Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) continue to offer the fastest and most cost-effective technology to support load growth from data centers, improve the utilization of the existing electric grid, and lower rates for consumers and ratepayers – yet current policy support and regulatory mechanisms for demand flexibility programs are insufficient. Despite countless reports, webinars, podcasts, comments in regulatory dockets, and other debates regarding the merits of VPPs, most flexible demand potential within the United States remains untapped, and in many cases unavailable to provide grid services, due to a lack of appropriate regulatory structures.

To advance technology-neutral, flexible demand programs that fully incentivize all elements of grid flexibility, the Flex Coalition is introducing a flexible demand program framework, affectionately termed the “Flexible Reduction in Electric Energy and Power” (FREE Power). Stay tuned for more updates – coming September 2026!