Federal Reserve to tackle fiscal cliff’s effects on electric utilities, housing

Added by on December 4, 2012

A Federal Reserve analyst has signed on to meet in January with a select group of electric utility industry insiders during the fourth annual Electric Light & Power Executive Conference. Discussions likely will turn to how the by-then failed or averted fiscal cliff, President Obama’s second term and a stagnant U.S. economy will affect electric utilities and the housing market.

“We’re thrilled Danielle DiMartino Booth from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas will be speaking again with utility executives during the Electric Light & Power Executive,” said Teresa Hansen, conference chairwoman and editor in chief of the industry’s 90-year-old Electric Light & Power magazine. “Danielle shared her economic predictions two years ago in San Diego along with Stuart Varney. She’s a must-see during these economic times.”

DiMartino Booth briefs policymakers and researchers—including those at the White House—and writes and speaks about the interaction of the economy and financial markets. She will present Sunday, Jan. 27, the first day of the two-day conference.

Immediately following DiMartino Booth will be keynote speaker Michael Reagan, eldest son of President Ronald Reagan, who will speculate what the Gipper’s game plan might have been during the current economic and political environments.

“Michael Reagan is a staple in the conservative movement, so it should be moving to hear his interpretation of how his father might have dealt with today’s challenges,” Hansen said. “But don’t expect a one-sided conference. We’re also pleased to welcome speakers from the Environmental Defense Fund, the Department of Energy and even Hollywood. We expect to hear solutions to utility challenges from all sides.”

In addition, Electric Light & Power Executive Conference panels will address: smart grid spending; how to create a compelling image and message; utility flexibility and value; and preparing for disruptive events.

The Electric Light & Power Executive Conference is Jan. 27 and 28 at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. It leads into North America’s No. 1 smart grid conference, DistribuTECH Conference & Exhibition. More information is available at http://elpconference.com.