Utility officials on Tuesday highlighted how low load growth and the emergence of distributed generation resources are leading them to shift capital spending toward bolstering infrastructure and away from generation investments. “You see a lot of utilities in the country moving this way, and that really defines the utility of the future in many respects,” said Nick Akins, president and CEO of American Electric Power. Speaking on a panel at the Edison Electric Institute’s annual convention, Akins said that this period of 1-1.5% load growth provides a “distinct opportunity” for the industry to balance the generation portfolio while also focusing on infrastructure development to allow the connection of DG and other resources. Article continues below… Megawatt Daily Megawatt Daily provides detailed coverage of power prices in major US and Canadian electricity markets, up-to-date information about solicitations and supply deals, and information about complex state and federal power regulations. While […]