Skip to main content
Power Plays

Power Plays

By CoBank

Welcome to Power Plays, a podcast series dedicated to the U.S. power and energy sector. Hosted by Teri Viswanath, lead energy economist with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange division, Power Plays connects you with top energy and environmental innovators, policy makers and rural electric cooperative executives for timely insights and in-depth market analysis.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Power Plays S1BT3: Kit Carson Electric–Solar and Storage to Achieve 100% Renewable Energy

Power PlaysOct 15, 2021

00:00
16:10
How NRECA’s Microgrid Consortium is Creating ‘Wired Resilience’

How NRECA’s Microgrid Consortium is Creating ‘Wired Resilience’

After demonstrating clean energy projects can succeed in rural areas, NRECA is putting more partnerships into practice. Its CARED project is creating a consortium of seven rural co-ops ops — including Minnesota Valley Electric — to deploy microgrids. In this episode of Power Plays, NRECA’s Tolu Omotoso explains how the DOE-funded project will create solutions hundreds of co-ops can scale and replicate.

Mar 27, 202421:41
Watt's Up with AI? The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Future Grid

Watt's Up with AI? The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Future Grid

Artificial intelligence is poised to revolutionize the power utility space, enhancing efficiency, reliability, and environmental impact. In this episode, power utility AI experts from NVIDIA, EPRI and Utilidata explore emerging opportunities, from predictive maintenance and optimized energy generation to boosting grid management and developing smart grids.

Feb 28, 202424:10
For Electric Utilities, 2024 Means Evaluating New Supply Strategies, Nimble Financing

For Electric Utilities, 2024 Means Evaluating New Supply Strategies, Nimble Financing

Climbing electricity demand is forcing utilities to make weighty investment decisions – at the same time interest rates and inflation have hit 50-year highs. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank thought leaders JT Parker, Matt Hale and Justin Merkowitz give their 2024 outlook, from balancing new demand to the changing nature of assets and new approaches to managing interest rate risk. 

Jan 31, 202422:56
How Did Energy Policy Become a Key Risk to Grid Reliability?

How Did Energy Policy Become a Key Risk to Grid Reliability?

Winter storms and cyber attacks are commonly thought of as the risks to electric reliability. But now joining that list is energy policy. In this episode of Power Plays, Jim Matheson, the CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, delves into how the aggressive timeline for EPA’s proposed rules to reduce power plant emissions threatens electric system reliability, especially for co-ops.  

Dec 13, 202322:16
What the Turning Point in Global Trade Means for Rural America

What the Turning Point in Global Trade Means for Rural America

The world is entering a new age of clean technology manufacturing, and global industrial strategies will pave the way for this evolution. Leading nations are retooling their industrial policies, reshaping supply chains to ensure national security while addressing a host of complex issues. In this episode of Power Plays, geopolitical strategist Reva Goujon of Rhodium Group explores how international policy changes could impact local rural economies. 

Nov 15, 202325:34
Rural Businesses Bet Big on the Emerging Data Economy

Rural Businesses Bet Big on the Emerging Data Economy

Data center energy demand is expected to double within the decade – and the convergence of rural telecom and energy industries are driving the data center economy. In honor of National Co-op Month, this episode of Power Plays outlines how Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative, the electric co-op serving the most data centers in the U.S., is meeting the challenge. Join us for an in-depth conversation with Jeff Johnston, CoBank’s lead communications economist, and Dave Schleicher, president and CEO of NOVEC.

Oct 25, 202323:15
A Three-Part Solution to U.S. Transmission Challenges

A Three-Part Solution to U.S. Transmission Challenges

To meet growing demand for zero-carbon electricity and deliver it to far-flung customers, the U.S. will need up to 91,000 miles of new transmission by 2035. Last year, the U.S. completed about 700 miles. In this episode of Power Plays, grid energy experts say that ensuring local communities have reliable electricity means it’s time to consider all options—including grid enhancement technologies, customer-side distributed energy resources, and existing right of ways. 

Sep 27, 202326:13
 When Natural Disasters Strike

When Natural Disasters Strike

Every day, staggering natural disasters are hitting the news – and electric utilities. Hurricanes and wildfires are taking an especially tough toll. In this episode of Power Plays, Mark Phillips of DEMCO in Louisiana and Pam Feuerstein of CORE Electric in Colorado share the details of planning for the unthinkable, and their respective co-ops’ recoveries from Hurricane Ida and the Hayman fire.

Aug 23, 202324:53
A Conversation With Neil Chatterjee About U.S. Energy Regulation

A Conversation With Neil Chatterjee About U.S. Energy Regulation

Neil Chatterjee’s five-year journey with the powerful Federal Energy Regulatory Commission was punctuated by periods of high drama — from his meteoric rise to lead the agency to his surprise demotion. In this episode of Power Plays, the former FERC chair reflects on his ground-breaking policy moves and why he’s optimistic about energy jobs in rural areas. He also addresses the recent role of politics, arguing that it might be time to “make energy policy boring again.”

Jul 26, 202320:21
How Co-ops Can Get Ahead of Cyber Attacks and Other Threats

How Co-ops Can Get Ahead of Cyber Attacks and Other Threats

Ransomware and physical attacks have become an unfortunate reality for electric utilities. While co-ops can’t prevent bad actors, they can prepare with agile threat prevention and containment. Hear first-hand accounts and lessons learned from Les Moreland, the CEO for Wiregrass Electric Co-op, and Amadou Fall, the COO at North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation, as they walk through their systems’ responses to recent attacks.

Jun 28, 202324:47
The Trouble with Transformers and Other Tales of Supply Chain Woes

The Trouble with Transformers and Other Tales of Supply Chain Woes

Transformers of all types are now harder for utilities to source, delaying everything from infrastructure for electric vehicles to building new homes. In response, buyers and sellers are both changing the way they do business. Hear more from buyer Peter Muhoro of Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, the nation’s third largest electric co-op, and seller Tim Mills, the president and CEO of ERMCO, a transformer manufacturer.

May 24, 202320:31
The Role of Partnerships in Accelerating Rural Broadband

The Role of Partnerships in Accelerating Rural Broadband

COVID‐19 intensified rural areas’ challenges that come with the lack of internet access. So when electric co-op members spoke up, management teams listened. How did they accelerate access? Two neighboring Georgia electric co-ops found solutions as unique as their communities: Tri-County EMC became its own internet service provider; Central Georgia EMC contracted a company to operate its fiber network and deliver broadband service. Their CEOs explain why these were the right choices for their co-ops.

Apr 26, 202318:34
How Member Voices Guided Their Electric Co-ops’ Investments

How Member Voices Guided Their Electric Co-ops’ Investments

From becoming a trusted energy advisor on EVs in Tennessee, to evolving from energy provider to partner in Arizona, to blazing the broadband trail in Arkansas, electric co-ops are leading in very innovative ways, leaving no one behind. Recorded on the exhibit hall floor of NRECA’s TechAdvantage conference in Nashville, three electric co-ops describe how hearing their members’ experiences put the co-ops on new paths.

Mar 29, 202324:16
Why Electrification Matters: Florida Co-op Linemen Change Lives in Guatemala

Why Electrification Matters: Florida Co-op Linemen Change Lives in Guatemala

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of NRECA International, this episode of Power Plays features Florida co-op employees who helped the program to electrify a small village in Guatemala. Steve Rhodes, CEO from CHELCO, outlines the project’s origins and stunning logistics. Jason Price with CHELCO and David Lambert with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative Inc. describe how they managed volcanic rock, rudimentary tools and a language barrier to complete a life-changing mission.

Feb 22, 202327:21
Nuclear Power 2.0: Is a Renaissance on the Horizon?

Nuclear Power 2.0: Is a Renaissance on the Horizon?

An evolving energy landscape and significant federal incentives are not only changing the economics of nuclear power, it’s radically changing how utilities look at investments to meet decarbonization targets. In this episode, Dairyland Power executives talk about their decision to add advanced nuclear technology to their energy portfolio. They are joined by experts from TerraPower and the Nuclear Energy Institute to explore the potential of smaller, modular reactors to deliver reliable, cost-effective energy. 

Jan 25, 202330:27
The Lithium Supply Crunch Doesn’t Have to Stall Battery Storage

The Lithium Supply Crunch Doesn’t Have to Stall Battery Storage

For our end-of-year podcast, we looked into the notable issues with the power equipment supply chain in a discussion with Exawatt’s CEO Simon Price and battery research scientists at the firm. While some warehousing challenges might ease in 2023, competition for battery materials will probably only intensify. Our interview explores long-term solutions such as efficient material use and recycling opportunities, and how storage technologies will likely evolve.

Dec 14, 202219:34
Rising Natural Gas Prices Prompt Utilities to Think Globally, Act Locally

Rising Natural Gas Prices Prompt Utilities to Think Globally, Act Locally

When Russia invaded Ukraine, Europe scrambled to line up U.S. LNG. Now gas exports are driving up fuel and electricity prices at home. Mark Finley, energy economist and Baker Institute fellow, and Charles Blanchard, author of “The Extraction State: A History of Natural Gas in America,” weigh in on this new era of globalization. Leaders at affiliated Texas utilities CoServ Gas and CoServ Electric, Charley Harrell and Gary Franzen, share their fuel hedging strategies. 

Nov 30, 202221:52
A Tribute to Co-ops: Leaders Weigh in on ESG Principles as Part of Their DNA

A Tribute to Co-ops: Leaders Weigh in on ESG Principles as Part of Their DNA

U.S. cooperatives have successfully run for more than a century by adhering to key principles and core values that stand the test of time. Now with ESG on the radar of consumers and investors, co-ops are well positioned to show how their fundamental values align with ESG philosophies. We catch up with the leaders of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative, Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative, GreenPoint Ag, and Blue Diamond Growers to hear about their ESG journey.

Oct 31, 202224:35
Money Matters — Financial Feasibility for Broadband Projects

Money Matters — Financial Feasibility for Broadband Projects

As many rural communities are looking to their electric co-ops to provide broadband, co-ops are scoping out what it means to enter, invest, and operate in this unfamiliar business. CoBank’s Tamra Reynolds and Doran Dennis talk due diligence and financial feasibility with Jeffrey Connor, the chief operating officer at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and hear what co-ops should know before becoming broadband providers. 

Sep 28, 202223:40
Back to School in an Electric Bus

Back to School in an Electric Bus

In the next five years, EPA’s new Clean School Bus program will give communities $5 billion to replace diesel school buses. CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds go to the head of the class with those already putting electric buses on the road: Albert Burleigh, executive director of EV sales at Blue Bird Corporation; Keith Dennis, president of the Beneficial Electrification League; and Chris Michalowski with Mountain Parks Electric in Colorado.

Aug 24, 202225:30
Don’t Be Afraid of Your Electricity Bill

Don’t Be Afraid of Your Electricity Bill

As electric co-ops balance affordability and reliability, how should they price electricity? CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds consider evolving rate design with respected author and renowned energy economist Dr. Ahmad Faruqui, and Allison Hamilton, director of rates and market design at NRECA. Then they follow with two co-ops’ very different but fascinating rate journeys, speaking with Mark Johnson, general manager of Flathead Electric Cooperative, Kalispell, Montana, and Ed VanHoose, president of Federated Energy Services Cooperative in Ohio.

Jul 27, 202228:50
Connected Smart Homes Coming Soon to an Electric Co-op Near You

Connected Smart Homes Coming Soon to an Electric Co-op Near You

Solar panels, backup generators, smart home devices: As more consumers adopt disruptive technology, what does it mean for electric co-ops? CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds explore the way forward as consumer technology upends the traditional relationship. Their guests include J.T. Thompson with Generac Grid Services, Nora Barr Hennings with Sunrun, and Jim Bagley, CEO of United Electric Cooperative in Missouri, who shares the win-win solutions he’s creating with his members. 

Jun 22, 202229:12
Connected and Committed: Meet the Partners Helping to Close the Rural Digital Divide

Connected and Committed: Meet the Partners Helping to Close the Rural Digital Divide

The spirit of the rural electrification movement of the 1930s is alive today as electric cooperatives leverage federal support to close rural America’s digital divide. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath, Tamra Reynolds and Doran Dennis showcase success stories from co-ops providing rural communities with reliable, affordable broadband access. Guests include Carl Meyerhoefer, senior vice president of business development at Conexon; Aaron Bennett, vice president of broadband development at NRTC; and Colin Wood, CEO of TWN Communications. Listen as they share the keys to effective broadband partnerships and multiple paths to a successful outcome. 

May 25, 202228:45
Power Plays S2E4: Planning for Tomorrow’s EV Adoption Begins Today

Power Plays S2E4: Planning for Tomorrow’s EV Adoption Begins Today

Around 15,000 fully electric or hybrid electric vehicles were traveling American roads in 2011; today that number exceeds 2 million and is accelerating rapidly. But is the U.S. power grid ready to meet the expanding charging needs? In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds are joined by a cast of experts to discuss the state of EV readiness in the U.S. Guests include Brian Sloboda of NRECA; Scott Hammond of Central Electric Power Cooperative and Peter Muhoro with Rappahannock Electric Cooperative. Listen to their discussion for insights from a variety of perspectives. 

Apr 27, 202222:26
Power Plays S2E3: Inside Ford’s Strategy to Lead America’s Shift to Electric Vehicles

Power Plays S2E3: Inside Ford’s Strategy to Lead America’s Shift to Electric Vehicles

Recorded in the CoBank booth at the NRECA Annual Conference, in this episode of Power Plays CoBank’s Teri Viswanath talks with Dave Hurst, energy services manager with Ford Motor Company. He reveals what the company has learned as it embraces the EV market. Plus, Dr. Gil Tal, director of the Electric Vehicle Research Center at UC Davis, unpacks the factors ahead for EV adoption – including manufacturers’ role to make or break the market.

Mar 30, 202227:11
Power Plays S2E2: Reimagining Route 66: Co-ops Collaborate with EV Charging to Reinvigorate Rural America

Power Plays S2E2: Reimagining Route 66: Co-ops Collaborate with EV Charging to Reinvigorate Rural America

The future of automobiles is clearly electric, and rural cooperatives across the U.S. are plugging in to ensure their communities are equipped with a robust EV charging infrastructure. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds visit with Nate Boettcher, CEO of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services in Wisconsin. Boettcher also serves as president of CHARGE EV, a coalition of nearly 70 co-ops that’s joined forces to build a thriving rural ecosystem for electric vehicle adoption. He explains why building regionally connected corridors will be critical for rural communities in the era of EVs. Plus, Brian Cavey, CoBank's senior vice president of government affairs, discusses the impact of two pieces of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that are critical to rural America—EV charging infrastructure and broadband access. 

Feb 23, 202225:23
Power Plays S2E1: When a Crypto Miner Comes to Town

Power Plays S2E1: When a Crypto Miner Comes to Town

Crypto currency mining operations are known as massive energy consumers. So how should electric utilities evaluate this new class of consumers when they ask for service? In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds interview an A-team of experts: journalist Jael Holzman with E&E News who covers crypto currency; former utility and power executive Steve Wright, who recently testified to Congress about the energy impact of crypto miners; and expert Elaine Johns, CEO of the technical consulting firm EnerVision, who shares how utilities can make a savvy strategic decision.

Feb 03, 202230:59
Power Plays S1E13: HVAC 2.0 – Home Comfort and Efficiency Isn’t Just Hot Air

Power Plays S1E13: HVAC 2.0 – Home Comfort and Efficiency Isn’t Just Hot Air

To keep a house comfortable and the temperature stable, the key is to trickle in the right amount of heating or cooling, instead of blasting it – like a shower instead of a bucket of water. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds speak with Nate Adams, author of The Home Comfort Book, co-founder of HVAC 2.0, and a partner of Energy Smart Home Performance. Learn how HVAC equipment has improved in recent years, and the important role that energy from surfaces plays in determining a home’s comfort.

Dec 15, 202126:11
Power Plays S1E12: Battery Storage Basics - What Co-ops Should Consider

Power Plays S1E12: Battery Storage Basics - What Co-ops Should Consider

A decade ago, many referred to grid-connected energy storage as a solution without a problem. Now we know it's the enabler of the grid of the future. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds speak with two battery storage industry leaders. Chris Wright, executive director of the energy storage practice for E3 Consulting, is a veteran battery storage developer. Dr. Peter Muhoro is chief strategy, technology and innovation officer at Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, the first co-op in Virginia to roll out a utility-scale battery. Listen for insights on how batteries are providing operators with flexibility and agility and what co-ops should consider before developing their own energy storage.

Nov 30, 202131:29
Power Plays S1E11: High Five to Top Five Co-op Innovations

Power Plays S1E11: High Five to Top Five Co-op Innovations

In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds celebrate National Co-op Month by sharing stories of innovation and resilience from five electric co-ops across the country. From keeping the heat on during the worst of a winter storm to providing internet service to customer-members in need, these stories will inspire.

Oct 28, 202127:33
Power Plays S1BT5: MidSouth Electric Co-op – Weathering a New Kind of Storm

Power Plays S1BT5: MidSouth Electric Co-op – Weathering a New Kind of Storm

MidSouth Electric Cooperative of Navasota, Texas experienced the worst of what winter storm Uri had to offer last February. But the co-op’s years of preparation and dedicated customer outreach minimized service disruptions. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Tamra Reynolds speaks with CEO Kerry Kelton to learn how the co-op’s efforts paid off when it mattered most.

Oct 22, 202121:47
Mohave Electric Co-op – The Power of Broadband Partnerships

Mohave Electric Co-op – The Power of Broadband Partnerships

Mohave Electric Cooperative listened to its members, and recently added broadband internet services through an innovative partnership with TWN Communications. In this bonus track of Power Plays, CoBank’s Tamra Reynolds speaks with Tyler Carlson, CEO of Mohave Electric, and Ami Rodriguez, VP of sales, marketing and business development at TWN Communications, to learn about why this strategic partnership approach provides the best result for Mohave co-op members.

Oct 19, 202112:05
Power Plays S1BT3: Kit Carson Electric–Solar and Storage to Achieve 100% Renewable Energy

Power Plays S1BT3: Kit Carson Electric–Solar and Storage to Achieve 100% Renewable Energy

Five years ago, Kit Carson Electric Cooperative launched a multifaceted member engagement initiative to determine what types of energy offerings and other services its communities were seeking. That engagement led the co-op to transform its business model to meet emerging member preferences including more renewable energy sources, broadband and electric vehicle charging. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Tamra Reynolds speaks with Luis Reyes, CEO of Kit Carson Electric, for insights on how the co-op has thrived during its transformative journey.

Oct 15, 202116:10
Power Plays S1BT2: Vermont Electric Co-op – Carbon Free by 2023

Power Plays S1BT2: Vermont Electric Co-op – Carbon Free by 2023

Vermont Electric Cooperative has committed to procuring a zero-carbon emission power supply by 2023. In this bonus track of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds speak with Rebecca Towne, CEO of Vermont Electric, to learn more about how the initiative fits within the co-op’s long-term strategy and how co-op members are embracing the transition to cleaner energy sources. Towne also talks about the opportunity for rural electric co-ops to help lead their communities through the clean energy transition. 

Oct 08, 202111:05
Power Plays S1BT1: Roanoke Electric Co-op – Unlocking value with vehicle-to-grid technology

Power Plays S1BT1: Roanoke Electric Co-op – Unlocking value with vehicle-to-grid technology

Roanoke Electric Cooperative is participating in a ground-breaking pilot program designed to test vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capability. The program brings together a diverse group of collaborators with a vested interest in the potential value of emerging V2G technology. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Tamra Reynolds speaks with Curtis Wynn, CEO of Roanoke Electric, to learn more about its role in the project and how it fits within the cooperative’s focus on developing programs that give members greater control of their energy costs. 

Oct 01, 202114:26
Power Plays S1E10: Powered with a Purpose – Trico Electric Embraces Solar Access for Members

Power Plays S1E10: Powered with a Purpose – Trico Electric Embraces Solar Access for Members

As more consumers produce and store electricity at home, the traditional relationship between electric cooperatives and their members is shifting. Trico Electric embraced the changing marketplace and is helping members on the solar adoption journey. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds talk with Trico Electric’s Eric Hawkins and Laree St. Onge to learn how a flexible outlook helped the co-op remain true to its member mission as it pivoted business operations.

Sep 22, 202122:37
Power Plays S1E9: Charge On - What Electric Co-ops Can Expect From Next-Gen Battery Storage

Power Plays S1E9: Charge On - What Electric Co-ops Can Expect From Next-Gen Battery Storage

Renewable energy’s success hinges not only on generation, but also on storage - so it’s available when we need it. That’s where batteries come in. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds are joined by Simon Price, CEO of Exawatt, to explore what’s ahead for both EV and stationary batteries. From the promise of sodium and iron as battery materials, to the difficulty of getting to the nexus of cost, performance and reliability, Price reveals what electric co-ops might expect from the next generation of battery storage.

Aug 25, 202119:46
Power Plays S1E8: How Clean Energy Development Can be Equitable for Rural Communities

Power Plays S1E8: How Clean Energy Development Can be Equitable for Rural Communities

Rural electric cooperatives have developed some of the largest and most advanced renewable energy projects in the country. To maintain that momentum, rural communities need to find strategies that ensure clean energy transition happens with them, not to them. In this episode, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds speak with two policy experts to understand how clean energy can be equitably developed for rural communities. Listen to their conversation with Dr. Gabriel Chan of the University of Minnesota and Dr. Keith Taylor from the University of California, Davis for insights.

Jul 28, 202125:33
Power Plays S1E7: Co-op EVolution: A Toolkit for Rural Electric Vehicle Adoption

Power Plays S1E7: Co-op EVolution: A Toolkit for Rural Electric Vehicle Adoption

Austin Energy built one of the most comprehensive and successful electric vehicle programs in the country. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds speak with Karl Popham, manager of electric vehicles and emerging technologies at Austin Energy. Popham spearheaded the utility’s EV program, which launched in 2011 and today includes 30 separate initiatives how to engage consumers. Popham provides valuable and rarely heard insights about what EV adoption means from a consumer engagement perspective and shares critical details on load and revenue opportunities.

Jun 30, 202125:42
Power Plays S1E6: Co-op EVolution: A Blueprint for Rural Electric Vehicle Adoption

Power Plays S1E6: Co-op EVolution: A Blueprint for Rural Electric Vehicle Adoption

Electric vehicle sales are on the rise in the U.S. and could make up 10% of all new car sales by 2025. From lower operating costs to more model options, rural consumers are seeing the upside of EV ownership. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath visits with two industry leaders to discuss the practical steps rural electric cooperatives might consider as they plan for a more expansive future with EVs. Listen to Teri’s discussion with Brian Sloboda, director of consumer services at NRECA, and Regi Goodale, director of regulatory affairs at Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives, for insights on strategic EV initiatives.

Jun 16, 202123:56
Power Plays S1E5: Texas and the State of Deregulation

Power Plays S1E5: Texas and the State of Deregulation

There is plenty of blame to go around for the Texas power outages this past winter. But what role, if any, did deregulation have? In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath and Tamra Reynolds visit with two leading policy experts for their insights: Dr. Michael E. Webber, chief science and technology officer at ENGIE and Josey Centennial Professor of Energy Resources at The University of Texas, and Paul Griffin, executive director of Energy Fairness and former senior government affairs advisor for Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association

May 25, 202123:48
Power Plays S1E4: What Will Drive the Next Decade of Cost Declines for Solar Power?

Power Plays S1E4: What Will Drive the Next Decade of Cost Declines for Solar Power?

Over the last decade, the solar industry has benefitted from the fastest pace of technology innovation and cost declines within the energy sector. Solar technology costs have dropped roughly 90%, fueling nearly ten-fold growth globally. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath takes a deep dive into solar technology innovation with Simon Price, CEO of UK-based Exawatt. Price is respected globally for his understanding of the PV value chain, from materials supply to downstream project development.

Apr 22, 202126:18
Power Plays S1E3: The Race Is On to Build the Biggest Batteries in Texas

Power Plays S1E3: The Race Is On to Build the Biggest Batteries in Texas

Battery storage developers have largely steered clear of the ERCOT market in recent years. Instead, they’ve focused on California and other places that offer long-term offtake agreements with utilities. But Texas offers benefits the wind industry has long appreciated: relatively easy land acquisition and permitting, and a market that batteries can enter without waiting for major policy changes. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath visits with Steve Vavrik, CEO of Broad Reach Power, an independent producer at the forefront of battery storage development in the Lone Star State.

Mar 23, 202123:28
Power Plays S1E2: The Next Big Thing: Grid-Tied Batteries

Power Plays S1E2: The Next Big Thing: Grid-Tied Batteries

Battery storage is entering the electricity scene at an extraordinary pace. The energy industry is looking closely at the technologies and economics of stand-alone storage options and renewable energy pairing opportunities. In this episode of Power Plays, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath visits with Dr. Gary Dorris, CEO of Ascend Analytics to examine four “S” factors critical to battery profitability: siting, sizing, stacking, and (bid) strategy. Then, Christian Powell, energy regulatory affairs director at Pedernales Electric Cooperative, joins the podcast to offer specific insights for electric cooperatives.

Feb 23, 202126:01
Power Plays S1E1: U.S. Companies Poised to Accelerate the Renewables Boom

Power Plays S1E1: U.S. Companies Poised to Accelerate the Renewables Boom

The United States continues to be the largest market for corporate driven renewable power purchase agreements. IHS Markit's most recent estimate anticipates the corporate sector will account for approximately 20% of its utility scale renewable additions in the U.S. in the next decade. In this inaugural episode of Power Plays recorded in December, CoBank’s Teri Viswanath visits with Anna Shpitsberg, research and analysis director, IHS Markit, to understand what's motivating companies to voluntarily invest billions of dollars in new wind and solar projects.

Jan 25, 202122:00