ATLANTA — ScottMadden Inc. recently released the Winter 2015 edition of “The Energy Industry Update.”

Themed “Changes: Turn and Face the Strange,” the issue surveys a broad array of strategic issues, including:

• Insights drawn from our first-hand look at developments and lessons learned in Germany. The Solar Energy Power Association and ScottMadden recently partnered to lead a fact-finding mission to uncover the story behind the headlines. During the trip, 30 U.S. industry leaders met with their German counterparts as that country pursues a transition from traditional energy sources like nuclear and coal-fired power to renewable resources and increased energy efficiency;

• A review of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) proposed Clean Power Plan, which is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from existing power plants. We examine its timeline, implications, and issues in the wake of ongoing political and regulatory activity and a groundswell of comments from all sides;

• A view of how utilities are looking with interest at electric vehicles, hoping to increase energy sales and burnish their brands. We examine customer and vehicle characteristics and some generic business models being tested in this growing market; and

• A review of natural gas prices and gas production from shale formations. We consider the latest dynamics in this market, including what (if any) impact low oil prices are having on it.

“For months, indeed years, we have been anticipating major changes in the industry from a number of factors — low natural gas prices, technology advancements, and profound regulatory changes,” said Greg Litra, partner, and energy, clean tech, and sustainability research lead at ScottMadden. “After being in the distance, they’re now on the doorstep, and energy and utility companies are responding to these changes by testing new business models and adapting to or embracing new technologies.”

For more than a decade, the ScottMadden Energy Industry Update has served as the catalyst for strategic discussion, debate, and decisions. To download the Winter 2015 edition of the Energy Industry Update, visit http://bit.ly/1CZ93Fk.

Publication date: 3/16/2015 

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