Energy Central

Federal funding presents major opportunities for utilities, but navigating the complex landscape of incentives, grants, and shifting political realities can be daunting. How should utilities position themselves to secure funding, optimize strategic investments, and prepare for potential policy changes as power shifts in Washington?

In this episode of Power Perspectives, that question is tackled by Stephen Haubrich, Management Consultant at ScottMadden. With deep expertise in regulatory strategy and utility financing, Stephen shares best practices for utility decision-makers, discusses the impact of federal programs like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and explores how utilities can remain flexible in an evolving political environment.

Tune in to get expert advice on topics in the range of:
- The current federal funding landscape for utilities and successful case studies
- Best practices for utilities to position themselves for funding opportunities
- Balancing short-term wins with long-term strategy in federal funding
- The impact of political shifts on programs like the IRA and what utilities should do next
- How utilities can stay agile amid regulatory uncertainty

Whether you're a utility leader, policymaker, or industry stakeholder, you'll want to join podcast host Matt Chester in this conversation with Stephen as he provides valuable insights on how to maximize federal funding benefits while mitigating risks.

This episode is brought to you by ScottMadden.

NOTE: This conversation was recorded before President Trump's inauguration.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/future-federal-energy-funding

Video version of the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LQWGhJ3-3WI

ScottMadden on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/scottmadden

Stephen Haubrich's profile on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/stephen-haubrich

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

Private LTE networks are shaping the future of rural grid modernization. But how can small utilities harness this technology to overcome their unique challenges?

In this episode of Power Perspectives, that challenge is addressed head on by Joe Walsh, Vice President of Smart Grid Communications Networks at NRTC. Joe sits down for this conversation to help us explore how a groundbreaking collaboration between NRTC, Anterix, Ericsson, and Southern Linc is helping rural utilities build secure, scalable, and cost-effective communication networks.

Tune in and learn from Joe as he shares insights on:
- The challenges rural utilities face in modernizing their grids
- How private LTE networks improve resilience, security, and scalability
- The benefits of vendor diversity and shared cooperative resources
- Real-world examples of co-ops implementing private LTE

Whether you're in the utility sector or just interested in the evolving energy landscape, strap in and join podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they welcome Joe's valuable insights at the role of advanced communications in building the grid of the future.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/how-important-private-lte-modernizing-rural-grid

Video version of the episode on SoundCloud: https://youtu.be/sbgQs-yn6Kg

Anterix on Energy Central: energycentral.com/o/anterix

Joe Walsh's profile on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/joe-walsh-0

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

As utilities face the mounting challenges of aging infrastructure, increasing demand, and evolving sustainability mandates, the need for smarter, more efficient capital planning is more pressing than ever. Simultaneously, you seemingly can't go a day without seeing a new, awe-inspiring headline about the power that artificial intelligence is newly bringing to the world. At the nexus of these two trending topics, this episode's guests see tremendous opportunity.

AI is playing a transformative role in helping utilities optimize their investment strategies, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently while mitigating risks. In this episode of Power Perspectives, Tom Ligocki, Global Head of Energy and Water Services at IFS, and Danilo Prates, Senior Director of Program Management at Copperleaf, explore how AI-driven analytics are revolutionizing capital planning, enabling utilities to make data-driven decisions on infrastructure upgrades, resilience planning, and cost management.

Listen in to learn firsthand expertise from these experts as they analyze:

- The critical role of capital planning in the utility sector

- How AI is enhancing investment decision-making for utilities

- Key challenges utilities face in modernizing infrastructure and integrating renewable energy

- Real-world benefits and cost savings from AI-powered capital planning solutions

Join podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they navigate these new opportunities shared by Tom and Danilo. Whether you’re a utility leader, an energy sector professional, or an AI enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into how technology is shaping the future of infrastructure investment.

Key Links:

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/can-ai-do-your-capital-planning-you-brought-you-copperleaf#posting

Audio version of the episode on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/energycentral/can-ai-do-your-capital-planning-for-you-brought-to-you-by-copperleaf

Copperleaf on Energy Central: energycentral.com/o/copperleaf

Industrial AI is IFS.ai: https://www.ifs.com/ai

Copperleaf eBook: Value-based Decision Making: https://www.copperleaf.com/knowledge-hub/ebook-value-based-decision-making-the-key-to-better-business-performance/

Decision Analytics Solutions for Electrical Utilities: https://www.copperleaf.com/solutions-for-industry/electric-utilities-decision-analysis-software/

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

The supply chain has been a trending topic and area of concern in all industries since the COVID-19 pandemic, and as the utility seeks to build more than ever before in a new era of grid modernization and clean energy one of the main bottlenecks remains the available supply of necessary equipment and materials.

This week, Power Perspectives welcomes in Laura Lewis, Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel at SMUD, to educate us on how one of the largest community-owned utilities in the nation is tackling supply chain challenges while advancing its ambitious clean energy goals. Laura shares SMUD’s strategies for navigating these obstacles, from securing critical needs like transformers to optimizing inventory processes. With a focus on electrification, regulatory collaboration, and sustainable practices, SMUD is setting a powerful example for utilities nationwide.

Tune in to learn about:
- SMUD’s innovative approaches to supply chain management amidst tight markets and inflation.
- The legal and operational intersections of supply chain strategies in the clean energy transition.
- How electrification of vehicles and buildings shapes grid infrastructure needs.
- The strategic partnerships with federal and state agencies to secure critical resources.

Join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they explore these vital topics with Laura Lewis and uncover how utilities can balance operational reliability with bold clean energy ambitions.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/how-utility-solving-supply-chain-puzzle

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

Federal funding has poured into the utility space to ensure the expansion of internet connectivity can take hold across the country, but what do results on the ground look like?

In the latest Power Perspectives episode, we are joined by Adam Rehfeld, Business Line Manager for Distribution Modernization at Burns & McDonnell. Sitting on the front line of this implementation of connectivity for utilities, specifically in the complex world of third-party pole attachments (TPAs), Adam has keen lessons to share with utilities who are still waiting to get up to speed in this area.

As utilities gain opportunities to expand connectivity with TPA implementation, this moment is a critical one for leaders to properly address regulatory, operational, and technological challenges. Adam provides insights into the evolution of pole attachments, the role of utilities in expanding broadband to underserved areas, and the importance of maintaining clear inventories of pole usage.

Press play and gain keen insights into:
- Why TPAs are a hot topic in today’s utility sector.
- How federal funding impacts TPA growth and utility strategies.
- The role of technology in improving pole attachment inventory and data management.
- The intersection of TPAs with modern grid trends like undergrounding and distributed generation.

Whether you’re a utility decision-maker or a broadband stakeholder, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the TPA landscape. So join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they welcome in Adam Rehfeld's insights on the critical interplay between internet connectivity and the power utility sector.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/expanding-utility-connectivity-and-bridging-broadband-gaps-brought-you-burns

Burns & McDonnell on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/burns-mcdonnell

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

Can electric school buses change the paradigm of power, permanently?

Today on Power Perspectives, we’re finding out—with Kevin Matthews, Head of Electrification at First Student. With the launch of the V2X Smart Energy Hub project in Brooklyn, First Student and Con Edison are pioneering a new way to use electric school buses as mobile energy assets, helping the grid balance demand while reducing emissions.

Kevin shares the vision behind First Student’s electrification efforts, the unique challenges and opportunities of transitioning large fleets to electric, and how the V2X Hub provides cleaner air and a more resilient grid for the community.

Tune in to learn about:
- The motivation behind electrifying the city's school buses
- How the V2X Smart Energy Hub works and why it’s a game-changer
- The benefits of leveraging school buses as mobile energy storage
- Overcoming skepticism & other lessons learned from collaborating with a utility as massive as Con Edison

Join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they dive into the cutting edge of fleet electrification and grid innovation with Kevin Matthews.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/wheels-bus-make-grid-go-round

Kevin Matthews Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/kevin-matthews

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

With fleet electrification accelerating, utilities face both opportunities and challenges in managing EV demand and leveraging vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. In this episode, Mark Braby, Chief Commercial Officer at Synop, joins Power Perspectives to discuss that rapidly evolving relationship between utilities and the transportation sector.

Listen in as Mark discusses:
- The transformative role of software in uniting fleet operators and utilities for electrification success.
- Key use cases demonstrating the real-world impact of V2G technology on grid operations.
- The critical data needs of utilities to ensure grid stability amid increasing EV adoption.
- The evolving relationship between utilities and transportation over the next decade, including autonomous fleets and smart charging.

For utility leaders, fleet managers, and anyone invested in the electrification journey, this
episode is packed with actionable insights. Join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they explore how fleet electrification is reshaping the energy landscape with Mark Braby.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/power-perspectives-can-evs-drive-grid-stability

Mark Braby's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/mark-braby

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

Will new transmission infrastructure ever come to pass? When will we reach a tipping point with data center energy needs? How can we determine the future of hydrogen's transformative race toward dominance? And what will *really* be the impact of decreasing energy storage costs?

Today on Energy Central's special year-end episode, we look back at a major 2024...and forward, toward what's looking to be a big 2025. Using ideas and predictions from our community's Energy Central Top Voices (check out the full list here), the Power Perspectives team is telling you about the most impactful stories of the year.

So grab your headphones and get ready to think big.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript:

Top Voices of 2024 Homepage: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/energy-central-top-voices-2024-all-network-summary

Episodes Mentioned During Episodes...
Tony Sleva: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-154-imagining-next-generation-energy-grid-tony-sleva-president-prescient

Steve Martz: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-170-navigating-complexities-integrated-planning-steve-martz-vp-integrated

Vicken Kasarjian: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-170-navigating-complexities-integrated-planning-steve-martz-vp-integrated

Veronica Ung-Kono: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-180-balancing-clean-energy-expansion-wildlife-protection-veronica-ung

David Schleicher: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-177-powering-data-center-alley-david-schleicher-president-ceo-northern

Todd Allen, Greg Keoleian: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-155-machh2-and-future-hydrogen-michigans-pioneers-todd-allen-and-greg

Idaho National Lab: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-158-decoding-iras-unlocking-nuclear-uprating-and-hydrogen-cogeneration

Prasanna Venkatesan, Arch Rao: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-174-embracing-future-residential-energy-management-prasanna-venkatesan

Amy Myers Jaffe: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/power-perspectives%E2%84%A2-podcast-navigating-energys-post-election-crossroads-2024-AND()

Diego Ibarra: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-160-decarbonizing-across-borders-climate-future-diego-ibarra-executive

Erik Krause: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-163-zero-carbon-2030-leaving-no-customer-behind-erik-krause-director

Cynthia Klein: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-164-duke-energys-strategy-harness-iija-opportunity-cynthia-klein-director

Aaron Choo: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-176-gas-grid-energy-transition-aaron-choo-vice-president-gas-network

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

In this episode, Mike Goggin, Senior Product Manager at SSP Innovations, joins the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast to explore how advanced GIS technology is now within reach for smaller utilities. Historically reserved for larger utilities, Esri’s Utility Network has become an essential tool for modernizing grid management. Mike shares how SSP Innovations has tailored this powerful platform to meet the unique needs of cooperatives, municipalities, and mid-sized utilities.
Listen in as Mike discusses:

- The challenges driving utilities away from legacy systems like ArcMap and geometric networks.
- Common adoption hesitations and strategies to ease the transition to the Utility Network.
- Real-world benefits of pre-configured systems and how customization can address individual utility needs.
- The Utility Network’s role in tackling the energy transition, electrification, and grid resilience challenges.

For any utility professionals looking to modernize operations while keeping costs manageable, this episode provides actionable insights and guidance. Join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they uncover how GIS innovation is empowering utilities of every size to thrive in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

Key Links
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/power-perspectives-podcast-gis-smaller-utilities-grid-modernization-here-brought

Mike Goggin's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/mike-goggin-0/about

SSP Innovations on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/ssp

Think Differently: Why GIS and Modern Network Management are Intertwined by Mike Goggin: https://energycentral.com/o/ssp/think-differently-why-gis-and-modern-network-management-are-intertwined

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

In this episode, Amy Myers Jaffe, Director of the Energy, Climate Justice, and Sustainability Lab at NYU, joins the Power Perspectives Podcast in the wake of the November 2024 elections to discuss the most pressing issues shaping the energy landscape. With her expertise in energy geopolitics, climate risk, and sustainability, Amy offers invaluable insights into how utilities can adapt to evolving challenges while pursuing a more resilient and sustainable future.

Listen in as Amy explores:

- The intersection of federal energy policies and state climate goals amidst political changes
- Why small modular reactors (SMRs) may not be the universal solution some hope for
- How digital solutions for demand management remain an underutilized opportunity
- The role of supply chain resilience in ensuring reliable energy amid geopolitical tensions

Join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they get a crash course into these critical topics with Amy Myers Jaffe. Whether you’re a utility executive, policymaker, or energy enthusiast, this episode provides actionable strategies for tackling today’s energy challenges and securing a sustainable future.

Key Links
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/power-perspectives%E2%84%A2-podcast-navigating-energys-post-election-crossroads-2024-and

Energy's Digital Future: Harnessing Innovation for American Resilience and National Security by Amy Myers Jaffe: https://cup.columbia.edu/book/energys-digital-future/9780231216753

Five Ways to Disaster-Proof the Energy Grid by Amy Myers Jaffe: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/climate-environment/energy-grid-extreme-weather-power-outages-c77e97e2

Amy's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/amy-jaffe

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast