Renewable Rides Ep 96: The Price of Power: Examining the Costs Behind Keeping the Lights On and What's Next with Mark Ellis
Why do your energy bills keep rising? And where is all that money really going? In this episode, economic and financial consultant Mark Ellis breaks down the inner workings of utility economics and regulation, sharing a unique insider’s view of how utilities make money, what drives their profits, and why regulatory models often leave consumers paying more than they should.
Listen in to hear why some seemingly cost-effective solutions—like behind-the-meter batteries—never gained traction, and how complexity often stalls innovation. You’ll learn why renewables like wind and solar are often unfairly blamed for rising rates, what the real cost drivers are, and how changes in utility finance could lower bills for households and businesses alike. If you’ve ever wanted clarity on why electricity rates keep climbing, what the future holds for utilities, and how reform could benefit everyone, this episode delivers a roadmap for understanding and change.
What You’ll Learn in Today’s Episode:
- How utilities generate profit.
- Why rising rates aren’t mainly caused by renewables.
- The hidden role of transmission and distribution costs.
- How regulatory incentives drive consumer overcharges.
- The vicious cycle of deferred maintenance and higher rates.
- The difference between surface-level narratives and structural cost drivers.
- How competitive direct equity could cut bills significantly.
- Why simplification is key to broader energy solution adoption.
- What policymakers are exploring to reform utility finance.
Resources in Today's Episode:
You can view a video of the conversation on VECKTA's website here: https://tinyurl.com/4xd3hhh9