Grid transparency—the ability to view data about the amount of new distributed energy resources the grid can accommodate—is essential for supporting the deployment of energy storage and solar-plus-storage. Grid transparency tools like distribution system data portals, preapplication reports, and hosting capacity analysis (HCA) can enable customers to avoid areas of the grid with high upgrade costs, and to design their systems in a way that maximize grid benefits and minimize impacts. HCA can also be used in other ways, such as by utilities in the interconnection process.

This is the first part of a two-part training series on grid transparency. The second part, In-Depth Training on Grid Transparency for Energy Storage Interconnection, will provide a much deeper dive into grid transparency tools, including the steps customers take to access grid data; how customers can use the available data in the interconnection process; and best practices for developing and deploying each of the grid transparency tools.