Expanding utility connectivity and bridging broadband gaps (with Adam Rehfeld of Burns & McDonnell)

Energy Central

Federal funding has poured into the utility space to ensure the expansion of internet connectivity can take hold across the country, but what do results on the ground look like? In the latest Power Perspectives episode, we are joined by Adam Rehfeld, Business Line Manager for Distribution Modernization at Burns & McDonnell. Sitting on the front line of this implementation of connectivity for utilities, specifically in the complex world of third-party pole attachments (TPAs), Adam has keen lessons to share with utilities who are still waiting to get up to speed in this area. As utilities gain opportunities to expand connectivity with TPA implementation, this moment is a critical one for leaders to properly address regulatory, operational, and technological challenges. Adam provides insights into the evolution of pole attachments, the role of utilities in expanding broadband to underserved areas, and the importance of maintaining clear inventories of pole usage. Press play and gain keen insights into: - Why TPAs are a hot topic in today’s utility sector. - How federal funding impacts TPA growth and utility strategies. - The role of technology in improving pole attachment inventory and data management. - The intersection of TPAs with modern grid trends like undergrounding and distributed generation. Whether you’re a utility decision-maker or a broadband stakeholder, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the TPA landscape. So join host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester as they welcome in Adam Rehfeld's insights on the critical interplay between internet connectivity and the power utility sector. Key Links: Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/expanding-utility-connectivity-and-bridging-broadband-gaps-brought-you-burns Burns & McDonnell on Energy Central: https://energycentral.com/o/burns-mcdonnell Ask a Question to Our Future Guests: Do you have a burning question for the utility executives and energy industry thought leaders that we feature each week on Power Perspectives? Leave us a message here for your chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: www.speakpipe.com/EnergyCentralPodcast