The utility industry is undoubtedly at a crossroads, taking on more challenges than ever before in its history while the importance of getting it right is more critical than ever. We all know the delicate balance required between reliability, affordability, and sustainability as today's key energy goals, but nailing down exactly how to balance them remains as tricky as ever. To guide the utility to the future, leadership is required, such as today's guest, Cristin Lyons, Partner and Energy Practice Leader at ScottMadden.

In this episode, Cristin offers her insights into the mounting tensions between utility goals of reliability, affordability, and clean energy, drawing from her influential talk at the EUCI Leadership Conference for Women in Energy. Listen in as Cristin shares with host and producer Matt Chester the challenges utilities face and the necessary steps for holistic, integrated system planning. With thought-provoking conversations surrounding technology, public perception, and policy influences, this episode is a must-listen for those eager to understand and navigate the intricate maze of the energy sector.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-142-tension-transition-utility-industrys-path-forward-cristin-lyons

Cristin Lyons's Profile on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/cristin-lyons-0

Energy Central Page for ScottMadden: https://energycentral.com/o/scottmadden

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Today on the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, we take a front-row seat to the rapidly evolving world of hydrogen technology and its promising partnership with nuclear energy. In celebration of the upcoming National Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Day on October 8, this episode dives into the advancements in hydrogen tech and specifically what leaders within the Department of Energy ecosystem are doing to unlock the opportunities it presents for the nuclear sector. This episode's guest is just such a leader in Richard Boardman, Laboratory Relationship Manager for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technology Office at Idaho National Laboratory.

In this episode, Richard dives deep into INL's pursuit of innovative hybrid energy systems, offering a fresh perspective on the hydrogen economy's potential and challenges. From exploring INL's unique role in the national lab ecosystem to unpacking the reasons behind nuclear plants' hesitation towards integrating hydrogen strategies, listen in as Richard shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester a masterclass on the transformative power of collaboration in energy and the exciting future awaiting the nuclear and hydrogen convergence.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-141-going-nuclear-national-hydrogen-and-fuel-cell-day-richard-boardman

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Episode #140: 'DOE's Role in Guiding Reliable and Resilient Grid Planning' with Gene Rodrigues, Assistant Secretary for the Office of Electricity [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]

As utility leaders and professionals grapple with the ever-present challenges of grid reliability and resilience, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plays a critical role to oversee and support stakeholders across the power sector. Bridging the federal energy policy space with on-the-ground utility insights is key to meeting these goals, and this episode of the podcast features a deep dive into that perspective from Gene Rodrigues, the Assistant Secretary of DOE’s Office of Electricity (OE).

With a career spanning both sectors, Gene’s insights provide a deep understanding of the current grid challenges, especially in light of recent natural disasters and changing energy demands. Listen in as Gene shares with podcast host Jason Price and Producer Matt Chester the OE's viewpoint on grid reliability amid these evolving challenges. Gene delves deep into the symbiotic relationship between the DOE and utilities, discussing grid edge resources, the strategy behind boosting generation and transmission capacity, and the undeniable impacts of deferred maintenance and supply chain strains post-pandemic.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-140-does-role-guiding-reliable-and-resilient-grid-planning-gene-rodrigues

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Bringing the energy industry into the future cannot be done in a siloed approach, but rather requires a complex, systematic coordination with stakeholders across the sector. And doing so also requires a more forward-looking lens than ever before, rather than tackling problems simply as they arise. As such, in this illuminating episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, we dive deep into the future of energy markets with two eminent guests from different corners of the energy landscape: Steven Aumeier, Senior Advisor of Strategic Programs at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), and Todd Allen, Chair of University of Michigan’s Nuclear Engineering Department. The crux of their conversation? The ground-breaking Emerging Energy Markets Analysis (EMA) initiative, an envelope-pushing innovation they've collaborated on.

EMA uniquely merges insights from diverse disciplines—engineering, economics, cultural studies, and more—to provide a comprehensive look at the energy markets of the future. In this conversation with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester, Todd and Steven don't just explore the technicalities but delve into the economic, social, and even cultural ramifications of the rapidly evolving energy landscape. From the role of nuclear plants in the modern energy matrix to the significance of the Korean energy model, this discussion promises a wealth of knowledge. Tune in for a rich dialogue that promises a blend of innovation, introspection, and foresight into the future of energy.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-139-guiding-utilities-future-energy-market-analysis-todd-allen-university

Todd Allen's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/todd-allen-1

Steven Aumeier's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/steve-aumeier

Idaho National Laboratory on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/idaho-national-labs

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Utilities are inherently organizations that require strong, stable, and forward-looking leadership. To balance the myriad of goals, the plethora of stakeholders, and the rapidly evolving landscape in which they operate, the CEOs in our power sector may not have the most enviable job, but they are undoubtedly critical. This importance holds especially true when a utility finds itself at risk of losing the trust of its customers and needing a leading voice to reassure and guide the company and its community. No doubt, JEA (Florida's largest community-owned utility) has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years, and a key reason the company finds itself on the upswing now is because of the leadership provided by its CEO, Jay Stowe.

As the guest on this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, Jay shares his experience being brought into the CEO role at JEA to guide the ship through choppy waters. Through that experience, Jay can boast about the transformative steps taken to restore trust and align with the community's aspirations. As Florida races against time to meet its sustainability goals, Jay shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester how JEA's Integrated Resource Plan aims to balance affordability, sustainability, and reliability for over half a million customers. From dissecting JEA's forward-looking vision and the intricacies of achieving a 35% clean energy goal by 2030 to addressing the hurdles of scaling up solar in the Sunshine State, Jay's insights offer a unique perspective on modern utility leadership, the importance of community engagement, and the commitment to a greener future.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-138-jeas-blueprint-community-trust-clean-energy-and-road-2030-jay-stowe

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

This episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast ventures deep into the dynamic world of utility innovation, seeking to understand the priority that utilities place on R&D into the new opportunities. The grid of the future is being talked about more than ever, but the challenges of the present day are becoming increasingly prevalent. Balancing looking forward with managing today is no small feat for utilities who must, at all costs, keep the light on, but increasingly the world of utility R&D is getting dedicated departments and leaders.

One such leader will guide this conversation on the podcast, as host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester are joined by the Head of R&D at PPL Corporation, Aron Patrick. Aron guides the listener through the intricacies of managing nearly 150 active R&D projects at once while discovering pivotal strategies to fuel PPL's drive for clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Listen in as Aron unravels the PPL approach to the energy transition through partnerships, technology development, and merging tradition with modern solutions.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-137-turning-innovative-ideas-practical-utility-solutions-aron-patrick

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Episode #136: 'Municipal Power’s Role in Today’s Energy Transition ' with Branndon Kelley, Chief Strategy Officer of American Municipal Power [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]

The world of energy is vast, and the landscape of U.S. utilities is a veritable alphabet suit of jurisdictions, RTOs, and stakeholders. While often the larger investor-owned giants grab the headlines, the truth is that millions of Americans and businesses depend on the direct action of the smaller municipal entities. These municipal power providers are thus a key cog in the path forwards as the comprehensive energy system strives towards an energy transition and hardening of the grid for greater reliability.

On this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester are joined by Branndon Kelley, the recently appointed Chief Strategy Officer at American Municipal Power (AMP). Branndon provides a deep dive into the often-overlooked but immensely critical landscape of municipal power, sharing perspective from his front-row seat to the challenges, opportunities, and evolving strategies of municipal utilities. From electric vehicle adoption to navigating new regulations, this conversation promises rich insights for all stakeholders in the energy industry.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-136-municipal-power%E2%80%99s-role-today%E2%80%99s-energy-transition-branndon-kelley

Branndon Kelley's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/branndon-kelley

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Asset management is becoming an increasingly critical and complex area of focus for the modern utility landscape. From smarter sensors, meters, and equipment all across the grid to the heightened need to ensure safety and reliability by tracking health and status of all grid-tied equipment, utilities both large and small must always be looking for the most appropriate tools and optimized solutions for keeping pace with asset management. This episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast delves into the intricacies of utility asset management with two distinguished experts from 1898 & Co.: Paul Von Hertsenberg, Director of Generation Asset Advisory, and Arlin Mire, Senior Project Manager focusing on transmission and distribution.

From exploring the differing perspectives of generation versus transmission to dissecting the current status of the U.S. power industry in its asset management practices, these guests provide a holistic view of the sector. They not only shed light on the challenges but also offer forward-looking insights and actionable steps for utility decision-makers in the conversation with podcast host, Jason Price, and podcast producer, Matt Chester. Dive deep into this conversation as these asset management experts uncover the role of stakeholders, the impact of emerging technologies, and the regulatory landscape influencing asset management.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-135-elevating-energy-modernized-utility-asset-management-1898-cos-paul

1898 & Co. on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/1898

Planning for Future EV Charging Demand Requires Sophisticated Forecasting by Utilities: https://energycentral.com/o/1898/planning-future-ev-charging-demand-requires-sophisticated-forecasting-utilities

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

The work being done to advance the clean energy transition is being pursued by a diverse array of leaders, some of whom have been in the sector their entire lives and others who found it amid their career journey. These varying perspectives help bring new vantage points and angles when it comes to tackling the future of energy, but the career trajectory of today's guest on the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast might be the most unique. Joining this week as guest is Mike Richter, the Hall of Fame goalie for the New York Rangers turned President of Brightcore Energy, a company implementing modernized energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions.

In this special episode, Richter joins the podcast to discuss the journey from NHL superstar turned clean energy warrior. From defending the net in the 1994 Stanley Cup to championing energy efficiency solutions as the President of Brightcore Energy, Richter's story serves as a testament to the remarkable intersections between sports, personal convictions, and sustainability. Throughout this candid conversation, Richter shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester the influential role his athlete sons play in shaping his vision for a greener world, the lessons he's learned in the energy sphere, and the crucial collaborations with utilities. Offering insights into his advocacy for social equity and environmental justice, he emphasizes the importance of overcoming inertia in the realm of energy transformations. Whether you're a hockey aficionado or an energy enthusiast (or both!), this episode promises a captivating blend of sports nostalgia and clean tech inspiration.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-134-saving-pucks-saving-power-transitioning-hockey-hall-famer-clean

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/

Special Episode: 'Unlocking the Power of GIS: Sharing, Understanding, and Capturing Utility Data' with Pat Hohl and Bill Meehan, Directors at ESRI [Special Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast Presented by ESRI]

Pat Hohl and Bill Meehan, renowned bloggers on Energy Central, have amassed an impressive total of half a million views on the platform. With nearly a century of combined experience in the energy industry, including almost half of that time spent working at power companies, their expertise is undeniable. In this engaging podcast series, each episode lasting between 10 to 15 minutes, Pat and Bill take a relaxed approach to exploring the ways utilities can leverage GIS (Geographic Information System) to share, understand, and capture critical utility data.

Contrary to the prevailing perception of GIS as a mere repository for asset information, Bill and Pat will present a fresh perspective. They will delve into the transformative potential of GIS, demonstrating its effectiveness as a powerful tool for engaging with all utility stakeholders. The inaugural episode, titled "Sharing GIS Information," provides a glimpse into how GIS can be harnessed to foster exceptional collaboration and communication within the utility sector. Interested in transforming your utility with GIS? Start here.

In case you missed it, the full series can be found at these links:

Episode 1: https://youtu.be/6Fzu7OpRr2w

Episode 2: https://youtu.be/5wUFAC4c7VM

Episode 3: https://youtu.be/VuLlbWNH9R8

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/esri/special-episode-unlocking-power-gis-sharing-understanding-and-capturing-utility

GIS for Electric Utilities from ESRI: https://www.esri.com/en-us/industries/electric/overview

Episode #10: ‘The Past & Future of Circuits & How GIS is Transforming the Grid, COVID-19 Response, & More’ with Pat Hohl of Esri - [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]: https://energycentral.com/c/iu/energy-central-power-perspectives%E2%84%A2-podcast-episode-10-%E2%80%98-past-future-circuits-how

Episode #12: ‘To Unlock the Modern Utility, GIS is Key’ with Bill Meehan of Esri - [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]: https://energycentral.com/c/iu/energy-central-power-perspectives%E2%84%A2-podcast-episode-12-%E2%80%98-unlock-modern-utility-gis

Episode #47: GIS, Digital Twin, and the Intelligent Reality of Utilities Today with Pat Hohl and Bill Meehan of Esri [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/special-edition-gis-digital-twin-and-intelligent-reality-utilities-today-pat-hohl

Episode #80: 'Taking a Geographic Approach to Public Grid Investment' with Bill Meehan and Pat Hohl of Esri [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-80-taking-geographic-approach-public-grid-investment-bill-meehan-and-pat

Episode #95: 'Debating Utilities' Role In Transportation Electrification' With Esri's Bill Meehan & Pat Hohl [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-95-debating-utilities-role-transportation-electrification-esris-bill

Pat Hohl’s Energy Central Profile: energycentral.com/member/profile/204983/about

Bill Meehan’s Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/360/about

Did you know? The Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast has been identified as one of the industry's 'Top 25 Energy Podcasts': blog.feedspot.com/energy_podcasts/