Skip to content

Utility-Scale Wind and Natural Gas Volatility: Uncovering the Hedge Value of Wind for Utilities and Their Customers

Jump to Section

This paper explores methods of quantifying natural gas volatility by examining theoretical models as well as case studies of utility-hedging strategies. Including these volatility risk premiums in the price of natural gas establishes a basis for even comparison with utility-­scale wind contracts, which enables smarter decision analysis by regulatory agencies, utilities, and ratepayers. This analysis shows that even without the Federal Production Tax Credit and Renewable Portfolio Standards power pricing support, wind becomes competitive with natural gas years sooner than is commonly believed, and in many cases is the economic choice for new-build generation.

About the Authors

Help build the clean energy future. Donate today.

Independent research. Real-world solutions. Supported by donors.

RMI can pursue the highest-impact climate and energy solutions because we’re supported by people who believe change is possible. Every gift helps advance the work needed to make clean energy the default choice worldwide.

For other ways to give to RMI, including checks or gifts of stock, please visit Other Ways to Give.