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Rethinking Energy Assistance in the Twenty-first Century with Jeff Ackermann (S2:E8)
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What if energy assistance wasn’t a complicated maze—but a clear, just, and dignified path for all? In this episode of Just Power, host Carolyn Parrs sits down with Jeff Ackermann, one of Colorado’s most respected energy advocates. He's the Senior Policy Advisor of The Center for the New Energy Economy and former Chair of the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.
With over four decades of experience, Jeff brings a systems-level view to the intersection of energy access, affordability, and structural equity. Not just by diagnosing the problems, but by offering concrete solutions, from simplifying energy assistance to reimagining how utilities operate in the public interest. This conversation provides both the wake-up call and the roadmap we need for an energy future that works for everyone.
Key insights
- How decades of energy advocacy shaped Jeff Ackermann’s approach to equity and access.
- Why public participation is vital to energy decision-making and utility accountability.
- What structural changes are needed in energy assistance programs for seniors and low-income households.
- Why utilities must rethink their profit models to serve the public interest.
- Creative solutions—from community solar to innovative payment models—that can alleviate energy burdens.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Energy Advocacy
01:14 Jeff Ackermann's Journey in Energy
03:18 Perspectives on Energy Systems
05:44 Understanding Equity and Justice in Energy
07:45 Improving Regulatory Processes for Equity
11:38 Impact of Public Participation in Energy Decisions
14:49 Energy Assistance Programs: What's Working?
17:29 Rethinking Energy Assistance in the 21st Century
24:54 Simplifying Qualification for Senior Citizens
27:06 Addressing Financial Struggles Across Income Levels
30:23 Rethinking Utility Profit Models
33:10 Exploring Legislative Changes for Utility Regulation
37:08 The Urgency of Energy Assistance Programs
39:29 A Vision for Affordable Energy in the Future
41:45 Personal Motivation in the Face of Challenges
About Jeff Ackermann
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-ackermann-346571a/
Website: https://cnee.colostate.edu/
"Rethinking Colorado Energy Assistance in the Twenty-first Century by Jeff Ackermann": https://cnee.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/CNEE_Energy_Assistance_In_CO_2023.pdf
About Just Power Podcast
The Just Power Podcast is about creating a clean energy future without leaving anyone behind. Created and hosted by Carolyn Parrs, it features energy experts, policymakers, tribal voices, and community champions who are working to make clean, affordable and reliable energy accessible to everyone.
About Carolyn Parrs
Carolyn Parrs is the CEO of Mind Over Markets, a branding and messaging firm that helps sustainable businesses and energy organizations communicate with clarity and power. Learn more at:
Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindovermarkets
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/
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