As utilities race to modernize the grid, too often the communication systems needed to communicate with the grid are overlooked. From DER integration and wildfire mitigation to smart meters and real-time situational awareness, none of it functions without robust telecom infrastructure. That reality is why the power utility and telecom nexus is being brought more into the spotlight with each passing year. 

In this episode, we’re joined by Rusty Williams, President & CEO of the Utilities Technology Council (UTC), a global trade association advocating for the telecom needs of critical infrastructure providers. Rusty brings 30+ years of experience in utility telecom and IT—and he’s here to pull back the curtain on why communications infrastructure is no longer a side topic for utility executives, but instead it must be a a central pillar of the energy transition.

From battles over wireless spectrum to debates on pole attachments, this Power Perspectives conversation unpacks the regulatory, policy, and operational issues utilities must navigate to ensure secure, real-time communication across their systems.

Key Links:
Energy Central Post: https://www.energycentral.com/podcasts/post/this-ceo-wants-you-to-talk-to-the-grid-GBOIxbnT56McnIc

Rusty Williams on Energy Central: https://www.energycentral.com/member/3I8Ryirutc

Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y5L05dJZtGM

Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast

This CEO wants you to talk to the grid

Welcome to the Energy Central Podcast Network—your ultimate resource for the biggest ideas, boldest perspectives, and best insights from across the electric power industry.

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