Change is the watchword for electrical utilities of the future, John Taylor, a national energy efficiency consultant, told Rotarians at Tuesday’s meeting.
     “Over the next ten years we’ll see more changes in the electrical industry than in the last 100,” said John.
     The long time board member of Traverse City Light & Power, and its current chairman, predicted that the utility of the future will offer a combination of renewables and energy.
     Maintaining a balance between power generation and demand will be the future challenge for electrical utilities, he noted.
     Light & Power is discussing renewable energy options, he said. Cherryland Electric Cooperative has announced that with its new wind contracts, it will be 30 percent renewable by 2017.
     “The key is staying flexible,” he said. “Nimble is the word used most often in energy circles.”
     Factors driving the industry include declining electrical load growth; aging systems; the need for more investment and the development of “disruptive technologies” (i.e. “E” vehicles and battery storage systems).
     Reassuring regional utility users, John said the three major providers of electrical power (Cherryland, Consumers and TC Light & Power) are all well positioned to accommodate this change. 
     “They talk and have developed a really good relationship.”  That’s important to consumers, posited John.
     Part of the task of consultants like him is to educate users on the industry’s changing complexion, he said, “engaging those with skin in the game.”

No meeting is scheduled for December 8th. That is the night of the Christmas Party.

 

For attendance please call 941-5421 or email tcrotary2822@gmail.com

 

 

Please donate your gently use coats, hats, gloves, sweaters...We will have a drop box at the meeting.