ScottMadden, Inc., one of North America’s leading energy consulting firms, will join leading industry executives at the Utilities in a Time of Change & Challenge event being held November 17–18 at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, AZ. The event, focused on the future of electric utilities, is being organized by the respected utility publication, Public Utilities Fortnightly, and veteran utility journalist and publisher, Llewellyn King.
Stuart Pearman, partner and energy practice leader at ScottMadden, will present his views on the economic consequences of new models on a panel devoted to seeing that the pieces fit technically and economically. Traditionally, utilities have been known for their security as an investment, their regular dividend payments, and their long-term dependability. They have been well rated by the agencies, and their stock has done well in a time of low-interest rates. But some say their future is cloudy. If the traditional model is changing, what do they offer investors? Will their Wall Street ratings decline? Will raising money be more difficult?
“The impact of model changes on utility economics hinges on alignment. The business model, the technical competencies, the customer tastes and preferences, the technologies, the regulatory construct, and the view from Wall Street all have to become aligned and coherent. But how do we get from here to there, when these things are controlled by independent actors with differing interests and we face a period of uncertainty and change?” asked Mr. Pearman.
On the panel, Mr. Pearman will be joined by Edward Kee of Nuclear Economics Consulting Group; Swami Venkataraman of Moody’s; and Walter Howes of Verdigris Capital LLC.
“The pieces have to fit: old grid, new metering, new technologies, government pressure, and consumer demand. But they won’t fit if the financing isn’t right,” said Llewellyn King, editor-at-large of Public Utilities Fortnightly. “Stuart is one of the most knowledgeable and vital thinkers on keeping the industry healthy in a time of change. The future will stare us in the face in this session.”
About Public Utilities Fortnightly
Public Utilities Fortnightly, published since 1929, is a monthly magazine known for its expert analysis and insight into the issues facing the energy industry, covers regulatory issues, financial and economic news, technology updates and more. With editorial from a wide range of experts, we present perspective from all sides. Fortnightly.com, expands subscriber content by providing the best multi-media content, data and analysis in the industry. For additional information, contact Joseph Paparello at paparello@fortnightly.com or 1-800-368-5001.
About ScottMadden’s Energy Practice
We know energy from the ground up. Since 1983, we have been energy consultants. We have served more than 300 clients, including 20 of the top 20 energy utilities. We have performed more than 2,400 projects across every energy utility business unit and every function. We have helped our clients develop strategies, improve operations, reorganize companies, and implement initiatives. Our broad and deep energy utility expertise is not theoretical—it is experience based.
About ScottMadden, Inc.
ScottMadden is the management consulting firm that does what it takes to get it done right. Our practice areas include Energy, Clean Tech & Sustainability, Corporate & Shared Services, and Grid Transformation. We deliver a broad array of consulting services ranging from strategic planning through implementation across many industries, business units, and functions. To learn more, visit www.scottmadden.com | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn
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Media contact:
Mary Tew
marytew@scottmadden.com
919-714-7628