Grid Dialogues

#4 – Unlocking DER Potential: Fixing Integration Bottlenecks in Modern Utilities | Ft. Pradeep Mishra

Welcome to Grid Dialogues, the flagship podcast by Grid, where we explore the ideas, innovations, and strategies shaping the future of electric, water, and gas utilities. In every episode, we bring industry leaders and technology experts together to decode the biggest challenges and opportunities transforming modern utility operations. In this episode, host Sudeep is joined by Pradeep Mishra, Founder of Aurion Systems and a seasoned technology leader specializing in Distributed Energy Resource (DER) interconnection and utility system integration. Pradeep works closely with distribution operators, CIOs, and energy retailers to solve complex integration challenges across AMI, DERMS, SCADA, and market platforms, enabling faster and standards-compliant DER deployments. Together, they unpack the growing challenges utilities face as DER adoption accelerates and why integration remains a critical bottleneck. Key topics discussed in this episode include: * Why DER interconnection continues to be a major hurdle for utilities despite rapid technology advancement * The problem of “missed handshakes” between utility systems and what it means for real-world operations * How misalignment between metering, grid operations, and customer systems slows down interconnection workflows * Hidden operational and financial costs of integration bottlenecks for utilities and consumers• Whether industry standards are truly simplifying system interoperability * The balance between technology limitations and process inefficiencies in utility workflows * How interoperability-focused platforms like Grid help unify data and streamline DER integration * The future of DER interconnection and the role of smarter system integration in building resilient, customer-trusted utilities This conversation offers practical insights for utility leaders, technology teams, policymakers, and energy innovators working to modernize grid infrastructure and scale distributed energy programs efficiently. This podcast is powered by Pinecast [https://pinecast.com].

#3 – Grid Dialogues | Ft. Steven Lupo | AMI Technology and Roadmap Planning

EPISODE NOTES In this episode of The Grid Dialogues, host Sudhi sits down with Steve Lupo, Managing Director for North America at Brilliant, to explore what it really takes to design a successful Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) roadmap. From avoiding vendor lock-ins to balancing short-term operational goals with long-term modernization, Steve shares a pragmatic and forward-thinking approach to how utilities can plan, evolve, and future-proof their AMI systems. The discussion dives deep into: * Why utilities should shift from long, rigid tech roadmaps to more agile planning models * The importance of data strategy, actionable intelligence, and AI-driven insights * How customer experience and engagement are becoming core to AMI success * The role of regulatory collaboration and organizational culture in driving modernization * What the next decade of AMI evolution could look like Whether you’re a utility leader, data strategist, or technology partner, this episode offers actionable insights into building smarter, customer-centric, and resilient metering systems. Connect with us: www.workongrid.com [http://www.workongrid.com] www.linkedin.com/company/pragyaam [http://www.linkedin.com/company/pragyaam] Connect with Trilliant: https://trilliant.com/ [https://trilliant.com/] info@trilliant.com This podcast is powered by Pinecast [https://pinecast.com].

#2 – AMI data helping Utility Operations and Customer Satisfaction | Featuring Mark Henderson

EPISODE NOTES In this episode, we dive into an important conversation: AMI Data for improving the customer experience and enhancing operational effectiveness. We discuss how Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) data is changing the way utilities think about customer experience, and look at overlooked benefits beyond billing accuracy, like enabling time-of-use billing and optimizing the grid. We also address critical decisions around upgrading aging AMI systems, the importance of enterprise integration, the use of digital tools for meter rollout and maintenance, and how analytics are driving better business decisions. Finally, we explore how AMI data is shaping long-term strategies for building resilience, sustainability, and customer trust. Our Guest: Joining the discussion is Mark Henderson, President of Util Assist and a recognized leader in the North American utility space. Mark brings extensive experience in AMI, smart grid deployments, managed services, and utility modernization. Through his leadership, he has helped utilities transform operations, strengthen customer engagement, and navigate digital transformation. Mark has also worked as both a chief operating officer and a chief executive officer of municipally owned utilities in Ontario, Canada. This podcast is powered by Pinecast [https://pinecast.com].