The impact of electrification on distribution systems is only part of the new load growth equation. While these loads are somewhat flexible, utilities in many regions of the country are also facing requests to support data centers and other tech facilities requiring 24/7 power. New, innovative approaches to load management are emerging, especially as the grid edge becomes more intelligent. In addition to real utility deployments, the national labs are also investigating new platforms for local energy flexibility. Virtual power plants (VPPs), transactive energy, new wholesale market models, and edge intelligence are rapidly transforming utility approaches to these issues. 
 
This panel reviews innovations at the grid edge that support the decentralized, real-time energy markets of the future. Perspectives are shared from Southernn California Edison’s grid edge strategy; Landis+Gyr’s energy flexibility solutions for grid edge optimization; the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s latest research in VPPs, grid edge, and emerging markets; and SPAN’s vision for smart electric panel utilization.