Our team at Clean Energy Works attended the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Summer Policy Summit from July 14-17, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Bringing together experts, and stakeholders to discuss the current state of energy, policy recommendations, and projections and trends shaping the energy sector, we had the opportunity to share insights and learn from many industry leaders.
Topics of interest included:
Keep reading to dive into the valuable takeaways we brought back!
Interest in inclusive utility investments as a pathway to scaling the clean energy economy is growing
NARUC provided a collaborative environment to engage with PUCs and senior team members to discuss the environmental and economic benefits of clean energy. Inclusive utility investments as an equitable financial solution for energy efficiency and electrification upgrades were a major point of interest, including its role in grid modernization and resilience.
Using success stories, such as Duke Energy’s launch of inclusive utility investment program, our team emphasized the role of inclusive utility investments in achieving Earthshot’s home energy goals and EPA’s recognition of this model in its utility toolkit for utilities.
Consumer demand is driving the clean energy shift.
Consumer demand is increasingly driving the clean energy shift, as discussions around the scalability of distributed energy resources and virtual power plants highlight both the challenges and opportunities of integrating clean technologies into existing grids. As more consumers seek to adopt renewable energy solutions, the importance of customer education on energy programs becomes clear, ensuring that individuals understand and can access the benefits of these technologies.
Growing consumer demand not only supports the transition to a cleaner energy future but also emphasizes the need for equity, consumer protection, affordability, and job creation within the energy sector. By empowering consumers with knowledge and equitable access, we can accelerate the adoption of energy-efficient solutions and make clean energy more inclusive for all.
Data-driven programs and machine learning can offer bill payment support for customers.
At the “Crisis Management: How to Best Help Customers Who Struggle to Pay Their Bills” session, industry experts examined various approaches to assist customers with managing past-due bills and ongoing payments, from long-established programs like Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to newer data-driven solutions. As concerns that inclusive utility investments may lead to disconnections due to non-payment remain, it’s important to recognize how these investments can significantly reduce long-term energy burdens, ultimately decreasing the risk of shutoffs.
To further mitigate this risk, additional subsidies, such as bill payment assistance for energy-burdened households during the cost recovery period, are essential. One highlight, noted by our Senior Associate of Building Decarbonization, Kai Palmer-Dunning, was the role of machine learning tools like Opower, which help utilities connect with the right customer segments for tailored support.
The panel also underscored the importance of well-designed programs, emphasizing that poorly constructed initiatives can lead to unfavorable outcomes. Clean Energy Works advocates for expanded protections against disconnections and addressed these critical components at the NARUC conference, with equity and customer protections centered in our discussions.
The clean energy transition requires thoughtful planning and innovative solutions for equitable cost recovery.
In the session “Cost Recovery and the Clean Energy Transition,” panelists addressed the critical financial dimensions of transitioning to a clean energy economy. The discussion focused on equitable cost distribution and safeguarding low-income ratepayers amidst the rising demands for electrification and necessary distribution upgrades. As utilities grapple with how to recover and allocate the costs of these assets, important questions arose: Who bears the risk associated with the costs and reliability of this clean transition? How can we ensure that clean energy investments are future-proof? The panel also explored whether low-income rates could be a viable long-term solution and discussed strategies to protect vulnerable ratepayers from potential financial burdens.
Additionally, Curtis Wynn, CEO of SECO Energy, presented on the utility’s roadmap for clean energy and smart grid technology, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in maximizing equitable impacts. As utilities navigate these critical issues, Mr. Wynn emphasized that they must move beyond isolated efforts and engage in deep collaboration with communities. This approach fosters co-creation of solutions that reduce financial barriers and accelerate a just energy transition.
In the photo collage (from top left to right): Holmes Hummel & Curtis Wynn from SECO Energy; Camille Minns, Holmes Hummel & Tamara Jones; and Margarita Parra, Edward Klock-McCook and Ben Shapiro from RMI and Ryan Gallentine from Advance Energy United.
Strategic grid upgrades are needed to pave the way for the EV transition.
In the picture: Margarita Parra , CEW, Edward Klock-McCook and Ben Shapiro from RMI and Ryan Gallentine from Advance Energy United.
In the session “Preparing the Grid to Meet the EV Transition,” industry experts discussed the critical need for strategic grid infrastructure upgrades to support the growing demand for electric vehicles. With heavy-duty, zero-emission vehicle sales expected to account for up to 48% by 2030, utilities face the challenge of preparing for significant increases in electric load—some areas may require over 1,000 MWh per day, as noted by EPRI’s EVs2Scale Initiative.
The panel highlighted a major issue: while fleets can acquire electric vehicles within a year, grid upgrades necessary to charge them can take much longer, creating bottlenecks in the transition. Experts emphasized the importance of proactive grid upgrades to meet clean transportation goals, while also balancing the risks of overbuilding and managing costs for ratepayers. This discussion underscored the urgency of aligning grid investments with the rapid pace of vehicle electrification.
Continuing the conversation beyond NARUC
If you met one of our team members at the conference but didn’t get their contact information, we’d love to stay connected! Feel free to reach out using the contact details below.
We look forward to continuing the conversation!
NARUC’s Summer Policy Summit provided our Clean Energy Works team with valuable momentum and insights to drive both our current and future initiatives forward. The conference not only reinforced our commitment to advancing the clean energy economy but also provided us with new perspectives and strategies to drive the adoption of inclusive utility investments. We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with so many passionate professionals and experts. As we continue our work, we’re eager to incorporate the lessons learned and collaborations formed to amplify our impact.
Stay connected with us for more updates on how we can work together to provide clean energy to all.
Kai Palmer-Dunning, Senior Associate of Building Decarbonization
