In 2024, a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter called me for insights on electricity forecasting. She read Itron’s blog, saw my name and then sent an email. So, you are not alone in reading this blog. 

The reporter was trying to understand the electric demand forecast recently filed in the northeast markets. To the industry outsider, the demand forecast was unusually strong and a departure from the last decade of growth. In other words, the forecast was 'insane'.  

What followed was a long conversation about the nature of energy forecasting, the purpose of integrated resource plan (IRP) filings and current trends in the electric markets. We discussed electric vehicles, data centers, demand-side management, solar, batteries, economics and risk management. At the end of our conversation, she thanked me and said she might quote me. 

At this point, it dawned on me that I’ve never spoken to a reporter 'on the record'. In my mind, I quickly rewound the conversation to mentally check that I got all my insights correct. Thankfully, I was well prepared because I had just listened to all of you – the energy forecasters around North America – at our 2024 Energy Forecasting Meeting in New Orleans. 

Each year, I find the Annual Energy Forecasting Meeting a great way to understand energy trends, issues and hot topics, so that I can talk to anyone, even reporters, about our industry.  

This year, the 2025 Energy Forecasting Meeting will be in Savannah, Georgia from April 9-11.  A few topics we the event will cover include:

• Short and long-term economic forecast and growth prospects  
• Data center growth 
• Electric vehicle penetration 
• AMI data uses in forecasting 
• Weather impacts on electric sales 

If you are available, we invite you to come out and be part of the conversation. And maybe, you’ll be prepared to talk to a reporter. 

Ultimately, I wasn’t quoted in the article, but I could easily see that the shape of the article was heavily influenced by our discussion. 

I hope to see you in Savannah! Learn more about Itron's Annual Energy Forecasting Meeting and secure your spot here.