2021 Predictions and Trends - An Energy Central Insights Special Issue, Five Part Series

Letter from the Community Leader

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s how difficult it can be to predict the future—even looking within the same year! Energy Central’s annual Hot Topic Special Issue on Predictions & Trends has become our most popular edition. Looking back at the 2020 edition we certainly didn’t see anyone sharing predictions on an evolving remote work environment, utility shutoff moratoriums, and digital experiences replacing in-person visits to customers. That said, scrolling through the topics that were covered, the thought leaders and experts in the industry did share plenty that came to fruition: from customer-driven technologies to decarbonization of the grid to digital technologies taking a leap forward and more.

The point is, the future is hard to predict, but it’s even more impossible to forecast what’s going to hit the utility industry if you aren’t listening to the executives and innovators who are creating that future. The need to follow the trends and outlooks put forth by leaders is exactly what makes Energy Central’s Predictions & Trends series the publication that receives the most submissions, the most readers, and the most engagement from the community. And after reading through the wide range of submissions from utility CEOs, technological creators, and high-profile voices, I’ve no doubt that this year’s version, “2021 Predictions and Trends,” will surpass all previous expectations in quality, in the discussions they start, and the value it will bring to you, the utility professional.

The echoes of COVID-19 continue to ring throughout the industry, cybersecurity of the grid has only heightened, and regulations and policies from the federal level all the way down to local jurisdictions are just some of the upcoming trends our community members see on the horizon. I’m excited for you to read through the insights and prognostications that are contained within the voices of the Energy Central Community. So, as you read through these great thought-pieces, I encourage you to share your responses in the comments: let authors know if you agree or disagree, share a link to a program you participate in that highlights what’s being discussed, and ask questions from our esteemed authors. Jump into the comments ASAP and get that conversation flowing! You’ll need to sign in to your profile to make a comment, and if you don’t yet have a profile—create one here, join the community, and share your thoughts and questions starting today!

To read all article submissions for the 2021 Predictions and Trends follow this link. 

Here’s to a safe, productive, and successful 2021 in the utility sector.

Audra C Drazga
VP of the Power Industry Network