Open Circuit Grab bag: the affordability crisis, a VPP tipping point, and solar’s moment
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Aug 29, 2025 This podcast dives into the affordability crisis in renewable energy, examining how misinformation exacerbates rising electricity costs. It highlights the shift towards Virtual Power Plants, emphasizing their growing necessity. Listeners learn about new tax guidance affecting solar financing and the potential for rooftop installations. Innovations from Pakistan’s DIY solar movement are also discussed, alongside strategies to build political power and community trust in the clean energy sector, fostering local engagement and resilience.
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Political Push Creates A Self-Inflicted Crisis
- The current administration is publicly attacking wind and solar while also claiming to care about affordability.
- Jigar Shah says this creates a self-inflicted crisis that will ultimately tag the administration with higher bills.
Incumbents Bear The Blame For Rising Bills
- When bills rise, voters blame the sitting administration regardless of past policy.
- Jigar argues the inflection point is now and political responsibility will stick to current officeholders.
Rising Rates Driven By Distribution And Load Growth
- Distribution underinvestment and rising load (AC, EVs, heat pumps, data centers) are driving utility rate increases.
- Jigar says smarter investments and distributed resources can avoid most costly distribution upgrades.