Massachusetts Seeks Comment on Utility Ownership of Energy Storage Assets

As part of a new proceeding regarding energy storage (D.P.U. 15-ESC-12), the Massachusetts DPU has sought comment on utility ownership of energy storage Specifically, the DPU asked:

• To what degree can/should an electric distribution company be involved in the ownership and operation of energy storage resources to address distribution requirements?

• A single storage asset may be used to provide distribution services while also providing behind the meter and wholesale services. To what degree can/should an electric distribution company be involved in the ownership and operation of energy storage resources providing these multiple services?

• Are there barriers (regulatory, technical, or otherwise) that have impaired the use of storage as an asset in distribution system planning to provide singular and/or multiple services? If so, how can they be addressed?

The DPU asked, regarding third-party ownership of energy storage, whether there should be utility tariffs to value and pay for distribution services provided by third parties and ratepayers using energy storage resources

The DPU's review follows an announcement by the state's Department of Energy Resources to launch a $10 million initiative to develop energy storage in Massachusetts