In this episode of Know Power, Noha and Mike sit down with Christina Hayes, Executive Director for Americans for a Clean Energy Grid. They unravel the complexities of the energy grid, focusing on the evolution of transmission systems, the implications of recent policy changes, and the urgent need for a robust, high-capacity transmission infrastructure to meet the nation's energy demands. Christina shares her journey from her roots in Oregon to her pivotal role in shaping energy policy and infrastructure on a national scale.

Guest bio: Christina Hayes is the Executive Director of Americans for a Clean Energy Grid. She previously served as Vice President of Federal Regulatory Affairs at Berkshire Hathaway Energy, advising Midwestern and Western utilities in navigating FERC, NERC, and other federal agencies. Prior to joining BHE, Christina spent nearly a decade at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, serving as an attorney and advisor to Chairman Wellinghoff. A native Oregonian, Christina has also served as an administrative law judge at the Public Utility Commission of Oregon.

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[00:01:14] Christina Hayes’ background and career path

[00:02:08] Discussion on energy's universal impact

[00:03:31] Christina’s journey from Oregon to FERC and beyond

[00:04:59] Early career influences and legislative work

[00:06:55] The effect of Order 888 and Order 1000 on transmission development

[00:12:15] The need for adaptation and ongoing adjustments in energy policy

[00:13:57] Emerging needs and the inevitable investment in transmission

[00:20:57] FERC's efforts in improving state-level coordination for transmission projects

[00:26:15] State policies and their impact on energy planning

[00:28:09] Interregional coordination and the concept of "Big Wires"

[00:36:08] The economic impact of transmission systems

[00:42:47] Challenges and solutions in planning, permitting, and paying for transmission

[00:47:58] Tax credits and incentives for transmission development

[00:55:26] Transmission infrastructure and future planning

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In this episode of Know Power, Noha and Mike speak with Pat Wood, a pivotal figure in transforming energy markets through regulatory innovation. With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Wood brings a unique perspective on energy policy, market design, and the balance between regulation and innovation. Caitlin Smith, representing Jupiter Power, joins as a co-host, contributing insights from the renewable energy sector.

Guest bio:

Pat Wood III is the past Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). The son of a small businessman, Pat has been a forceful advocate throughout his career for robust infrastructure and for customer-centered, technology-unleashing competition.

Today, as CEO of the Hunt Energy Network, Pat and his team are shaping the dependable, decarbonized, democratized, decentralized, diverse and digitalized future of the power grid. By the end of 2028, the team expects to have an 1100 MW portfolio of distributed batteries and peaking generation assets attached to the Texas power grid.

Pat has served as a director of a number of public energy companies: independent power producer Dynegy (Board chairman); solar pioneer SunPower (lead independent director), modular nuclear generation (NuScale) sponsor Spring Valley Acquisition Corp., natural gas producer Memorial Resource Development, and infrastructure contractor Quanta Services. Pat is chairman of the board of Luma Energy, overseeing the Quanta-ATCO joint venture to rebuild and operate the Puerto Rico utility system.

Pat holds a B.S. degree (civil engineering) from Texas A&M University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He, and his wife, Kathleen, are raising four sons, and there is never a dull moment.

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[00:02:05] Pat Wood's origins in the energy sector, from Port Arthur to FERC

[00:03:27] Transitioning gas utilities to competitive markets, drawing parallels to electricity

[00:04:30] Market design and the unfinished business of standardization

[00:06:16] The complexity of implementing a standard market design across diverse regions

[00:07:31] Efforts in renewable energy integration and the role of competitive markets

[00:10:05] The dynamic interplay between state and federal energy regulations

[00:18:32] Discussion on grid constraints and integrating new generation resources

[00:22:43] The potential of demand response and distributed energy resources in grid management

[00:27:41] Future outlook on infrastructure development and renewable energy support

[00:34:18] The socio-economic impacts of energy policy and infrastructure development

[00:38:05] Examining successful renewable energy projects and key takeaways

[00:42:22] Technological advancements and their implications for energy storage and distribution

[00:45:37] Strategies for enhancing grid reliability in the face of growing energy demands

[00:49:08] Global energy trends influencing domestic energy policies

[00:53:17] The importance of consumer education in energy conservation and choice

[01:02:09] Energy innovation and the collaborative effort towards a sustainable energy future

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In today's episode, we're joined by a seasoned expert, David Applebaum of The Hawthorne Group. We will unpack the challenges of implementing renewable projects and the political campaigns that sometimes need to accompany them. David will share why developers must adopt a campaign-style approach to successfully engage with various communities and stakeholders, especially amidst the diverse local regulations and concerns. We’ll touch on the power of traditional outreach methods, such as town meetings and door knocking, and new-school strategies, like social media, to engage communities effectively. Michael will explore renewables' real impacts on local economies and landscapes, acknowledging the concerns and emphasizing the benefits. At the same time, Noha will highlight developers' crucial role in respecting and engaging with communities to foster project success.

Guest bio: David has nearly four decades of experience as a political and policy strategist with deep experience in state and local issues management in the public and private sectors and working with Regional Transmission Organizations in the Northeastern U.S. and Canada. In the private sector, David was Director of Business Development for Ballard Generation Systems, a subsidiary of Vancouver-based fuel cell developer Ballard Power Systems; Vice President for Government and Community Relations for New York-based independent power company Sithe Energies, Inc.; and most recently retired as Senior Director of Regulatory & Political Affairs at NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, the world’s leading producer of electricity from the wind and sun and a world leader in energy storage. During his 22-year tenure with both NextEra Energy Resources and Sithe Energies, David was responsible for managing legislative, regulatory, and community matters at the state and local levels, as well as representing the companies at the Regional Transmission Organizations covering New York, PJM, New England and Ontario.

[00:02:32] Community-level power project strategies

[00:06:55] Renewable energy development and community engagement progress

[00:10:40] Successful engagement strategies for renewable energy developers in rural communities

[00:19:25] Progress in renewable energy development in Southwest Power Pool regions

[00:24:18] Strategies for successful renewable energy project campaigning

[00:28:50] Challenges developers face with the power of new media tools

[00:32:44] The importance of upfront community analysis for renewable energy developers

[00:36:32] Tailoring renewable energy project strategies to community concerns

[00:40:33] The organic nature of opposition to renewable projects, not driven by big money

[00:49:19] Local considerations in renewable energy project development

[00:52:35] Lessons from fracking for renewable energy development

[00:56:59] Advocating for a campaign mindset in renewable energy development

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On this episode of Know Power, we sit down with Caitlin Smith, Vice President, Policy & Corporate Communications for Jupiter Power to unravel the mysteries of energy storage growth in the markets today.

Discover the implications of recent events like the Texas Freeze and gain insights into batteries on the grid, real-time data, market design, and the complex issue of contract revenues in the energy market. This episode is an exciting journey into technology, regulation, and the future trajectory of our grid.

In today’s episode we discuss ERCOT’s Independent Market Monitor (IMM). To clarify, Caitlin used to be the attorney at ERCOT’s IMM.

Guest bio: Caitlin Smith, Vice President of Policy and Corporate Communications for Jupiter Power, is an energy professional with thirteen years of experience in electricity market policy, regulatory and government affairs. For the last ten years, she has focused on electricity market design and has worked both as an advocate for policies that enhance competitive energy markets and as an advisor on the commercial and financial impacts of energy policy. In her current role, Caitlin has responsibility over Jupiter Power's policy positions related to the commercial operations of utility scale energy-storage in power markets throughout North America and leads the company’s corporate communications and public relations.

Caitlin has specific in-depth experience with the ERCOT market and was the first in-house counsel for the Independent Market Monitor to ERCOT. She is the current Vice Chair of ERCOT’s Technical Advisory Committee, the highest committee comprised of stakeholders, which makes recommendations to the ERCOT Board. She founded the Texas Energy Storage Coalition and is an active advocate in front of the Texas Public Utility Commission and the Texas Legislature.

Caitlin is dedicated to promoting women in energy and policy and has been active in volunteering with the Gulf Coast Power Association’s EmPOWERing Women Program, with the Women of Renewable Energy and Sustainable Industries, and as a contributor to Pink Granite, a network and foundation that promotes women in policy and politics in Texas. Caitlin founded Jupiter Power’s Women’s Professional Development Initiative in 2022.

Caitlin holds a Bachelor of the Arts in Economics from the University of Texas, a Juris Doctor from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Laws in Environmental & Natural Resource Law and Policy from the University of Denver.

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[00:00:45] Overview of Caitlin’s background

[00:01:06] Caitlin's instrumental role in shaping Texas's energy market

[00:02:28] Jupiter Power's focus on utility-scale battery energy storage and their project pipeline

[00:03:21] Caitlin's career trajectory and her extensive experience in the energy sector

[00:09:16] ERCOT's energy-only market structure

[00:12:17] The rapid development and integration of battery storage technology in ERCOT

[00:14:36] Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on Jupiter Power and energy storage development

[00:17:36] Winter storm Yuri and its implications

[00:30:52] Regulatory and political fallout post-Yuri in Texas's energy market

[00:37:27] Texas's standalone energy model versus interconnection with neighboring grids

[00:46:41] Operational characteristics and challenges of modeling energy storage

[00:50:00] ERCOT's standalone model and the benefits and drawbacks of interconnection

[00:53:06] Predictions for the future of the energy market and grid evolution

[00:59:34] Significant events and developments in ERCOT since the initial recording

[01:16:02] The relationship between energy storage, market design, and regulatory frameworks

[01:30:03] Need for improved collaboration between state and...

On this episode of Know Power, we welcome Abe Silverman, our special guest. Abe delves into the world of energy and power, focusing on MISO, the largest US-integrated market ISO RTO, and its challenges with transmission constraints. We also explore the nascent offshore wind industry, the role of regional transmission organizations, and Abe's program for clean energy. Abe shares insights on New Jersey's offshore wind progress and the importance of efficient transmission planning. Join us as we discuss the significance of investing in the transmission system for decarbonization, reliability, and cost reduction, all while transcending political divisions. Don't miss this episode as we unravel the intricacies of transmission infrastructure and its role in the clean energy transition on Know Power!

Guest bio: Abe Silverman is a clean energy advocate who believes that achieving clean energy goals is not solely dependent on technological innovations. With a focus on the period between now and 2030, Abe has been working on identifying the non-technical aspects of the clean energy transition that can accelerate progress. Instead of relying on new technologies, Abe emphasizes the importance of deploying existing solutions on a large scale. In his new program, he aims to prioritize short-term goals that do not require major breakthroughs and pave the way toward a cleaner energy future.

He joined the Center as the Director of the Non-Technical Barriers to the Clean Energy Transition initiative. The Non-Technical Barriers initiative is designed to identify major legal and regulatory bottlenecks to the clean energy transition and then provide state and federal policy makers pragmatic solutions to address those challenges. Major focus areas include Legal and Regulatory Barriers at the state and federal level, Market Rules and Economic Incentives, and Social Acceptance & Just Deployment of Infrastructure. Before joining the Center, Abe served at the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities as the General Counsel and Executive Policy Counsel. Abe’s portfolio included developing offshore wind, solar, electric vehicle, energy storage, and interconnection reform programs, along with quantifying and managing ratepayer impacts of the clean energy transition. Abe also led the State’s engagement with PJM Interconnection, the regional grid operator for New Jersey, on topics such as implementing New Jersey’s first-in-the-nation offshore wind transmission solicitation, resource adequacy, clean energy market design, and transmission policy.

[00:02:09] Overview of Abe’s professional background

[00:10:12] Policies and regulations delaying the transition to clean energy

[00:12:15] Siding, transmission, and affordability for clean energy transition

[00:19:19] Offshore wind industry in early stages. Value beyond cost is considered for success

[00:27:34] Offshore wind has been around for a while. Learn from past experiences to overcome barriers. New Jersey is building offshore wind infrastructure

[00:33:48] Clean energy transmission is caught up in political debates in the US. More transmission leads to a reliable grid and lower prices. Investing in clean energy promotes energy independence

[00:38:05] MISO is a large market for energy

[00:44:10] Reliability is important; ERCOT lacks transfer capability

[00:49:24] Electric industry must prioritize justice in infrastructure implementation.

[00:59:24] Efficient ways to achieve social and environmental goals

[01:01:04] Regulators balance markets and political considerations

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In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us, JC Kneale, who is here to discuss traditional clearing models and the role of a clearing house. Not only does JC bring a wealth of knowledge on this topic, but he also owns and operates multiple clearing houses themselves. Get ready to learn about the key players in traditional clearing models and how they facilitate transactions between individuals and companies. JC will also shed light on the changing dynamics of the solar power industry, including the challenges of generating power at night. We'll also explore the exciting developments in the global gas market and its impact on energy trading.

Guest bio: JC Kneale is a visionary entrepreneur who revolutionized the energy market in the late 90s. With a background in building power plants, JC recognized the need for transparent prices and timely information in the industry. He took it upon himself to digitize and democratize the market, making prices accessible to as many people as possible. Starting from scratch, JC initially funded the project himself, managing the operation from his checkbook. Beta versions were rolled out to selected US electricity and natural gas customers as the project gained momentum. The overwhelmingly positive response led to exponential growth for the business. With the launch taking place in March, JC and his small team quickly expanded their customer base and established a prominent presence in the market. JC's forward-thinking approach and dedication to transparency have forever transformed the energy industry, earning him a reputation as an influential figure.

[00:01:33] How Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) evolved from power trading to globally running futures and equities markets

[00:09:06] Intercontinental Exchange acts as a neutral platform, facilitating secure transactions between buyers and sellers through clearing houses

[00:12:50] ICE provides a transparent trading platform, vetted by clearing members, ensuring all parties are financially secure

[00:15:51] How ICE and ISOs operate symbiotically, each providing unique services that foster market confidence and efficiency in energy trading

[00:21:01] Why energy transitions demand market adaptation for changing investment needs and risk management

[00:24:57] Why Balancing renewables and traditional sources is critical for investor confidence and market stability

[00:30:59] How futures markets like ICE extend investment horizons

[00:40:22] Efficiency and transparency in energy markets are becoming more international, affecting both gas and electricity prices

[00:48:10] ICE's future is customer-driven, with potential expansion into environmental products and freight

[00:57:12] If JC could wave a magic wand to remove one challenge, what would that challenge be

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On this episode of Know Power, Rob Gramlich discusses various aspects related to the renewable energy sector. He points out that residential rates in the Southeast are higher in four or five key states, and the idea that everything is working fine outside the RTOs is not true. Despite the Standard Market Design not working due to politics and lobbying, FERC nominees who would mandate RTOs are not favored by the Senate Energy Committee. Rob also emphasizes the need for a step-by-step approach towards a voluntary RTO development approach, citing SPP's successful model of operating the system and receiving 90% of their energy from renewables. The podcast highlights the importance of understanding rate pancaking in transitioning to cleaner, renewable resources, and the integration of utilities under a single RTO umbrella to create a more efficient pathway for moving power around the grid. He also discusses the potential for transmission infrastructure in different regions, both centralized and regional, and the need for renewables to support increased demands in load. The episode concludes with policymakers and Congress needing to encourage interregional transmission planning, which is a great investment with huge savings, and the idea of minimum transmission transfer being discussed by the President's negotiators.

Guest bio: Rob Gramlich is President of Grid Strategies LLC, a Washington DC-based consultancy focused on transmission and power markets for a reliable, affordable, and sustainable power system. He co-founded Americans for a Clean Energy Grid, Working for Advanced Transmission Technologies (WATT Coalition), Advancing Modern Powerlines, the Macro Grid Initiative, and the Future Power Markets Forum. Rob has been invited to testify by both parties before Congress, FERC, and state agencies. He has earned awards from FERC as Exemplar of Public Service, the Energy Systems Integration Group for contributions to market design and transmission planning, The Hill Magazine for lobbying, and the American Wind Energy Association for Technical Achievement.

Rob previously oversaw transmission and power market policy for the American Wind Energy Association as SVP and Interim CEO, served as Economic Advisor to FERC Chairman Pat Wood III, and was Senior Economist at PJM Interconnection.

Rob has a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree from UC Berkeley and a BA with Honors in Economics from Colby College.

[00:02:49] Joining FERC in 1995, Rob played a role in restructuring the energy industry

[00:04:18] FERC embraced market-oriented policy, nationalized by Energy Policy Act, standardized electricity markets

[00:06:01] Markets have changed a lot in 20 years, but some regions are still behind

[00:10:07] Slow progress in Southeast, faster in West

[00:11:50] Renewables driving regionalization through RTO proposals

[00:18:31] California ISO proposes enhanced day ahead market (Edam), SPP offers Markets Plus

[00:22:54] Slow RTO development, step by step approach.

[00:26:02] RTOs enable efficient power transfer, cost savings, and enhanced reliability

[00:29:44] Inter-regional transmission crucial for power reliability

[00:33:34] Transmission investment is crucial for a modern and robust grid, but funding remains a challenge

[00:37:06] Gates' initiatives and the Inflation Reduction Act provide incentives for transmission and renewable technologies

[00:41:17] Advocating for choice in clean energy markets

[00:44:34] Promoting competition, clean energy, and regional planning for a more efficient system

[00:47:54] Regional markets will expand with transmission growth

[00:52:32] Closing thoughts

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Welcome back to Know Power, the podcast where we explore the latest developments and innovations in the world of renewable energy and power. In today's episode, we are diving into the fascinating world of energy storage solutions. Our guest, Robert Piconi, will take us on a journey through the clean energy transition, sharing insights on the deployment of renewable energy and the importance of power energy storage in countries like China. We'll uncover the role of gravity- and non-lithium-based technology in energy storage, and how companies like Energy Vault are spearheading the charge. Piconi will also shed light on the rapid growth of his company, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore the increasing interest in clean energy and ESG investments. Along the way, we'll discover the crucial role of green hydrogen in the clean energy transition, and how it's being utilized to power cities during planned or unplanned shutdowns. So buckle up and get ready to expand your knowledge on the power of energy storage, in this enlightening episode of Know Power.

Guest bio: Robert Piconi has had a fascinating journey in the energy industry. He began his career working for traditional and integrated oil companies, including the prominent Amaco before its merger with British Petroleum. Starting in the energy sector, Robert witnessed the mindset that prevailed at the time, with the belief that any problem could be solved as long as oil prices remained below $20 a barrel. However, his path took an unexpected turn, leading him back to the world of renewable energy. Throughout his career, Robert has seen the industry undergo significant changes. He experienced the transition from a heavily fossil fuel-centric approach to a growing emphasis on renewable sources. This shift sparked his interest, and he recognized the potential for renewable energy to make a lasting impact. Today, with oil prices soaring above $90 a barrel, Robert's decision to venture into the renewable energy sector has proved prescient. His unique journey highlights his adaptability and forward-thinking nature. He has exemplified the ability to navigate through evolving landscapes and find opportunities for growth. Robert's experiences in both traditional and renewable energy sectors have given him a well-rounded perspective, making him a valuable asset in today's ever-changing and environmentally conscious world. As the energy industry continues to evolve, Robert is dedicated to driving change and contributing to a sustainable future.

[00:02:11] Robert’s career evolution to date

[00:04:00] Urgency, economics, and sustainability

[00:06:38] The carbon footprint of concrete fabrication

[00:10:00] Struggles in light of COVID-19

[00:14:09] 10% incentive for serving energy communities, 45X advanced manufacturing production credit, green hydrogen project with PG&E.

[00:16:32] Innovations needed for power storage outside of lithium-ion

[00:20:15] Quick market growth, investor support, and industry shifts

[00:27:31] The state of R&D investment in new technology worldwide

[00:30:04] Importance of carbon capture technology and decarbonization efforts

[00:36:24] Global markets addressed with unique software-based technologies

[00:40:44] How leadership impacts employee experience & company culture

[00:42:56] An emphasis on inclusion and transparency

[00:48:36] Natural gas used for multi-day power storage

[00:50:52] Public utility approvals obtained for California project

[00:53:17] “Microgrids” as backup for military bases and data centers

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