Energy Policy & Regulatory Compliance Flashcards

A wind developer wants to build near a U.S. military radar installation. Which federal agency must review the project for potential interference?

Answer: Department of Defense (DoD) via the Wind Energy and Radar Mission Compatibility Program

The DoD reviews wind projects near military radar installations through interagency coordination processes to assess and mitigate radar interference risks.

What is the significance of a 'must-take' or 'must-run' obligation under some state interconnection rules for renewable generators?

Answer: The utility must purchase all power the renewable facility produces regardless of grid conditions

A must-take obligation requires the utility to accept and pay for all output from a qualifying renewable facility, ensuring guaranteed offtake.

Which section of the U.S. tax code governs the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar energy systems?

Answer: Section 48

Section 48 of the Internal Revenue Code governs the commercial ITC for business-owned solar and other qualifying energy property.

Under FERC Order 2222, what new market participation right did FERC grant to distributed energy resources (DERs)?

Answer: DERs can aggregate and participate in wholesale electricity markets managed by RTOs/ISOs

FERC Order 2222 allows aggregations of DERs to participate in all wholesale markets run by regional transmission organizations and independent system operators.

A solar developer is evaluating a brownfield site. Which federal program provides liability protection for developers who clean up contaminated sites for reuse as renewable energy projects?

Answer: EPA Brownfields Program

The EPA Brownfields Program provides grants, loans, and liability protections to encourage assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment of contaminated properties including for clean energy.

In electricity markets, what is 'capacity market' and why is it relevant to renewable energy developers?

Answer: A market where generators are paid to ensure power will be available during peak demand periods

Capacity markets compensate generators for committing to provide power when needed, which is relevant for renewables as intermittent resources may face eligibility restrictions.

Which U.S. regulatory body has authority over the siting of offshore wind projects in federal waters (beyond 3 nautical miles)?

Answer: Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)

BOEM manages leasing, planning, and permitting for offshore wind energy development on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.