Considering the Equitable Allocation of DER Hosting Capacity

Rising DER grid penetrations are compelling regulators and utilities to rethink how to balance DER integration policies with technical grid management requirements. Reimagined approaches involve managing feeder hosting capacities, while also ensuring equitable access to DER for all customer types, including lower-income and "late-adopter" customers. This paper examines how changes in cost and hosting capacity allocation strategies can promote more equitable DER adoption, while adhering to operating requirements. It discusses various strategies, such as community solar, flexible interconnection, modified cost-sharing, and active power management. Key findings showcase opportunities for defining and achieving equity goals, thereby bridging the gap between regulatory policies and grid reliability.