ScottMadden, Inc., one of North America's leading energy consulting firms, recently released its Fall Energy Industry Update. Themed "Generation to Generation: An Energy Evolution," this report examines the direction and magnitude of some of the industry changes and the forces in play for a renewable and distributed energy world, including grid development.

Illinois may be the best-kept secret in grid transformation. The state has laid an excellent foundation. It has modernized the grid through targeted infrastructure and customer-focused investments; this positions the state well for increasing penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) and renewables. When DERs arrive at scale, the state will be ready.

What is the current state of the electricity market in Illinois? How have legislative initiatives led to transformation in the electricity market? Have these initiatives resulted in a modernized grid and utilities that are flexible and ready for growth in DERs? In this report, ScottMadden addresses these questions and more to help you prepare for the shifting industry.

"When we looked at Illinois, we saw the combination of legislative and regulatory support, along with the longer view of required grid capabilities, really enabled significant and durable modernization of the grid," said Cristin Lyons, partner and grid transformation practice leader at ScottMadden. "And while more work and investment remain, the foundation has been laid. We'll have to see when and where DERs come and at what scale."

For more information about the transitions in Illinois, view Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) and ScottMadden's white paper, "51^st State Perspectives: DERs Are Coming and Illinois is Ready for Them." To explore perspectives from the individuals leading the transformation and a framework that can help stakeholders in other states, listen to ScottMadden and SEPA's complimentary webinar recording, "Perspectives in Grid Transformation from Illinois."

If you were unable to join our Energy Industry Update webcast, the final recording is now available. Hear what our industry experts have to say about changes to, and potential solutions for, FERC-regulated wholesale markets, the future of utility solar, and grid investment in this new session.

ScottMadden | www.scottmadden.com