Energy Central

Recently, the fervor behind hydrogen energy in the United States reached fever pitch with the announcement of the hydrogen hubs that had been selected for federal support, meaning the future for this emerging energy source is brighter than ever. To truly understand the current hurdles but also the unmatched future potential of U.S. hydrogen, the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast visited one of these esteemed hubs to hear directly from the experts themselves.

Specifically, Todd Allen is the Chair of the University of Michigan's Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences Department and Greg Keoleian is Director of the Center for Sustainable Systems in the university's School for Environment and Sustainability, and together they are Co-Directors of MI Hydrogen. Listen is as podcast host Jason Price visits the campus and, along with podcast producer Matt Chester, learns more about the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2), one of the seven federally sponsored hydrogen hubs recently selected by the U.S. Department of Energy. Todd and Greg, leading figures in MachH2, provide insights into the challenges and opportunities of integrating hydrogen into the energy landscape and discuss everything from the current state of hydrogen, the impact of federal efforts to the role of participating utilities, distinguishing factors of MachH2, and their confidence in the future of hydrogen and Michigan's position as a key player in the hydrogen revolution.

Key Links:
Take this poll to impact the future of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdI1mewtAbCxlaqTLmzHpj_CnlIKdiREULf0dEDs2M5MlFyeA/viewform

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-155-machh2-and-future-hydrogen-michigans-pioneers-todd-allen-and-greg

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

MI Hydrogen Fact Sheet: https://css.umich.edu/publications/factsheets/energy/hydrogen-factsheet

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/

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 the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast? Do you want to hear your voice on a future episode? Well starting in 2024, we’re offering you that opportunity! Head to this link where you can leave us a recorded message, including a question you’re eager to have answered on a future episode of the podcast. We’ll listen through them, pick out the right guests in our upcoming lineup to address them, and you’ll hear yourself as a part of the conversation! Energy Central on SpeakPipe: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

As the imperative for modernizing the energy grid becomes more urgent, the evolving landscape requires utility leaders to innovate and adopt best practices for a resilient and sustainable electric future. But the right actions to take in this regard are not always agreed upon across the industry, with the need to balance costs, reliability, sustainability, and more creating friction. In this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, a front row view of these challenges and potential pathway are shared by industry veteran Tony Sleva, President of Prescient Transmission Systems.

With over 50 years of experience, Tony shares insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the utility sector. From embracing renewable energy to wildfire risk reduction, electric vehicle integration, and the importance of physical security, Tony provides a comprehensive perspective on the transformation needed for a sustainable and resilient energy future. Listen in as Tony shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester his practical advice for utilities, urging them to embrace uncertainty, innovate, and adopt best practices from other industries. Tony also delves into the need for utilities to update transmission lines, optimize models for modern challenges, and incorporate innovations. Join the conversation and gain valuable insights into shaping the next-generation electric grid.

Thanks to Prescient Transmission Systems –
Prescient works with electric utilities to integrate next generation concepts into grid design and operating practices. Prescient’s team provides insights on wildfire risk reduction, electric vehicle integration, energy balancing, system modeling, and physical security. Contact Prescient Transmission Systems today through their Energy Central profile, or online at www.prescientelectric.com. And join Tony for his upcoming webinar discussing Effective Physical Security for Substations, happening Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Register now on the Energy Central Calendar, or on prescientelectric.com/webinars.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-154-imagining-next-generation-energy-grid-tony-sleva-president-prescient

Tony Sleva's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/tony-sleva

Prescient Transmission Systems on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/prescient

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/

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 the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast? Do you want to hear your voice on a future episode? Well starting in 2024, we’re offering you that opportunity! Head to this link where you can leave us a recorded message, including a question you’re eager to have answered on a future episode of the podcast. We’ll listen through them, pick out the right guests in our upcoming lineup to address them, and you’ll hear yourself as a part of the conversation! Energy Central on SpeakPipe: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

A key part to the modern utility landscape includes Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) and their transformative impact on the power industry landscape. As a part of this evolving corner of utilities, the National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO) is driving change within the industry, supporting ESCOs in optimizing energy efficiency, and shaping the future of sustainable practices. In this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, NAESCO Executive Director, Tim Unruh, joins the conversation to highlight the emerging trends that will shape the energy sector in the years to come.

Listen in as Tim guides podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester on a deep dive into the world of ESCOs and their pivotal role in optimizing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. With a focus on the ESCO sector's impact on utilities and their customers, the conversation features Tim drawing on his extensive background in power and energy, providing valuable insights into the historical relationship between ESCOs and utilities, the role of NAESCO in supporting the U.S. ESCO industry, and the key opportunities and challenges in the ever-evolving energy landscape.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-153-evolving-utility-landscape-escos-catalysts-change-tim-unruh-executive

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/

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, eyes of the world have been on the resilience of the Ukrainian people in numerous ways. Among those key areas of resilience has come physically with regards to the grid. Reliability and consistency of power delivery is essential for continuing daily life as well as for military operations, so the utility sector has been a critical space to watch. In this compelling episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, the unique challenges and triumphs of the Ukrainian power grid are explored from the first-person perspective, as the podcast welcomes Steve Walsh, Managing Director at Traxys and a former Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps.

As an experienced leader in the global power industry, Steve's extensive background from military service to roles in power generation, energy distribution, and renewable energy development all provide a nuanced perspective on the critical intersection of energy and national security. As the discussion unfolds, Steve shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester his insights into the state of the Ukrainian power grid under extreme stress, detailing key challenges and the nation's response. The conversation expands to draw lessons for U.S. utility decision-makers on resilience, supply chain impacts, workforce considerations, and the strategic integration of energy technologies in military contexts. With a focus on Steve's diverse experience across global grids, the episode explores universal truths and unique differences in managing and operating energy systems worldwide. This episode is a must-listen for energy professionals seeking valuable insights into the intersection of energy resilience, national security, and lessons learned from the Ukrainian power grid.

Key Links:
If you're looking for places where you can support the efforts in Ukraine, see here: https://www.helpinghandsua.org/

Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript:https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-152-ukrainian-power-resilience-through-eyes-utility-leader-steve-walsh

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/

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 the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast? Do you want to hear your voice on a future episode? Well starting in 2024, we’re offering you that opportunity! Head to this link where you can leave us a recorded message, including a question you’re eager to have answered on a future episode of the podcast. We’ll listen through them, pick out the right guests in our upcoming lineup to address them, and you’ll hear yourself as a part of the conversation! Energy Central on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

Forecasting the future of the energy sector, between supply, demand, and technological developments, is a cornerstone of the utility landscape, as such forward-looking exercises seek to inform investments, policies, and more. However, without a crystal ball to pull from, any such forecasts are subject to uncertainty and risks. In this compelling episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, Jeremy Bentham, Co-Chair of Scenarios at the World Energy Council, joins the conversation to delve into the intricate landscape of energy forecasting, exploring the myriad factors that shape expectations for the future energy landscape.

As Jeremy Bentham shares with host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester insights as informed by his illustrious career, spanning over 40 years in the global energy sector and his pivotal role at Shell Corporation, listeners will gain a deep understanding of the evolution of energy scenarios and strategies. From embracing decarbonization in the 1980s to navigating radical uncertainty in the ongoing energy transition, Jeremy offers valuable perspectives on how energy leaders can navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing industry. This episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking to grasp the nuances of energy scenarios and the critical shifts needed for a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-151-decoding-future-energy-industry-forecasts-jeremy-bentham-co-chair

Jeremy Bentham's Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/jeremy-bentham

The Dodo Club Newsletter: https://thedodoclub.beehiiv.com/

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/

To celebrate the end of another year on the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, this special edition recognizes four years of insightful conversations that have shaped the future of the energy sector. In addition to the podcast being led, as usual, by host Jason Price and Community Manager and podcast producer, Matt Chester, this episode welcomes back the Vice President of Energy Central, Audra Drazga.

In this milestone episode that serves as a testament to the dynamic growth and impact of the podcast, Audra, Matt, and Jason take turns recalling some of the top guests, episodes, and moments of 2023 in the podcast. This 'Best Of' episode features CEOs, Hall of Famers, and industry stalwarts, all of whom have been in the virtual podcast booth in the past 12 months. As the podcast team prepares for an even more exciting lineup in 2024, use this episode to catch up on guests you may have missed, remember your favorite ones past, and join us in celebrating these important conversations that encapsulate the essence of this transformative year in the energy industry.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-150-looking-back-2023-best-moments-energy-central-power-perspectives

Episode #123: 'Exploring the Role of Gas in the Decarbonization Journey' with Suzanne Ogle, President and CEO of Southern Gas Association: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-123-exploring-role-gas-decarbonization-journey-suzanne-ogle-president-and

Episode #127: 'The Resurgence of Nuclear as a Utility Decarbonization Pathway' with Kimberly Cook-Nelson, Chief Nuclear Officer at Entergy: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-127-resurgence-nuclear-utility-decarbonization-pathway-kimberly-cook

Special Episode: 'Unlocking the Power of GIS: Sharing, Understanding, and Capturing Utility Data' with Pat Hohl and Bill Meehan, Directors at ESRI: https://energycentral.com/o/esri/special-episode-unlocking-power-gis-sharing-understanding-and-capturing-utility

Episode #134: 'From Saving Pucks to Saving Power, Transitioning from Hockey Hall of Famer to Clean Energy Warrior' with Mike Richter, President of Brightcore Energy: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-134-saving-pucks-saving-power-transitioning-hockey-hall-famer-clean

Episode #114: 'Cleaner and More Affordable Power for Long Island' with Tom Falcone, CEO of Long Island Power Authority: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-114-cleaner-and-more-affordable-power-long-island-tom-falcone-ceo-long

Episode #146: 'Pioneering a Rational Decarbonization & the Gas Sector’s Role in New Jersey' with Michael Renna, President & CEO of South Jersey Industries: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-146-pioneering-rational-decarbonization-gas-sector%E2%80%99s-role-new-jersey

Episode #125: 'Traversing the Utility ESG Journey' with Christine Waller, Vice President of Communications and Corporate Responsibility at Duquesne Light Company: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-125-traversing-utility-esg-journey-christine-waller-vice-president

Episode #113: 'Reaching New Heights with Community Solar' with Jason Spreyer, EVP at Summit Ridge Energy: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-113-reaching-new-heights-community-solar-jason-spreyer-evp-summit-ridge

Episode #111: 'The Future of Energy & Utilities' with Lincoln Bleveans, Executive Director of Sustainability at Stanford: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-111-future-energy-utilities-lincoln-bleveans-executive-director

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

Everyone's familiar with the leading renewable energy technologies contributing to the grid, from solar to wind to hydropower. But additional lifting in the clean energy future will undoubtedly come from some emerging technologies as well, including the up and coming innovations in wave energy. In this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, the conversation will ride the waves of innovation in the renewable energy sector, exploring the untapped potential of wave energy.

Specifically, this episode will welcome on the CEO of NOVIGE, Jan Skjoldhammer. As one of the drivers of this innovative area of renewables, Jan shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester the ups and downs of this emerging field, looking at the challenges, breakthroughs, and the key player driving the wave energy revolution. Listen in as Jan provides insights into the fascinating world of wave energy generation and its role in transforming our energy landscape today and into the future.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-149-surfing-wave-energy-future-jan-skjoldhammer-ceo-novige-energy-central

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/

When headlines feature discussions of cleaning up energy, so often the conversation centers around greenhouse gases, but the truth is that the power sector has had a much longer history as it relates to other air pollutants and the pathway to control and minimize those byproducts. The dynamic intersection of environmental engineering, air quality, and the evolving landscape of energy generation remains a critical conversation as it pertains to the future of energy and how utilities interact with public health and the environment.

To dive into this topic, this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast features Tom Rolfson, Project Manager at POWER Engineers and his many years of experience in the world of environmental engineering. In this episode, Tom takes podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester on a critical exploration of the role of environmental responsibility in the power sector, extending beyond decarbonization to address air pollutants and ensure the health and safety of communities. Listen in as Tom shares wisdom informed by his wealth of experience in air quality permitting and regulatory compliance, offering insights into the changing role of environmental engineers in the clean energy transition.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-148-breathing-easier-environmental-engineering-energy-tom-rolfson-project

Tom Rolfson's Profile on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/tom-rolfson/about

How Decarbonization and Fossil Fuel-Fired Power Plants Can Coexist: https://energycentral.com/o/power-engineers-environmental/how-decarbonization-and-fossil-fuel-fired-power-plants-can-coexist

Energy Megatrends and the Environment: https://energycentral.com/o/power-engineers-environmental/energy-megatrends-and-environment

POWER Engineers on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/power-engineers-environmental

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/

In recent years, ESG principles have shifted drastically from a nebulous concept that only some Boards of Directors were considering, to a headline-grabbing story being pushed by customers, investors, and even regulators. ESG, or Environmental, Social, and Governance goals ensure a company fully accounts for the impact of its actions when making decisions. While ESG has quickly become a crucial realm in the utility industry, many stakeholders remain uncertain or behind the curve when it comes to embracing the ESG imperative.

In this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast, Damien Quentin, the ESG Practice Lead at Copperleaf shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester his insights on the importance of ESG in utilities, how value-based decision-making enables better risk management and enterprise asset management, and how utilities are addressing equity and resilience in their ESG strategies. Listen in to discover how utilities can adapt and thrive in a changing landscape by embracing ESG principles that are shaping the future of the energy sector.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-147-driving-esg-goals-utility-asset-investment-planning-damien-quentin

Damien Quentin's Profile on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/damien-quentin

Webinar Recap: Equitable Investment Strategies for a Just Energy Transition: https://energycentral.com/o/copperleaf/webinar-recap-equitable-investment-strategies-just-energy-transition

National Grid Case Study: Driving Sustainability Targets with Decision Analytics: https://energycentral.com/o/copperleaf/national-grid-case-study-driving-sustainability-targets-decision-analytics

Bringing the ESG Conversation to the Forefront at Distributech: Exclusive Conversation with Damien Quentin, ESG Practice Lead at Copperleaf Technologies: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/bringing-esg-conversation-forefront-distributech-exclusive-conversation-damien

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

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/

In an age pressing for cleaner energy, the pivotal role of gas utilities and the innovative strategies being adopted to adapt and thrive remain a central area of focus. While the gas sector can be a lightning rod for its use of fossil fuels, leaders recognize the role gas can play in stabilizing the energy future amid decarbonization of power and also unlocking unique decarbonization opportunities. To highlight this evolving role of gas, this episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives welcomes to the conversation Michael Renna, the President and CEO of South Jersey Industries (SJI).

In this conversation, Michael helps to uncover the importance of public-private partnerships, the promise of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), and SJI's bold and ambitious goals. As advocates urge for the phasing out of the gas sector, Michael presents a compelling case for the continued and transformative role of gas in the energy transition. From investments in the gas infrastructure of today to preparing for the demands of tomorrow, listen in as Michael shares with podcast host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester an exclusive insight into the roadmap charted by South Jersey Industries. Dive into a captivating conversation that spans the challenges, solutions, and future aspirations of the gas industry in the Garden State.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/episode-146-pioneering-rational-decarbonization-gas-sector%E2%80%99s-role-new-jersey

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/