Shows
Grid Forward ForumHow State Energy Offices Are Tackling Load Growth, Affordability and Resilience on the GridState energy offices have a delicate balancing act in leading policy, tracking market signals, and encouraging economic development. All that is harder now that load growth is accelerating. David Terry, the president of National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) , discusses trends within state energy offices to help get energy onto the grid quickly to grow the economy while meeting community concerns. David and Bryce discuss how new approaches such as grid enhancing technologies, automated load management and long-duration energy storage provide new pathways. Listen in to this insider perspective on how the state energy offices are learning more...2025-07-1134 min
Grid Forward ForumSupply Chain Constraints on the Grid - And What Needs to ImproveSince 2020, supply chain shortages have delayed the progress of necessary grid infrastructure improvements. Consolidation in the industry means fewer vendors are available which drives up prices, extends lead times and limits capacity, especially as worldwide demand increases. Will Perrich and Stephen White of POWER Engineers provide an insider's view to current constraints on the market and what needs to be done to alleviate them. Their answers cover the gamut from standardization of key components (regionally or nationally) to changing how utilities retain inventory and plan projects. The discussion ends with a rapid fire round of rating how difficult it...2025-06-2737 min
Grid Forward ForumScientific Discovery and Commercial Acceleration of Advanced Grid Solutions at PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) draws on signature fundamental capabilities to advance scientific discovery, improve energy resiliency, and enhance national security. On this podcast episode, Laboratory Director Steven Ashby, Ph.D., discusses key drivers and challenges that are steering the lab’s important work regarding grid resiliency and affordability. Ashby also tells our listeners about the new Grid Storage Launchpad, a one-of-a-kind Department of Energy facility to develop and test novel battery concepts at scale in a safe environment. Of course, with all these emerging technologies, there are inherent risks—wildfires, and cyberattacks to name a few. Ashby discusses these ris...2025-06-1834 min
Grid Forward ForumHardening America’s Electric Grid—An Overview of the 2025 ASCE Infrastructure ReportEnergy infrastructure received a grade of D+ in the 2025 Report for America’s Infrastructure, published by American Society of Civil Engineers. Bryce Yonker discusses why the energy sector received a low rating with Michael Miller, vice president of technical services at Exo and a member of ASCE. Miller says the four main factors that contributed to the grade include higher load growth, systems operating closer to limits, challenges to distribution grids, and the public’s lower tolerance for power outages. Miller discusses best practices for asset inspections, the need to have a national standards, and how state legislatures can have a...2025-05-1930 min
Grid Forward ForumThe Pace of Grid Innovation Quickens in Co-op UtilitiesWith consumer needs and capabilities rapidly evolving, many electric co-ops are quickly pushing grid advancements to meet current and future demands. On this podcast episode, Bryan Hannegan, president/CEO of Holy Cross Energy, and Mark Gabriel, president/CEO of United Power REC, discuss how they prioritize tasks as leaders of their respective utilities during a time of transition from a hub-and-spoke business model to one more like a distributed system operator. Hear how they are using battery storage, demand flexibility, satellite data, AI, drones and other new techniques to expand flexibility, improve service and keep costs down. With the...2025-04-3041 min
Grid Forward ForumPursuing Energy Affordability With Today's Many Grid ChallengesBalancing various stakeholder interests while ensuring affordable, reliable power is the daunting task commissioners face. We spoke with Dave Danner, former commissioner at Washington UTC, about how to balance affordability against all the other demands on today's utilities. He knows: his state of Washington has experienced an increase in wildfire risks, rising rate pressures and mounting legislation to advance clean energy, all while needing to build additional transmission. Dave explains the role of the commission to consider each potential investment, support new business models, improvements in regulation, and much more.
2025-04-1629 min
Grid Forward ForumU.S. Rep. Julie Fedorchak On Congress's Energy & Grid PrioritiesEven as energy rates have steadily risen, reliability has suffered in many parts of the country over the past five years. What is the new Congress prioritizing to help alleviate this challenge? For insights, we turned to U.S. Rep. Julie Fedorchak (R, N.D.), member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce who also served as past president of NARUC and Commissioner of the North Dakota PSC. Talking with Bryce Yonker, Rep. Fedorchak discusses the need to approach grid modernization with a healthy dose of common sense—don’t retire energy assets too early, look at the lowest...2025-04-0134 min
Grid Forward ForumHow Watch Duty Improves Wildfire Situational Awareness, Readiness and ResponseWhen disaster strikes, situational awareness and timely information save lives and property. That's why Watch Duty was the most downloaded iOS app during three recent wildfire events. Nick Russell, Vice President of Operations, joined the podcast to discuss how this nonprofit receives and transmits information to support local responders and utilities before, during and after a disaster strikes. Procurement, validation, and accurate communication takes a large team of people, but with timely information comes the potential to improve readiness and response to wildfires.
2025-03-1727 min
Grid Forward ForumAI: The Driver for Expanded Demand and Promising Solutions to Run the Grid Better In this season-opener of “GridForward Forum,” we are joined by two special guests: Sean Kelly, co-founder & CEO at Amperon, and Xing Wang, global leader of grid modernization at AWS Energy and Utilities. The expansion of energy generation and transmission is a top priority for the grid landscape. Although artificial intelligence is largely driving the need for this growth, AI is also the tool that can be used to help solve many of the major energy challenges. Sean Kelly and Xing Wang discuss how AI is being used to improve forecasting despite weather extremes, streamline complex processes to shorten permitting time...2025-03-0740 min
Grid Forward ForumImpacts to the Grid Under the Incoming Trump Administration, Part 2The recent U.S. election has raised a lot of questions about future directions for grid-related policies and programs. We reached out to people with a good view on the new administration for their perspectives. In this second special episode, Neil Chatterjee, former FERC Chairman, overviews the impact to IRA and other significant energy legislation. He also talks about the importance of permitting reforms in light of the surge of energy demands for AI, how the incoming administration will focus on expansion of all forms of domestic energy production, and what it means for the U.S. to target ‘en...2024-11-2619 min
Grid Forward ForumImpacts to the Grid Under the Incoming Trump Administration, Part 1The recent U.S. election has raised a lot of questions about future directions for grid-related policies and programs. We reached out to people with a good view on the new administration for their perspectives. In this first special episode, Bryce chats with Kellie Donnelly, Executive Vice President & General Counsel of Lot Sixteen and a long time lead staff person for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and other Hill positions. They cover how an incoming Trump administration might shift energy policy, impact key federal agencies, and change national energy priorities. Bryce and Kellie also discuss how the R...2024-11-2622 min
Grid Forward ForumSeason 5 Finale—Assessing the State of the Grid in 2024 with Siemens' Ruth GratzkeIn this season finale, Ruth Gratzke, President of Siemens Smart Infrastructure in the United States, looks back at the state of the grid in 2024 and how the industry should be planning for future needs. In rapid-fire fashion, Bryce asks Ruth about topics from each of the podcast’s episodes in Season 5 to discuss:
The importance of federal funding in moving modernization forward
Improving market structures while keeping energy low cost, equitable and sustainable
Integrating demand flexibility by investing in long-term storage solutions
The shocking surge in demand growth from the past two years
Scaling virtual power plants to me...2024-10-2929 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 14, Season 5—Google Reaches for the Next Level of Clean Energy and Added FlexibilityThe digital economy, and especially data centers, have become integral to our lives. And with that digital growth comes increased energy demand. Google’s Briana Kobor joins the podcast to discuss how Google’s significant energy demand can increasingly be served effectively by clean energy offerings. Briana discusses the Clean Transition Tariff (CTT) and how important it is for large energy-consuming customers to bring creative solutions for clean energy working directly with electric grid utility operators. The discussion also highlights what it looks like for Google, and other data center operators, to bring more energy flexibility to the table. Listen in to...2024-09-1129 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 13, Season 5 — Regulatory Pathways to Navigate Grid Modernization, Part 2By nature, utilities are risk adverse. Because of this, some are hesitant to accept innovative solutions to grid modernization. Strong efforts are needed to publicize the positive benefits of rate changes, data sharing and integrated planning. Part two of this discussion with Rich Sedano of RAP and Danielle Sass Byrnett of NARUC focuses on how state commissions and stakeholders can work together to efficiently and positively advance changes to the grid.
2024-08-2927 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 12, Season 5 — Regulatory Pathways to Navigate Grid Modernization, Part 1Using performance-based regulatory incentives for energy efficiency proved to be successful. Should similar incentives be created for reliability? In part one of this discussion, Rich Sedano, of Regulatory Assistance Project, and Danielle Sass Byrnett, of NARUC, discuss how performance-based incentives set by state commissions may accelerate innovation and provide clearer direction to utilities for grid modernization. They also discuss advanced rate structures that move innovation forward while keeping electricity affordable for the ratepayer.
2024-08-2934 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 11, Season 5 – Providing World-Class Reliability and Affordable Rates While Becoming Carbon-FreeSacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) is determined to offer 100% carbon-free energy by 2030, while maintaining world-class reliability at an affordable rate. To achieve this ambitious goal, SMUD is working with both a number of innovators to advance carbon-free energy technologies, while also asking their customers to partner with them in advanced flexibility solutions. SMUD’s CEO & General Manager Paul Lau also discusses leveraging federal resources, the impact of policy and what they are learning on the front lines of their decarbonization journey as well as addressing energy equity, company culture and what kind of a legacy he looks to leave with the...2024-08-0235 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 10, Season 5 – Charge Forward: Ford’s Electric Vehicle and Energy Services Strategy UnveiledThis episode dives into Ford’s approach to the future of mobility through electrification and grid connectivity. We examine the company's recent initiatives, including new electric models, investment in EV infrastructure, and partnerships aimed at accelerating the transition to electric vehicles. Learn about the innovations Ford is bringing to the market and how they plan to meet the increasing demand for cleaner, more efficient transportation and energy options. Listen in as Ryan O’Gorman, who has 20 Plus years of experience at Ford Motor Company, gives an insider's view on Ford's commitment to sustainability and technological excellence in the EV spac...2024-07-1535 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 9, Season 5 — How Technology Can Boost Flexibility and Efficiency in T&D GridsPairing batteries with sophisticated grid controls offers the flexibility to provide multiple sources of value depending on where the battery is located and how it is utilized. Tim Allen, president and CEO of PXiSE Energy Solutions, joined Bryce on the podcast to discuss how advanced controls and markets for energy storage can overcome barriers to an efficient, decarbonized grid. Battery capacity, value definition, resource flexibility, asset utilization and federal incentives are all rapidly evolving, giving transmission and distribution entities new ways to meet competing objectives.
2024-07-0933 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 8, Season 5 – Scaling Up the Clean Energy Transition: A Discussion with David Crane, DOE Under Secretary for InfrastructureDavid Crane, Under Secretary for Infrastructure at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), joined Bryce Yonker on the podcast to discuss how DOE is supporting the advancement of grid infrastructure. David discusses DOE financial and manufacturing incentives to support commercialization that is spurring progress in the industry and across the clean energy ecosystem. To help the scale up of the clean energy transition, their focus remains on three things: efficiency, electrification, and zero carbon generation sources.
2024-06-2630 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 7, Season 5 – Exceeding Cybersecurity Regulations to Further Reduce RiskRegulatory requirements for cybersecurity are a top priority; however, regulations only cover a minimum level of security needed. Compliance to regulations does not equal security because each organization’s risks differ. On this episode guest host Steven Parker of EnergySec and Jim Schultz of Black & Veatch discuss frameworks that organizations can use to help protect themselves against the threat of cyberattacks and how assessing organizational risk tolerance can produce a customized set of standards that companies can strive to attain.
2024-06-2536 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 6, Season 5 – Scaling Virtual Power Plants to Their Fullest PotentialMaintaining a flexible energy grid is critical to modern day power. Decarbonation goals, policy changes and a migration of people due to the pandemic have all drastically changed the landscape of power supply needs in recent years. On top of that, consumers are adopting distributive energy resources, or DERS, causing the grid to no longer be a one-way system from generation to load. Instead, power sources are coming into the grid from all directions. How can power grid operators ensure DERs at scale are orchestrated to their maximum potential? How are DERs being utilized on the grid today? Listen...2024-05-0843 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 5, Season 5 - How AI Can Help Us Build a More Resilient, Decarbonized, and Secure GridArtificial Intelligence has the potential to accelerate innovation in the energy grid in terms of resiliency, decarbonization and security. AI has already shown how it can analyze vast amounts of data to help grid operators make near-real-time decisions. As the grid digitizes, AI can help the industry make full use of all its energy resources and infrastructure. However, change is hard, and not everyone is comfortable with integrating AI into the electric sector. What are the main hurdles? How can the industry move forward towards a "software defined" grid in which AI models help utilities meet their goals? Guest...2024-04-3038 minGrid Forward ForumEpisode 4, Season 5 – How Rates and Markets Can Help Meet Rising Demand with APS and EEI Demand for electricity has exploded over the past several years, and nowhere more so than at Arizona Public Service Company. Grid hardening, storage solutions, flexible rates, transmission projects, federal investments — all of these are part of the solution to make the grid ready for escalating demand. Yet progress needs to be scalable and affordable to meet the needs in the west and across the country. Listen in as Jeff Guldner, the leader of APS, and Philip Moeller, Executive VP at Edison Electric Institute, talk about the whole toolkit, from new market structures to successful DER programs.
2024-04-1835 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 3, Season 5 – Making the Grid Modern and AffordableThe National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates (NASUCA) represents the interests of utility consumers before state and federal regulators and in the courts. David Springe, Executive Director of NASUCA, discusses how modernizing the grid impacts affordability for the consumer. As infrastructure ages and electrification needs change, modernizing the grid is mandatory. However, these changes bring up issues concerning rate pressure, decarbonization versus lowest cost models, data centers, federal dollars, and resiliency. David discusses all this and more on this podcast episode.
2024-04-0835 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 2, Season 5 - Shifting Energy Market Dynamics: A Conversation with The Leaders of AESO, ERCOT and SPPOn this episode, we have three leaders from organized energy markets to address the shifting dynamics within the industry. They discuss which technologies are being developed in their various regions and how those assets are impacting the energy market. Bryce also asks our guests what they are doing to combat volatilities due to peak loads often being met. Of course, the impact of policy and regulations can either benefit or hinder the energy market. Oftentimes, the biggest challenges are social, environmental and industrial development policies, rather than energy-focused policies. The guests wrap up this episode by discussing modernization, evolving...2024-03-2038 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 1, Season 5 – Discussion with the White House: The Federal Toolkit to Advance the GridTo kick off this podcast season we have Whitney Muse, Senior Policy Advisor at the White House in the Office of Clean Energy Innovation and Implementation for a conversation about the federal toolkit of resources that are in place to help advance the grid. This includes billions of dollars from grants, tax credits, loans and financing for infrastructure expansion, resilience, and the clean energy transition. In addition to this, incentives are available for domestic, clean manufacturing of grid components, and there are special efforts to focus on workforce development and energy justice. Whitney also highlights some of the flagship work...2024-03-0731 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 11, Season 4 – Leading the Nation’s Largest Energy Delivery Company to Invest in Local CommunitiesEven though Exelon is the largest energy delivery company in America, the company is committed to investing in local communities and helping all of their operating utilities achieve their goals. CEO Calvin Butler discusses how Exelon turns government policies into action and how it has also applied for $700 million in federal funding for infrastructure projects to address the needs of individual communities. While some grants will help close the digital divide, and others help counties achieve decarbonization goals, all are aligned to the effort to modernize the grid. Calvin also discusses how the company is progressing towards becoming net...2023-10-1038 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 10, Season 4 – The Complex Barriers to Building Transmission InfrastructureWhat are the barriers to building transmission infrastructure? We know them well as planning, permitting, and paying. Rob Gramlich (founder and president of Grid Strategies LLC, executive director of Americans for a Clean Energy Grid and executive director of the WATT Coalition) joins the former chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Rich Glick to unpack the complexities behind these barriers and update our listeners to the rulemaking that is in process to overcome these barriers. They also discuss how the tension between landowners and stakeholder interests can be balanced to reasonably move transmission development forward. To meet clean...2023-08-3044 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 9, Season 4 – Wildfire & The Grid and Firsthand Account of Lahaina FiresThis special episode of Grid Forward Chats starts with a conversation with Katherine Blunt, a reporter from the Wall Street Journal. Katherine recently published book California Burning which has been widely read and details PG&E in regard to the devastating California wildfires. Katherine and Bryce talk about lessons that grid stakeholders are learning as wildfires have increasing impact on energy systems, what the toolkit of mitigating wildfire risk looks like, and how utilities and various energy stakeholders can work together to address the increasing risks of wildfire relating to grid infrastructure.
In the second part of the episode Bryce ta...2023-08-3049 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 8, Season 4 – Building Out the Global Supply Chain to Support a Clean Energy FutureHenry Sanderson, Executive Director of Benchmark Mineral Intelligence and author Volt Rush, wrote the book after he became aware of the scale of the resources needed for the clean energy transition. For the supply chain to provide the materials necessary for next-generation batteries, sourcing needs to be diversified to decrease risk. Geopolitical issues must also be considered when creating a stable supply chain for the future. Automations may alleviate some supply chain pressure and allow the cost of materials to remain affordable. Henry also discusses how government policies and investments impact the speed and support behind the clean energy...2023-08-1129 min
Grid Forward ForumSeason 4 - Crossover Episode: Post Energy Crisis, The “Need For Speed” - Live from Brussels / Eurelectric with Leo Birnbaum (CEO E.ON)This episode is a crossover episode from Redefining Energy. We hope you enjoy listening to this discussion of the energy crisis from a European perspective.
--------------------
Live from Brussels, on the 20th of June 2023, we were invited to interview Leonard Birnbaum. Since he came last on Redefining Energy (Ep50), the whole Energy Sector has been through hell with Russia invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent near-death experience of 2022.
Leonard Birnbaum is the CEO of the giant German Utility E.ON and also president of Eurelectric, the sector association which represents the common interests of the electricity industry at pan-European level.
We h...2023-07-2729 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 6, Season 4 - Lessons Learned from Four Decades at SRP, a Discussion with Mike HummelDebra Smith, the General Manager and CEO of Seattle City Light, interviews Mike Hummel after his recent retirement as general manager and CEO of Salt River Project. They reflect on how the industry has changed during his career and look ahead to the exciting advancements SRP will make to provide clean, reliable energy to its customers. Mike shares about his career including some of his proudest accomplishments, lessons learned along the journey, and keys to leading others well.
2023-06-1235 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 5, Season 4 - The Time is Now to Create a More Flexible Grid
On this episode Grid Forward Advisor and guest host Ann McCabe, commissioner with the Illinois Commerce Commission, interviews Audrey Zibelman, former market operator in Australia, former regulator in NY, former investor at Google X, now an advisor to clean tech companies and organizations. They discuss how the industry can prepare the grid for future flexibility, while also protecting the interests of consumers. As higher levels of renewable energy sources are integrated into the power grid, the need for grid flexibility becomes more urgent. Consumers are showing that they will drive much of the clean energy transition, with or without government and u...2023-05-1832 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 4, Season 4 - Taking an Innovative Grid Solution to MarketHow do we modernize the grid when fast-moving technology innovation hits the seemingly glacial pace of change in regulated markets like energy? To explore that quandary we gathered the CEOs of an earlier stage, a growth stage and a later stage innovative grid solutions companies. Kaitlyn Albertoli of Buzz Solutions, Bill Burke of Virtual Peaker and Josh Wong of GE Digital. Listen in as they dive into market barriers, utility adoption cycle, culture of innovation, funding landscape and more. Can utilities break through the ‘death by pilot’ dilemma? Can promising solutions companies navigate complex approvals processes? How do solutions scale to me...2023-04-1934 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 3, Season 4 - Can Small Nuclear Play a Big Role on the Grid?In this edition we explore the role of small modular nuclears (SMRs) in the energy system by talking with two industry veterans. Clayton Scott is EVP at NuScale Power, the first SMR company to receive Nuclear Regulatory Commission design approval. Ben Porath is COO at Dairyland Power Cooperative, a Midwest co-op looking to deploy SMRs on its grid. The two discuss the promise of modular nuclear power, how these systems fit into a changing energy mix, cost, safety, grid resiliency, system flexibility and more. Will SMRs play a significant role on the grid in the next 10 years? Listen in...2023-04-1138 min
DirectConnectGrid ForwardSteve Parker, Managing Partner with Archer, sits down with Bryce Yonker and Kelly Strand from Grid Forward. Grid Forward is non-profit organization that brings together utilities, solution providers, government agencies, regulators, advocates and others to work together on making grid modernization a reality. You can learn more about Grid Forward at their website: www.gridforward.org Would just like to learn more about Archer Energy Solutions and what we do? Head over to our website @ www.archerint.com, give us a call @ 1-800-805-7411 or email us @ contact@archerint.com, we’d love to hear from you!2023-03-2240 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 2, Season 4 - States Driving the Grid Ahead: A Discussion with WA Governor InsleeThe Evergreen State has long pioneered efforts to advance the energy system. In this episode we talk with the U.S.’s longest standing governor, Jay Inslee of the state of Washington. Gov. Inslee is truly a leader on issues related to energy and the grid. We discuss the priorities for the state’s energy system, how the federal resources will impact the grid in the state, the role of state regulators, the importance of innovation, economic development opportunities and more. All of the efforts for the governor align to make sure states can do their part to progress climate ac...2023-03-1628 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 1, Season 4 – Aligning Energy Systems to Climate Requirements, with RMI’s Jon CreytsTo start season 4 of the Grid Forward Chats podcast, we sit down with Jon Creyts, the new CEO of RMI. He discusses how to ensure the energy system aligns to the requirements for the climate in light of roughly $110 billion a year coming into the system over the next five to ten years thanks to recent federal legislation combined with peak oil demand occurring in regions across the world. From virtual power and decarbonized heavy industry to hydrogen and transmission, listen in to this wide-ranging discussion on the key pillars of the energy transition in the near to mid-term. This...2023-02-2334 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 11, Season 3 – PG&E’s Efforts to Increase Resiliency and Serve Customers BetterThe need for a more resilient power system in California, and locations across the country, is evident. In the recent past, wildfires, storms, extreme heat, and other threats have all wreaked havoc on the energy grid. Communities of the largest utility in America in Northern and Central California know this all too well. Patricia K. Poppe, Chief Executive Officer of PG&E Corporation, joined the podcast to discuss how Pacific Gas & Electric is working diligently to improve the resiliency of California’s grid and to serve their customers better. No magical solution exists that will address every issue, but wi...2022-09-2939 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 10, Season 3 – Strengthening Our Problem-Solving Skills with DiversitySuccess for the energy sector will not come overnight but through small, meaningful steps that move the industry forward in its goal of a sustainable future. Paula Gold-Williams and Jackie Flowers joined the show to discuss the challenges facing the electric industry as it seeks to evolve with the various dynamics that are currently in motion. With more visibility to the end state and less clarity on the path to get there, they discuss why innovation is critical and how a diverse workforce is needed who can think creatively, problem solve and embrace new solutions.
Paula Gold-Williams recently retired after s...2022-09-1337 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 9, Season 3 – Improving Reliability and Accelerating Innovation in a Brave Little StateOver the past decade, Green Mountain Power (GMP) has prioritized finding solutions that address the climate crisis. The company holds one of the nations most aggressive goals to provide 100% renewable energy by 2030. Advancements in technology not only make this ambitious goal possible, but also provide an opportunity for reliability and resiliency improvements. Mari McClure, president and CEO, discusses the company’s distributed resource programs and grid optimization technologies that they are leading the way deploying now and working to bring to Vermont in near future. This session is supported by Virtual Peaker.
2022-08-2927 min
Grid Forward ForumInflation Reduction Act Has Passed — What’s in it for the Grid?Congress has made a huge next step in supporting the advancement of the electric grid. The Inflation Reduction Act passed the House on Friday and has about four times as much energy related investments as the infrastructure package that passed last year. From tax incentives, consumers credits, rural operator support and much more this set of investments is a major package to accelerate grid investments over the next 10 years. We jump on with two reporters who are closely following this — Catherine Morehouse of Politico and Jeff St John from Canary Media — and dive into the details.
2022-08-1733 min
Grid Forward ForumPlanning Resources for Transportation Electrification in CaliforniaIn quarter one of 2022, 16% of all new car sales were zero-emission vehicles. On this episode, California Public Utilities Commissioner Clifford Rechtschaffen and California Energy Commissioner Siva Gunda discuss the adoption of electric vehicles in California and the innovation needed for the electric grid to handle the increase in load. The commissioners also discuss four compounding challenges that the grid is facing: climate change, rapid decarbonization, changing energy sources and reckoning with equity and social justice. How can all of these challenges be solved? Only through cooperation, coordination and consensus among industry leaders.
2022-06-2034 minGrid Forward ForumEpisode 6, Season 3 — Are we Investing Enough in The Grid
The landscape of energy is changing rapidly. Are the investments being made today enough to meet needs we put on our grid?
On this episode of “Grid Forward Chats,” Gary Rackliffe, VP market development and innovation at Hitachi Energy, and Sanjeet Sanghera, head of grids and utilities at BloombergNEF, discuss the need to invest dollars into the electric system today to prepare for future demand. They also talk about centralized versus distributed generation, policies and structures that may hinder investments, the electrification of transportation and the government's role in expanding advanced grid capabilities.
This episode was recorded LIVE at DistribuTECH 2022 in Dallas.
2022-06-1040 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 5, Season 3 – Modernizing the Grid after the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021"Energy is good." This has been U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski's motto when it comes to energy policy. Murkowski's priority is to ensure that the energy sector can keep up with the changes and challenges our country is facing. In this episode, the Senator discusses the Energy Act of 2020, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, grid modernization and the benefits of bipartisan work on energy policy for Americans.
2022-05-2620 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 3-4 How Can we Keep Pace with the Rate of Grid TransitionTo close the live GridFWD event April 20th in Seattle, Snohomish County PUD General Manager John Haarlow and Chief Policy Officer of Sunrun Ann Hoskins chat with Bryce. They cover wide ranging topics to examine the rate of the change on the grid, the dynamics driving those changes, barriers to overcome key obstacles, and then a listing of the solutions that need to develop and scale. You can feel the energy in the room being back together again at the packed gathering, listen into our first live edition of Grid Forward Chats. On demand recordings of a dozen sessions...2022-05-1331 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 3-3 Grid Transformation in a Deregulated Energy MarketENMAX, one of the leading grid operators in Alberta, is leaning into the transformation of their energy system and the acceleration of innovation. Our advisor Mischa Steiner of Awesense chats with Jana Mosley President of ENMAX Power. They discuss the dynamics of grid needs in the pandemic and fluctuating energy markets, trends in decarbonization, culture and talent needs in the industry, and how the grid capabilities advance to meet the requirements that customers have for their energy service.
2022-04-2231 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 3-2 Microgrids Around The World Are Changing The Power GridGuest host Cameron Brooks a friend of Grid Forward who runs Think Microgrid talks with Terry Mohn of General Microgrids and Hamideh Bitaraf of Hitachi Energy. Terry and Hamideh bring their hands-on experience with many of the leading microgrid deployments sharing insights on what is driving the dynamics for microgrid expansion worldwide. They touch on specific examples around the globe, share perspectives on policy and market dynamics, and highlight what is driving them personally to be a part of the exciting developments as microgrids become increasingly mainstream.
2022-03-2339 min
Reflect ForwardLeading with Empathy and Humility w/ Jessica MatlockGuest: Jessica Matlock is LaPlata Electric Association’s (LPEA) first female CEO in the co-op’s 80-year history. Before this role, Matlock served as a member of the executive leadership team for 13 years at the nation’s 11th largest public utility (Snohomish Public Utility District). In her last role – Assistant General Manager of Customer, Energy Services, and External Relations – she directed customer engagement, legislative and policy strategy, and the development and implementation of the utility’s solar, electric vehicle, and demand response programs.
Prior to this, Jessica worked as an energy expert for the U.S. Senate and held numerous positions wi...2022-03-2226 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 3-1Trends in Grid Innovation Investments with Hans Kobler of Energy Impact PartnersSeason III of Grid Forward Chats kicks off with Energy Impact Partners' (EIP) Managing Partner and Founder Hans Kobler. 2021 was a banner year for grid and energy venture investments. Hans shares perspectives about the landscape for fund raising by grid innovation companies which seem poised for strong continued activity after reaching record levels. EIP recently raised a $1B fund which in just a few months has already committed to about 70% of its investments. Our series sponsor for Grid Forward Chats is Itron. To learn more about about building tomorrow’s active grid visit them at www.itron.com.
2022-02-1534 minGrid Forward ForumEp 2-17 DOE is Serious about Advancing the Grid with David TurkThe U.S. Department of Energy has been active and busy rolling up its sleeves to engage topics for advancing capabilities of the grid. The recently passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (bipartisan infrastructure bill) will certainly only accelerate this work. From advanced tools for grid simulation and modeling for national resiliency to new competitions for energy storage and planning for transmission corridors, the diversity of work aligns to the complex needs of the electric grid. The Deputy Secretary will share about initiatives and priorities at the agency and how industry can engage with and benefit from the work...2021-12-0325 minGrid Forward ForumEp 2-16 Energy in Motion in Europe: Markets, Transition, & Recovery with Laurent SegalenEurope has been quite active with regards to energy of late. Natural gas and other energy-related prices have been quite volatile. The green energy recovery strategy is unfolding but within a complex pandemic backdrop. The energy transition continues, although with some bumps in the road. The UK finished its Brexit and wrapped up hosting COP26 last week. Germany has a new Prime Minister. Did we say it’s been busy? Laurent Segalen is an investor in the energy transition who co-hosts the podcast Redefining Energy and will help us understand some of the complexity around energy and grid issues in...2021-12-0326 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 2-15 Long-Duration Energy Storage Goes Public at ESS
ESS Inc. recently went public, raising over $300 million to scale its long-duration iron flow battery technology in the market. We talk with ESS CEO Eric Dresselhuys about the energy transition and the role of long-duration energy storage and grid flexible resources. What does this mean internationally, for the U.S., regionally, and specifically for customers buying batteries — we cover it all. We dive into value streams of energy storage, energy storage’s role in grid resiliency, market structure and dynamics, the talent pipeline, and more.
2021-11-0431 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 2-14 Republican Perspectives on Climate and Energy Transition: A Discussion with Conservative Climate Caucus Chair Rep. John CurtisCongress is working on two massive legislative packages -- a $1.2 trillion infrastructure package (through the Senate) and potentially a multi-trillion dollar reconciliation spending package (drafts through House committees). Both would have significant impact for the grid and their fates seem intertwined as Congress works toward the latest imposed deadline of October 31. In this episode we talk with U.S. Congressman John Curtis of Utah, who chairs the Conservative Climate Caucus which includes 72 House members. Rep. Curtis covers the climate and energy topics important to him and a solid number of House Republicans including grid modernization capabilities, cyber security investment, n...2021-10-1928 minGrid Forward ForumEp 2-13 Getting to Carbon Negative By 2030 -- How Does Microsoft Plan to Get There with Brian JanousMajor corporate entitles, in particular the big tech companies, are rapidly accelerating their positions in expanding clean energy and supporting the energy transition. Microsoft ramped up its commitment earlier this year to 100% clean energy for the entire reach of its company, 100% of the time, by 2030. That is certainly an ambitious target and meeting it will bring a diversity of lessons for the industry along the way. Listen is as we talk with Brian Janous, General Manager of Energy and Renewables at Microsoft on the role of their partners (including utilities), what they are learning along the way, and how...2021-09-2831 minGrid Forward ForumEp. 2-12 Fusion Energy in the Era of Renewables with Jay Brister & Wal Van LieropFor this session we talk with Jay Brister of General Fusion and one of their early investors and Board members Wal Van Lierop about the future of fusion energy. We hear about their recent demonstration plant in the UK, how they see the tech advancing, the difference in regulation vs fission nuclear energy, and much more. Can the future of a deeply decarbonized grid happen without fusion? Is the tech still far in the future? listen into the discussion for the latest and judge for yourself.
More from Grid Forward https://gridforward.org/
2021-09-0331 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 2-11 What’s at the Core of the Energy Transition with Peter Fox PennerWhat if you could ask the author of 2020 book Power After Carbon, 'OK, what’s next'? Listen in as Scott Harden of Microsoft interviews Peter Fox Penner about energy policy, measuring impact and foundational clean energy technology. Want to dive in deeper on the aspects of business models in the energy transition and how they will impact each link in the system? Get a copy of Peter’s book Power After Carbon here. Produced by Grid Forward.
2021-07-1326 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 2-10 Commercial Funding for Grid Innovation with Jigar ShahHow does the US Department of Energy Loan Office actually work to finance clean energy? Audrey Lee of Microsoft asked the source, the new director Jigar Shah. The conversation highlights a number of breakthroughs in the energy sector and how senior debt from the federal government helps accelerate them. Hear how Jigar describes the role of the loan office, how they plan to put their billions of dollars of funds to use, and how you can get involved. 2021-07-1326 min
Grid Forward ForumEp 2-9 What Grid Operators Can Do For Decarbonization of Electric Systems (live recording)To go deeper on the topic of his recent article, “Beyond solar and wind: 10 steps to meet President Biden's clean electricity target,” Bryce Yonker chats with Michael Pesin, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Dept. of Energy, Jennifer Potter, Hawaii PUC Commissioner; and Bill Ritter, former Colorado Governor and Director, Center for New Energy Economy. The conversation ranges from distributed energy ("In Hawaii, DERs are our one choice.") to R&D ("That's what we need to get to 100%.") to investments ("We know: hardware is hard.") and more. Don’t miss this live recording featuring three expert viewpoints in one lively...2021-06-1435 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-8 Energy and Climate Take Center Stage in Washington State Legislative SessionRepresentative Joe Fitzgibbon leads the the Washington State House Energy & Environment Committee and has made fighting climate change a priority for his more than 10 years in service in the state congress. The 2021 legislative session has been an especially busy one with the narrow passage of two major pieces of policy: a low carbon fuel standard as well as a carbon tax. Added to the clean energy legislation from 2019, the state has one of the most aggressive packages to set a path for decarbonization not only of the energy system but the overall state economy. Our discussion covers lessons and insights...2021-06-1432 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-7 Federal Funding for Grid Modernization with Karen Wayland of GridWise AllianceWe got the chance to sit down with the new CEO of GridWise Alliance Karen Wayland. She shared her perspectives on the priorities for grid modernization from the new administration, as well as the possibility of significant funding for expanded capabilities for the grid through infrastructure investment via the America Jobs Plan. You'll find a lot to learn from her broad experience and perspectives in this episode. For more details see the $50B policy framework for modernization funding prepared GridWise Alliance. This podcast produced by Grid Forward.
2021-05-1737 min
Grid Forward ForumEp.2-6 Resiliency, Resource Diversity and Lessons from the Last Year with CAISO's Elliot MainzerIn part two of our two-part discussion with Elliot Mainzer, the President and CEO of CAISO, we discuss how the organization and region are taking lessons from the last year into plans going forward. Hear insights on the importance of resource diversity, priorities for decarbonization pathways, how the region is collaborating and preparing for future stresses to the system, efforts to consider resource adequacy, and other topics. Produced by Grid Forward.2021-04-2026 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-5 Elliot Mainzer on CAISO's Near-Term Priorities and the Role of Regional MarketsIn the first episode of our two-part series, we hear from new President and CEO of the California ISO Elliot Mainzer. After a longer career at Bonneville Power Administration, including the last seven years as Administrator, Elliot moved over to head up CAISO in October of 2020. Tune in to hear his thoughts on the roles of regional markets and the plans CAISO has for upcoming summer and beyond. Produced by Grid Forward.2021-04-2024 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-4 Taking Any Asset into Any Market with Enel XFrom their start as an Italian utility to becoming a multinational energy solutions provider targeting 67 GW of capacity with clean energy resources, Enel and Enel X are leading the way in the deployment of new energy opportunities. Listen to our conversation with Surya Panditi, CEO of Enel X North America, as we explore the various leading-edge capabilities that they are bringing across the globe to help grid operators and other energy stakeholders. Produced by Grid Forward.
2021-04-0834 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-3 Beyond 2222: The Legacy of Commissioner Chatterjee at FERCOur new Grid Forward Chats podcast goes deep with Commissioner Neil Chatterjee of the Federal Energy Regulatory Committee. During his tenure, FERC issued significant rulings about the opportunity for aggregated DERs to access markets, interconnection for storage and related resources, expanding the potential of cloud investments, and other key topics. Listen into our discussion about the role that markets and the federal regulator plays among the rapid dynamics unfolding in the electric sector. Produced by Grid Forward.
2021-03-2333 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-2 Making Sure FERC 2222 Meets Its Potential in a Future with Energy StorageDr. Ryan Wartena grew Geli to be the leading software and storage optimization solution provider over the last decade. Now Geli is part of solar leader Q CELLS where Ryan is now VP of Strategy. Listen into this fascinating discussion on the evolution of the organization as it drives open a wider space in the industry. We also dive deep on how market dynamics need to evolve to unlock big advances of the FERC Order 2222. Will storage and integrated edge solutions be entering a new frontier and bring the flexibility and resiliency our energy systems are requiring? Ryan thinks...2021-02-2432 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 2-1 Driving Innovation with Authentic Leadership with Debra Smith and Paula Gold-WilliamsSeason two of Grid Forward Chats kicks off with special guest host and a former guest Debra Smith, general manager and CEO of Seattle City Light, in discussion with Paula Gold Williams the President & CEO of CPS Energy in San Antonio Texas. As these two municipal power leaders talk, they cover various topics around the acceleration of innovation on our grid, including as Paula puts it how to "blend the tried and the true with the new.” We hope you are inspired by the authentic leadership both Paula and Debra bring to their organizations and the practical ideas they sh...2021-02-1036 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 14 - Creating the Grid We Need for Deep DecarbonizationDuring the closing session of our GridFWD 2020 virtual event, Hunter Lovins (President, Natural Capitalism Solutions) led a discussion with Ralph Cavanagh of NRDC and Elliot Mainzer, the new CEO and president of the California ISO. This lively discussion covers future of distribution utilities, the role of regional markets, the impact of distributed resources, solutions for resilient systems and much more. If you haven’t heard these folks talk before (or even if you have many times) do yourself a favor and listen into this deeply thought-provoking, but also very applied, discussion. Produced by Grid Forward.
2020-10-2138 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 13 - The Path to 100% Clean Energy at XcelGrid Forward hosted Alice Jackson, President of Xcel Energy Colorado during the opening session of our virtual GridFWD 2020 event. Listen in as she walks through what it takes for a major utility to create a roadmap to a fully clean energy future. From system modernization and electrification to transmission and regional market access, this discussion covers all the elements needed to achieve such an ambitious milestone. As one of the first major utilities to make this commitment, Xcel is poised to be a leading force for grid modernization and clean energy across the Rocky Mountain and Midwest states. Produced...2020-10-2134 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 12 - Opportunities for Transmission to Unlock Deeper RenewablesBryce chats with Lisa Grow, President and CEO of IDACORP, Inc. and Idaho Power, the largest electric provider in the state, about their commitment to a fully clean energy mix. In the path to a clean energy future they are looking to expand transmission capacity, optimize participation in regional markets, develop modern grid capabilities and more. Hear about what Lisa thinks around the role of Idaho Power, and utilities more broadly, in the future of the electric grid. Produced by Grid Forward.2020-09-3036 min
Grid Forward ForumEp. 11 - How Do 2019 Plans Work in 2021, with Colorado PUC Chair AckermannIn this lively discussion with Colorado PUC Chair Jeffrey Ackermann we explore how well-established plans from 2019 are relevant going into 2021. Colorado is deep into energy transition areas with, for example, Xcel Energy driving for a fully decarbonized energy mix, the expansion of electrified transportation, and a modern infrastructure that can accommodate both. This chat spans many current topics around distribution system planning, allocating risk and rewards, funding innovation, empowering customers, distributed-vs-large scale solutions, and much more. And find out which one of us is a dog person vs which is a cat person — both of our companions crash the co...2020-09-2137 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 10 - Energy Market Innovation with AEMO CEO Audrey ZibelmanAfter spearing the REV proceedings in New York, Audrey Zibelman headed down under to lead the Australian Energy Market Operator which recently issued its 2020-08-2535 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 9 - Ensuring Grid Resiliency Through Robust Applied ResearchListen into our in-depth conversation with Carl Imhoff who beyond his role with Pacific Northwest National Labs (PNNL) leads the Grid Modernization Lab Consortium, a partnership of the U.S. national labs. PNNL and other national labs are doing both basic and applied research to make the power grid more resilient, flexible and secure. Don't know much about dynamic contingency analysis or remedial action schemes for grid operational continuity? This is a great chance to get up to speed. Working on networked phasor measurement units, future grid architectures or grid scale storage? Get a sense for how our national...2020-07-3040 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 8 - Expanding Renewables and Grid Modernization at Pacific PowerWe chat with Stefan Bird, President and CEO of Pacific Power, a division of PacifiCorp. PacifiCorp serves customers across a number of western states and the scale of its operations is rather unique in the west. Hear about the 6,000 MW - yes, 6GW! - of renewable resources included in its most recent request for proposals. In working across hundreds of communities in the wider region, Stefan explains how the utility is putting innovation to work to continue bringing reliable, low-cost energy to its customers. Produced by Grid Forward.
2020-07-2932 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 7 - How to Build A More Effective Structure for Energy EcosystemsListen to this fascinating chat with Rich Sedano, the CEO of Regulatory Assistance Project, a non-profit that provides policy advice and technical assistance on utility and energy issues to governments around the world. We focus on issues in the US, diving headfirst into deep topics like these: the prospects for performance-based regulation expansion; breaking down silos between agencies and sectors; where energy infrastructure can support equity outcomes; how regulators and government agencies can have more active relationships with utilities and the market; encouraging the diversity of solutions for delivery of electric services; how innovation can come through utilities; shifting...2020-07-1433 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 6 - Bringing Innovation to Life With Customer Needs at the CorePortland General Electric has a long history of innovation with its grid operations and community engagement. Listen to CEO Maria Pope discuss their priorities as they keep customers at the core while ensuring financial stability and putting their innovative thinking into practice. Maria covers topics announced just before the session recording including: Portland General’s new program for 500 customers to install at-home storage; how their three-substation smart grid test bed has reached 56% of customer participation with some flexible load management; projects with regional stakeholders to optimize renewable energy resources; and how they stood at the center of support of th...2020-07-1429 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 5 - Making People Part of the Energy Solution at UplightUplight merged not two but six companies in 2019. We check in with Justin Segall, founder of Simple Energy and now Chief Strategy Officer of Uplight on how all those parts are now working fully together. With the deep insights Uplight has about energy customers, we delve into how end users are doing through the pandemic, how demand side programs continue to provide grid value (and are more easily accessed) for customers, why scale matters, where innovation plays a role ahead, and more. Produced by Grid Forward.
2020-06-0936 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 4 - Seattle City Light Adjusts Plans and Prioritizes Customers During the COVID-19 PandemicThe Seattle area was one of the earliest communities to have to respond to the COVID-19 crisis. We talk with Debra Smith, CEO and general manager of Seattle City Light, about the work that utility is doing to take care of its customers, how it is positioning its system for future grid modernization efforts, how electrification efforts may be impacted, the role that resiliency will play ahead, and much more. Produced by Grid Forward.
2020-06-0838 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 3 - Putting Grid Modernization to the Test in TacomaThe greater Seattle area was hit early and hard by the COVID pandemic. We hear from the leader at the helm of Tacoma Public Utilities, just south of Seattle, about how their modernization efforts have gone through the health crisis unfolding and the front end of the economic fallout. Does innovation play a key role now? How are employees handling a new way that it means to be resilient? How important is the federal role in supporting grid innovation in a recovery? We tackle these and other key topics with Jackie Flowers, Director of Tacoma Public Utilities. Hosted by Grid...2020-05-1836 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 1 - Modernizing Regulation in Hawaii for Renewables Through and Beyond the PandemicHawaii has been leading the country with a charge toward a clean energy future. How are the regulatory and business model elements of the electric grid in the state holding up in the face of the fallout from the global health crisis? Does the economic impacts of managing COVID complicate various efforts in motion there now? We chat with HI PUC Commissioner Jennie Potter about issues to ensure that grid systems effectively accommodate the Aloha State’s ambitious energy transition. The lessons are quite applicable far beyond the island state. Produced by Grid Forward.
2020-05-1433 min
Grid Forward ForumEpisode 2 - Regulatory and Business Model Toolkit in Dealing with COVID ImpactsDiving into the depths of regulatory and business models updates isn’t easy in ordinary times but in this session we get deep into the issues as it pertains to electric grid regulatory structure and evolution of associated models during the times of unprecedented impacts of the COVID crisis and recovery. Does performance-based regulation provide a good pathway now? How can utilities stay whole in these times? How can customers be protected from upward rate pressure? We dive deep into these areas and more in this Grid Forward chat with Matthew McDonnell, Consulting Director at Strategen. Produced by Grid Fo...2020-05-1430 min