Can Paying Upfront Make Energy More Affordable? (S3:E9)

Millions of families are living one late payment away from losing power. A scenario that can be both devastating and dangerous for many. But what if there was a way to flip the script—where customers stay in control, utilities cut costs, and communities conserve energy all at once?In this episode of Just Power, Carolyn unpacks prepaid power with David Conn—a bold reimagining of how we pay for electricity. As VP of Business Development and Policy at Exceleron, David reveals how prepaid power can protect vulnerable households against losing power and crushing debt, while driving real-time behavior changes in energy use. He shares how it works, why it challenges the status quo, and what it could mean for the future of utilities and the people they serve.Key insightsPrepaid power lets customers control costs by paying upfront and avoiding surprise bills.Real-time usage feedback sparks conservation and lasting behavior change.Utilities save money on collections while improving customer trust and satisfaction.Prepaid programs reduce disconnections and the trauma of losing essential service.Innovative billing models like prepaid may be critical to the future of energy equity and affordability.About our guest, David ConnDavid joined Exceleron as Vice President of Business Development and Policy in July 2024, after nearly 16 years as the Energy Assistance Program Manager at Baltimore Gas and Electric, where he oversaw the development and implementation of the limited income strategy for Maryland’s largest investor-owned utility. Websites: www.paygoutilities.com | www.exceleron.com                                       Email: [email protected] Carolyn ParrsCarolyn is the CEO of Mind Over Markets, a branding and messaging firm that helps energy companies and mission-driven businesses clarify their message, cut through the clutter and grow sustainably.Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindovermarketsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/About Just Power PodcastJust Power is about the human side of the clean energy transition. The podcast focuses on grid modernization, energy affordability, and community engagement — featuring leaders from utilities, policy, technology, and frontline communities navigating the real-world impacts of energy infrastructure change.🔔 Never Miss an Update! Subscribe NowYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJustPowerPodcast?sub_confirmation=1💖 Spread the LoveLike, comment, and share this episode with a friend, policy maker, or energy provider who needs to hear this.YouTubeFacebookInstagramNew Mexico State University MicrolearningMind Over MarketsLinkedIn