Mike Beehler with MBA, LLC

Scott MacKenzie promotes the Boston MEDevice event on September 30-October 1, 2025, organized by Informa, emphasizing education and collaboration in the medical device industry. At DistribuTech in Dallas, Mike Beehler discusses the Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative (PDI2). He highlights the need for significant investments in the electric grid, noting Texas's plan to double infrastructure spending. Beeler emphasizes the importance of efficient, resilient, and affordable grid systems, including the potential benefits of underground transmission lines. He also discusses the challenges of public safety power shutoffs and the advanced technology available today for grid maintenance and upgrades.

Action Items

• [ ] Attend the ME Device Boston event on September 30 – October 1, 2025.
• [ ] Connect with Mike Beeler, Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative, at m.beeler@pdi2.org or on LinkedIn.

Outline

Medical Device Event Announcement

• Scott MacKenzie announces the ME Device Boston event from September 30 to October 1, 2025, emphasizing its importance for professionals in the medical device industry.
• The event is organized by Informa, known for their educational and collaborative events.
• Scott encourages attendees to mark their calendars and participate in the event.
• The event aims to foster innovation and collaboration within the medical device industry.

Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott thanks listeners for their support and celebrates industrial professionals for their contributions to society.
• The podcast is sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• Scott mentions the current broadcast location at Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and introduces Mike Beeler as a guest.

Discussion with Mike Beehler on Power Delivery Intelligence

• Mike Beehler introduces himself and his role in the Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative (PDI2).
• Mike shares his experience moderating a panel on investment strategies for the electric grid, emphasizing the significant investments planned.
• The Texas “miracle” is discussed, highlighting the state's economic growth and the need for increased infrastructure investment.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of rate recovery and affordability in the context of grid modernization.

Challenges and Solutions in Grid Modernization

• Mike discusses the need for more efficient and resilient grid infrastructure, using newer technologies.
• The regulatory process for setting utility rates is explained, including the importance of keeping rate increases below the cost of inflation.
• The conversation highlights the impact of grid inefficiencies on affordability and the need for a more reliable and resilient grid.
• Scott and Mike discuss the importance of consumer expectations for quality electricity and the challenges of public safety power shutoffs in wildfire areas.

Underground vs. Overhead Transmission Lines

• The discussion shifts to the pros and cons of underground vs. overhead transmission lines.
• Mike explains the higher initial cost of underground lines but their lower long-term maintenance costs.
• The conversation covers the challenges of converting an entire grid to underground lines and the need for a balanced approach.
• Scott shares a personal anecdote about underground distribution work in Long Beach, California, and the advanced technology used today.

Case Study: 500 kV Underground Transmission Line

• Mike shares a case study of a 500 kV underground transmission line project in Chino Hills, California.
• The project faced public opposition but was ultimately completed due to its importance for renewable energy transmission.
• The conversation highlights the critical nature of splicing and termination processes in underground transmission lines.
• Mike emphasizes the importance of advanced technology and material sciences in modern grid infrastructure.

Future of the Power Industry

• Mike discusses the future of the power industry, emphasizing the influx of talented young professionals with advanced degrees.
• The conversation covers the electrification movement in the U.S. and the exciting opportunities in the power industry.
• Mike shares his contact information for listeners interested in connecting with him.
• Scott wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to connect with Mike and stay tuned for more content on Industrial Talk.