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87 projects found for:
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Topic: Wholesale Electricity Markets, ISOs and RTOs
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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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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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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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Potential Withdrawal of Maine Utilities from ISO NE
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
For this project, Synapse is examining the impact of the withdrawal of Maine utilities from the ISO NE RTO. Project ongoing. Download Supplemental Testimony
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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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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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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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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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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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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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Default Service Procurement for Delaware
Client: Delaware Public Service Commission Staff
Synapse advised Public Service Commission Staff in Delaware on alternatives for procuring power to serve default customers as provided for in the State's restructuring law and assisted the PSC Staff in the conduct of a multi-party workshop process considering those alternatives. Synapse examined issues of acquisition of generation supply and the management of a resource portfolio to provide bundled generation service to residential, commercial, and industrial customers and assisted staff in successful multi-party settlement negotiations. Project completed in September 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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Report on Impact of Proposed Reliability Pricing Model
Client: Illinois Citizens Utility Board
Synapse developed a report on the impact of PJM's proposed Reliability Pricing Model (RPM) on Exelon nuclear facilities' capacity revenues in northern Illinois. At the request of Illinois Citizens Utility Board (CUB), Synapse analyzed the current capacity revenues earned by Exelon's nuclear fleet in Illinois and compared those revenues to the historical six-year average prices for capacity in PJM and to the RPM "target price" as defined by a benchmark proxy peaker unit. The analysis showed that the capacity revenues for Exelon's nuclear units in northern Illinois would increase from $100 million (2005) to over $500 million annually under RPM, on average, and that annual earnings under RPM for a single year could be as high as $1.2 billion under extreme scarcity conditions. Project completed in August 2005. 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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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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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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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 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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Review and Critique of FirstEnergy Companies' Proposed SSO Procurement
Client: Ohio Office of Consumer Counsel
Synapse, as a subcontractor to Resource Insight, Inc., provided expert testimony on portfolio management alternatives to the Companies' proposed declining clock auction for rolling three-year, slice of system contracts. Project completed in 2010.
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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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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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Participation in New England's Forward Capacity Market
Client: Massachusetts Energy Consumers Alliance
Synapse provided advice to Mass Energy Consumers Alliance, a local non-profit organization that both advocates and acts in the marketplace on behalf of consumers and the environment, regarding their ability to participate in New England's Forward Capacity Market. The FCM is the first capacity market to allow small on-site generation resources to be compensated for the capacity they provide to the regional grid. Project completed in March 2009.
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Report on Back-Up Generation
Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Synapse was directed by EPA to prepare a report on several aspects of back-up generators (BUGs). These include how BUGs are used in various RTOs around the US; applicable rules and requirements for air permits and operation; the number of BUGs deployed and their potential air quality impacts. Project completed January 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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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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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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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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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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Merchant Transmission Cost Allocation Issues
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse analyzed a PJM proposal to allocate costs of Regional Transmission Expansion Planning (RTEP) projects to merchant transmission "load". Synapse also provided expert witness testimony at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Project completed September 2008. Download Testimony
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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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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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Alternative and Complementary Mechanisms to Procure Basic Generation Service in New Jersey
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse evaluated alternative and complementary supply mechanisms to service Basic Generation Service customers in New Jersey for 2008. This included examining the benefits of portfolio management techniques on the part of electric distribution companies in securing power supplies. Project completed August 2008.
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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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Forecast of Electric Capacity Prices for New England
Client: Comverge
Synapse forecasted ten years of clearing prices for New England's Forward Capacity Market (FCM) using results from the first auction and knowledge of the electric sector in New England. Project completed in 2008.
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Review of Bilateral Contracting in RTO-Run Markets
Client: American Public Power Association
As part of APPA's Electric Markets Reform Initiative, Synapse was asked to investigate whether or not today's RTOs have produced a healthy environment for managing electricity procurement costs through bilateral contracting. Synapse found that while bilateral contracts are widely recognized as crucial to the functioning of truly competitive electricity markets, RTOs have failed to create an environment conducive to the vigorous, competitive, long-term bilateral contracting that would provide the most benefits to consumers. Project completed May 2008. Download Report
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Pricing and Emission Impacts of Distributed Generation
Client: Massachusetts Technology Collaborative
For this project, Synapse performed a detailed analysis of the impacts of distributed generation resources on wholesale electric energy prices and air emissions in Massachusetts. Impacts analyzed include potential reductions on the level of wholesale electricity market prices and associated air emissions. Project completed in May 2008. Download Report
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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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Demand Response Programs in the United States
Client: Hayet Power Systems Consulting
Synapse was hired to write a report on selected demand response programs operated by Regional Transmission Organizations (RTO) in the United States. The report looked at market rules, FERC assessments, and RTO-specific sources to evaluate the operational aspects of the programs and the benefits stakeholders receive. The report included a more comprehensive section on demand response programs in New England. Realizing that many demand response programs are in transition around the country, the report was meant to provide a snapshot of practices at the time the research took place. Projected completed in April 2008.
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Maine Alternatives to the New England ISO/RTO
Client: Maine Office of the Public Advocate
Synapse analyzed a number of issues before the Maine Public Service Commission concerning a legislative directive to investigate Maine's withdrawing from ISO-NE. Synapse evaluated alternative transmission operations and energy/capacity market structures, and quantified the possible benefit to Maine from avoiding part or all of ISO NE forward capacity market (FCM) charges. Project completed in June 2007.
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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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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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Assess PJM Transmission Cost Allocation to Merchant Transmission
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
As part of this project, Synapse Senior Associate Bob Fagan testified at FERC on PJM cost allocation mechanism for merchant transmission projects between NJ and NY. Project completed in 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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Entergy Arkansas Avoided Cost Computation Method
Client: Arkansas Public Service Commission Staff
For this project, Synapse reviewed Entergy's changes to its avoided cost methodology to see if they conform to Arkansas law. Project completed in 2007. Download Testimony
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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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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 LMP Markets
Client: American Public Power Association
In order to address the effectiveness of LMP markets, Synapse was asked by the American Public Power Association (APPA) to review the theory and goals of the Locational Marginal Pricing (LMP) construct and to hold them up to the several years' worth of experience in LMP markets. We asked the following questions:
(1) Does security-constrained dispatch and LMP pricing work as well in the real world as it should in theory?
(2) Have the price-signaling aspects of LMP produced the desired outcomes in terms of investments in electricity infrastructure?
(3) Have the LMP markets been workably competitive, or is market power and price manipulation a concern?
(4) Have power production costs come down as a result?
Our results were presented at the Electricity Markets Reform Initiative (EMRI) symposium, hosted by APPA in Washington, DC on February 5, 2007. Download Report
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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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Analysis of KCPL Off-System Sales Rate Treatment
Client: Missouri Office of People's Counsel
Synapse evaluated the fairness of Kansas City Power and Light's proposed rate treatment of off-system sales. KCPL proposed an unorthodox accounting treatment allocating "margins" or profit with an "Unused Energy" allocator. Synapse provided support for expert testimony before the Missouri Public Service Commission. Project completed in November 2006.
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Analysis of Empire Electric Off-System Sales Rate Treatment
Client: Missouri Office of People's Counsel
Synapse evaluated the fairness of Empire Electric's proposed rate treatment of off-system sales and consideration of a fuel clause adjustment. Synapse critiqued Empire's modeling of fuel costs and projections of natural gas prices as part of a proceeding before the Missouri Public Service Commission and supported expert testimony before that commission. Project completed in November 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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Review of the Proposed Merger Between Exelon Corporation and Public Service Enterprise Group
Client: New Jersey Division of the Ratepayer Advocate
Synapse investigated the market power effects of the proposed merger between Exelon Corporation and Public Service Enterprise Group. Synapse's analysis included running CRAI's CASM model, re-running delivered price test analysis by petitioners' witness Frame, and modeling of market power impacts using ELMO. The results of Synapse's analyses were presented in affidavits to FERC and testimony before the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. The companies terminated the proposed merger on September 16, 2006. Project completed in October 2006. Download Testimony
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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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Testimony in Support of Power Plant Mercury Emissions Rule
Clients: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, LADCO
Synapse examined the impact of a proposed state-specific Mercury emissions rule upon wholesale electricity market prices, competition, and retail electricity consumers in Illinois. In our testimony, we demonstrated how IPM model results obtained by ICF Corporation did a poor job of resolving state-specific economic and dispatch impacts of the proposed rule. To rectify this, we developed our own estimates of the likely direct and indirect economic implications of the rule for the state and the surrounding region. Synapse's research and analyses showed that the benefits of implementing this rule significantly outweighed the costs. As a result, a slightly modified version of the rule was accepted upon settlement by all affected utilities and the state. Project completed in September 2006.
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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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Comments to FERC on Reliability Pricing Mechanism
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
After a Technical Conference in February 2006 on PJM capacity market and reliability issues, FERC provided a comment period for parties to make supplemental statements. Synapse assisted a broad coalition of PJM Members (Coalition of Consumers for Reliability, CCR) in developing Comments. Synapse also provided an affidavit from Ezra Hausman that described concerns with PJM's process for establishing the "cost of new entry" (CONE) for a typical peaking unit. This specific project is part of a larger on-going effort that assists the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate with PJM wholesale market and bulk power transmission system issues. These Comments were filed in FERC Dockets ER05-1410-000 and EL05-148-000. Project completed in June 2006. Download Hausman Pre-Conference Comments
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Electric Policy Initiatives in Arkansas
Client: Arkansas Public Service Commission Staff
Synapse was retained to assist the Arkansas Public Service Commission Staff on issues related to electric policy initiatives on both a state and regional level. Specific tasks included a review of the proposed purchase of a merchant generation facility by the Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation; a review of the Southwest Power Pool's application to be named the regional transmission provider; and an analysis of regional energy planning processes. Project completed in May 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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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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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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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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Salem Harbor Reliability and Environmental Compliance Assessment
Client: Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General
Synapse assisted a coalition of intervening parties in a utility environmental compliance settlement involving a multi-unit coal and oil generation station in Salem, MA. Synapse provided an analysis of the impact of future transmission upgrades on the reliability need for coal and oil units that were out of compliance with Massachusetts environmental regulations for air emissions. The intervenors were considering possible settlement strategies to allow for the continued operation of the non-compliant units contingent on the addition of specific short-term remedial actions to reduce emissions. Project completed in September 2005.
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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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PJM Wholesale Markets
Client: Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate
Synapse provided the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate for 2004-2005 with technical and policy analyses, reports, and staff support for numerous issues related to the PJM control area. Synapse addressed resource adequacy, demand response programs, generation retirement, regional planning, cost allocation of new transmission and generation projects, and cost impacts of PJM proposals on retail consumers. Synapse attended meetings on behalf of PA OCA and provided further assistance in developing specific options and positions for FERC proceedings. Project completed in June 2005.
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Integrated Resource Planning in Arkansas
Client: Arkansas Public Service Commission Staff
Synapse assisted the General Staff of the Arkansas Public Service Commission to address resource planning and power procurement issues. Synapse reviewed the filings made by each of the four investor-owned electric utilities in Arkansas for compliance. As part of this review, Synapse evaluated each utility's financial and production costing models, energy supply forecasting, demand analysis, load forecasting, and other pertinent data and issues. Project completed in June 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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Corporate Restructuring of a Multi-State Utility
Client: Utah Committee of Consumer Services
Synapse reviewed PacifiCorp's proposed reorganization of the Company into individual state distribution companies, an affiliated generating company, and a service company. The project included the analysis of the proposed long-term power contract, the proposed services contract and associated cost allocation, and the state-by-state rate implications of the proposal. Project completed in December 2004.
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Analysis of Regulated and Deregulated Prices in PJM
Client: PJM Interconnection
Synapse conducted an analysis of several case study utilities in PJM. Synapse estimated the unbundled pre-deregulation prices for the generation portion of bundled electric service and indexed those prices forward in time to allow for comparison with the deregulated generation service market prices. Project completed in August 2004. Download Report
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Salem Harbor Reliability Analysis
Client: Conservation Law Foundation
Synapse provided an analysis in October 2004 of the potential impact of the retirement of the Salem Harbor generating units on both North Shore and Greater Boston reliability through 2020. Synapse's analysis expanded upon the 2004 Regional Transmission Expansion Plan (RTEP) prepared by ISO New England. Synapse's examination changed certain assumptions about when specific units in the region might retire and included the benefits of new transmission projects scheduled for completion in 2006 and 2008. Synapse provided this analysis to the Conservation Law Foundation for use in its settlement discussions regarding upgrades to the Salem Harbor units to reduce environmental impacts pursuant to a FERC Order. Project completed in August 2004.
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Retail Choice Proceeding Testimony
Client: Texas Office of Public Utility Counsel
Synapse provided testimony in an on-going retail choice proceeding involving an Entergy subsidiary in East Texas (Entergy Gulf States). Synapse assisted the Texas Office of People's Counsel (OPC) in evaluating Entergy's proposal for an "independent" subsidiary to oversee the transition to a retail open access structure authorized by the Texas legislature. Synapse compared the proposed "independent" Entergy subsidiary to the standards and criteria that FERC applies to applications for Independent System Operators (ISOs) and Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs) and provided testimony before the Texas PUC. Project completed in May 2004. Download Peterson Testimony
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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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The Conversion of the Brayton Point Station to a Closed Cycle Water Cooling System
Client: Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General
Synapse quantified the net revenues that PG&E, the owner of the Brayton Point Station, likely earned during the years 1999 to 2002 and would likely earn during the years 2003 to 2013. Synapse also conducted an independent assessment of whether the conversion of the Brayton Point Station to a closed cycle water cooling system would adversely affect electric system reliability. The results of Synapse's analyses were presented in a series of memoranda that the Attorney General submitted to the U.S. EPA. Project completed in October 2002.
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