Renewable Energy: Corporate Obstacles and Opportunities
In the absence of a national mandate to intensify use of renewable energy, many corporations are increasing their own reliance on renewables. Numerous utilities are likewise transitioning toward wind, thermal, and solar power. But renewable energy continues to face challenges, including battery storage, grid expansion and incorporation of renewables into the grid, initial project costs, and regulatory barriers. How are utilities and energy-consuming companies increasing their renewables portfolios while navigating this terrain? On October 22, 2019, the Environmental Law Institute hosted its 2019 Annual Corporate Forum, which explored these questions and discussed the obstacles and opportunities for renewable energy. Below, we present a transcript of the discussion, which has been edited for style, clarity, and space considerations.