What happens when a utility reimagines its relationship with the community? In this revealing episode, Shiloh Costello, Manager of Sustainable Communities and DEIB at Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), shares how they're revolutionizing community engagement in the clean energy transition.
Shilo unveils SMUD's human-centered approach goes beyond traditional income-based solutions to address the unique needs of diverse communities. She reveals how they're breaking down barriers to clean energy access, including their innovative strategy for the often-overlooked moderate-income families.

Key Ideas

- How SMUD aligned their zero carbon goals with community equity.
- Proven strategies for building authentic community partnerships.
- Why measuring long-term community vitality is transforming their approach.
- How leadership commitment drives successful equity initiatives.
This episode offers rare insights into how a major utility is successfully putting community needs at the center of their clean energy transition. Essential listening for utility leaders, community advocates, and anyone interested in creating lasting social impact through energy transformation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of Energy Equity
01:36 Shiloh Costello's Journey to Energy Equity
04:22 Defining Energy Equity
06:05 The Evolution of Equity at SMUD
09:32 Beyond Income: A Holistic Approach to Energy Equity
12:27 Understanding Diverse Community Needs
17:24 Addressing the Moderate Income Struggle
20:15 The Sustainable Communities Initiative at SMUD
23:57 Measuring Impact and Success in Communities
27:13 Designing Community Engagement in Energy Transition
33:02 The Importance of Energy Justice
37:48 Advice for Energy Providers on Equity
41:13 Future Aspirations for Energy Equity

Links

Community Impact Plan board presentation: 2022, 2024

SMUD’s Annual Report (Community Impact Plan)

SMUD’s Sustainable Communities

SMUD’s Sustainable Communities Resource Priorities MapMeet Carolyn Parrs

Learn about New Mexico State University’s Microlearning

Mind Over Markets: Create clear and compelling messaging to connect with more customers and grow.

Just Power is produced and hosted by Carolyn Parrs, sustainability and environmental communication and marketing consultant, coach, and advocate for a just transition to clean energy that leaves no one behind. The podcast is brought to you by New Mexico State University and Mind Over Markets.

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