Energy Central What’s really keeping utility CEOs up at night
Dec 11, 2025
Jay Stowe, founder and CEO of Stowe Utility Group and former CEO of major municipal utilities, dives into the pressing issues faced by energy leaders today. He highlights the evolving role of customers in energy decisions and the urgent need to tackle the affordability crisis. Jay shares insights on balancing a diversified energy portfolio, including renewables and nuclear, while addressing the impact of AI on workforce dynamics. Their conversation sheds light on defining success through customer satisfaction and operational efficiency amid an ever-changing energy landscape.
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Meet Every Customer Where They Are
- Utilities must meet every customer where they are because they serve everyone on the system.
- Engagement is rising as affordability and control over costs drive customers to participate more.
Treat Utility Revenue As Customer Money
- Treat every dollar a utility earns as coming from a customer and work to keep costs down.
- Set rates, policies, and programs that balance benefits for the individual, the utility, and all customers.
Diversify To Manage Transition Risk
- Physics and local conditions constrain the pace and shape of energy transitions.
- A diversified resource portfolio reduces exposure to fuel, finance, and reliability shocks.