S&P Global: focus turns to reliability as US renewables’ capacity expands

Renewables’ share of US electricity generation is on the rise and now averages around 14%, according to research conducted by ratings and business intelligence firm S&P Global. However, during peak hours the share of renewable capacity in independent system operator (ISO) production was estimated at 8.5%. There are variations in this contribution, driven by factors such as geography, resource conditions and local transition policies. Peak-hour analysis helps assess the contribution of supply factors under conditions of maximum demand. The numbers suggest that, as the capacity of renewables’ expands, the expected reliability of production under increased demand is a crucial consideration. The S&P analysis states: “Averaging 14% of overall US generation, the estimated contribution of renewables to US independent system operator energy production falls into high single-digit territory at peak hour, underscoring current green energy limitations when households and businesses need electricity the most.”