Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) are, in general, small-scale energy resources that provide electric capacity or energy close to where they are used. DERs are an evolving part of the utility landscape for consumers — and for Hoosier Energy, as well.

In an effort to maximize the benefits of technologies such as battery storage, electric vehicle charging, smart devices and more, a DER Strategy Subcommittee was formed in September 2022 and has been gathering momentum ever since.

The 13-member subcommittee is comprised of six member cooperative representatives, five Hoosier Energy representatives and a pair of facilitators from Hoosier.

The range of diversity within the committee, from energy advisors to engineering, marketing and customer service, allows for the consideration of multiple perspectives as the committee looks to find its footing.

The roots of this new committee are in an old group — the Demand Side Management Subcommittee. The work the previous committee did and the recommendations it made, based on internal program statistics, member cooperative survey data and the vote of the committee members, ultimately led to the formation of this DER Subcommittee. Now, the focus is on Hoosier Energy’s strategic priorities in distributed energy resources and integrated planning.

Discussions focus on the future, not just of the utility industry, but on how cooperative members can continue to find value and satisfaction in the programs offered.

Those programs, whether currently in place or planned for the future, cover everything from educational resources to emerging technologies.

Whether it’s electric vehicles or smart thermostats, distributed energy resources will only continue to become a bigger part of the future, and Hoosier Energy’s DER Subcommittee is ready to grow
with them.