Only through cooperation can we achieve net zero

Summary

Every day we are reminded that power supply in the United States and elsewhere is increasingly disrupted by adverse weather events. The race is on to improve grid stability and innovate. Experts are still trying to process the recent impact of Hurricane Beryl, which caused tragic loss of life, significant building damage and widespread power outages.


Disasters like this underline the urgent need for the energy and utility industries to plan for a sustainable, reliable and efficient energy supply for the future.


Industry leaders and state energy officials are working together to explore how technology can help solve some of the industry’s most pressing challenges.

Four ways to think about innovation in the energy sector

From what I’ve learned at industry events and from conversations with customers, colleagues and partners, it’s clear that power generators, distributors and transmission service providers are rethinking their approach to innovation. Here are some examples:

Technological innovation: There are three technology-driven innovations in particular that are driving progress: data-driven decision-making, AI and machine learning in grid management, and the breaking down of silos between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT). This means that modern utilities can anticipate peak demand, integrate the growing number of renewable energy sources, and gain a holistic view of their operations, leading to better asset management, more efficient power distribution, and better forecasting.

Philosophical Innovation: We are witnessing a fundamental shift in the industry’s approach to its mission. Affordability cannot be sacrificed in the transition to a more sustainable electricity grid. This new philosophy pursues a path to net zero that is both environmentally sound and economically viable for all consumers.

Industrial Innovation: New operating models are challenging traditional utility structures. Utilities are adopting more flexible, resilient approaches, moving from centralized systems to more distributed, adaptable networks. This shift not only improves grid stability, but also opens up new opportunities for customer loyalty and value creation.

Joint innovation: We seek interdisciplinary solutions to address complex industry challenges by creating innovation ecosystems that involve utilities, technology providers, regulators and academia.

How partnerships can reshape innovation in the utilities industry

I am convinced that partnerships will play a paramount role in our success in the energy transition. Alliances of all shapes and sizes will help make our energy future sustainable, reliable and resilient.

Five examples of successful partnerships

1. Public-private partnerships (PPP): The challenges we face require collaboration between policymakers, regulators, producers and consumers. PPPs are also critical to address the complexity of integrating renewable energy sources, managing increasing demand for electric vehicles and data centers, and maintaining grid stability. By combining public sector guidance with private sector innovation, we can accelerate solutions.
2. Community and Tribes: The Tulalip Microgrid project is an example of how tribal partnerships can promote energy sovereignty and resilience. Steve Hinton, who represents the Tulalip Tribes in Washington, advocates for “small is beautiful” approaches and the need to pool change for the good of the community. This way, utilities can develop more comprehensive and effective solutions that respect cultural values ​​and address specific local challenges.
3. Scientific-industrial: These partnerships play a critical role in training the future workforce and driving innovation in the utility sector. For example, Washington State University’s Power Practicum program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry needs – including DER integration and meeting advanced forecasting requirements – using the university’s campus as a living laboratory.
4. Regulatory benefits: As the industry undergoes rapid change, regulatory frameworks must evolve to keep pace with technological advances and changing market dynamics. Collaborative efforts between regulators and utilities can lead to more effective policies that balance innovation with consumer protection and grid reliability. These partnerships are critical to creating a regulatory environment that encourages investment in grid modernization while ensuring fair and affordable access to energy for all consumers.
5. Technology industry: Rapid technological advancements are revolutionizing the utility sector. The importance of data for weather forecasting, power demand and asset availability is critical. Industry-specific technologies such as grid edge intelligence, microgrids, advanced distribution management systems (ADMS), outage management systems (OMS) and distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS) are critical to improving grid performance, reliability and resilience.

Only by working together can we achieve net zero

We are in the midst of a new era of problem-solving that is as interconnected and dynamic as the grid itself. Our ability to collaborate and share insights will be critical to how successfully we can shape a next-generation future for utilities. Partnerships paired with innovation are how we can achieve a decarbonized future.

---

---