Leaders of the Emerging Energy Markets Analysis, Todd Allen of University of Michigan and Steven Aumeier of Idaho National Laboratory, Join the Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast

Bringing the energy industry into the future cannot be done in a siloed approach, but rather requires a complex, systematic coordination with stakeholders across the sector. And doing so also requires a more forward-looking lens than ever before, rather than tackling problems simply as they arise. As such, this illuminating episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast dives deep into the future of energy markets with two eminent guests from different corners of the energy landscape: Steven Aumeier, Senior Advisor of Strategic Programs at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), and Todd Allen, Chair of University of Michigan’s Nuclear Engineering Department.

The crux of their conversation? The ground-breaking Emerging Energy Markets Analysis (EMA) initiative, an envelope-pushing innovation they've collaborated on. EMA uniquely merges insights from diverse disciplines—engineering, economics, cultural studies, and more—to provide a comprehensive look at the energy markets of the future. As TOdd notes in this conversation:

"Energy makes our lives better. And we always want it to be cleaner, more affordable. We want it to be resilient/reliable. We want it on when we want it. If it goes away accidentally, we want it to come back right away. I think in the last few years we've started to talk more about equity, and how we distribute the benefits and the costs of using energy. I think part of the reason why it seems very important right now are climate, and the need to move to zero carbon systems. If you look at the history of using energy, we always have moved towards lower carbon systems. If you're transitioning from like whale blubber to wood, to coal to gas, to renewables, to nuclear, that's our general trend trajectory. But I think at the moment the science is making it clear that we need to figure out how to make that happen faster. So I think that's one, and in a lot of cases I think that's brought people back into the conversation around nuclear energy that may have dismissed it 40 years ago. I think energy security is the other. I think the Russian invasion of Ukraine has made this very visible for people, especially in Europe. But I think being able to control your own destiny is very important."

This entry into the podcasts, like all of the series episodes, can be found on all major podcast outlets, including iTunes and Spotify, or it can be listened to directly on the Energy Central platform (where we also feature a written transcription if you'd prefer to read). Give it a listen and share your reaction in the comments.

Episode #139: Guiding Utilities of the Future via Energy Market Analysis with Todd Allen, University of Michigan, and Steven Aumeier, Idaho National Laboratory [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast]

About Energy Central Podcast Series:

The 'Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast' Series features conversations with thought leaders in the utility sector. At least twice monthly, we'll connect with a Power Industry Leader to discuss compelling topics that impact utility professionals. Some podcasts may be a continuation of thought-provoking posts or discussions started in the community by an Energy Central Community Member. Others may be with an industry leader interested in sharing their expertise and doing a deeper dive into hot topics or issues relevant to the industry.

If you want to be a guest on a future episode of the Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast, let us know! We'll be pulling guests from our community members who submit engaging content that gets our community talking, and perhaps that next guest will be you! Likewise, if you see an article submitted by a fellow Energy Central community member that you'd like to hear about in more detail, feel free to send us a note to nominate them. To contact us, email community@energycentral.com. Podcast interviews are free for Expert Members and professionals who work for a utility. We have package offers available for solution providers and vendors.

About Energy Central:

Energy Central is a community platform for electric power industry professionals to share, learn and connect in a collaborative environment. Supported by leading industry organizations, our mission is to help industry professionals connect and advance knowledge sharing for the benefit of the industry. We help the industry work better. Join the Energy Central Community today and be part of a growing community of over 200,000 registered members.

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