Slides: https://www.cesa.org/wp-content/uploads/CESA-VPP-EJ-Webinar-4-22-26-Slides.pdf
Virtual power plants (VPPs) are networks of decentralized energy resources (e.g., batteries, solar, EV chargers) that are aggregated and operated to support the electric grid in a manner similar to a traditional power plant. Because VPPs can be an excellent way to add flexible, carbon-free capacity to the grid, policymakers and industry are increasingly interested in them. However, VPPs run the risk of exacerbating existing inequalities. Emphasizing energy justice when planning VPPs can improve outcomes. As part of the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA)’s VPP Acceleration Initiative, this webinar explores opportunities to incorporate energy justice into state and utility VPP programs. Read about the Initiative here: https://www.cesa.org/projects/vpp
Adam Warren, former Director of the Accelerated Deployment and Decision Support Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, presents an overview of the relationship between VPPs and energy justice. He explains the inequity risks of VPPs and offers five practical design principles for justice-centered VPPs. Lisa Morris, Energy Services Planner at Vermont Electric Cooperative, discusses the utility’s recent Vermont Income Qualified Residential Battery Storage Program, which is an example of how to help low-income customers as part of a VPP program. CESA Executive Director Warren Leon moderates.
Channel: Clean Energy Group / Clean Energy States Alliance
Published: 2026-04-22
Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hm4iza4kG0A