Madison, WI - On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, host Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director of the Customers First Coalition, sits down with Gary Meltz and Brad Viator of Power for Tomorrow to unpack how different models of electricity markets affect customers’ bills and the future of the grid.

Gary and Brad explain why the regulated electric utility model is designed to protect customers—keeping prices stable and ensuring long-term investment in infrastructure. They contrast this with the track record of electric deregulation, which has often promised consumer “choice” but in practice has driven up electric bills in many states.

The conversation also explores the current challenges facing the power sector: balancing reliability, affordability, and the transition to cleaner energy sources. Gary and Brad share how thoughtful regulation and oversight can help address these challenges while safeguarding consumers.

Whether you’re an energy professional, policymaker, or simply curious about why your electric bill looks the way it does, this episode offers clear insights and actionable ideas for keeping power affordable and reliable.

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube Channel, here: https://youtu.be/5JHxgS-IaAI?si=p2a1E0J9_0-cMCRR

Episode Links & References

• Gary's Column: Electric Deregulation Historically Means Higher Power Bills
  https://www.powerfortomorrow.org/news/real-clear-energy-electric-deregulation-historically-means-higher-power-bills
• More on Brad's RTO Insider Column
  https://www.powerfortomorrow.org/news/rto-insider-pjm-is-flailing-but-theres-a-solution
• Power for Tomorrow
  https://www.powerfortomorrow.org/
• Podcast referenced in this episode: Utility Regulation Really Sucks: Shift Key with Robinson Meyer and Jesse Jenkins
  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0reuOqB6EuxqnGmGHbvSEo