This article appeared in Western Energy Institute’s magazine, Fall 2019 issue. The piece describes much of what is discussed in the Pathways section of this site. It describes how utilities can deliver on a low-carbon vision at a sustainable cost, while maintaining reliability in the face of extreme weather conditions. A fact-based, holistic approach that considers …
Let’s talk rationally about a greener energy future Read More »
In 2018, a yearlong collaboration process managed by DEFG LLC and the Low Income Energy Issues Forum involved over 100 stakeholder organizations examining which approaches make shared solar accessible to a wide range of low and moderate income communities .Judith Schwartz served as Lead Investigator, facilitator of the working group, and authored many of the …
Research confirms that most utility customers view their incumbent provider as their trusted energy advisor — yet they are open to other entities if they seem more responsive to their needs. This article, published in the Summer 2017 issue of Western Energy magazine, examines that to maintain a leadership position, utilities must move beyond their …
Use it or Lose it: Keeping Your Seat at the Head of the Trusted Energy Advisor’s Table Read More »
Published by the Low Income Energy Issues Forum (March 2017) and funded by DEFG LLC, this paper extends the solvency segment model and earlier research beyond a review of available literature include in-depth interviews with utilities offering effective and innovative programs to support their low-income customers. Findings indicate that most programs are geared to helping …
To the Point was first engaged in 2010 to write a case study of PowerCentsDC: A Model for Stakeholder Collaboration published by the National Action Plan Coalition. This narrative case study, LINK TO THE PUBLICATION, examined the behind-the-scenes collaboration among the consumer advocates, regulators, utility, and the union and raises discussion questions for other jurisdictions …
If there is a single lesson that can be drawn from the most successful deployments and pilots, it is that when utilities collaborate with stakeholders and the communities they serve, everyone wins. 2011-2012 The Green Today, Growth Tomorrow Community Summit was a two-day Appreciative Inquiry Summit led by Dr. David Cooperrider of Case Western Reserve …
Published by the Low Income Energy Issues Forum (June 2014) and funded by DEFG, this meta-analysis examines 70 studies, presentations, and articles. The research supports that when low-income families have reasonable options for their energy use, assistance in understanding the tradeoffs, and the ability to manage their choices, they will choose to exercise control for …
Published by the Association for Demand Response (October 2013) and funded by DOE as part of the National Action Plan on DR, this case study examines how systems thinking and an open attitude can help utilities innovate, learn, and view smart meter rollouts as opportunities to proactively reach out to their entire customer base. Relevant …
San Diego Gas & Electric: Innovation in a Learning Organization Read More »
Published by DEFG LLC in June 2012, this DTECH EcoAlign report examines breakthrough outreach and education strategies and tactics appearing at innovative utilities throughout North America. Distinguishing among trends by deployment sequence, regional variances, and types of communication vehicles and channels, this study helps utilities engage the full range of consumers in their service territories.
