The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Role in the Transition to a Low-Carbon Economy

The electricity sector is in a period of rapid change. It is being transformed by the growth of domestic natural gas and its increased use for electric generation, the rapid progress of renewable technologies, and the response to environmental requirements and goals, especially related to climate change. In addition, smart grid technology is allowing customers to interact with the grid in unprecedented ways, paving the way for more demand response and distributed technologies. At the same time, cyber and physical threats to the grid are increasing, requiring it to be more secure and resilient than ever before.

State and federal policies-including federally regulated wholesale markets for electricity-have sometimes underpinned and accelerated these dynamics, and sometimes have been viewed as challenging efforts to deploy more renewable and low carbon resources. Join Acting Chairman Cheryl LaFleur of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the independent agency that regulates the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil,for a discussion of FERC's role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. The talk will take place in the Ahmadieh Family Grand Hall (Gross Hall room 330) from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 28. A reception will follow in the Ahmadieh Family Atrium.

This talk is open to the public. Those interested in attending should register in advance.