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The Flux Capacitor podcast will feature discussions on the future of the business of electricity, and the impacts of future technological change and market transformation on customers, companies, and the electricity business. CEA will feature discussions with the industry’s business leaders, though…

Francis Bradley


    • Jun 2, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 40m AVG DURATION
    • 120 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Flux Capacitor

    Episode 113: Faces of the Industry 2025, Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 52:19


    Part 1 of the Faces of the Industry award winners, reflecting a simple philosophy: the electricity sector isn't made up of companies—it's made up of people. In conversation with Francis Bradley, this year's winners showcase the creativity, innovation, leadership and grace under pressure that make Canada's electricity system. The winners on this episode are Sandra Haskins, Senior Vice President and CFO at Capital Power, Joy Brake, Senior Technical Advisor, System Planning at Nova Scotia Power, and Jeffrey Laninga, Live Line Engineer and Section Head at Manitoba Hydro.Link:Read the Faces of the Industry press release on the Electricity Canada website.

    Episode 112: Technology, sustainability and energy efficiency with Emily Heitman

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 30:38


    Schneider Electric Canada's President, Emily Heitman, discusses technology, sustainability and energy efficiency with host Francis Bradley. They talk about the challenges to the sector, including fragmented policies and aging infrastructure, as well as solutions including digital tools for energy management and reporting, and incentives for green investments. Emily emphasizes the importance of balancing sustainability with profitability, and the need for modernizing supply chains in a time of geopolitical uncertainty. The conversation closes with Emily's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:Schneider Electric CanadaEmily Heitman at Schneider ElectricEmily Heitman on LinkedInBook recommendations:Thinking, Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman.: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11468377-thinking-fast-and-slow

    Episode 111: Hot take on the 2025 Canadian Federal election with Michael Powell

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 42:36


    Electricity Canada's Vice President of Government Relations, Michael Powell, join host Francis Bradley for a conversation about the April 28 Canadian Federal election, through a Canadian electricity lens. They talk about the election results and the campaign, the different narratives about the ballot question, the impact of the US President on the election, and what the campaign platforms had to say about electricity and energy policy. They also talk about what's next in terms of cabinet composition and the upcoming Speech from the Throne. The conversation wraps with Michael's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club Links: Electricity Canada Michael Powell on Bluesky Michael Powell on LinkedIn Book recommendation:Lament for a Nation: The Defeat of Canadian Nationalism, by George Grant: https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/lament-for-a-nation-the-defeat-of-canadian-nationalism

    Episode 110: Ensuring the utility industry's technological advancements with Rusty Williams

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2025 38:22


    The Utilities Technology Council (UTC)'s President and CEO, Rusty Williams, join host Francis Bradley for a conversation about the utility industry's technological advancements. They talk about spectrum allocation, rural broadband, cybersecurity, and pole attachments. Rusty highlighted the importance of spectrum allocation, and the criticality of cybersecurity standards. He also emphasized the challenges in workforce development and the impact of AI on utility operations. They close the conversation with Rusty's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Links:Utilities Technology Council (UTC) UTC Canadian Technology ConferenceJimmy R. (Rusty) Williams at UTCJimmy R. (Rusty) Williams on LinkedIn Book recommendations:The Leadership Genius of Elon Musk, by Dennis Kneale

    Episode 109: Bold Leadership for Canada's Electricity Future with Jason Chee-Aloy

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 37:12


    Power Advisory LLC's Managing Director, Jason Chee-Aloy, discusses the future of the electricity sector and leadership with host Francis Bradley. With extensive experience in the energy sector, Jason talks about market changes, the MOU between Newfoundland & Labrador, and Quebec, and his firm's role. The conversation touches on the need for bold leadership in the sector, and the need to be mindful of the fundamentals of electricity to unlock Canada's energy potential. They also address current US tariff challenges and hopes for reduced barriers in Canada. Links: Power Advisory Jason Chee-Aloy on LinkedIn CBC article about Churchill Falls MOU

    Episode 108: How AI is Challenging Canada's Electricity Grid with Shaz Merwat

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 46:45


    Royal Bank's Shaz Merwat, lead author of RBC's Climate Institute report "Power Struggle: How AI is Challenging Canada's Electricity Grid," discusses with Francis Bradley the rise of AI and its impact on Canada's electricity sector. They cover AI's increasing power demand, regional differences, the economic impact of data centres, strategic policies for leveraging AI, carbon capture's role, and energy security. They conclude with Shaz's very timely book recommendation for the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Links:RBC Thought LeadershipPower Struggle: How AI is challenging Canada's electricity gridClimate Action 2025 Report Shaz Merwat on LinkedIn

    Episode 107: The current state and future of Canadian hydrogen with Ivette Vera-Perez

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 41:54


    The Canadian Hydrogen Association's President and CEO, Ivette Vera-Perez, in conversation with Francis Bradley about the hydrogen industry in Canada today, what the value chain looks like, the rainbow of different types of hydrogen, and what we are using hydrogen for, including mobility. They also talk about the future of hydrogen and the need for investment tax credits, regulatory alignment, and infrastructure development to support hydrogen's role in decarbonization and economic growth. They close the conversation with a recommendation for a book to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Canadian Hydrogen AssociationIvette Vera-Perez at the Canadian Hydrogen AssociationIvette Vera-Perez on LinkedInBook recommendation:Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High, by Kerry Patterson, Stephen R. Covey, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan and Al Switzler

    Episode 106: Talking about the weather with Chief Meteorologist Sunny Wescott

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2025 41:40


    Chief Meteorologist with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), a federal agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Sunny Wescott, in conversation with Francis Bradley about extreme weather, the impacts on infrastructure, the cyclical worsening of events, and the challenge of stabilizing the climate. They also discuss what customers should be thinking about in emergencies and opportunities for creative solutions to greater resilience. They close the conversation with a recommendation for a book to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Links: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Sunny Wescott on LinkedIn Book recommendations:· The Secret World of Weather: How to Read Signs in Every Cloud, Breeze, Hill, Street, Plant, Animal, and Dewdrop, by Tristan Gooley

    Episode 105: In Conversation with author of Antiterrorism and Threat Response, Ross Johnson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2025 51:26


    President of Bridgehead Security and Senior Fellow at Electricity Canada Ross Johnson in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the recently published second edition of his book “Antiterrorism and Threat Response: Planning and Implementation.“ They talk about the book's genesis and what it seeks to convey. They also discuss the role of the security practitioner, take a detour into the Vulnerability of Integrated Security Analysis (VISA) process and the Design Basis Threat concept, and discuss the need for integration of security measures. They close the conversation with a recommendation for a book to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:Bridgehead SecurityRoss Johnson bio Ross' book

    Episode 104: In Conversation with Waterpower Canada's Lorena Patterson

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2024 40:28


    Waterpower Canada President and CEO Lorena Patterson in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the role and current state of waterpower in Canada. They talk about the complexity of the regulatory and project approvals regimes, and the role hydropower will continue to play in Canada's electricity future. She also shares perspectives as someone with experience in energy in a number of jurisdictions in North America. They close the conversation with an excellent recommendation for a book to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:Lorena Patterson at Waterpower Canada: https://waterpowercanada.ca/about/#lorena-pattersonWaterpower Canada: https://waterpowercanada.ca/Lorena on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenaapatterson/

    Episode 103: In Conversation with E-ISAC's Manny Cancel

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2024 41:16


    NERC Senior Vice President and the CEO of the Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC) in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the role of the E-ISAC and what it does to help secure the North American electricity system. They talk about the current and evolving threat environment, the importance of exercises and learning from the GridEx exercises, cyber mutual assistance, the importance of partnerships with governments and the vendor community, and what the future may look like for the E-ISAC. They close the conversation with Manny's two book recommendations to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Manny Cancel at NERC: https://www.nerc.com/AboutNERC/exec/Documents/Manny%20Cancel_execbio.pdf Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC): https://www.eisac.com/s/ GridEx VIII: https://www.eisac.com/s/gridex Manny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manny-cancel-19a21325/ Book recommendations:Radical Candor: How to Get What You Want by Saying What You Mean by Kim Scott: https://www.amazon.ca/Radical-Candor-What-Want-Saying/dp/1529038340/ref=sr_1_1?crid=25BO26N4V04P2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.rzT_MgYPxAPYNJWJXa69AKgRaz53BUxsc_0CpmHLSiPedkpHB2t9O6KCMAtEipRQ80KU5z_EIWuw4XtlD3QcDjugyv8A6NX_gOJa6umqQUI-7lki7_c2lDaVisZnnHAyzYGCG7NbO9FZnbGsOgEpwLBON-b50PUeklHcbAuI_zo4lURoF1HcSSaiJpq4JFxfXDH6ryIm8DsMFdWtc1pes4H-4F6tamcKeRhg62JBFB0WJoC5vPYWHinc16tNKtSTJDrovPReyOl_LZWYPkwKNaUxAx8TFSs6RYc56lC4JEc.MIsLJjLwijLSOFsQ17aMSxRV0QrgeD3BGpVEGW04sbg&dib_tag=se&keywords=radical+candor+kim+scott&qid=1733682068&sprefix=radical+candor+kim+scott%2Caps%2C244&sr=8-1Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60194162-demon-copperhead

    Episode 102: In Conversation with PowerON's Keegan Tully

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 31:36


    President and CEO of PowerON Energy Solutions Keegan Tully, in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the regulatory, legislative and cost challenges of fleet electrification, how supply chains continue to slow adoption, the scope and scale of some projects, and workforce and talent attraction and retention. They close the conversation with his book recommendation to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club Links: PowerON Energy Solutions: https://poweronenergy.ca/ PowerON & Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport Electrification Infrastructure 2023 Announcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mL2DrWi4-A Keegan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keegan-tully-mba-720b2023/ Book recommendation:Thinking, Fast and Slow By Daniel Kahneman: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11468377-thinking-fast-and-slow

    Episode 101: In Conversation with Electro Federation's Carol McGlogan

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 39:30


    President and CEO of Electro Federation Canada Carol McGlogan, is in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the need for policy certainty on electrification, pressures on supply chains, the role of energy efficiency, trade issues and the complexity of tariffs. They also talk about how her association is helping to develop the future workforce, and they end the conversation with a book recommendation to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links: Electro Federation Canada: https://www.electrofed.com/#mobile-top Carol on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-mcglogan-8b16285/ Book recommendation:The Diamond Eye By Kate Quinn: https://www.katequinnauthor.com/books/the-diamond-eye/

    Episode 100: In Conversation with Ontario Power Generation's Ken Hartwick

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2024 44:18


    President and CEO of Ontario Power Generation Ken Hartwick, in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the evolving state of electricity in Ontario. Featuring a discussion about a rapidly changing energy picture with electrification, and population growth putting additional pressure on demand for electricity. They talk about supply chain challenges given that every other jurisdiction is also seeking to electrify and decarbonize at the same time. They touch on increasing public acceptance for nuclear power, and the challenges of building large infrastructure projects. They also discuss what generation technologies will be in Ontario's future, Indigenous partnerships, and attracting and retaining talent. They close the conversation with Ken's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links: Ontario Power Generation: https://www.opg.com/ Ken Hartwick at OPG: https://www.opg.com/about-us/who-we-are/executive-team/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-hartwick-icd-d-176b50a1/

    Episode 99: In Conversation with Nova Scotia Power's Peter Gregg

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 38:48


    President and CEO of Nova Scotia Power, Peter Gregg, in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the evolving state of electricity in Nova Scotia. Revisiting themes they spoke about three years ago on the podcast, they discuss the decarbonization of Nova Scotia's electricity system, the impact of federal policies, the increasing frequency and impact of extreme weather. They also focus on the province's Clean Power Plan, the failure of the Atlantic Loop initiative and what says about complex inter-jurisdictional projects, and how reliability and affordability will be front and centre as Nova Scotia aims for an 80 per cent decarbonized grid by 2030. They close the conversation with Peter's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 98: In Conversation with ATCO Electric's Melanie Bayley

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2024 48:54


    President of ATCO Electric Melanie Bayley in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the state of the Alberta electricity market, the challenges of meeting decarbonization and electrification aspirations, the energy trilemma of balancing sustainability, reliability, and affordability, and how customers' relationship with the electricity system will change in the years ahead. But they start the conversation with a deep dive into wildfires, the complexity of response, impacts on communities, and prospects for the year ahead. They close the conversation with a couple of on-point book recommendations. Links: ATCO Electric: https://electric.atco.com/en-ca.htmlMelanie Bayley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-bayley-a9784985/?originalSubdomain=ca Book recommendations:California Burning: The Fall Of Pacific Gas And Electric–And What It Means For America's Power Grid, By Katherine Blunt: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/670012/california-burning-by-katherine-blunt/The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth, by Amy C. Edmondson: https://www.wiley.com/en-ca/The+Fearless+Organization%3A+Creating+Psychological+Safety+in+the+Workplace+for+Learning%2C+Innovation%2C+and+Growth-p-9781119477266

    RBC Climate Action Institute's View of SMRs

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2024 44:19


    RBC Senior Vice-President, John Stackhouse and Senior Manager, Clean Technology, Vivan Sorab, principal author of the report “Think Small: How Canada can make small modular reactors a priority,” in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the principal findings and recommendations of their report. The conversation includes an overview of SMR technology, the state of progress in their deployment, and likely applications in Canada. They also discuss the path ahead, including the needed investments, Indigenous partnerships and social license, as well as an indication of issues the Institute is currently addressing. They close the conversation with Vivan and John's recommendations for additions to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:RBC report “Think Small:: How Canada can make small modular nuclear reactors a priority”: https://thoughtleadership.rbc.com/wp-content/uploads/Think-Small-SMR-Report-EN-1.pdf RBC Climate Action 2024 report, “Double or Trouble”: https://www.rbc.com/climate-action-institute/climate-action-24/index.html Johns Stackhouse at RBC: https://www.rbcwealthmanagement.com/en-ca/people/john-stackhouseon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-stackhouse-a113419/ Vivan Sorab on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivan-sorab-4a503623/Book recommendations:The New Map: Energy, Climate, and the Clash of Nations, by Daniel Yergin: https://www.danielyergin.com/books/thenewmap Material World: The Six Raw Materials That Shape Modern Civilization, by Ed Conway: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125937631-material-world

    Episode 96: Transmission Transition Perspectives with Gary Hart

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2024 41:24


    Altalink President and CEO Gary Hart in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the energy transition from the perspective of a transmission company. The conversation includes a bit of a deep dive into the impact of wildfires, and what is being done to prevent and/or limit their impact. Gary also talks about the energy transition, the challenges of decarbonization, the future energy mix in Alberta, affordability for customers, and how supply chain challenges are not likely to disappear anytime soon. They close the conversation with Gary's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Links: Altalink: https://www.altalink.ca/ Altalink's management Team: https://www.altalink.ca/governance/leadership/ Gary Hart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garylhart/ Book recommendations:How to Avoid a Climate Disaster: The Solutions We Have and the Breakthroughs We Need, by Bill Gates: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52908942-how-to-avoid-a-climate-disaster

    Episode 95: Solutions for our Energy Future with Heather Chalmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2024 42:57


    GE Vernova Canada President and President of Global Growth Markets at GE Vernova Heather Chalmers is in conversation with host Francis Bradley about this new company, her role in Canada and in global growth markets, technology ambition, the need for governments and stakeholders to align in order to meet sustainability goals, and her take on the Government of Canada's draft Clean Electricity Regulations. Heather also talks about the criticality of Indigenous reconciliation, the challenges of supply chains and ensuring we have the people to build our energy future. They close the conversation with two timely recommendations for additions to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:GE Vernova: https://www.gevernova.com/Heather Chalmers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-chalmers/?originalSubdomain=caBook recommendations:How Big Things Get Done: The Surprising Factors That Determine the Fate of Every Project, from Home Renovations to Space Exploration and Everything In Between, by Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61327449-how-big-things-get-done21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act, by Bob Joseph: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38620150-21-things-you-may-not-know-about-the-indian-act

    Episode 94: An Ontario Electricity System Primer with Lesley Gallinger

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2024 49:40


    Ontario's Independent Electricity System Operator President and CEO, Lesley Gallinger, is in conversation with host Francis Bradley about the challenges the system faces in the transition to a decarbonized future. They discuss the role of the IESO, rising electricity demand, resource adequacy, and the importance of engagement with Indigenous Peoples and communities. Lesley shares some perspectives on the work of the Canadian Electricity Advisory Council and some of the factors that will impact the timing of Ontario meeting its decarbonization ambitions. The conversation closes with two excellent recommendations for additions to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links: The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO): https://ieso.ca/ Lesley Gallinger at the IESO: https://ieso.ca/Corporate-IESO/Leadership/Executive-Team Lesley Gallinger on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-gallinger-784a194/?originalSubdomain=ca IESO's Pathways to Decarbonization report: https://www.ieso.ca/en/Learn/The-Evolving-Grid/Pathways-to-Decarbonization The Canadian Electricity Advisory Council: https://natural-resources.canada.ca/our-natural-resources/energy-sources-distribution/electricity-infrastructure/the-canada-electricity-advisory-council/25297 Book recommendations:My Life in Full: Work, Family, and Our Future,by Indra Nooyi: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57499853-my-life-in-full Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples, by Bob Joseph and Cynthia F. Joseph:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36988156-working-effectively-with-indigenous-peoples?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=ngI9EMHqcd&rank=1

    Episode 93: The state of Canadian renewable energy with Vittoria Bellissimo

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2024 44:16


    Canadian Renewable Energy Association President & CEO, Vittoria Bellissimo in conversation with host Francis Bradley on the state of wind, solar and energy storage in Canada, and the prospects for the future. They discuss the role of the Canadian Renewable Energy Association, recent growth in the sector, the recent pause on approvals in Alberta, barriers to growth and investment, the importance of grid diversity, and the federal investment tax credit regime as a response to the Inflation Reduction Act in the US. They talk about the Electricity Transition Hub, and close the conversation with reflections on Indigenous reconciliation. Links: Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA): https://renewablesassociation.ca/ Vittoria Bellissimo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vittoria-bellissimo-9298473a/?originalSubdomain=ca Electricity Transition Hub: https://renewablesassociation.ca/electricity-transition-hub/

    Episode 92: Decarbonizing Transportation with Toyota's Stephen Beatty

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2024 58:00


    Toyota Canada Inc's Vice-President, Corporate, Stephen Beatty, in conversation with host Francis Bradley. They discuss Toyota's view of multiple pathways to decarbonizing transportation and other policy options to zero emission vehicle mandates. They talk about the best technologies for different transportation applications, touch on the future of hydrogen, and how e-fuels may be part of our future. They close the conversation with a recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club Links:Stephen Beatty at Toyota Canada Inc.: https://media.toyota.ca/en/bios/2014/stephen-beatty.htmlBackground on e-fuels: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrofuel Book recommendation:Who Ate the First Oyster?: The Extraordinary People Behind the Greatest Firsts in History, by Cody Cassidy: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52508868-who-ate-the-first-oyster

    Episode 91: Electrifying Transportation, with EMC's Daniel Breton

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2024 53:54


    The President and CEO of the Electric Mobility Canada (EMC), Daniel Breton, in conversation with host Francis Bradley. They discuss the role EMC plays in promoting the electrification of transportation, popular misconceptions about electric vehicles, zero emission vehicle mandates, what EMCs opinion research has shown, and the intransigence of some, not all, car manufacturers. They close the conversation with a recommendation for a very timely report for addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Links: Electric Mobility Canada (EMC): https://emc-mec.ca/ Daniel Breton on X, (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/DBretonEMC_MEC Daniel Breton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-breton-b8a3b1a4/ Book recommendation: Time for a U-Turn: Automakers' History of Intransigence and an Opportunity for Change, by Union of Concerned Scientists: https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/time-u-turn

    Episode 90: The State of Reliability with Jim Robb

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2024 44:28


    The President and CEO of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, Jim Robb, in conversation with host Francis Bradley. They discuss the role NERC plays in ensuring reliability of the North American electricity system, the current state of reliability, the latest long term assessment, what the drivers are of future electricity demand growth, and the evolving threat environment for the grid. They also talk about collaboration to secure the grid, and Jim's experience and an electric vehicle owner. They close the conversation with a book recommendation for the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC): https://www.nerc.com/Pages/default.aspxJames B. (Jim) Robb at NERC: https://www.nerc.com/AboutNERC/exec/Documents/James_Robb_execbio.pdf2023 Long-Term Reliability Assessment: https://www.nerc.com/pa/RAPA/ra/Reliability%20Assessments%20DL/NERC_LTRA_2023.pdf2023-2024 Winter Reliability Assessment: https://www.nerc.com/pa/RAPA/ra/Reliability%20Assessments%20DL/NERC_WRA_2023.pdfBook recommendation:A Soldier's Story, by Omar N. Bradleyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/664372.A_Soldier_s_Story

    Episode 89: The Future of Electricity Keynote 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2023 24:06


    Podcast host and CEO of Electricity Canada, Francis Bradley, provides a summary of what he has learned on the podcast from previous guests, and has applied to a picture of what the electricity sector may look like in 50 years. At this year's Powering Partnerships summit, Francis talked about the future of electricity, applying Wright's Law to what he's been learning from this podcast and extrapolating it out to 2073. He starts with a quick trip to the beginning of the past century, then takes the audience to the future to see how international climate cooperation, technology, markets, and the customer experience have changed the electricity business by 2073.Links:The Future of Electricity presentation (in PDF)Electricity Canada: https://www.electricity.ca/

    Episode 88: in conversation with Volkswagen Canada's Pierre Boutin

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2023 39:02


    Pierre Boutin, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada, joined the podcast in late November 2023 for a conversation about electric mobility. We talk about the Canadian EV market, supply chains, how we compare with Scandinavia, EV mandates, the promotion of e-mobility, customer interest and acceptance, and what the future may look like for range and price of EVs. We also talk about VW investments in battery development and manufacturing, and other aspects of the electric mobility ecosystem. We close out our conversation with a great recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club. Links: Volkswagen Group Canada: https://www.vw.ca/en/about-volkswagen.html Pierre Boutin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierreboutin/?originalSubdomain=ca News of departure from VW Canada: https://canadianautodealer.ca/2023/11/pierre-boutin-steps-down-from-volkswagen-canada-as-president-ceo/

    Episode 87: in conversation with Clean Prosperity's Michael Bernstein

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2023 44:51


    Michael Bernstein, Executive Director of Clean Prosperity, and Advisory Board Chair of Carbon Removal Canada joined the podcast in November 2023 for a conversation about carbon policy and management. We talk about the importance of good modeling of net zero pathways, carbon markets and the need for carbon contracts for difference, and carbon management, both carbon capture and direct air capture. We also talk about the politics of climate policy and the need for support across the political spectrum for climate action. We end the conversation with Michael's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:Clean Prosperity: https://cleanprosperity.ca/Carbon Removal Canada: https://carbonremoval.ca/Michael Bernstein at Clean Prosperity: https://cleanprosperity.ca/team/michael-bernstein/Michael Bernstein on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-bernstein-47b61b7/Primer on Carbon Contracts for Difference (CCFD): https://climateinstitute.ca/what-are-contracts-for-difference/

    Episode 086: in conversation with Harneet Panesar of the Ontario Energy Board

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2023 33:48


    Harneet Panesar, Chief Operating Officer of the Ontario Energy Board, joined the podcast in November 2023 for a conversation about the changing world of the energy regulator. We talk about the modernization of the Ontario Energy Board, their increased use of delegated decision making, the importance of speed in decisions, and the move to more customer-centric models. He also shares perspectives on regulation as we move into a net zero paradigm drawing from his experience at the OEB, at Hydro One, and from his academic perch. We end the conversation with a seemingly timeless book recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links:Ontario Energy Board: https://www.oeb.ca/Harneet Panesar at the OEB: https://www.oeb.ca/about-us/who-we-are/executive-leadership/harneet-panesarHarneet Panesar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harneetp/?originalSubdomain=caElectricity Canada report: Back to Bonbright: Economic Regulation Fundamentals can Enable Net Zero: https://issuu.com/canadianelectricityassociation/docs/ec_sel_frame_-_2023_21_Book recommendation The Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making, Scott Plous: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/226665.The_Psychology_of_Judgment_and_Decision_Making

    Episode 085: in conversation with Lisa DeMarco of Resilient LLP

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2023 34:36


    Lisa DeMarco, Senior Partner and CEO of Resilient LLP, and Chair of the International Emission Trading Association (IETA) joined the podcast in November 2023 for a deep dive into the world of international climate negotiations and how they inform domestic policy. We talk about the Canada's climate commitments, federal/provincial dynamics, how Canada is performing relative to our international commitments, what to except at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) 2023 Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai, and what a typical day at a COP looks like for Lisa and her team. We also touch on IETA and emissions trading, and the work her firm does with Indigenous Canadians. We wrap things up with Lisa's recommendation for an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.Links: Resilient LLP: https://resilientllp.com/ Lisa DeMarco at Resilient LLP: https://resilientllp.com/professionals/lisa-demarco/ COP28: https://unfccc.int/cop28 IETA: https://www.ieta.org/ Book recommendation Wait Softly Brother, Kathryn Kuitenbrouwer: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/119198026-wait-softly-brother

    Episode 084: in conversation with Philippe Dunsky of Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2023 43:41


    Philippe Dunsky, the President and Chief Accelerator of Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors, and Chair of the Electricity Advisory Council joined the podcast in mid-October 2023 to talk about the work of his firm in energy efficiency, transportation, industry and energy. We talk about the Electricity Advisory Council, which he chairs, the pending Clean Electricity Regulations, and the prospects for the Atlantic Loop now that the Government of Nova Scotia has announced a different path. We close the discussion with his book recommendation.

    Episode 083: in conversation with Mark Zacharias of Clean Energy Canada

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2023 35:55


    Mark Zacharias, the Executive Director of Clean Energy Canada joined the podcast in early-October 2023 to talk about the role that Clean Energy Canada plays in informing public policy decision making. We discuss the areas of focus for the organization, the notion of “buy clean” for public infrastructure projects, their work on household affordability, how they engage stakeholders, and their view on the draft Clean Electricity Regulations. We also chat about what constitutes clean energy when it comes to electricity generation, and concerns about how the rise of populism and culture wars may impact the transition to a cleaner energy future. We close the discussion with Mark's book recommendation.

    Episode 082: in conversation with Guy Lonechild of First Nations Power Authority

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 34:56


    Guy Lonechild, the CEO of First Nations Power Authority joined the podcast in mid-September 2023 to talk about the genesis and role of First Nations Power Authority, nuclear as part of Canada's energy future, the critical role Indigenous people must play as real partners in the energy transition, and the need to ensure genuine partnerships. We talk about the barriers to meaningful partnerships, some good news on accessing capital, and the importance of addressing the future talent requirements today. We close the discussion with Guy's book recommendation.

    Episode 081: Guidehouse's State and Future of the Power Industry

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2023 35:09


    Michelle Fay, partner at Guidehouse, leading their Global Solutions team for the Energy, Sustainability and Infrastructure segment, and partner Andrea Roszell, leader of the Canadian Power and Utilities team, joined the podcast in early September 2023 to talk about the current state and future of the electricity sector. Drawing from Guidehouse's 2023 State and Future of the Power Industry, we dig into issues from aging infrastructure to extreme weather and the energy transition to investment priorities. Through interviews with utility leaders and Guidehouse's Energy, Sustainability, and Infrastructure experts, as well as an eight-question survey of industry stakeholders, the State and Future of the Power Industry examines what's next for energy companies as they navigate upgrading aging infrastructure, ongoing supply chain bottlenecks, increasing storm intensity, and new Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance mandates.

    Episode 080: State of Climate Policy with John Stackhouse

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2023 45:59


    John Stackhouse, Senior Vice President in the Office of the CEO at RBC joined the podcast in mid-August 2023 on Zoom, to talk about the state of climate policy just after the Government of Canada released draft Clean Electricity Regulations for comment. Francis and John discuss where banking and climate actions intersect, the evolution of Canadian climate policy, Canadian response the US Inflation Reduction Act, supply chain challenges, attracting the highly skilled labour needed for the transition, and Canadian competitiveness. They also discuss the need for regulatory flexibility, and the imperative of advancing Indigenous inclusion in the energy transition. The podcast closes with John's recommendation for three additions to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 079: Regulatory issues deep dive with Mark Rubenstein

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2023 43:47


    Mark Rubenstein, litigation lawyer focused on regulated sectors, representing consumer and stakeholder interests, joined the podcast in July, 2023 on Zoom, to talk about the intersection of rate setting, affordability, and the costs of GHG emissions reduction targets. We discuss the role of intervenors in rate-setting, touch on affordability and the ability versus the willingness to pay for electricity service. As well as the use of benchmarking, the future challenges due to the costs of investments in decarbonization, and the need for better and more inclusive planning. Mark also gives Francis a book recommendation, for an on-theme addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 078: Climate Change State-of-Play with Jane McDonald

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2023 42:53


    Recorded in early July, 2023 on Zoom, Jane McDonald of Climate and Nature Solutions joins the podcast to discuss climate change, the Paris Accord and the dynamics of international climate negotiations, the urgent need to ramp up production of renewable electricity internationally and in Canada, the real impacts people are now feeling due to climate induced extreme weather, and how to stay positive and motivated in the face of alarming extreme weather. Jane also gives Francis a book recommendation, for a very timely addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 077: 2023 Regulatory Fireside Chat with Craig Sabine

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2023 32:25


    Recorded on May 10, 2023, at Electricity Canada's Regulatory Forum, held in conjunction with the annual CAMPUT Conference, the association of Canadian energy regulators. EY Canada's Executive Director of Energy Transition Craig Sabine sat down with Francis for a fireside chat to launch the event, where they talked about the transition to a net zero future and the importance of electrification, challenges of current supply chain delays and how they might play out as electrification ramps-up, and the role the regulation will play in the energy transition. The conversation also touches on the pace of change, and affordability for customers. Links:Craig Sabine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-sabine-mba-3487945/?originalSubdomain=ca

    Episode 077: 2023 Regulatory Fireside Chat with Craig Sabine

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2023 32:25


    Recorded on May 10, 2023, at Electricity Canada's Regulatory Forum, held in conjunction with the annual CAMPUT Conference, the association of Canadian energy regulators. EY Canada's Executive Director of Energy Transition Craig Sabine sat down with Francis for a fireside chat to launch the event, where they talked about the transition to a net zero future and the importance of electrification, challenges of current supply chain delays and how they might play out as electrification ramps-up, and the role the regulation will play in the energy transition. The conversation also touches on the pace of change, and affordability for customers. Links:Craig Sabine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-sabine-mba-3487945/?originalSubdomain=ca

    Episode 077: 2023 Regulatory Fireside Chat with Craig Sabine

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2023 32:25


    Recorded on May 10, 2023, at Electricity Canada's Regulatory Forum, held in conjunction with the annual CAMPUT Conference, the association of Canadian energy regulators. EY Canada's Executive Director of Energy Transition Craig Sabine sat down with Francis for a fireside chat to launch the event, where they talked about the transition to a net zero future and the importance of electrification, challenges of current supply chain delays and how they might play out as electrification ramps-up, and the role the regulation will play in the energy transition. The conversation also touches on the pace of change, and affordability for customers. Links:Craig Sabine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-sabine-mba-3487945/?originalSubdomain=ca

    Episode 076: Hot Takes on Federal Budget 2023 with Michael and Julia

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2023 33:53


    Recorded on March 29, 2023, the day after the release of the Government of Canada's 2023 budget, episode 76 features a conversation with Electricity Canada's Julia Muggeridge, VP of Communications and Customer, and Michael Powell, VP of Government Relations, getting their reaction to and analysis of Budget 2023. We discuss the lead-up up to the Budget, what's in Budget 2023, what this means for the electricity sector, and what comes next on the road to our net zero future. We talk about Budget dynamics, what a Budget Day looks like for a trade association, and what happens in Ottawa post-Budget. They also provide book recommendations for additions to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 075: Evolving cyber threats with MNP's Chris Law

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2023 41:38


    Recorded on Zoom late March 2023, episode 75 features a conversation with Chris Law, partner at MNP. This is a deep dive into cyber security issues. We discuss different threat actors, the regulatory landscape around privacy in cyber space, ransomware and social engineering, and how to defend against cyber threats. We also talk about the dark web and dark web monitoring, and Chris has a topical addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 074: Dateline Washington D.C with Clint Robinson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2023 49:54


    Recorded live at Capitol Counsel's office in downtown D.C, episode 74 features a conversation with Clint Robinson, partner at Capitol Counsel. This wide-ranging discussion will be a treat for political junkies and those interested in how legislation is made in Washington. We discuss the challenges of a divided Congress, the emerging comprehensive energy bill, the debt limit, the potential impacts of the “Buy America” sentiment, and Clint's time on the Hill and with RIM/Blackberry. We also talk about the Presidential primary season and Clint suggests an addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club that is right on point.

    Episode 073: Rob Lister talks electrification, greenhouse gas reduction and the imperative of leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2023 30:43


    Recorded live at GLOBExCHANGE in Toronto in late February 2023, episode 73 features a conversation with Rob Lister, President and Chief Executive Office of Oakville Enterprises Corporation (OEC). Following the release of Electricity Canada's annual State of the Canadian Electricity Industry, Rob sat down to chat about electrification and greenhouse gas reduction challenges, the importance of leadership to address these challenges, the collaborative nature of the electricity sector, and some of the most pressing issues facing businesses today. We also discuss the breadth of OEC's operations, and the increasing importance of ESG and Indigenous reconciliation. We close the conversation with Rob's addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 072: International Women's Day 2023 Take-over with Brittany Botting and Heather Ferguson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2023 19:31


    Brittany Botting, Director of Generation at Electricity Canada takes over the podcast for International Women's Day 2023, and her special guest is Heather Ferguson, Senior Vice President, Business Development and Corporate Affairs at Ontario Power Generation. Their wide-ranging conversation touches on diversity, the imperative of Indigenous reconciliation, and how OPG will be leading the drive to net zero, with plans for SMRs, new hydro, hydrogen, storage, and electrified transportation. They also touch on some of the challenges, including the need for Canada to ensure a competitive investment climate and the need for regulatory efficiency. They wrap up their conversation with Heather's book recommendation.

    Episode 071: David Morton talks greenhouse gas reduction and regulatory complexity

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2023 35:44


    Recorded live at GLOBExCHANGE in Toronto in late February 2023, episode 71 features a conversation with David Morton, the Chair and CEO of the BC Utilities Commission. Following the release of Electricity Canada's annual State of the Canadian Electricity Industry report and a panel discussion at GLOBE, David joined the podcast to talk about electrification and greenhouse gas reduction challenges, customer affordability, the limits of current legislative frameworks for regulation, and we do a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of regulatory processes. We close the conversation with David's addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 070: Pollster Greg Lyle's view of the evolving customer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2023 45:56


    Recorded on Zoom in late December 2022, episode 070 features a conversation with Greg Lyle, founder and President of Innovative Research Group. Greg joins the podcast to talk about what his research is revealing about the views of Canadian electricity customers. The conversation touches on overall customer satisfaction, underlying concerns about affordability, and the challenge of reaching customers in a crowded media space. Greg shares his views on future challenges of greater electrification, building more infrastructure and cost pressures. And we close the conversation with an interesting addition to the Flux Capacitor Book Club.

    Episode 069: Planning Hydro-Québec's Future Strategically in a Decarbonizing World

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2023 36:56


    Recorded on Zoom in late December 2022, episode 069 features a conversation with Hydro-Québec's Alexandre Mignault. This episode features a wide-ranging year-end discussion covering the current and future energy prospects from Hydro's perspective, what the future energy mix may look like in a net zero future, the role of hydro and wind resources, demand response, behind the meter opportunities, and the future impact of the electrification on future electricity needs. Alexandre helps unpack the complexities of the Quebec energy marketplace, the role Hydro-Québec may play in decarbonizing the northeast electricity grid, the role of indigenous communities in building the system of tomorrow, and where hydrogen will fit in the puzzle. And as always, we close the conversation with his addition to the Flux Capacitor Book club.

    Episode 068: Dispatches from COP27 #3: Powering Net Zero Panel

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2022 47:33


    Recorded at Canada Pavilion at the United Nations Climate Conference, COP27, at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt on Energy Day, November 15, 2022, episode 68 features a panel discussion, “Powering Net Zero: Achieving Deep Decarbonization with Canada's Clean Electricity Advantage.” Organized under the banner off Electricity Alliance Canada, the panel featured intro remarks by Catherine Stewart, Canada's Ambassador for Climate Change, and a conversation with Guy Lonechild from First Nations Power Authority, Manitoba Hydro's Jay Grewal, Kerry O'Reilly Wilks from TransAlta, Gary Rose from Ontario Power Generation and Capital Power's Brian Vaasjo.

    Episode 067: Dispatches from COP27 #2: Hot take with Michael Powell

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2022 25:58


    Recorded in the delegate zone of the United Nations Climate Conference, COP27, at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt on November 15, 2002, episode 67 features a conversation with Electricity Canada's Vice-president of Government Relations, Michael Powell. Following a week at COP27, Michael talks about what it's like to attend the UN Climate Conference, how the experience is different this year due to the location of the event, the different experiences at the event for negotiators versus the majority of attendees at the pavilions, who we get to meet and work with, and how the discussions here connect to politics and policy back home. I even get a book recommendation from Michael to add to the Flux capacitor Book Club list.

    Episode 066: Dispatches from COP27 with Capital Power's Brian Vassjo

    Play Episode Play 40 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 14, 2022 30:57


    Recorded in the delegate zone of the United Nations Climate Conference, COP27, at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt in mid-November 2022, episode 66 features a conversation with Capital Power President and Chief Executive Officer Brian Vassjo. In a wide-ranging conversation we discuss the phase-out of coal electricity generation in Alberta, capturing carbon and producing carbon nano tubes, Capital Power's shift to decarbonization, and new incentives for innovative generation in the United States, with its Inflation Reduction Act, and in Canada, with new Investment Tax Credits announced in the Fall Economic Statement. Brian also shares his perspectives and impressions of the UN Climate Conference. And we close with a book recommendation to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club list.

    The Future Role and Prospects for Marine Renewable Energy with Elisa Obermann

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2022 36:34


    Recorded on Zoom in early November 2022, episode 65 features a conversation with Marine Renewables Canada Executive Director Elisa Obermann. We chat about the current state of play in the marine renewables space, regulatory challenges, international opportunities, and the prospects of future energy needs being met by tidal, offshore wind, wave and river current. We also touch on the potential future for hydrogen. We close our conversation with Elisa's recommendations to add to the Flux Capacitor Book Club list.

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