Prepare to have your mind energized as we navigate the latest trends reshaping the electric grid, with a special focus on the policy revolutions in California and Maryland. These aren't just changes; they're seismic shifts at the grid's edge that promise a smarter, more sustainable future. As your host, I've seen firsthand in my course on distributed energy resources the costly overbuild of our grid for peak demand—a problem these policies are directly addressing. I guarantee, by the end of our discussion, you'll see the electric grid in a whole new light, understanding the intricacies of solar and storage interconnection and the transformative potential of electric vehicle-to-grid technologies.

The conversation heats up as we dissect the California Public Utilities Commission's groundbreaking ruling and Maryland's DRIVE Act, unpacking their implications for everything from power quality to peak demand. With insights gleaned from industry experts and my own classroom experiences, we examine the challenges and opportunities these changes herald for utility companies and consumers alike. As we analyze the drive towards more distributed, low-carbon assets, we'll reveal how bidirectional energy flows could lead to a more efficient and resilient grid. Tune in for a power-packed session that will electrify your understanding of the energy landscape.