Honoring the Top Voices in the Energy Central Community in 2023: Generation Network

As the Energy Central Community continues to thrive and evolve, it's evident that we're our collective members are truly shaping the future of the utility sector. Within this dynamic collective of professionals in the power industry, the community represents a unique and impactful spirit of sharing insights, lessons, and questions, fostering a level of collaboration that sets Energy Central apart.

Undoubtedly, the linchpin of this Community is the remarkable individuals steering the conversations and ensuring continual engagement with readers and peers. To commemorate the close of another successful year, we take a moment to acknowledge and honor those outstanding members of Energy Central who consistently went the extra mile—actively disseminating news and content, instigating discussions across the platform, and delivering truly valuable contributions throughout 2023.

Throughout the week of December 18, we will unveil articles spotlighting the Top Voices of 2023 across our 6 Networks. Continuing our tradition, these recognized community members graciously shared their perspectives on the sector in 2023, offered predictions for the year ahead, and provided personal insights into what makes them tick, allowing us to connect with the individuals shaping the Energy Central landscape.

With that, we extend our sincere appreciation and congratulations to the distinguished Top Voices in the Generation Network for 2023!

See the Top Voices in Our Other Communities:

Tony Paradiso - Principal, E3

Link to Tony’s Profile

Recommended submission from Tony: This “Hottest” Job isn’t for Those that Fear Heights

What has been a highlight of your year, personally or professionally?

Starting my renewable/climate change social media campaign. Not only have I learned a great deal about the key issues related to climate change and global warming, but I’ve also enjoyed enhancing my marketing skills by adding video creation and a greater understanding of social media platforms to my skillset.

What is your favorite aspect of interacting with the Energy Central Community?

I enjoy reading and responding to the comments. I don’t come out of the utility industry so getting the perspective of people who do is helpful.

If you had to predict, what will be the hottest topic on Energy Central in 2024?

I can think of a number of issues that should be top of mind: grid modernization, streamlining of new transmission infrastructure, revamping how utilities are incentivized, and how the utility world can effectively leverage innovative technologies without impacting priority #1: keeping the lights on. What it actually will be is anyone’s guess.

David Walter - President, Level 3 Solar

Link to David’s Profile

Mohit Kaul - Founder, Enerdatics

Link to Mohit's Profile

Recommended submission from Mohit: US Hydrogen Production: Texas and Louisiana Should Be the Lowest Cost Providers

Tom Rolfson - Project Manager, POWER Engineers

Link to Tom’s Profile

Recommended submission from Tom: How Decarbonization and Fossil Fuel-Fired Power Plants Can Coexist

Outside of energy and utilities, share with us another area of interest that you are passionate about and why.

Education! As a parent to two young children, this is something really important to me on a personal level. But as a professional, I work in a field the general public may not fully understand. I spent a lot of my time in undergraduate and graduate studies teaching other students, and I quickly learned that teaching something is one of the best ways to gain a more in-depth knowledge of that subject yourself. I find a lot of value in both teaching people about what I do as well as constantly trying to learn so I can stay informed about an ever-evolving industry.

What has been a highlight of your year, personally or professionally?

Since it was pretty momentous, I’d say the biggest highlight this year is a personal one: my wife and I welcomed our second child—another daughter.

Is there a post or exchange on Energy Central that you’re most proud of from the past year?

I don’t have a post or exchange that sticks out more than the others. Generally, I’m proud to be part of a format that values civil discussion. I will say, though, that being part of the Power Perspectives podcast was pretty cool. It’s genuinely flattering when people invite you to share your thoughts on something you’re passionate about in such an outward medium.

Congratulations once again to our Top Voices in the Generation Network, and thanks to all Energy Central Community Members for enabling the community and platform to thrive this year! And keep an eye out for the next Top Voices Articles to come as this week unfolds