March 23, 2006: Barriers Still Block CHP Projects, Says ACEEE
WASHINGTON - Individual utility interconnection and tariff practices continue to be significant barriers faced by combined heat and power (CHP) projects, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy's (ACEEE) new report "Combined Heat and Power: Connecting the Gap between Markets and Utility Interconnection and Tariff Practices (Part I)." Although many states are making positive progress on CHP policies, significant barriers still stunt the realization of CHP's nationwide potential. This report is the first of two reports documenting individual utilities' CHP/distributed energy policies and practices state-by-state. Part I covers 15 states; Part II will address utilities in the remaining states.
Utility interconnection and tariff practices have long been identified as major barriers to expanded CHP, says the ACEEE. Lack of progress at the federal level via legislation or regulation has resulted in a shift in focus to the states.