Want to future-proof your company while boosting your bottom line? Host Carolyn Parrs sits down with Ben Nathan, Director of Affordability and Equity at E-Source, who shares insights about how energy providers and utilities are turning equity initiatives into competitive advantages. Through real-world case studies, Ben demonstrates how companies implementing innovative equity programs are seeing measurable improvements in customer satisfaction, reduced payment defaults, and stronger community relationships - all while preparing for the clean energy transition.

Ben shares strategies backed-up by case studies that are transforming utility operations such as:

• Self-attestation programs that cut costs while expanding reach.
• Weatherization initiatives generating unexpected financial returns.
• Community partnerships that strengthen market position.
• Innovative assistance programs creating new revenue streams.

Learn how equity-focused companies are positioning themselves to thrive in the clean energy transition, attract ESG investment, and build more resilient business models. This isn't just about doing good – it's about smart business in the clean energy era.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Energy Equity and the Podcast
05:41 The Importance of Energy Equity in the Transition
10:57 Ben Nathan's Journey in Energy Equity
17:34 Current Challenges and Backsliding in Energy Justice
24:36 Financial Benefits of Energy Equity Initiatives
32:30 Energy Equity and Affordability Challenges
39:02 Innovative Strategies for Utility Assistance Programs
44:08 The Role of Utilities in Community Support
52:59 Future Trends in Energy Equity and Utility Models

Links

Guest: Ben Nathan, Director of Affordability and Equity at E-Source. https://www.esource.com/

Articles from E-source:

• The energy equity framework that benefits customers, utilities, and underserved communities
• 4 fixes utilities can make to boost energy equity | Utility Dive
• Strategic perspectives on managing the affordability challenge
• Utility executives share their perspectives on energy equity
• 5 questions utilities should consider at the intersection of energy affordability and equity

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

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New Mexico State University Microlearning

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What if the blueprint for a just energy future already exists? While the U.S. debates not just how, but "whether to make clean energy equitable" now, Scotland is already doing it—and their lessons could transform how we think about energy justice.

In this eye-opening episode of Just Power, host Carolyn Parrs sits down with lead researcher, Dr. David Drabble, who's helping architect Scotland's groundbreaking just transition framework. He reveals how this small but mighty nation is tackling one of our biggest challenges: making sure clean energy benefits everyone in Scotland, with metrics to back it up. No wonder it was hailed as a "world class and world-leading framework" by the Scottish government, 

You'll discover:

• Why Scotland's approach is gaining traction globally.
• How they're measuring what really matters in energy justice.
• The surprising insights that could save U.S. utilities years of trial and error.
• What happens when you put justice at the center of energy planning.

But this isn't just about Scotland—it's about the future of energy transition everywhere. Dr. Drabble shares candid insights about:

• The unexpected challenges they've faced.
• What's working (and what isn't) in community engagement.
• How to build political support for energy justice.
• Real metrics that show if you're making progress.

Whether you're a utility leader or corporation looking for proven strategies, a policy maker seeking successful models, or an advocate working for energy justice, this conversation will change how you think about what's possible.

Don't miss this rare chance to learn from one of the world's most ambitious experiments in just transition. 

LINKS

Measuring and Evaluating Success in the Scottish Just Transition

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn

Think energy justice and equity is just about doing good? Think again. In this eye-opening episode of Just Power, diversity strategist and energy expert Pamela Fann and Host, Carolyn Parrs, discuss why energy providers who aren't investing in equity aren't just missing out on social impact—they're missing out on profit.

As the Founder and CEO of Integrated Solutions, Pam has helped energy providers transform equity from a compliance checkbox into a powerful business driver. She breaks down why some utilities are winning big with regulators while others struggle, and shares the surprising connection between cultural competency and bottom-line results.

Key ideas

• Why diversity isn't just about HR—it's about business strategy.
• How to build leadership buy-in by speaking the language of ROI.
• What successful utilities are doing differently in community engagement.
• How to measure equity impacts in ways that matter to investors.

Whether you're a utility leader wondering if equity is worth the investment, or a sustainability professional trying to make the business case to leadership, this conversation will give you the insights and evidence you need.

About guest, Pamela Fann

Pamela Fann: [email protected]

www.integratedsolutionsllc.net 

About Carolyn Parrs

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn

What if the secret to transforming our energy system isn't in boardrooms or labs, but in our own neighborhoods? In this powerful episode of the Just Power Podcast, environmental advocacy powerhouse Tamara Toles-O'Laughlin challenges everything we think we know about how energy decisions get made.

She reveals why the traditional top-down approach to energy planning is failing communities and offers a paradigm shift: What if communities weren't just consumers of energy, but true co-creators of our energy future?

Through stories from the frontlines of energy justice work, Tamara and host Carolyn Parrs explore how this shift is already happening in surprising places.

Key Ideas

• Why some climate solutions are actually deepening inequality (and what to do about it).
• How energy providers and communities can move from conflict to collaboration.
• What's really at stake if we don't transform our approach now.

This isn't just another conversation about energy policy - it's a blueprint for reimagining how we power our communities. Whether you're an energy professional, climate advocate, or community member, this episode will change how you think about our energy transition. 

Don't miss Tamara's powerful insights on supporting the advocates and organizations doing this critical work. We're all in this together, and that might be our greatest strength.

• Community voices are vital in discussions about energy transitions.
• Every generation must renegotiate energy needs.
• Energy decisions impact future generations.
• Technology in energy hasn't changed much in 30 years.
• Energy justice involves everyone affected by energy policies.
• Policymakers play a crucial role in shaping equitable energy systems.
• Support for climate advocates is essential to prevent burnout.
• Creating a supportive work environment for climate advocates enhances effectiveness.

Links

Tamara Toles O'Laughlin, CEO Climate Critical

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn

What happens when a utility reimagines its relationship with the community? In this revealing episode, Shiloh Costello, Manager of Sustainable Communities and DEIB at Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), shares how they're revolutionizing community engagement in the clean energy transition.

Shilo unveils SMUD's human-centered approach goes beyond traditional income-based solutions to address the unique needs of diverse communities. She reveals how they're breaking down barriers to clean energy access, including their innovative strategy for the often-overlooked moderate-income families.

Key Ideas

- How SMUD aligned their zero carbon goals with community equity.
- Proven strategies for building authentic community partnerships.
- Why measuring long-term community vitality is transforming their approach.
- How leadership commitment drives successful equity initiatives.

This episode offers rare insights into how a major utility is successfully putting community needs at the center of their clean energy transition. Essential listening for utility leaders, community advocates, and anyone interested in creating lasting social impact through energy transformation.

Links

Community Impact Plan board presentation: 2022, 2024

SMUD’s Annual Report (Community Impact Plan)

SMUD’s Sustainable Communities

SMUD’s Sustainable Communities Resource Priorities MapMeet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn

Cathy Newby is a member of the Navajo Nation and the Director of Tribal Government at PNM, New Mexico’s largest electricity provider. She talks with Carolyn Parrs about the critical intersection of water rights, energy justice, and indigenous identity, focusing on the Navajo Nation's water infrastructure transfer from PNM. Cathy shares her insights on the importance of collaboration, cultural respect, and the ongoing challenges faced by tribal communities in accessing reliable energy. 

Key Ideas

• Water infrastructure transfer is a long-term effort.
• Energy justice is crucial in the energy transition.
• Collaboration with tribal communities leads to better outcomes.
• Energy access and affordability are top priorities for tribes.
• Building trust takes time and consistent engagement.
• Community solar projects can empower indigenous communities.
• Virtual power plants can enhance grid stability.
• Energy justice must prioritize people over technology. Tribes are sovereign nations with their own governance.
• Understanding tribal history is crucial for effective collaboration.
• The Light Up Navajo initiative has lit over a thousand homes.
• Tribal leaders must have a seat at the table in energy discussions.

Links

About PNM

Light Up Navajo Initiative 

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

Mind Over Markets: Create clear and compelling messaging to connect with more customers and grow.

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn

Want to know how Los Angeles is revolutionizing the path to clean energy? On the Just Power Podcast you'll discover how LA is proving that the road to 100% renewable energy runs straight through its communities.

Join host, Carolyn Parrs, for an enlightening conversation with Megan Day (Senior Energy Planner, National Renewable Energy Lab) and Gregory Reed (Director, LADWP) about LA100 - a groundbreaking initiative that's putting community voices at the center of LA's energy transformation.

Key Ideas

• How LA is engaging 100+ community groups to shape its clean energy future.
• Why cooling access isn't just about comfort - it's about survival.
• The surprising ways community input is accelerating LA's transition.
• Practical strategies any utility can use to strengthen community partnerships.

Don't miss these powerful insights from one of the most ambitious clean energy initiatives in the country. Whether you're a utility leader, city planner, community advocate or an energy geek, this episode reveals how putting people first creates better energy solutions for all.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to LA 100 and Clean Energy Goals

02:02 The Role of Community in Energy Transition

11:07 Community-Guided Methodology and Findings

15:09 Electrification of Heavy-Duty Vehicles

20:56 Access to Cooling and Health Implications

29:07 Ongoing Community Engagement and Action Plans

34:23 Justice Framework in Energy Transition

37:54 Advice for Cities and Utilities on Energy Equity

Note

Gregory Reed, LADWP: Heavy duty electric trucks are a part of our Medium and Heavy Duty (MDHD) EV Rebate program. In total, there are 47 MHD EVs that were supported or have active reservations for funding within the MDHD rebate program. 22 of these are considered heavy duty.

Links

LA100 Initiative 

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

Mind Over Markets: Create clear and compelling messaging to connect with more customers and grow.

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn

What if the biggest barrier to clean energy isn't technology, but the way we think about who deserves access to it? In this powerful episode of Just Power, Dr. Tony Reames, former Presidential appointee and pioneering voice in energy justice, challenges everything we assume about creating an equitable energy future.

Fresh from his role as Deputy Director for Energy Justice at the U.S. Department of Energy, Dr. Reames takes us inside the rooms where energy decisions are made—and reveals why those decisions often fail the communities that need clean energy most. Drawing from his groundbreaking work at the University of Michigan's School for Environment and Sustainability, he shares provocative insights about:

• How "neutral" energy policies create unequal outcomes.
• What really works (and what doesn't) in creating energy access.
• Why measuring the wrong things keeps us from real progress.

This isn't just another conversation about energy equity—it's a masterclass in transforming how we think about, plan for, and deliver clean energy to every community. Whether you're an energy professional, policymaker, or community advocate, Dr. Reames' insights will change how you approach energy justice.

Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the most influential voices in energy justice about how we can create an energy future that truly works for everyone.

About guest, Dr. Tony Reames

Meet Dr. Tony Reames

Distributional disparities in residential rooftop solar potential and penetration in four cities in the United States by Dr. Tony Reames

IMPLEMENTING THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT: Progress to date and risks from a Changing Administration

Utilities of the future:  Peter Fox-Penner

About Host, Carolyn Parrs

Meet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

About Just Power Podcast
Just Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

New Mexico State University Microlearning

Mind Over Markets

LinkedIn