“We approved an Xcel Energy pilot project to test a geographic-based approach that targets areas of concentrated poverty. A third party will evaluate the pilot results to understand the efficacy and trade-offs.”

“When I became the Chair, I intentionally directed resources toward public communications and engagement with the legislature to help explain the value of our decisions and our agency.”

The PUC opened its doors to PUF, and Commissioners and Staff took time from their busy schedules to discuss priorities, including affordability, electric-gas coordination, transmission, permitting, and more. Enjoy these conversations with Minnesota Chair Katie Sieben, Vice-Chair Joseph Sullivan, Commissioner Audrey Partridge, Commissioner Hwikwon Ham, and Commissioner John Tuma. Plus, the all-important PUC Staff.

Energy is often measured in megawatts, miles of line, and capital investment. But at its core, it is still about people making thoughtful decisions on behalf of the communities they serve. This month’s issue is filled with examples of exactly that.

“APS’s VPP journey reflects a broader industry shift. VPPs are no longer just an idea. They are an essential component of the modern grid.”

“Today, much of the AI progress made within the nuclear sector is driven by applied research underway at EPRI. AI projects are being developed and tested in collaboration with EPRI and nuclear operators worldwide.”

One of the things I value most about SEPA is that our membership reflects the full complexity of the energy sector itself. SEPA operates differently because the challenges facing the sector no longer fit neatly within traditional boundaries.

Chicago was the place to be this May as the industry took over McCormick Place for the 2026 IEEE PES T&D Conference & Exposition. This show is where the global energy community gathers to discuss the practicalities of modernizing the grid.

“As early as the Jamestown, Virginia, settlement in 1607, drinking water was of paramount concern to our English ancestors. However, the only water considered in that site’s selection was a deep-water anchorage and not its drinking water source.”