Los Alamos staff and a consultant outlined the extended day-ahead market (EDAM), explaining expected direct settlements with CAISO, resource efficiency evaluations that raise planning reserve requirements and potential penalties for imbalance; Pacificorp and PNM entries will drive local participation timelines.

Extended Day Ahead Market will enhance resource optimization for Western Energy Balance Market participants.

The importance of following through on commitments cannot be overstated. When a promise is made, it sets the tone for what is to come and can have significant consequences if not kept. In the case of EPE's involvement with regional markets, this principle rings particularly true. Regional market collaborations are playing an increasingly crucial role in managing the grid as more renewable resources enter the mix. These tools enable utilities to trade electricity from areas where there is a surplus to those where demand exceeds supply, making it easier for them to acquire the energy they need at a lower cost. This not only benefits customers but also improves grid reliability. Markets+ is one such regional collaboration that has caught EPE's attention. By joining this platform, EPE officials believe they will gain more operational flexibility and reliability. PNM, on the other hand, has opted to join EDAM, another day-ahead market initiative. The potential benefits of each arrangement are still being weighed, but it is clear that regional markets are poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of grid management. One key advantage of EPE's decision to join Markets+ is its ability to optimize the Eddy Tie, a critical piece of infrastructure that enables trade with neighboring utilities. This connection point allows EPE to tap into resources from the Southwest Power Pool and access energy from other Xcel Energy utilities. By optimizing this connection, EPE can better ensure the reliability of its own grid. Another reason EPE chose Markets+ over EDAM is its governance structure. While this aspect could be subject to change depending on future legislation in California, EPE officials believe that Markets+ offers more transparency and a greater commitment to reliability. When considering regional markets like these, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against any potential drawbacks – or changes to regulations. As the landscape of grid management continues to evolve, regional market collaborations will likely play an increasingly important role. By embracing these tools, utilities can better manage demand, reduce costs for customers, and improve overall reliability. For EPE, joining Markets+ is a significant step in this direction, one that could have far-reaching implications for its operations and the communities it serves.