Utility Efforts

DTE, the Detroit-based utility, is working with Coactive Networks to "bring distributed generation solutions to consumers and businesses worldwide." Coactive's technology will be used to centrally monitor DG equipment.

GPU, a New Jersey-based utility, has signed a distribution deal with Ballard Power Systems, allowing GPU to market fuel cells to residential and business customers in the Northeast and North Central regions of the United States.

Exelon's PECO Energy unit in Pennsylvania has installed 1 million automated meter-reading devices in its service area as of mid-October, halfway to its goal of putting 2.1 million AMR devices in place. It is said to be the largest AMR project anywhere in the United States.

PPL Corporation's Spectrum unit has ordered a 250-kW fuel cell from FuelCell Energy. It's to provide electricity and heat to a U.S. Coast Guard Air Station on Cape Cod, Mass.

Tennessee Valley Authority has begun building the first large-scale power storage facility in the U.S. The $25 million facility, to be completed sometime in 2003, uses regenerative fuel cell technology. During periods of low electrical demand, the cells are charged with electricity generated at other locations. The stored energy can be released in times of high demand. Up to 120 mWh of energy can be stored.

From Pure Power, Winter 2001.