This webinar, part of the Beyond Transmission series by Heatmap Labs, will focus on the key role of customer-side flexibility in the form of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). Across the country, utilities are harnessing existing network and customer assets – from solar panels and car batteries to smart thermostats and water heaters – to create VPPs that can deliver a range of grid services, satisfy soaring electricity demand, and bring relief to congested grid infrastructure. And VPPs also provide opportunities to empower customers, keep costs low, and decarbonize the grid through flexibility.

What is the future we want for America's largest coral reefs? These delicate ecosystems support marine life and human endeavors, but climate change is threatening the existence of these natural, and human communities, alike. There are several climate models addressing marine life impacts, however the cost to run models is a barrier to the communities who need them most. Together with the model metrics and insight from community members, this research will provide adaptation techniques that are meaningful to the local community.