2019 - Blockchain or not

Ok all. block chain was the buzz word and there are promising startups, but let's wait a few years for full maturity, ok?

Wow - 2017 done!

I can't believe we're done. Energy still is the dominant sector, so stay tuned for next year.

Power Grid, by Thomas Rieth (model ID 4580) -- NetLogo Modeling Commons

Power Grid, by Thomas Rieth (model ID 4580) -- NetLogo Modeling Commons

CPUC breakup

When the guv vetoed all the CPUC reforms that were proposed last year, it made my stomach ache. I think the thought that the CPUC needs to change is pretty evident, from San Bruno gas explosion, to the Aliso Canyon leak to the San Onofre sweetheart settlement that put the customers on the hook for the break down.

Mike Gatto, Assemblyman for Glendale area has put forth a n intitiative for this fall's ballot
http://www.citywatchla.com/index.php/world-views/10497-time-to-break-up-the-california-puc-the-foxes-are-in-the-hen-house

Check it out. I'll be watching this one intensely (and intently).

When is an ISO not so Independent?

I've read a couple of stories about Imperial Irrigation District and ISO on Path 42 in IID BA area. IID was allowed to install several miles of transmission line in its own district that was connected to solar PV. They constructed and installed thinking that they would be allowed to connect to the grid and recoup costs by selling to SCE - this wasn't the case.
http://www.publicpower.org/media/daily/ArticleDetail.cfm?ItemNumber=44248 

So, who's at fault on this one?

New 500kV XMISSION line in CA.

WAPA and SMUD signed up for conducting new transmission line. Well see how this pans out.

Spark

Check out @safaribot's Tweet: https://twitter.com/safaribot/status/570000007925006336?s=09