The Current Thu, 28 May 2026 04:28:13 -0400 https://westandforenergy.com/the-current/ en-us © 2026 The Current yes f3922a61-4c0b-5231-8d57-e78009505bff We Stand For Energy episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) We Stand For Energy https://storage.buzzsprout.com/6vufxk7x5nvv4kr85sas71tm3csh?.jpg The Current https://westandforenergy.com/the-current/ From Policy to Impact: Energy Assistance Explained From Policy to Impact: Energy Assistance Explained How do we ensure families can keep the lights on, and how can electric companies lead the charge? Jonathan Hirte, Director of Federal Affairs at DTE Energy, joins The Current to unpack how energy providers can play a pivotal role in expanding access to critical assistance programs like LIHEAP and Michigan’s MEAP. As August marks LIHEAP Action Month, this episode offers timely insights into how DTE supported a major expansion of the MEAP program, doubling funding, raising eligibility thresholds, and capping monthly customer fees.

]]> How do we ensure families can keep the lights on, and how can electric companies lead the charge? Jonathan Hirte, Director of Federal Affairs at DTE Energy, joins The Current to unpack how energy providers can play a pivotal role in expanding access to critical assistance programs like LIHEAP and Michigan’s MEAP. As August marks LIHEAP Action Month, this episode offers timely insights into how DTE supported a major expansion of the MEAP program, doubling funding, raising eligibility thresholds, and capping monthly customer fees.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-17594254 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 975 full false The People Behind Lineworker Appreciation Day The People Behind Lineworker Appreciation Day How do lineworkers keep our electric grid resilient, reliable, and ready for the future? Drew Stover, Director of the Utility Department at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and a second-generation journeyman lineworker, joins host Kristine Telfer to discuss the critical role lineworkers play as energy demands and challenges continue to evolve.

Show your appreciation for lineworkers by signing the petition: https://www.westandforenergy.com

Learn more about IBEW: https://ibew.org

Subscribe to The Current podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1030480 

]]> How do lineworkers keep our electric grid resilient, reliable, and ready for the future? Drew Stover, Director of the Utility Department at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and a second-generation journeyman lineworker, joins host Kristine Telfer to discuss the critical role lineworkers play as energy demands and challenges continue to evolve.

Show your appreciation for lineworkers by signing the petition: https://www.westandforenergy.com

Learn more about IBEW: https://ibew.org

Subscribe to The Current podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1030480 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-17484152 Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0400 790 full false Episode 65: Partners in Wildfire Prevention Episode 65: Partners in Wildfire Prevention We’re joined by Chet Wade, Communications Director of Partners in Wildfire Prevention, to discuss the coalition’s efforts to reduce the devastating impacts of wildfires through prevention and preparedness. As wildfires increasingly threaten communities nationwide, our guest highlights the need for a comprehensive national strategy focused on community protection, responsible investment, and rapid recovery, providing a valuable conversation on how we can work together to mitigate wildfire risks and protect vulnerable communities.

Learn more about Partners in Wildfire Prevention: https://preventwildfires.org/.

]]> We’re joined by Chet Wade, Communications Director of Partners in Wildfire Prevention, to discuss the coalition’s efforts to reduce the devastating impacts of wildfires through prevention and preparedness. As wildfires increasingly threaten communities nationwide, our guest highlights the need for a comprehensive national strategy focused on community protection, responsible investment, and rapid recovery, providing a valuable conversation on how we can work together to mitigate wildfire risks and protect vulnerable communities.

Learn more about Partners in Wildfire Prevention: https://preventwildfires.org/.

]]> Buzzsprout-17144743 Wed, 14 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 793 65 full false Episode 64: NARUC Executive Director Tony Clark on Energy Security & Regulation Episode 64: NARUC Executive Director Tony Clark on Energy Security & Regulation In this episode of The Current, we speak with Tony Clark, the executive director of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), an organization that represents state utility regulators across the nation. Our discussion focuses on the significance of energy security, both now and in the future. We explore how energy policies for electric companies, policymakers, and regulators are continually evolving to meet the needs of electric customers. As a subject matter expert, Tony explains how regulation and coordination are essential for building a strong and resilient electric grid. 

]]> In this episode of The Current, we speak with Tony Clark, the executive director of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), an organization that represents state utility regulators across the nation. Our discussion focuses on the significance of energy security, both now and in the future. We explore how energy policies for electric companies, policymakers, and regulators are continually evolving to meet the needs of electric customers. As a subject matter expert, Tony explains how regulation and coordination are essential for building a strong and resilient electric grid. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-16876193 Fri, 28 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0400 1173 64 full false Episode 63: Washington Update on New Administration and Congress Episode 63: Washington Update on New Administration and Congress  In this episode of The Current, we reconnect with Eric Grey, Vice President of Government Relations at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI). Our conversation explores how the priorities of the new administration will affect the electric power industry. Eric elaborates on important legislation that Congress is currently addressing, improvements to infrastructure, grid resiliency, and key wildfire policies.

]]>  In this episode of The Current, we reconnect with Eric Grey, Vice President of Government Relations at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI). Our conversation explores how the priorities of the new administration will affect the electric power industry. Eric elaborates on important legislation that Congress is currently addressing, improvements to infrastructure, grid resiliency, and key wildfire policies.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-16785602 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0400 592 63 full false Episode 62: Kregg Arntson on Clean Energy Challenges in Portland Episode 62: Kregg Arntson on Clean Energy Challenges in Portland On this episode of The Current, we connected with Kregg Arntson, Executive Director of the Portland General Electric Foundation. He leads Project Zero, an initiative to inspire the next generation to explore clean energy challenges in the greater Portland community. Since 2020, they have shown more than 175K students how to combat climate change, earning them the EEI’s 2024 Corporate Citizen Program award.

Participants:

  • Kristine Telford, Executive Director of External Affairs, EEI – Moderator
  • Kregg Arntson, Executive Director Portland General Electric Foundation
]]> On this episode of The Current, we connected with Kregg Arntson, Executive Director of the Portland General Electric Foundation. He leads Project Zero, an initiative to inspire the next generation to explore clean energy challenges in the greater Portland community. Since 2020, they have shown more than 175K students how to combat climate change, earning them the EEI’s 2024 Corporate Citizen Program award.

Participants:

  • Kristine Telford, Executive Director of External Affairs, EEI – Moderator
  • Kregg Arntson, Executive Director Portland General Electric Foundation
]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-16391375 Mon, 06 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0500 1307 62 full false Episode 61: Cybersecurity in the Energy Sector Episode 61: Cybersecurity in the Energy Sector In this episode of The Current, we delve into the vital topic of cybersecurity in the energy sector. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to explore how electric utilities are safeguarding the nation's electric grid from cyber threats. Our guests will share insights into the evolving threat landscape, the steps companies are taking to secure their systems, and how these efforts ultimately protect electric customers.

Participants:

  • Kristine Telford, Executive Director of External Affairs, EEI – Moderator
  • Eileen Figone, Chief Information Security Officer and Director of Security, Risk and Compliance for Puget Sound Energy
  • Sharla Artz, Security and Resilience Policy Area Vice President, Xcel Energy

Notes:

  • The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Threat Analysis Center (ETAC) pilot led by the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), is a public-private partnership that convenes experts from the federal government and the U.S. energy sector, joining analytic capabilities from the national laboratories with real-world threat insights to secure critical infrastructure and support the nation’s response to energy system threats. (Energy Threat Analysis Center | Department of Energy)
  • The Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC) reduces cyber and physical security risk to the electric industry across North America by providing unique insights, leadership, and collaboration. (About the E-ISAC)
  • The National Laboratories conduct research and development that addresses the Department of Energy’s core missions in energy, science, national security, and environmental stewardship. (What We Do - The National LaboratoriesThe National Laboratories)
  • The CEO-led Electricity Subsector Coordinating Council (ESCC) serves as the principal liaison between the federal government and the electric power industry on efforts to prepare for, and respond to, national-level disasters or threats to critical infrastructure. The ESCC works across the sector, and with the Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC), to develop actions and strategies that help protect the North American energy grid and prevent a spectrum of threats from disrupting electricity service. (ESCC - Home)
]]> In this episode of The Current, we delve into the vital topic of cybersecurity in the energy sector. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to explore how electric utilities are safeguarding the nation's electric grid from cyber threats. Our guests will share insights into the evolving threat landscape, the steps companies are taking to secure their systems, and how these efforts ultimately protect electric customers.

Participants:

  • Kristine Telford, Executive Director of External Affairs, EEI – Moderator
  • Eileen Figone, Chief Information Security Officer and Director of Security, Risk and Compliance for Puget Sound Energy
  • Sharla Artz, Security and Resilience Policy Area Vice President, Xcel Energy

Notes:

  • The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Threat Analysis Center (ETAC) pilot led by the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), is a public-private partnership that convenes experts from the federal government and the U.S. energy sector, joining analytic capabilities from the national laboratories with real-world threat insights to secure critical infrastructure and support the nation’s response to energy system threats. (Energy Threat Analysis Center | Department of Energy)
  • The Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC) reduces cyber and physical security risk to the electric industry across North America by providing unique insights, leadership, and collaboration. (About the E-ISAC)
  • The National Laboratories conduct research and development that addresses the Department of Energy’s core missions in energy, science, national security, and environmental stewardship. (What We Do - The National LaboratoriesThe National Laboratories)
  • The CEO-led Electricity Subsector Coordinating Council (ESCC) serves as the principal liaison between the federal government and the electric power industry on efforts to prepare for, and respond to, national-level disasters or threats to critical infrastructure. The ESCC works across the sector, and with the Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC), to develop actions and strategies that help protect the North American energy grid and prevent a spectrum of threats from disrupting electricity service. (ESCC - Home)
]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-16018574 Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1222 61 full false Episode 60: LIHEAP Awareness Month with Veronica Stober Episode 60: LIHEAP Awareness Month with Veronica Stober August is LIHEAP Action Month, which recognizes the importance of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This federally funded program provides qualifying customers with bill payment and energy assistance options. 

Veronica Stober, a seasoned Customer Care Advocate at Alliant Energy, joins us to spread awareness about LIHEAP, how the program works for customers, and why you should support this critical assistance program. She has over 25 years of experience in the energy sector. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to supporting low-income customers, ensuring they can access essential energy services in their area.

]]> August is LIHEAP Action Month, which recognizes the importance of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This federally funded program provides qualifying customers with bill payment and energy assistance options. 

Veronica Stober, a seasoned Customer Care Advocate at Alliant Energy, joins us to spread awareness about LIHEAP, how the program works for customers, and why you should support this critical assistance program. She has over 25 years of experience in the energy sector. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to supporting low-income customers, ensuring they can access essential energy services in their area.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-15645079 Mon, 26 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400 440 60 full false Episode 59: Why Did Hurricane Beryl Take Down So Many Trees in Texas? Episode 59: Why Did Hurricane Beryl Take Down So Many Trees in Texas? his week, EEI's Electric Perspectives Podcast and The Current are partnering for an episode to discuss the impacts of Hurricane Beryl and the tremendous restoration efforts that are underway. On this episode, you'll hear from StormGeo Meteorologist Justin Petrutsas — who is based in the Houston area— and Scott Aaronson, EEI Senior Vice President of Security and Preparedness, about the intensity of this hurricane as well the complex work that is underway to safely restore power to impacted customers.

]]> his week, EEI's Electric Perspectives Podcast and The Current are partnering for an episode to discuss the impacts of Hurricane Beryl and the tremendous restoration efforts that are underway. On this episode, you'll hear from StormGeo Meteorologist Justin Petrutsas — who is based in the Houston area— and Scott Aaronson, EEI Senior Vice President of Security and Preparedness, about the intensity of this hurricane as well the complex work that is underway to safely restore power to impacted customers.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-15423904 Tue, 16 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0400 1083 59 full false Episode 58: PPL Corporation President & CEO Vince Sorgi Episode 58: PPL Corporation President & CEO Vince Sorgi In this episode of The Current, EEI Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford is joined by PPL Corporation President and CEO Vince Sorgi. They have an in-depth conversation about resource adequacy within the shifting energy landscape and company innovations to sustainably meet high customer demand for today and future generations.

]]> In this episode of The Current, EEI Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford is joined by PPL Corporation President and CEO Vince Sorgi. They have an in-depth conversation about resource adequacy within the shifting energy landscape and company innovations to sustainably meet high customer demand for today and future generations.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-15308613 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400 826 58 full false Episode 57: Corporate Citizenship at PSEG Company Episode 57: Corporate Citizenship at PSEG Company In this week's episode of the Current, Edison Electric Institutes, Kristine Telford is joined by Richard T.  Thigpen, Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at PSEG company. Rick provides insight into PSEG's commitment to a diverse workforce, philanthropy, and its role in helping solve serious challenges. 

]]> In this week's episode of the Current, Edison Electric Institutes, Kristine Telford is joined by Richard T.  Thigpen, Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at PSEG company. Rick provides insight into PSEG's commitment to a diverse workforce, philanthropy, and its role in helping solve serious challenges. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-14593870 Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0500 1137 57 full false Episode 56: The State of Electric Transport in the U.S. Episode 56: The State of Electric Transport in the U.S. On this episode of The Current, our guests discuss the state of electric transportation in the U.S. Joining us are Kellen Schefter, Senior Director of Electric Transportation at EEI, and Scott Barrios, Manager of Electric Mobility at Entergy.

]]> On this episode of The Current, our guests discuss the state of electric transportation in the U.S. Joining us are Kellen Schefter, Senior Director of Electric Transportation at EEI, and Scott Barrios, Manager of Electric Mobility at Entergy.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-14368695 Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0500 1815 56 full false Episode 55: How to protect yourself from Utility Scams Episode 55: How to protect yourself from Utility Scams On this episode of The Current, Edison Electric Institute's Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford interviews the Utilities United Against Scams Executive Director Monica Martinez, where these industry leaders discuss utility scams and the ways that consumers can protect themselves as part of their effort to #StopScams ahead of Utility Scam Awareness Day on November 15th. 

]]> On this episode of The Current, Edison Electric Institute's Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford interviews the Utilities United Against Scams Executive Director Monica Martinez, where these industry leaders discuss utility scams and the ways that consumers can protect themselves as part of their effort to #StopScams ahead of Utility Scam Awareness Day on November 15th. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-13978291 Wed, 15 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0500 491 55 full false Episode 54: Jose Perez, President of Hispanics in Energy Episode 54: Jose Perez, President of Hispanics in Energy EEI Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford interviews Jose Perez, President of Hispanics in Energy on how the organization continues to grow and is working to educate & engage the Hispanic community on critical energy issues across the country. 

]]> EEI Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford interviews Jose Perez, President of Hispanics in Energy on how the organization continues to grow and is working to educate & engage the Hispanic community on critical energy issues across the country. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-13773828 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0400 1710 54 full false Episode 53: Wildfire Season with Ryan Murphy Episode 53: Wildfire Season with Ryan Murphy EEI Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford interviews Puget Sound Energy Director of Electric Operations Ryan Murphy on wildfire mitigation efforts and measures the company is taking this wildfire season. 

]]> EEI Executive Director of External Affairs Kristine Telford interviews Puget Sound Energy Director of Electric Operations Ryan Murphy on wildfire mitigation efforts and measures the company is taking this wildfire season. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-13548429 Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0400 1191 53 full false Episode 52: Wildfire Planning & Mitigation Episode 52: Wildfire Planning & Mitigation This week, Mark Quinlan, the Senior Vice President of Wildfire & Emergency Operations at Pacific Gas and Electric Company, joins The Current. Kristine and Mark discuss the upcoming peak of wildfire season and how the company is preparing for this through its proactive mitigation program.

]]> This week, Mark Quinlan, the Senior Vice President of Wildfire & Emergency Operations at Pacific Gas and Electric Company, joins The Current. Kristine and Mark discuss the upcoming peak of wildfire season and how the company is preparing for this through its proactive mitigation program.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-13365236 Mon, 07 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0400 2055 52 full false Episode 51: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Episode 51: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) This week, Mark Wolfe, the Executive Director National Energy Assistance Directors' Association and an expert on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), joins The Current. Jeff and Mark discuss key issues facing the LIHEAP program and the recent action day in Washington, D.C.

]]> This week, Mark Wolfe, the Executive Director National Energy Assistance Directors' Association and an expert on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), joins The Current. Jeff and Mark discuss key issues facing the LIHEAP program and the recent action day in Washington, D.C.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-12836882 Fri, 12 May 2023 11:00:00 -0400 965 51 full false Episode 50: The Impacts of Deregulation Episode 50: The Impacts of Deregulation This week, Ed Hirs an energy fellow at the University of Houston and a world renowned expert on deregulation joins The Current. Jeff and Ed explore the challenges and risks—including higher prices and less reliability—of deregulated electricity. 

]]> This week, Ed Hirs an energy fellow at the University of Houston and a world renowned expert on deregulation joins The Current. Jeff and Ed explore the challenges and risks—including higher prices and less reliability—of deregulated electricity. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-12017592 Tue, 10 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500 1169 full false Episode 48: Key Takeaways from the Midterm Elections Episode 48: Key Takeaways from the Midterm Elections This week on The Current, Phil Cox, a nationally renowned political operative, joins your host Kristine Telford to talk about the key takeaways from the midterm elections and what that means for upcoming policy debates at the state and federal level. 


]]> This week on The Current, Phil Cox, a nationally renowned political operative, joins your host Kristine Telford to talk about the key takeaways from the midterm elections and what that means for upcoming policy debates at the state and federal level. 


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-11717244 Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0500 819 full false Episode 49: Inflation Reduction Act Episode 49: Inflation Reduction Act This week on the Current, Kristine is joined by Eric Grey, Vice President of Government Relations at the Edison Electric Institute and Austin Keyser, Assistant to the International President of Government Affairs for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Eric and Austin provide expert analysis on the Inflation Reduction Act and its potential impact on the electric power industry. 

]]> This week on the Current, Kristine is joined by Eric Grey, Vice President of Government Relations at the Edison Electric Institute and Austin Keyser, Assistant to the International President of Government Affairs for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Eric and Austin provide expert analysis on the Inflation Reduction Act and its potential impact on the electric power industry. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-11655377 Tue, 08 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0500 1543 1 49 full false Episode 47: Entergy Supporting Customers in Louisiana Episode 47: Entergy Supporting Customers in Louisiana This week on the Current, Phillip May, President and CEO of Entergy Louisiana, and Deanna Rodriguez, President and CEO of Entergy New Orleans, join us to highlight the ways Entergy is supporting customers throughout Louisiana from bill assistance to resiliency investments.

]]> This week on the Current, Phillip May, President and CEO of Entergy Louisiana, and Deanna Rodriguez, President and CEO of Entergy New Orleans, join us to highlight the ways Entergy is supporting customers throughout Louisiana from bill assistance to resiliency investments.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-11496162 Thu, 13 Oct 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1093 full false Episode 46: Wildfire Technology Advancements Episode 46: Wildfire Technology Advancements This week on The Current,  join your host Kristine Telford as she deep dives into the new technologies the Department of Energy is utilizing to help mitigate against wildfires and other potential threats. To better explain these technologies and their capabilities Kristine is joined by this week's guest Stewart Cedres, Senior Technical Lead and Strategist of Electric Grid Resilience Capabilities at the Office of Electricity at the Department of Energy.

]]> This week on The Current,  join your host Kristine Telford as she deep dives into the new technologies the Department of Energy is utilizing to help mitigate against wildfires and other potential threats. To better explain these technologies and their capabilities Kristine is joined by this week's guest Stewart Cedres, Senior Technical Lead and Strategist of Electric Grid Resilience Capabilities at the Office of Electricity at the Department of Energy.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-11210093 Fri, 26 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0400 778 1 46 full false Episode 45: Summer Reliability Assessment Episode 45: Summer Reliability Assessment Join the conversation to learn more about summer reliability, wildfires and how the electric grid as a whole is being impacted. To help provide unique insights into these issues Brad is joined by John Moura, Director of Reliability Assessment and Performance Analysis at the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Scott Aaronson, Senior Vice President of Security and Preparedness at Edison Electric Institute and also part of the Secretariat at the Electric Subsector Coordinating Council (ESCC).

]]> Join the conversation to learn more about summer reliability, wildfires and how the electric grid as a whole is being impacted. To help provide unique insights into these issues Brad is joined by John Moura, Director of Reliability Assessment and Performance Analysis at the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Scott Aaronson, Senior Vice President of Security and Preparedness at Edison Electric Institute and also part of the Secretariat at the Electric Subsector Coordinating Council (ESCC).

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-11011480 Fri, 22 Jul 2022 12:00:00 -0400 1646 1 45 full false Episode 44: New Mexico Wildfires | PNM Episode 44: New Mexico Wildfires | PNM This week on The Current, Matthew Jaramillo, Director of Government Affairs at PNM Resources, joins us to discuss the fire mitigation practices being used by the electric power industry as New Mexico faces its largest wildfire in state history. 

]]> This week on The Current, Matthew Jaramillo, Director of Government Affairs at PNM Resources, joins us to discuss the fire mitigation practices being used by the electric power industry as New Mexico faces its largest wildfire in state history. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10926132 Fri, 08 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400 1175 1 44 full false Episode 43: Idaho Power Episode 43: Idaho Power In recent years, Idaho has experienced a growing number of wildfires breaking out across the state. Jon Axtman, Senior Manager of Transmission and Distribution Engineering and Reliability at Idaho Power joins us to discuss the threat of wildfire outbreaks, their impact on the electric power industry, and the mitigation strategies Idaho has adopted to combat this issue.

]]> In recent years, Idaho has experienced a growing number of wildfires breaking out across the state. Jon Axtman, Senior Manager of Transmission and Distribution Engineering and Reliability at Idaho Power joins us to discuss the threat of wildfire outbreaks, their impact on the electric power industry, and the mitigation strategies Idaho has adopted to combat this issue.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10711153 Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:00:00 -0400 1334 1 43 full false Episode 42: Energy Transition Episode 42: Energy Transition Join the discussion this week to learn about energy transition, just transition and what the energy industry is doing as it adapts. Brad discusses what is currently happening within the industry and what is coming on the horizon. To provide expert industry insights Brad is joined by Mallory Huggins, a senior project director at the Keystone Policy center. 

]]> Join the discussion this week to learn about energy transition, just transition and what the energy industry is doing as it adapts. Brad discusses what is currently happening within the industry and what is coming on the horizon. To provide expert industry insights Brad is joined by Mallory Huggins, a senior project director at the Keystone Policy center. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10570836 Fri, 06 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400 1474 1 42 full false Episode 41: Energy’s Role in Crypto Mining Episode 41: Energy’s Role in Crypto Mining This week, Brad dives into the world of crypto mining and how energy plays a critical role in the rise of this technology. To understand how blockchain and cryptocurrencies work, and their relationship with electricity use, Brad is joined by Thomas Mapes, Sr. Policy Analyst at the Chamber of Digital Commerce, and Fred Thiel, Chairman & CEO at Marathon Digital Holdings.

]]> This week, Brad dives into the world of crypto mining and how energy plays a critical role in the rise of this technology. To understand how blockchain and cryptocurrencies work, and their relationship with electricity use, Brad is joined by Thomas Mapes, Sr. Policy Analyst at the Chamber of Digital Commerce, and Fred Thiel, Chairman & CEO at Marathon Digital Holdings.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10481315 Thu, 21 Apr 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1215 1 41 full false Episode 40: The DTE Energy Foundation & Investing in Michigan Episode 40: The DTE Energy Foundation & Investing in Michigan Over the course of the pandemic, we all became familiar with the saying “we're in this together.” Power companies stepped up in unexpected ways to support customers and invest in communities they serve. One company that stood out was DTE Energy. The Current highlighted DTE’s partnership with Detroit early in the pandemic to provide Detroit school students laptops and internet connections to support their virtual lessons. Brad revisits that and other initiatives by DTE to support communities across Michigan. Joining this week’s conversation is Lynette Dowler, Vice President of Public Affairs at DTE Energy and President and Chair of the DTE Energy Foundation. 

]]> Over the course of the pandemic, we all became familiar with the saying “we're in this together.” Power companies stepped up in unexpected ways to support customers and invest in communities they serve. One company that stood out was DTE Energy. The Current highlighted DTE’s partnership with Detroit early in the pandemic to provide Detroit school students laptops and internet connections to support their virtual lessons. Brad revisits that and other initiatives by DTE to support communities across Michigan. Joining this week’s conversation is Lynette Dowler, Vice President of Public Affairs at DTE Energy and President and Chair of the DTE Energy Foundation. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10347738 Wed, 30 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0400 929 1 40 full false Episode 39: Where the Rubber Meets the Road Episode 39: Where the Rubber Meets the Road Transportation electrification is undergoing a revolution as demand increases for private and commercial EV options. However, expanding access to charging infrastructure will require untangling a web of regulatory hurdles spanning different states and different regulatory jurisdictions. In this episode of The Current, Brad unpacks how the electric power and transportation industries are collaborating to plan for rising demand for charging tools, the ways in which the industries educate regulators, and the challenges that must be overcome to accelerate EV adoption. Joining the discussion are Kellen Schefter, Director of Electric Transportation at the Edison Electric Institute, and Phil Jones, Executive Director of the Alliance for Transportation Electrification. 

]]> Transportation electrification is undergoing a revolution as demand increases for private and commercial EV options. However, expanding access to charging infrastructure will require untangling a web of regulatory hurdles spanning different states and different regulatory jurisdictions. In this episode of The Current, Brad unpacks how the electric power and transportation industries are collaborating to plan for rising demand for charging tools, the ways in which the industries educate regulators, and the challenges that must be overcome to accelerate EV adoption. Joining the discussion are Kellen Schefter, Director of Electric Transportation at the Edison Electric Institute, and Phil Jones, Executive Director of the Alliance for Transportation Electrification. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10268143 Thu, 17 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0400 1466 1 39 full false Episode 38: How is LIHEAP Helping Families Keep the Lights On? Episode 38: How is LIHEAP Helping Families Keep the Lights On? LIHEAP, or the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, has helped millions of Americans struggling to pay electricity bills, especially since the pandemic. Joining Brad to explain LIHEAP’s importance for struggling families and how the program has evolved is Katrina Metlzer, Executive Director of the National Energy and Utility Affordability Coalition (NEUAC), and Theresa Kullen, Manager of the Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP).

As a note to our audience, Katrina, Theresa and We Stand For Energy are joining thousands of advocates on Feb. 23 for a virtual LIHEAP Action Day. You can get involved by signing our petition to #ProtectLIHEAP here. 

]]> LIHEAP, or the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, has helped millions of Americans struggling to pay electricity bills, especially since the pandemic. Joining Brad to explain LIHEAP’s importance for struggling families and how the program has evolved is Katrina Metlzer, Executive Director of the National Energy and Utility Affordability Coalition (NEUAC), and Theresa Kullen, Manager of the Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP).

As a note to our audience, Katrina, Theresa and We Stand For Energy are joining thousands of advocates on Feb. 23 for a virtual LIHEAP Action Day. You can get involved by signing our petition to #ProtectLIHEAP here. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10130305 Wed, 23 Feb 2022 13:00:00 -0500 1478 1 38 full false Episode 37: What’s Next for Build Back Better? Episode 37: What’s Next for Build Back Better? Can Democrats save the Build Back Better plan? Supreme Court politics and other legislative priorities are taking up precious time in the legislative calendar before the midterms, but President Biden and Democrats remain hopeful that components of BBB can pass. EEI’s Vice President of Government Affairs, Eric Grey, sits down with Brad to discuss what vehicles are available to pass the energy components of that bill. 

]]> Can Democrats save the Build Back Better plan? Supreme Court politics and other legislative priorities are taking up precious time in the legislative calendar before the midterms, but President Biden and Democrats remain hopeful that components of BBB can pass. EEI’s Vice President of Government Affairs, Eric Grey, sits down with Brad to discuss what vehicles are available to pass the energy components of that bill. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-10028294 Mon, 07 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0500 726 1 37 full false Episode 36: Nuclear Energy at an Inflection Point Episode 36: Nuclear Energy at an Inflection Point In our first episode of 2022, Brad talks about nuclear energy with Beverly Marshall, Vice President of Governmental Affairs at the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI). Nuclear energy is at an inflection point, as policymakers and companies increasingly rely on its potential to decarbonize the economy and meet ESG goals. Bev talks about recent developments in nuclear and how federal and state action are poised to expand its role in America’s electricity market.

 


]]> In our first episode of 2022, Brad talks about nuclear energy with Beverly Marshall, Vice President of Governmental Affairs at the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI). Nuclear energy is at an inflection point, as policymakers and companies increasingly rely on its potential to decarbonize the economy and meet ESG goals. Bev talks about recent developments in nuclear and how federal and state action are poised to expand its role in America’s electricity market.

 


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-9914298 Wed, 19 Jan 2022 12:00:00 -0500 1070 1 36 full false Episode 35: The South Carolina Solar Choice Settlement Episode 35: The South Carolina Solar Choice Settlement This week, Brad sits down with Lon Huber, Vice President of Rate Design and Strategic Solutions at Duke Energy. Lon and Duke Energy recently entered into The South Carolina Solar Choice Settlement. The settlement – and the proceeding that led to the settlement’s outcome – was unique compared to others. Lon lays out how parties were able to put aside differences and formulate an innovative rate design for DERs.

]]> This week, Brad sits down with Lon Huber, Vice President of Rate Design and Strategic Solutions at Duke Energy. Lon and Duke Energy recently entered into The South Carolina Solar Choice Settlement. The settlement – and the proceeding that led to the settlement’s outcome – was unique compared to others. Lon lays out how parties were able to put aside differences and formulate an innovative rate design for DERs.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-9593188 Fri, 19 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500 1179 1 35 full false Episode 34: Think Globally, Act Locally: How America’s Mayors Are Fighting Climate Change Episode 34: Think Globally, Act Locally: How America’s Mayors Are Fighting Climate Change We all grew up hearing “think globally, act locally” when it comes to environmental issues. Who is better positioned to do that than our own mayors and local officials? This week, we have the honor of being joined by the mayor of Saint Paul, Minnesota, Melvin Carter, who has pushed building code updates and transportation electrification projects in his city. Mayor Carter discusses those and other ways that local leaders can fight climate change while protecting low-income residents. 

]]> We all grew up hearing “think globally, act locally” when it comes to environmental issues. Who is better positioned to do that than our own mayors and local officials? This week, we have the honor of being joined by the mayor of Saint Paul, Minnesota, Melvin Carter, who has pushed building code updates and transportation electrification projects in his city. Mayor Carter discusses those and other ways that local leaders can fight climate change while protecting low-income residents. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-9451342 Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0400 1220 1 34 full false Episode 33: Accelerating Electric Vehicle Deployment Episode 33: Accelerating Electric Vehicle Deployment This week, we’re celebrating National Drive Electric Week by sitting down with Dan Bowerson, Senior Director of Energy and Environment at the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. Dan shares with us the car industry’s perspectives on the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, what needs to happen on the policy and consumer levels to accelerate EV deployment, and how the automotive and electric power industries can work together. 

]]> This week, we’re celebrating National Drive Electric Week by sitting down with Dan Bowerson, Senior Director of Energy and Environment at the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. Dan shares with us the car industry’s perspectives on the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, what needs to happen on the policy and consumer levels to accelerate EV deployment, and how the automotive and electric power industries can work together. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-9282085 Wed, 29 Sep 2021 14:00:00 -0400 1088 1 33 full false Episode 32: Congress, Infrastructure, and Budget Reconciliation Episode 32: Congress, Infrastructure, and Budget Reconciliation Congress returns from the August recess with an eye toward passing the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, which received overwhelming bipartisan support in August, and the more controversial $3.5 trillion budget. This week, Brad sits down with Capitol Hill expert Bob Russell, Partner at the Simmons & Russell Group, to help break down the infrastructure bill, budget reconciliation, and the politics surrounding both.

]]> Congress returns from the August recess with an eye toward passing the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, which received overwhelming bipartisan support in August, and the more controversial $3.5 trillion budget. This week, Brad sits down with Capitol Hill expert Bob Russell, Partner at the Simmons & Russell Group, to help break down the infrastructure bill, budget reconciliation, and the politics surrounding both.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-9200610 Wed, 15 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0400 1012 1 32 full false Episode 31: Unpacking the State Policy Trends Shaping the Electric Power Industry Episode 31: Unpacking the State Policy Trends Shaping the Electric Power Industry From expanding cleaner energy resources to enhancing grid reliability, state policymakers are at the center of shaping how electricity is generated and delivered. Tim Fox, Vice President & Research Analyst at ClearView Energy Partners, sits down with Brad this week to walkthrough the different policy approaches red and blue states are implementing toward the electric power industry. 

]]> From expanding cleaner energy resources to enhancing grid reliability, state policymakers are at the center of shaping how electricity is generated and delivered. Tim Fox, Vice President & Research Analyst at ClearView Energy Partners, sits down with Brad this week to walkthrough the different policy approaches red and blue states are implementing toward the electric power industry. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8926001 Mon, 26 Jul 2021 16:00:00 -0400 1011 1 31 full false Episode 30: Lineworker Appreciation Episode 30: Lineworker Appreciation July 10 is Lineworker Appreciation Day. To celebrate the men and women who brave the elements in and around hazardous conditions to keep the power on, Brad sits down with three guests to discuss the training and day-to-day work that confront lineworkers and the ways the trade is evolving and diversifying. Joining Brad is a panel of experts on the trade:

  • Shannon Skinner – Foreman with NV Energy and President of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 396 in Las Vegas
  • Eppie Martinez – Leads training at the IBEW and is Executive Director of the National Utility Industry Training Fund
  • Missy Henriksen – Executive Director at Center for Energy Workforce Development

Lineworkers are essential to delivering energy to homes and businesses. We hope you will join us in thanking our nation’s lineworkers for their dedication to powering our lives each day by signing our petition here. 

]]> July 10 is Lineworker Appreciation Day. To celebrate the men and women who brave the elements in and around hazardous conditions to keep the power on, Brad sits down with three guests to discuss the training and day-to-day work that confront lineworkers and the ways the trade is evolving and diversifying. Joining Brad is a panel of experts on the trade:

  • Shannon Skinner – Foreman with NV Energy and President of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 396 in Las Vegas
  • Eppie Martinez – Leads training at the IBEW and is Executive Director of the National Utility Industry Training Fund
  • Missy Henriksen – Executive Director at Center for Energy Workforce Development

Lineworkers are essential to delivering energy to homes and businesses. We hope you will join us in thanking our nation’s lineworkers for their dedication to powering our lives each day by signing our petition here. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8841971 Sat, 10 Jul 2021 15:00:00 -0400 1528 1 30 full false Episode 29: Texas Winter Storm Outages Episode 29: Texas Winter Storm Outages On this week’s episode, The Current sat down for our very first interview on the social media platform Clubhouse to discuss the February winter storms that struck the South. Texas electricity consumers were particularly hit hard, with millions of Texans going without power in freezing temperatures for days. It could have been worse. The grid was just minutes away from being wiped out. The storm renewed focus on the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), and its failure to prepare for and respond to the disaster. Ed Hirs, Distinguished Professor of Economics at the University of Houston and a bona fide expert on energy markets, sits down with Brad to discuss what happened and how to prevent this disaster from happening again. 


]]> On this week’s episode, The Current sat down for our very first interview on the social media platform Clubhouse to discuss the February winter storms that struck the South. Texas electricity consumers were particularly hit hard, with millions of Texans going without power in freezing temperatures for days. It could have been worse. The grid was just minutes away from being wiped out. The storm renewed focus on the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), and its failure to prepare for and respond to the disaster. Ed Hirs, Distinguished Professor of Economics at the University of Houston and a bona fide expert on energy markets, sits down with Brad to discuss what happened and how to prevent this disaster from happening again. 


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8698942 Mon, 14 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400 1168 1 29 full false Episode 28: Colonial Pipeline and Cybersecurity Episode 28: Colonial Pipeline and Cybersecurity Cyberattacks are expanding and becoming ever more sophisticated, and the ransomware attack on Colonial Pipeline in May highlighted the scale to which these attacks can penetrate critical infrastructure and upend millions of Americans’ lives. Joining Brad this week to discuss the attack and what policymakers – and companies – need to be doing to prevent and respond to cyberthreats is former Texas congressman and cybersecurity expert Will Hurd.   

]]> Cyberattacks are expanding and becoming ever more sophisticated, and the ransomware attack on Colonial Pipeline in May highlighted the scale to which these attacks can penetrate critical infrastructure and upend millions of Americans’ lives. Joining Brad this week to discuss the attack and what policymakers – and companies – need to be doing to prevent and respond to cyberthreats is former Texas congressman and cybersecurity expert Will Hurd.   

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8678524 Thu, 10 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400 1218 1 28 full false Episode 27: Wildfire Mitigation and Prevention Episode 27: Wildfire Mitigation and Prevention In this special edition of The Current, Brad sits down with three guests to discuss the different ways that government agencies and electric power companies prepare for and respond to wildfires. Jessica Gardetto, Chief of the Office of External Affairs at the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), gives insights into the challenges of firefighting and how local and federal agencies coordinate with one-another. Then, two electric power industry experts join the conversation to discuss ways their companies address the threats from wildfires on their infrastructure and to customers: John Lee, Senior Director for Electric Distribution at Colorado-based Xcel Energy, and Jonathan Woldemariam, Director of Wildfire Mitigation and Vegetation Management at San Diego Gas and Electric. 

]]> In this special edition of The Current, Brad sits down with three guests to discuss the different ways that government agencies and electric power companies prepare for and respond to wildfires. Jessica Gardetto, Chief of the Office of External Affairs at the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), gives insights into the challenges of firefighting and how local and federal agencies coordinate with one-another. Then, two electric power industry experts join the conversation to discuss ways their companies address the threats from wildfires on their infrastructure and to customers: John Lee, Senior Director for Electric Distribution at Colorado-based Xcel Energy, and Jonathan Woldemariam, Director of Wildfire Mitigation and Vegetation Management at San Diego Gas and Electric. 

]]> Buzzsprout-8605128 Fri, 28 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400 2121 1 27 full false Episode 26: American Association of Blacks in Energy’s 2021 National Conference Episode 26: American Association of Blacks in Energy’s 2021 National Conference Brad sits down this week with Ralph Cleveland, Interim President and CEO of American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE), to discuss AABE’s policy focus and its upcoming national conference, taking place virtually on May 25-27. The theme of this year’s conference is “Connecting the Dots,” and speakers include an array of experts from business, academia, and politics to speak about emerging policies, technologies, and trends in the energy industry. Learn more and register for the conference here. 

]]> Brad sits down this week with Ralph Cleveland, Interim President and CEO of American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE), to discuss AABE’s policy focus and its upcoming national conference, taking place virtually on May 25-27. The theme of this year’s conference is “Connecting the Dots,” and speakers include an array of experts from business, academia, and politics to speak about emerging policies, technologies, and trends in the energy industry. Learn more and register for the conference here. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8558506 Thu, 20 May 2021 16:00:00 -0400 711 1 26 full false Episode 25: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Electric Power Industry Episode 25: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Electric Power Industry Todd Manuel, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Transformation at EEI, joins Brad to discuss what initiatives member companies are taking to strengthen diversity and inclusion in the ranks of the electric power industry, and how last summer’s racial justice events impacted the industry. 


]]> Todd Manuel, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Transformation at EEI, joins Brad to discuss what initiatives member companies are taking to strengthen diversity and inclusion in the ranks of the electric power industry, and how last summer’s racial justice events impacted the industry. 


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8460348 Tue, 04 May 2021 17:00:00 -0400 920 1 25 full false Episode 24: The Electric Power Industry & Telecommunications Episode 24: The Electric Power Industry & Telecommunications Bhavani Amirthalingam, Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Information Officer at Ameren Services, joins Brad to discuss the intersection between the electric power industry and telecommunications and what steps the industry is taking to boost access to broadband and the evolving smart grid. 


]]> Bhavani Amirthalingam, Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Information Officer at Ameren Services, joins Brad to discuss the intersection between the electric power industry and telecommunications and what steps the industry is taking to boost access to broadband and the evolving smart grid. 


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8210546 Thu, 25 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400 850 1 24 full false Episode 23: Policy Priorities with the Biden Administration and Congress Episode 23: Policy Priorities with the Biden Administration and Congress This week, Brad discusses the electric industry’s priorities with the new Congress and the Biden administration, particularly as they relate to clean energy. Joining Brad is Emily Fisher, General Counsel and Senior Vice President of Clean Energy at EEI, who will discuss the issues facing the larger industry. Sarah Venuto, Vice President of Public Policy at Duke Energy, will provide perspective on how Duke is looking at these issues and how her company is setting long-term plans for clean energy and grid investments – despite the constantly shifting policy priorities in Washington.


]]> This week, Brad discusses the electric industry’s priorities with the new Congress and the Biden administration, particularly as they relate to clean energy. Joining Brad is Emily Fisher, General Counsel and Senior Vice President of Clean Energy at EEI, who will discuss the issues facing the larger industry. Sarah Venuto, Vice President of Public Policy at Duke Energy, will provide perspective on how Duke is looking at these issues and how her company is setting long-term plans for clean energy and grid investments – despite the constantly shifting policy priorities in Washington.


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-8117405 Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:00:00 -0500 1084 1 23 full false Episode 22: EEI's Brian Wolff Episode 22: EEI's Brian Wolff This week, Brad sits down with Brian Wolff, Executive Vice President of Policy & External Affairs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), to discuss the top policy priorities the electric power industry is watching with the new Biden administration and Congress, including Covid relief, infrastructure, broadband, clean energy legislation and much more. 

]]> This week, Brad sits down with Brian Wolff, Executive Vice President of Policy & External Affairs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), to discuss the top policy priorities the electric power industry is watching with the new Biden administration and Congress, including Covid relief, infrastructure, broadband, clean energy legislation and much more. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-7797091 Wed, 10 Feb 2021 17:00:00 -0500 914 1 22 full false Episode 21: Wolfe Research's Steve Fleishman & EEI's Richard McMahon Episode 21: Wolfe Research's Steve Fleishman & EEI's Richard McMahon In our first episode of 2021, The Current dives deep into the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, a  framework that factors into which companies investors support. To talk about ESG, Brad is joined by Steve Fleishman, Managing Director and Senior Analyst at Wolfe Research, and Richard McMahon, Senior Vice President of Energy Supply and Finance at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI).

]]> In our first episode of 2021, The Current dives deep into the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, a  framework that factors into which companies investors support. To talk about ESG, Brad is joined by Steve Fleishman, Managing Director and Senior Analyst at Wolfe Research, and Richard McMahon, Senior Vice President of Energy Supply and Finance at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI).

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-7498987 Tue, 26 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0500 1049 1 21 full false Episode 20: K&L Gates's Sandra Safro Episode 20: K&L Gates's Sandra Safro This week, Brad sits down with Sandra Safro, Partner at K&L Gates LLP. Sandi recently launched a hydrogen practice at her firm, and she joins The Current to discuss hydrogen as a source of energy and how it’s transforming industries. 

]]> This week, Brad sits down with Sandra Safro, Partner at K&L Gates LLP. Sandi recently launched a hydrogen practice at her firm, and she joins The Current to discuss hydrogen as a source of energy and how it’s transforming industries. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-6785713 Thu, 10 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500 1045 1 20 full false Episode 19: EEI's Eric Grey Episode 19: EEI's Eric Grey This week, Brad is joined by Eric Grey, Managing Director of Government Relations at EEI, to discuss the 2020 elections and what impact divided government may have on the Biden administration and federal policy-making.

]]> This week, Brad is joined by Eric Grey, Managing Director of Government Relations at EEI, to discuss the 2020 elections and what impact divided government may have on the Biden administration and federal policy-making.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-6518173 Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:00:00 -0500 886 1 19 full false Episode 18: EEI's Lawrence Jones Episode 18: EEI's Lawrence Jones This week, Brad is joined by Lawrence Jones, Vice President of International Programs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), to discuss COVID-19’s global impact and how the electric industry is responding around the world.


]]> This week, Brad is joined by Lawrence Jones, Vice President of International Programs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), to discuss COVID-19’s global impact and how the electric industry is responding around the world.


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-6204025 Tue, 03 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0500 1069 1 18 full false Episode 17: National Urban League's Clint Odom Episode 17: National Urban League's Clint Odom This week, Brad sits down with Clint Odom, Senior Vice President for Policy and Advocacy at the National Urban League , to discuss issues related to social justice and race relations. Clint talks about what companies can – and should – be doing to promote dialogue on these issues and what role the electric industry and smart city policies have for bettering the lives of Black Americans and minorities.  


]]> This week, Brad sits down with Clint Odom, Senior Vice President for Policy and Advocacy at the National Urban League , to discuss issues related to social justice and race relations. Clint talks about what companies can – and should – be doing to promote dialogue on these issues and what role the electric industry and smart city policies have for bettering the lives of Black Americans and minorities.  


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-6029536 Fri, 23 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0400 1053 1 17 full false Episode 16: Rocky Mountain Power's James Campbell Episode 16: Rocky Mountain Power's James Campbell To help explain how electricity providers are expanding the use of electric vehicles, Brad is joined by James Campbell, Director of Innovation and Sustainability Policy at Rocky Mountain Power. Rocky Mountain Power and its partners are helping to make Utah an attractive place for EVs. James shares how his state can become a model as companies and policymakers in other states pursue expanding EVs.


]]> To help explain how electricity providers are expanding the use of electric vehicles, Brad is joined by James Campbell, Director of Innovation and Sustainability Policy at Rocky Mountain Power. Rocky Mountain Power and its partners are helping to make Utah an attractive place for EVs. James shares how his state can become a model as companies and policymakers in other states pursue expanding EVs.


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-5811628 Thu, 08 Oct 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1198 1 16 full false Episode 15: EEI's Phil Moeller Episode 15: EEI's Phil Moeller In August, an historic heatwave resulted in rolling blackouts that left hundreds of thousands of Californians without electricity. To help explain what happened and how we got to this point, Brad is joined by Philip D. Moeller, Executive Vice President of Business Operations Group and Regulatory Affairs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI).


]]> In August, an historic heatwave resulted in rolling blackouts that left hundreds of thousands of Californians without electricity. To help explain what happened and how we got to this point, Brad is joined by Philip D. Moeller, Executive Vice President of Business Operations Group and Regulatory Affairs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI).


]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-5469316 Wed, 16 Sep 2020 12:00:00 -0400 1050 1 15 full false Episode 14: Alabama Power's Houston Smith Episode 14: Alabama Power's Houston Smith Millions of Americans resorted to working and studying from their homes as COVID-19 shut down offices and schools. The dramatic shift underscored that many families still lack access to basic broadband services, leading to businesses struggling and students falling behind their peers. Brad speaks with Houston Smith, Vice President of Government Affairs at Alabama Power, to discuss the electric power industry’s role in expanding access to broadband services. 

]]> Millions of Americans resorted to working and studying from their homes as COVID-19 shut down offices and schools. The dramatic shift underscored that many families still lack access to basic broadband services, leading to businesses struggling and students falling behind their peers. Brad speaks with Houston Smith, Vice President of Government Affairs at Alabama Power, to discuss the electric power industry’s role in expanding access to broadband services. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-5262526 Wed, 02 Sep 2020 13:00:00 -0400 1011 1 14 full false Episode 13: IBEW's Donnie Colston Episode 13: IBEW's Donnie Colston This week, Brad speaks with Donnie Colston, Director of the Utilities Department at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Donnie discusses how IBEW members, including 250,000 utility workers, are operating safely during the pandemic and what support membership would like to see from Congress. 

]]> This week, Brad speaks with Donnie Colston, Director of the Utilities Department at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Donnie discusses how IBEW members, including 250,000 utility workers, are operating safely during the pandemic and what support membership would like to see from Congress. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4934771 Mon, 10 Aug 2020 11:00:00 -0400 1058 1 13 full false Episode 12: 50 State's Roshan Patel and Marie Sanderson Episode 12: 50 State's Roshan Patel and Marie Sanderson This week, Brad sits down with Roshan Patel and Marie Sanderson, Partners at 50 State, a bipartisan strategic government relations firm, to share their perspectives on how successful governors have been so far in responding to the coronavirus crisis and what challenges remain. 

]]> This week, Brad sits down with Roshan Patel and Marie Sanderson, Partners at 50 State, a bipartisan strategic government relations firm, to share their perspectives on how successful governors have been so far in responding to the coronavirus crisis and what challenges remain. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4596713 Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:00:00 -0400 1017 1 12 full false Episode 11: The Progressive Policy Institute’s Ben Ritz and Brendan McDermott Episode 11: The Progressive Policy Institute’s Ben Ritz and Brendan McDermott As state governments face the financial shock due to COVID-19, Brad digs into the tools available for federal and state policymakers to offset their budget shortfalls. He is joined this week by Ben Ritz, Director of the Progressive Policy Institute’s Center for Funding America's Future, and his colleague, Brendan McDermott, Fiscal Policy Analyst at the center, to discuss the fiscal challenges that states must tackle. 

]]> As state governments face the financial shock due to COVID-19, Brad digs into the tools available for federal and state policymakers to offset their budget shortfalls. He is joined this week by Ben Ritz, Director of the Progressive Policy Institute’s Center for Funding America's Future, and his colleague, Brendan McDermott, Fiscal Policy Analyst at the center, to discuss the fiscal challenges that states must tackle. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4504967 Wed, 08 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0400 1184 1 11 full false Episode 10: Ameren's Tara Oglesby Episode 10: Ameren's Tara Oglesby It’s been nearly four months since utility companies suspended disconnections and bolstered their customer support programs in response to COVID-19’s economic impact. This week, Brad speaks with Tara Oglesby, Vice President of Customer Experience for Ameren, to review how the St. Louis-based company serviced its customers’ evolving challenges and what lessons it is applying to its customer support model. 

]]> It’s been nearly four months since utility companies suspended disconnections and bolstered their customer support programs in response to COVID-19’s economic impact. This week, Brad speaks with Tara Oglesby, Vice President of Customer Experience for Ameren, to review how the St. Louis-based company serviced its customers’ evolving challenges and what lessons it is applying to its customer support model. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4392458 Wed, 01 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400 1142 1 10 full false Episode 9: EEI's Emily Sanford Fisher Episode 9: EEI's Emily Sanford Fisher This week, Brad speaks with Emily Sanford Fisher, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for EEI, about trends in emissions related to COVID-19 and efforts throughout the electric utility industry to reduce carbon emissions while keeping rates affordable for customers. 

]]> This week, Brad speaks with Emily Sanford Fisher, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for EEI, about trends in emissions related to COVID-19 and efforts throughout the electric utility industry to reduce carbon emissions while keeping rates affordable for customers. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4306538 Wed, 24 Jun 2020 16:00:00 -0400 1014 1 9 full false Episode 8: Wally Mealiea and Willie Wilson Episode 8: Wally Mealiea and Willie Wilson As electric utility companies across the U.S. brace for summer storms, hurricanes and other disaster events, Brad sits down this week to discuss the mutual assistance program and how companies offer one another resources during times of crises to get the power back on. Wally Mealiea, Director of Preparedness & Recovery Policy at EEI, and Willie Wilson, Vice President of Operations at Entergy Corp., discuss the mutual assistance program and how it was activated during the Easter Day storms that hit the South. 

]]> As electric utility companies across the U.S. brace for summer storms, hurricanes and other disaster events, Brad sits down this week to discuss the mutual assistance program and how companies offer one another resources during times of crises to get the power back on. Wally Mealiea, Director of Preparedness & Recovery Policy at EEI, and Willie Wilson, Vice President of Operations at Entergy Corp., discuss the mutual assistance program and how it was activated during the Easter Day storms that hit the South. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4214810 Wed, 17 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0400 1127 1 8 full false Episode 7: Adam Benshoff and Stan Wise Episode 7: Adam Benshoff and Stan Wise This week, Brad sits down with two guests to discuss what state commissions and the federal government are doing to address COVID-19. Adam Benshoff, Executive Director of Regulatory Affairs at EEI, and Stan Wise, former Georgia Public Service Commissioner, share their perspective on the shifting regulatory landscape and what to expect moving forward. 

]]> This week, Brad sits down with two guests to discuss what state commissions and the federal government are doing to address COVID-19. Adam Benshoff, Executive Director of Regulatory Affairs at EEI, and Stan Wise, former Georgia Public Service Commissioner, share their perspective on the shifting regulatory landscape and what to expect moving forward. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-4107470 Tue, 09 Jun 2020 16:00:00 -0400 1028 1 7 full false Episode 6: Bracewell's Scott Segal Episode 6: Bracewell's Scott Segal This week, Brad speaks with Scott Segal, Partner at Bracewell, LLP, where he leads their government relations and communications group. Brad and Scott discuss federal COVID-19 stimulus funding, how it impacts the utility industry and what additional actions we can expect from Congress in the upcoming months.

]]> This week, Brad speaks with Scott Segal, Partner at Bracewell, LLP, where he leads their government relations and communications group. Brad and Scott discuss federal COVID-19 stimulus funding, how it impacts the utility industry and what additional actions we can expect from Congress in the upcoming months.

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-3926618 Tue, 26 May 2020 17:00:00 -0400 1164 1 6 full false Episode 5: EEI's Richard McMahon Episode 5: EEI's Richard McMahon This week, Brad speaks with Richard McMahon, Senior Vice President of Energy Supply and Finance at EEI, to discuss COVID-19’s impact on customers, electricity usage and on states’ economies. Brad and Richard also discuss what lessons policymakers may take away from this crisis and how to prepare for the next. 

]]> This week, Brad speaks with Richard McMahon, Senior Vice President of Energy Supply and Finance at EEI, to discuss COVID-19’s impact on customers, electricity usage and on states’ economies. Brad and Richard also discuss what lessons policymakers may take away from this crisis and how to prepare for the next. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-3846626 Wed, 20 May 2020 13:00:00 -0400 823 1 5 full false Episode 4: NEUAC's Katrina Metzler Episode 4: NEUAC's Katrina Metzler This week, Brad speaks with Katrina Metzler, Executive Director at the National Energy Utility & Affordability Coalition, or NEUAC. Katrina discusses the importance of the Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and how state policymakers can help families struggling financially due to COVID-19.    

]]> This week, Brad speaks with Katrina Metzler, Executive Director at the National Energy Utility & Affordability Coalition, or NEUAC. Katrina discusses the importance of the Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and how state policymakers can help families struggling financially due to COVID-19.    

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-3734453 Tue, 12 May 2020 20:00:00 -0400 812 1 4 full false Episode 3: DTE's Nancy Moody Episode 3: DTE's Nancy Moody In this week’s episode, Brad talks with Nancy Moody, Vice President of Public Affairs at DTE Energy, to discuss DTE Energy’s partnership with Detroit public schools to bring internet and 51,000 laptops to students learning from home amid COVID-19 school closures. 

]]> In this week’s episode, Brad talks with Nancy Moody, Vice President of Public Affairs at DTE Energy, to discuss DTE Energy’s partnership with Detroit public schools to bring internet and 51,000 laptops to students learning from home amid COVID-19 school closures. 

]]> We Stand For Energy Buzzsprout-3652570 Wed, 06 May 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1271 1 3 full false Episode 2: Utilities United Against Scams' Monica Martinez Episode 2: Utilities United Against Scams' Monica Martinez In this episode Brad speaks with Monica Martinez of Utilities United Against Scams (www.utilitiesunited.org) about some of the fraudulent activities that citizens should be wary of particularly under the various shelter at home orders and how people can protect themselves and their loved ones.

]]> In this episode Brad speaks with Monica Martinez of Utilities United Against Scams (www.utilitiesunited.org) about some of the fraudulent activities that citizens should be wary of particularly under the various shelter at home orders and how people can protect themselves and their loved ones.

]]> Bill Buzzsprout-3453025 Tue, 21 Apr 2020 16:00:00 -0400 877 1 2 full false Episode 1: Scott Aaronson Episode 1: Scott Aaronson In the inaugural episode of ‘The Current’ our host, Brad Viator has a discussion with Scott Aaronson about what the electric industry is doing to respond to the COVID-19 crisis to ensure electricity is available as America moves to working at home. 

]]> In the inaugural episode of ‘The Current’ our host, Brad Viator has a discussion with Scott Aaronson about what the electric industry is doing to respond to the COVID-19 crisis to ensure electricity is available as America moves to working at home. 

]]> Bill Buzzsprout-3452953 Tue, 21 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 807 1 1 full false