UTILITIES ARE STILL THE HEART OF THE ENERGY SECTOR
Smart policy can exploit new technology, such as satellite imagery and big data, to strengthen grids and utility finances.

Problem

Many utilities are in a financial death spiral of poor service, customer exit, and debt. At the same time, major energy investment decisions, such as locating transmission and distribution infrastructure, affect utility business models and grid services. Cloud computing, remote sensors, and satellite imagery could potentially help but are underexploited.

Relevance

Bankrupt, underperforming utilities cause widespread economic harm. The effects are worsened when energy sector decision-making is done in a data-poor environment or when a particular technology or solution is prioritized for political reasons. Conversely, modern data-collection and information technology can assist policymakers to more quickly and efficiently deliver flexible, responsive energy systems.

Our Approach

Using data and cross-country evidence, the Hub aims to better understand what drives utility reforms (or not) and to help decision makers understand the technological options to make infrastructure choices consistent with national economic goals.

Featured

Experts

Fellow
Benjamin Attia
Research Lead for Energy, Climate and SustainabilityBlackrock
Fellow
Morgan Bazilian
Executive Director, Payne InstituteColorado School of Mines
Fellow
Catrina Godinho
Climate Change SpecialistWorld Bank
Board Member
Katie Hill
Partner & Associate DirectorBoston Consulting Group
Fellow
Stephen Lee
ResearcherMIT
Board Member
Ben Leo
CEO and FounderFraym
Fellow
June Lukuyu
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Washington
Research Director
Rose Mutiso
Research DirectorEnergy for Growth Hub
Fellow
Rebekah Shirley
Research Director of Data and InnovationWorld Resources Institute
Advisor
Kate Steel
Co-Founder and COONithio
Fellow
Jay Taneja
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Massachusetts, Amherst

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