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Matt Chester
Matt Chester
Energy Central Team

Generating Utility Industry News – May 2025 - [Generation Network Community Manager Digest]

Thank you for checking out the Generation Network Community Manager digest. This piece compiles important articles that concern different elements of the power generation side of the utility sector. The articles referred to in this piece are just a small smattering of the content posted on Energy Central, so make sure to check the rest of the site.

 

Get to Know Your Community Members - This Month's Member Spotlight

Spotlight: Tom Rolfson

What sets Energy Central apart from other online industry outlets is the true community-level feel. To highlight that aspect, this spot each month will feature a quick profile of one of your fellow Community Members for you to get to know and inspire you to reach out to them: leave a comment on their recent Energy Central content, follow their profile, and build a new connection in the industry!

 

Name and Title: Tom Rolfson, Project Manager, POWER Engineers, Inc.

Topics of Focus: Power generation, Industrial Manufacturing, Environmental engineering

Recent Energy Central Contributions of Note:

 


Top Content This Month

Alternative low budget off grid PV systems applications by Cesar de Abreu

Low-budget grid-connected PV systems are emerging as a practical alternative for expanding clean energy access in underserved areas. This article explores how simplified, cost-effective solar setups can support electrification efforts without compromising reliability.

"Alternative low-budget off-grid photovoltaic (PV) systems are revolutionizing the way individuals and communities harness energy, providing sustainable solutions for those seeking independence from traditional power grids." 

Read the full article and leave a comment or question for the author here

 

How Artificial Intelligence is Powering the Future of Renewable Energy by Youssef Aitousarrah

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing renewable energy by enhancing forecasting accuracy, optimizing grid management, and improving maintenance strategies. From predictive models that align wind and solar output with demand to AI-driven systems that reduce equipment downtime, this article explores how AI is making clean energy more reliable and efficient.

"Imagine a world where renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines operate at peak efficiency, seamlessly integrating into our power grids without wasting a single watt."

Read the full article and leave a comment or question for the author here

 

China Plays the Rare Earth Card by Tony Paradiso 

China's strategic control over rare earth metals is reshaping global supply chains, impacting industries from clean energy to defense. This article delves into how U.S. tech giants like Apple and Microsoft are responding by investing in recycling initiatives to reduce dependence on Chinese resources.

"It didn’t take China long to play one of its strongest trade cards: rare earth metals."

Read the full article and leave a comment or question for the author here

 


Recent Q&A in the Community

Q: Given that solar and wind have made up more than 50% of new capacity in the US, with the Administration all but gutting new wind development, where do you view new capacity coming from and how quickly can the market react?

Read submitted answers and or add your own!

 

Q: How will forecast demand be met given the retirements of coal & nuclear and the intermittent nature of wind and solar and the continued ramp up of LNG? How will natural gas storage fit into that need?

Read submitted answers and or add your own!

 

Q: Can you share your experienced challenges and opportunities associated with renewable energy integration into the grid?

Read submitted answers and or add your own!

  


Relevant Recent Episodes of the Energy Central Power Perspectives Podcast

Inside this DOE nuclear research facility, 50 years in the making

Inside this CEO's Energy Transition Playbook

 


 

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