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On both sides of the Atlantic, the electric industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Flattening demand, the expansion of low marginal cost renewable production and a growing proportion of decentralized resources create major challenges for traditional players, in particular when it comes to the viability of their investments in heavy infrastructures. An additional difficulty relates to historically low commodity prices, emphasizing the downward pressure on electricity wholesale prices and lowering profits for merchant assets.
While EU and US market, industrial and regulatory frameworks tend to be different, fundamental questions are being raised in both regions around governance, financing structures and business opportunities in the 21st century electricity system.
This Ifri Energy Breakfast roundtable will discuss the current situation, compare responses and draw common lessons for the future of electric utilities.
Speakers:
- Michael Hogan, Senior Advisor, Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP, USA)
- Michel Matheu, Head of EU Strategy, EDF
- Matti Supponen, Policy Coordinator, Internal Energy Market, European Commission
- Graham Weale, Chief Economist, RWE AG
Moderator: Marie-Claire Aoun, Director of the Ifri Center for Energy.
The debate will be held under Chatham House rule.
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