Greater energy efficiency, along with outsourced heavy industry and customers generating their own power, have created flat demand for utility power for 10 years. Stagnant demand is likely for the foreseeable future.
That’s good news for consumers and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. But utilities are having a tough time adjusting to this new business environment, as electricity demand had risen steadily for about a century.
There have been recent requests from utilities to bail out large coal and nuclear plants. It also has been tough for long-term planning. For instance, the Tennessee Valley Authority has found its 20-year forecasts obsolete almost as soon as they are released.
Some utility executives are nervous about what the future holds for their organizations. Utilities may need to make money through services rather than on investment returns on new generating capacity. Nevertheless, as a Vox article points out, more stringent energy codes and better efficiency technology produce multiple benefits for the country. Declining demand saves money, reduces pollution, and avoids the need for additional capital expenditures for expensive infrastructure.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 23, 2018
Disaster mitigation strategies that exceed code could save billions
Four dollars saved for every dollar spent, says NIBS report.
Codes and Standards | Jan 19, 2018
U.S. construction fatalities rose 6% in 2016
Falls accounted for 39% of deadly accidents.
Codes and Standards | Jan 18, 2018
Record storm surge in Boston prompts renewed calls for flood mitigation infrastructure
Newer buildings constructed in flood zone fared well.
Codes and Standards | Jan 17, 2018
Green Building Initiative acquires global rights to Green Globes from JLL
Transaction allows GBI to expand operations to Canada and elsewhere.
Codes and Standards | Jan 16, 2018
Engage code officials early for better building performance, predictable enforcement expectations
White paper says code officials should be collaborators and facilitators.
Codes and Standards | Jan 12, 2018
Arlington County, Va., earns first LEED for Communities Platinum Certification
Honor recognizes efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, manage stormwater.
Codes and Standards | Jan 11, 2018
TRUE Zero Waste provides roadmap to divert waste away from landfills
USGBC program signs on more than 130 companies or facilities for certification.
Codes and Standards | Jan 10, 2018
Sliding-scale proposal for civil damages resulting from construction fatalities, injuries draws ire of trades
New York City Council proposal puts limits on penalties for safety violations leading to death, serious injury.
Codes and Standards | Jan 9, 2018
Federal appeals court orders EPA to revise lead standard within a year
Current exposure levels for lead in paint and dust have been in place for 17 years.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2018
Building code officials should vet building product evaluation methods
Evaluation service providers should be properly accredited.