Green Mountain Power in Vermont is using a network of electric storage batteries and residential solar panels to create a virtual power plant. By controlling the charging and usage of these batteries, the utility can effectively manage power supply during extreme weather events or times of peak demand. Other companies, such as Sunrun, are following suit and creating their own virtual power plants. These distributed energy resources not only make the grid more reliable and resilient but also more affordable, potentially saving customers 20% on their power bills. The Department of Energy predicts that virtual power plants could handle 20% of peak power demand by 2030 at a lower cost than traditional power plants.
https://www.newyorker.com/news/daily-comment/the-next-power-plant-is-on-the-roof-and-in-the-basement