“While they’ve acknowledged the workforce lacks the technical expertise to deploy AI and machine learning, they are looking at how to fix this through more training. About 48% of those surveyed said continuous training and education can help bridge that expertise gap.”

“AI enables real-time dynamic pricing models, which allow for more efficient integration of intermittent renewables on the grid, and data center companies have begun leveraging AI to decarbonize their own operations.”

“A new model has emerged: co-location. Rather than wait in the transmission queue or depend on grid upgrades, large loads are siting next to generation to bypass delays with grid expansion. It’s raising questions about how the grid is planned, who pays, and where regulatory boundaries lie.”

“Energy efficiency is most likely where the greatest savings can be made while producing a reliable product and guarding public health for water companies of any size.“

The invite-only Energy Evolution Summit, held by the Smart Electric Power Alliance in San Diego, provided an unparalleled opportunity for collaboration, networking, and strategic discussions in an open yet intimate environment.

“Think about the title of the Energy Evolution Summit; what’s evolved now? It’s driven by changes that have evolved due to regulatory perspective, due to economic climate. Issues have become more passionate and urgent, and some have become less urgent, or some are now settled.”

“People need electricity and gas, and we provided it. We need to use lessons learned from other industries. How did they transition from one type of product to another?”

“The biggest focus of my work is transitioning gas utilities to the next 100 years of their relationships with customers and the electric sector. I’m here to participate in the discussion about the evolution toward integrated electric and gas network planning and the future of gas.”

“It’s exciting when I think of the vision of SEPA, how it aligns with what we’re doing as a cooperative in Virginia as we address the growth that we’re seeing that is unprecedented.”

“We need an ecosystem that allows us to rewrite how to design, operate, and plan the grid. I always believe that the impossible can be made possible if you put your mind to it, and I think SEPA can help us do that.”