In an effort to diversify its energy portfolio, the Atlanta-based utility has also explored wind, solar and hydro.

Black & Veatch finds that utility executives are also keeping a close eye on distributed generation, renewable portfolio standards and smart grid initiatives.

Pat Quinn's veto of S.B.9 is being perceived by some as a blow to grid modernization in Illinois.

Wind and solar will take up the largest shares of new power capacity added in terms of gigawatts by 2030, accounting for 30% and 24%, respectively.

According to the Solar Electric Power Association, almost 1.5 GW of new solar capacity was added to the U.S. grid last year.