benefits of Deerfield Wind Farm
Client: Private-sector wind developer
Synapse was asked to provide prefiled testimony in a 248 proceeding (Certificate of Public Need) on behalf of a private sector wind developer, outlining the economic and environmental benefits of a proposed wind farm in Deerfield, Vermont. Synapse evaluated the need for new energy resources in Vermont, the demand for renewable energy to fulfill state Renewable Portfolio Standards in the region, and the economic benefits of clean energy and displaced emissions. In addition, Synapse projected project costs and revenues to demonstrate the economic viability of the proposal. Project completed in March 2006.
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Renewable energy market analysis
Client: Element Markets
Synapse assistant Element Markets with assessment of state policies to promote renewable resources and associated market issues. Project completed 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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Review of Standard Offer Procurement Rules and Portfolio Proposal
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
Prior to the 2005 solicitation of supply bids to serve Maine standard offer customers, the Maine Office of Public Advocate requested that Synapse evaluate the 2004 standard offer procurement rules developed and implemented by the Maine Public Utilities Commission pursuant to ME PUC Docket No. 2004-147. Synapse filed comments in the proceeding that recommended the adoption of a portfolio management approach. Key elements included a multi-year procurement horizon and the specific acquisition of renewable resources as a hedge against fossil fuel price uncertainty. Project completed in September 2005. Download Report
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Evaluation of Nova Scotia Power's Open Access Transmission Tariff proposal
Client: Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board
Synapse provided consulting services to the Board regarding its evaluation of Nova Scotia Power's Open Access Transmission Tariff proposal. Nova Scotia is one of the last remaining Canadian provinces to consider adoption of the US FERC 888 pro forma tariff structure. Synapse evaluated the tariff application and provided expert witness testimony to the Board, focusing on issues that included generation interconnection standards, ancillary service rates, and reciprocity concerns. Project completed in September 2005. Download Testimony
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Economic Valuation of the Bellows Falls Hydroelectric Facility
Client: Town of Rockingham, VT
Synapse provided an economic valuation of the Bellows Falls hydroelectric facility as of April 2004 for the Town of Rockingham, VT. Project completed in March 2005.
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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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Assessment of the Impact of a Renewable Portfolio Standard in Utah
Client: Utah Committee of Consumer Services
Synapse, with Resource Insight, assisted the Utah Committee of Consumer Services with issues relating to potential renewable energy legislation. Synapse reviewed the treatment of renewable resources in PacifiCorp's integrated resource plan and assessed the economic impact of a renewable portfolio standard proposed by the legislature or reviewed by the Public Service Commission. Project completed in February 2005.
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Wind Project Feasibility Study
Client: Private-sector wind developer
Synapse performed a project feasibility study for a U.S. wind developer, focusing on probable project economics and the need for this project. The economic analysis focused on projected project costs and revenues given likely electricity market prices in the relevant region and the likely prices of renewable energy credits. The need analysis focused on regional emissions trends, new air regulations, and future demand for renewable energy created by renewable portfolio standards. Project completed in September 2004.
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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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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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Review of Greenhouse Gas Emission Reports for the Public Interest Research Groups
Client: National Association of State PIRGs
Synapse was hired by the Public Interest Research Groups to review drafts of state greenhouse gas reduction reports. The reports explored the brief history and context of greenhouse gas reduction efforts in selected states and performed calculations to estimate emission reductions from a suite of policies. In January and February 2004, Synapse edited the text of the Massachusetts and Connecticut reports and reviewed the spreadsheets containing these calculations. Synapse also met with PIRG staff to discuss methodological and editorial issues and provided technical support during the drafting of these reports. Synapse's work on the Massachusetts and Connecticut reports was completed in February 2004.
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Workbook Tool to Estimate CO2 Reductions in Climate Change Action Plans
Client: Massachusetts Climate Action Network
Synapse developed an Excel workbook tool to estimate CO2 reductions from electricity measures in Municipal Climate Change Action Plans. Users have the flexibility to choose among standard emission reduction options or to add their own options. The tool also allows users to input demographic and other data specific to their municipality, but offers default data for those cases where specific data is unavailable. This tool was applied to the town of Arlington's Sustainability Action Plan, and is being expanded to cover additional sectors. Project completed in January 2004.
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Review of a Proposed 1100 MW Power Plant in Brooklyn, New York
Clients: Office of the Brooklyn Borough President, Greenpoint Williamsburg Waterfront Task Force
Synapse reviewed TransGas Energy's proposal to build an 1100 MW combustion turbine facility on the East River in Brooklyn, New York. Among the issues addressed by Synapse was whether the proposed plant would produce economic, environmental, and reliability benefits for the electric systems in New York City and/or New York State. Project completed in November 2003. Download Testimony
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Cost Impacts of a Vermont Renewable Portfolio Standard
Client: Vermont Public Service Board
Synapse prepared an estimate of the likely impact of a proposed renewable portfolio standard on electricity rates in Vermont. The analysis was based on a detailed "supply curve" of potential new renewable resources in the New England region, as well as potential imports from Canada and New York. The analysis considered two different renewable standards, one where renewables were broadly defined (including small hydro projects and all biomass), and one where renewables were limited to those eligible in the Massachusetts and Connecticut renewable portfolio standards. The report was presented to the Board and used to inform the Vermont RPS Collaborative discussions. Project completed in October 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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Valuation of Hydroelectric Plants
Clients: Vermont Department of Taxes, Town of Whitingham, VT, Town of Rockingham, VT
Synapse and Resource Insight prepared estimates of the market value of eight hydro-electric generation facilities in Vermont. These facilities were assessed using the income approach, the replacement cost approach and the comparable sales approach. The income approach relied upon computer simulation modeling of the New England electricity market. Project completed in 1999, with subsequent support following negotiations continuing until May 2003.
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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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Economic Analysis of Renewable Portfolio Standard
Client: Maryland Public Interest Research Group
Synapse prepared a report on the proposed Maryland Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). The analysis examined benefits of the policy, experiences in other states, elements of a successful RPS, renewable power generation resource options, and projected cost impacts of the policy. Project completed in April 2003. Download Report
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Determining the Benchmark Price for the California Renewable Portfolio Standard
Client: Union of Concerned Scientists
Synapse analyzed the value that renewable resources offer when acting as a hedge against volatile fossil-fuel prices. The analysis focused on the risk of fossil-fuel prices increasing over time in response to future environmental regulations. Synapse prepared a summary of recent activities to regulate or otherwise control CO2 emissions, and developed a quantitative estimate of the hedge value of emission-free renewables. The results were presented in the testimony of Tim Woolf before the California Public Utilities Commission, Docket No. 01-10-024. Project completed in April 2003. Download Testimony
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Electricity Market Prices for Evaluation of Renewable Portfolio Standard
Client: Union of Concerned Scientists
Synapse evaluated locational market prices projected for electricity markets in the upper Midwest in order to evaluate the costs of a Renewable Portfolio Standard proposed for the State of Wisconsin. Project completed in December 2002.
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