Abstract: An improved method for analyzing power systems; in particular, power systems that may incorporate distributed energy resources (DER), that provides a thorough determination of the potential for network performance improvement that DER could provide, independent of non-network benefits DER could provide. The method incorporates an Energynet dataset simulating the power system, integrating transmission and distribution elements together and capable of evaluating the impacts of additions of real energy sources and/or reactive energy sources anywhere in the network. Such energy source additions are evaluated for their impact on a broad set of performance measures. The specific DER projects that would realize that potential improvement in network performance are characterized as an Optimal DER Portfolio. Network performance improvement attributable to the Optimal DER Portfolio is quantified in engineering and financial terms.

Abstract: An improved method for analyzing power systems; in particular, power systems that may incorporate distributed energy resources (DER), that provides a thorough determination of the potential for network performance improvement that DER could provide, independent of non-network benefits DER could provide. The method incorporates an Energynet dataset simulating the power system, integrating transmission and distribution elements together and capable of evaluating the impacts of additions of real energy sources and/or reactive energy sources anywhere in the network. Such energy source additions are evaluated for their impact on a broad set of performance measures. The specific DER projects that would realize that potential improvement in network performance are characterized as an Optimal DER Portfolio. Network performance improvement attributable to the Optimal DER Portfolio is quantified in engineering and financial terms.

Abstract: A system which facilitates the purchase of an item qualifying for pre-tax treatment utilizing at least one flexible spending account (FSA). A host computer may receive a request from a point of sale (POS) device to authorize payment for one or more items. The host computer may process the request to determine if the item qualifies for pre-tax treatment. If the item qualifies for pre-tax treatment, the host computer may transmit payment authorization to the POS device and debit at least one FSA and/or at least one non-FSA account.

Abstract: A motorcycle fairing mounting apparatus having a pair of vertically spaced, transversely extending cross members which mate with the motorcycle frame and support a pair of longitudinally extending side plates having upwardly facing mounting surfaces which mate with complementary mounting surfaces of a fairing. The central portion of the lower cross member is bowed downwardly from the ends of the cross members. In a preferred form of the apparatus, a forward portion of each side plate converges forwardly toward the other side plate forward portion.