Study finds considerable ‘Grid Flexibility’ potential in New York

A Brattle Group study commissioned by New York's Department of Public Service found the state could achieve 8.5 GW in grid flexibility by 2040, potentially saving consumers over $2 billion annually. While industry leaders view this as a practical pathway to meet growing demand, Professor Francisco de Leon (ECE, CATT) remains skeptical: "I don't think flexibility is the final answer to electric energy challenges of the future because its full-blown implementation is very expensive." The study identifies regulatory barriers as key obstacles, including complex tariffs, building codes restricting battery storage, and insufficient incentives for utilities.