S11 E7: Smells Like Money Podcast: Power Security - How Will You Keep the Lights On?

In this episode of the DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast, host Suzan Chin-Taylor sits down with Andy Zetlan, a veteran of the utility industry, to discuss the critical issues facing utilities as they move toward carbon neutrality. The conversation covers the impact of transitioning from fossil fuels to green energy sources, the potential reliability challenges utilities may face, and how wastewater plants and other facilities can prepare for upcoming changes. Andy provides practical advice on managing risk, including the importance of backup systems and micro-grids, and how utilities can plan ahead to maintain reliability as they meet government regulations.

Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Andy Zetlan

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Key Discussion Points:

Carbon Neutrality & Green Energy:

The shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro.
Challenges utilities face in balancing new power generation methods with increasing electricity consumption.

Reliability Issues:

Potential reliability concerns as power plants shut down and consumption grows, especially for high-consumption industries like wastewater management.

Backup Systems & Micro-Grids:

The importance of having reliable backup power systems, such as diesel generators, solar panels, or windmills.
Micro-grids as a solution to increase reliability and reduce dependency on local utilities.

Risk Management & Future Planning:

Assessing risk by analyzing utility reliability and planning for potential outages or rate increases.
Practical advice for integrating backup systems and reducing costs while transitioning to greener energy sources.

Conclusion:

In this enlightening episode, Andy Zetlan shared invaluable insights into the evolving utility landscape, emphasizing the need for proactive planning as we transition toward carbon neutrality. The conversation highlighted the potential challenges that wastewater plants and other high-consumption industries face, including reliability issues and rising costs. Andy’s practical advice on leveraging backup systems, exploring micro-grids, and conducting thorough risk assessments offers listeners clear steps to future-proof their operations. As utilities shift away from fossil fuels, the importance of innovation and early preparation cannot be overstated. Planning now can save time, money, and resources in the long run, ensuring stability in a rapidly changing energy environment.

Contact Information:

Connect with Andy Zetlan

Email: zetland@yahoo.com

Phone: +1 (408) 391-3851

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andyzetlan

Final Thoughts:

As the push for carbon neutrality accelerates, utilities and wastewater plants must take proactive steps to ensure their operations remain reliable and cost-efficient. Andy Zetlan’s insights remind us that while the shift away from fossil fuels is inevitable, it brings with it challenges that can be mitigated through careful planning, investment in backup systems, and exploration of new technologies like micro-grids. By starting now, organizations can avoid being caught off-guard and stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that they continue to serve their communities effectively while adapting to the new energy landscape. Preparing for the future is not just about compliance; it’s about securing long-term stability and resilience in a changing world.

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I hope you find this episode as informative and as exciting as we have.

Please let us know your thoughts about the episode!

Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:

Website: www.creativeraven.com | https://thetuitgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/creativeraven/

Email: raven@creativeraven.com

Telephone: +1 760-217-8010

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