Topic:Effects of Rooftop Solar on the Distribution Grid: Evidence from Connecticut
Time: 15:40 PM-17:10PM, Nov. 17, 2025
Location: Room A1148, New Main Building
Guest: Prof. Xingchi Shen is an Associate Professor at the School of International and Public Affairs, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and a recipient of China’s National Excellent Young Scholars Program. He earned his Ph.D. in Policy Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park, and did postdoctoral research at the Yale School of the Environment. His research focuses on energy/environmental economics and public policy (with expertise in low-carbon technologies, etc.), with work published in top journals like Nature Energy. He leads national/provincial research programs, has media coverage (e.g., ABC News), and holds roles like Energy and Climate Change board member.
Abstract:
This study quantifies the effect of rooftop solar generation on the electricity distribution system using unique, proprietary data on solar generation and infrastructure load. We find that an additional kilowatt (kW) of solar reduces the annual peak load on a main feeder line coming from a substation by 0.10 kW and the top percentile of feeder load by 0.11 kW. We also estimate a 6.1% solar rebound effect, primarily occurring in spring and fall. The value of deferred distribution capacity ranges from $0.2 to $2.3 per MWh, well below the cost premium of rooftop solar above utility-scale solar.
