New Series: Leading Through Energy Affordability | What Credible Responses Look Like (S5:E1)

Season 5 Launch: "Leading Through Energy Affordability" series.Energy affordability is one of the defining challenges of the energy transition — and for millions of households, it is already a breaking point. In this Just Power series, "Leading Through Energy Affordability", we set out to answer a critical question: what do credible responses to energy affordability look like in this moment of transition? In this first episode, Carolyn Parrs is joined by Charles Hua, CEO of Powerlines, to explore the national data behind this moment and what it means for households, leaders, and the future of the energy transition.Charles shares findings from Powerlines’ latest national report, including a striking reality: utilities requested nearly $31 billion in rate increases in a single year, affecting more than 80 million Americans. Together, Carolyn and Charles unpack what is driving these pressures, why this moment feels different, and what credible, people-centered leadership could look like now.This episode lays the groundwork for the series ahead — moving from national trends to lived experience, community voices, and leadership responses.In this episode:Why electricity is becoming “the new eggs”.What nearly $31 billion in rate hike requests means for households.The three major drivers behind rising energy costs.Why more Americans feel powerless over their utility bills.The role of regulators and why public engagement matters.Why even small monthly bill increases can push households closer to the edge.What’s ahead in the Leading Through Energy Affordability series.Referenced in this podcast:PowerLines National ReportAbout my guest, Charles HuaCharles is the Founder and Executive Directors of PowerLinesWebsite: https://powerlines.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-hua/About Just Power host, Carolyn ParrsCarolyn is a Senior Strategic Communications Leader and the CEO of Mind Over Markets. Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/About Just Power PodcastJust Power explores the human side of the energy transition—from grid modernization to energy affordability to community engagement. We feature leaders across policy, technology, utilities, and communities who are navigating the real-world impacts of energy system 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