Michael Dammer, Manager of Emerging Technology at Lakeland Electric, joins host Steve Vancore to discuss his role evaluating new technologies that fall outside traditional utility operations. Mike shares details on two current projects: a solar field partnership with Williams Company set to provide 12% of Lakeland Electric's portfolio, and a pilot with American Independent Power using thermal solar and liquid nitrogen technology for power generation.

The conversation covers how falling costs and stable pricing through public-private partnerships have made solar increasingly viable, and how data analytics from smart meters are improving voltage regulation and predictive maintenance. Mike and Steve also tackle the growing demand for data centers, with Mike explainingthat while large-scale facilities present real infrastructure challenges, smaller ones could be absorbed within Lakeland Electric's current capacity.