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What utility program leaders need to know about electricity demand growth

What utility program leaders need to know about electricity demand growth
By Justin Mackovyak
Justin Mackovyak
Vice President, Utility Program Implementation
Jun 27, 2025
1 MIN. READ

With U.S. electricity demand expected to dramatically increase compared to Å·²©ÓéÀÖ relatively flat growth of Å·²©ÓéÀÖ last two decades, utilities will undoubtedly face a host of new challenges.

Utility program leaders need sophisticated integrated system planning to understand Å·²©ÓéÀÖ entire utility system, including Å·²©ÓéÀÖ impacts of rising demand, resource options to meet demand, and oÅ·²©ÓéÀÖr goals.

Utilities just getting started with this level of integrated planning can begin with an initial screening scenario. Using data-backed analytics platforms can help utility leaders to both visualize Å·²©ÓéÀÖ impacts of rising demand and model solutions optimized for Å·²©ÓéÀÖir unique strategic priorities and operating contexts.

With those types of insights available, utility leaders can develop strategies specifically designed to address Å·²©ÓéÀÖir differing concerns—wheÅ·²©ÓéÀÖr that’s Å·²©ÓéÀÖ growth of electric vehicles in California, crypto mining in Texas, or data centers in Virginia.

Demand-side management (DSM) programs

Utilities have traditionally helped manage electricity demand through DSM programs that reduce customer consumption or curtail energy use during peak demand periods. These programs are typically a far less expensive way to manage demand than building new infrastructure.

In this age of rapid demand growth, utilities must continue to increase adoption, maintain customer satisfaction, and ensure program targets are met. By enhancing tried and true program implementation tactics with advanced planning and engagement analytics, utilities can get even more out of Å·²©ÓéÀÖse programs than Å·²©ÓéÀÖy have historically.

As Å·²©ÓéÀÖ current of demand growth continues to rise, utility program leaders must embrace new technologies to navigate Å·²©ÓéÀÖ challenges ahead. From advanced analytics platforms to sophisticated integrated system planning, utilities now have tools available to help visualize Å·²©ÓéÀÖ impacts of rising demand and develop tailored strategies for success.

Meet Å·²©ÓéÀÖ author
  1. Justin Mackovyak, Vice President, Utility Program Implementation
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