John Gounaris with G&W Electric

Industrial Talk is chatting with John Gounaris, Vice President at G&W Electric Company about “The monumental changes impacting the utility market”.

Scott MacKenzie and John from G&W Electric discussed the challenges faced by the utility industry, including technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and the need for a more decentralized grid. John shared his 20+ years of experience, highlighting the importance of innovation, collaboration, and data-driven insights to adapt to these changes. Scott joined the conversation and emphasized the need for utilities to be more nimble and adaptable, and for regulatory evolution to accommodate the integration of inverter-based resources.

Danny Petrecca with Locusview

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech and talking to Danny Petrecca, Vice President of Business Development with Locusview about “Digital Construction Management – digitally streamlining utility’s construction”.

Utilities face budget cuts, regulatory hurdles, and interest rate fluctuations, while digitization can alleviate these pressures and improve operational efficiency. Innovation and problem-solving are key to addressing challenges, with a scarcity of contractors and resources in the digitization journey. Traditional paper-based construction management is inefficient, and implementing mobile technology can simplify workflows and make them more efficient. New technologies such as GNSS receivers and mobile devices have the potential to revolutionize the industry.

Wayne Adams with J W Adams and Associates

Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Wayne Adams, Global Sales with J.W. Adams and Associates about “The many challenges and solutions impacting power generation today”.

Scott MacKenzie and Wayne Adams discussed the potential of hydrogen as a renewable energy source, while Scott MacKenzie and Wayne Adams explored the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a low-carbon future. MacKenzie highlighted the need for large-scale implementation of renewables, while Wayne emphasized the importance of addressing waste heat generated by power plants. Both speakers acknowledged the limitations of relying solely on natural gas and emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that includes renewable energy sources and small modular reactors. Later, Scott MacKenzie and Wayne discussed the potential of nuclear power and various engineering solutions for sustainable energy generation, with MacKenzie supporting nuclear power due to its stability and need for a reliable energy source, while Wayne highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in the industry.

John Dutcher with DEUTZ Corporation

Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to John Dutcher, Director Regional Sales with DEUTZ Corporation about “Power Generation Rental Market and Solutions”.

John Dutcher and Scott MacKenzie discussed the latest trends and innovations in engine manufacturing, equipment rental, and asset management for the industrial sector. They highlighted the growing demand for multiple fuel sources, battery electric technology, and refurbishment of old machinery, and emphasized the importance of staying up-to-date with market demands and adapting to new regulations. Both speakers agreed that rental is a prime driver for the industry and that collaboration and innovation are crucial for addressing challenges ahead.

Marcelo Lorenzo with Bluefin ESI

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTECH and talking to Marcelo Lorenzo, Sales Engineer with Bluefin ESI about “The reactive power impact of AI on datacenters”. 

Marcelo and Scott MacKenzie discussed the growing demand for power in data centers, particularly in Virginia. They emphasized the need for collaboration between utilities and data center operators to find innovative solutions to meet this demand efficiently. They also explored the potential of generative AI to transform various industries.