Event Agenda 2024
The Mega Energy & Water Event of the Year is set to redefine the landscape of innovation, sustainability, and energy prowess by delving into crucial topics like Net Zero, ESG, eMobility, Connected Customer and Field Workforce Experiences, AI Advancements, Digitalization, and Energy and Water Transition.
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Golf Tournament at Pelican Hills Golf Club
6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
WE3 Kick Off Networking and Dinner Reception
7:30 AM
Registration Opens
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
Power Breakfast and Networking
8:30 AM- 9:00 AM
WE3 Opening | Setting the Stage for a Sustainable Future Powered by People + AI
Deepak Garg, CEO and Founder of SEW, shares the SEW's vision of transforming energy and water management through AI and a people-first approach. Attendees will discover critical actions required over the next 12-24 months to drive transformation and innovation with an AI-first approach while championing sustainability.
Deepak Garg
Sustainability and AI
9:00 AM- 9:15 AM
The Legend- Kapil Dev on Transformation and Leadership
Get ready for an unforgettable 15 minutes as WE3 brings you an exclusive session with the legendary Kapil Dev!
In this electrifying talk, Kapil will share his powerful leadership lessons and success mantra that fueled his transformation from cricket icon to visionary leader. Packed with inspiration and actionable insights, this session will challenge industry leaders to reimagine the future, highlighting how technology and collaboration can drive us toward a sustainable, net-zero world.
Kapil Dev
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
Keynote with Alectra on AI and Digital Transformation Initiatives
Join Brian Bentz, CEO of Alectra, as he shares insights on their cutting-edge AI and digital transformation journey. Discover Alectra's connected customer initiatives, their strategic digital roadmap, and the exciting future of eMobility.
Brian Bentz
9:50 AM - 10:30 AM
The AI Innovation Imperative in Energy + Water + Gas
By 2050, the energy and water sectors have transformed, driven by AI's rapid advancements. But how did we get there, and are we at a pivotal moment today? This session explores how AI is reshaping the utility industry, driving digital transformation in clean energy, ESG, eMobility, and enhancing customer and workforce experiences.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand key AI concepts shaping utilities.
- Explore People + AI approach for transforming experiences.
- Learn AI use cases driving operational excellence and innovation for utility companies.
Ben Gordon
Michelle Ferrara
Kevin Johannsen
Evan O' Mahoney
Suresh Kotha
Darren Brady
Nakul Bali
Power, Gas and Water Utilities
10:35 AM - 11:05 AM
Fortune Panel: Energy Tech - Executive Disruptors
New technologies and business realities are changing the dynamics of the utility industry, and corporate strategies must keep up in turn. This session will examine how utilities and businesses can stay agile to maintain a healthy, innovative space and track where the industry is heading. CEOs get together for a panel session to share their journeys and learnings from digital transformation projects. We hear their long-term plans and future outlook
Brian Bentz
Thomas Lord
Michael Sullivan
Renewable Energy and Utilities
Deepak Garg
Raied Stanley
11:10 AM - 11:25 AM
Networking Break
People & AI
11:25 AM - 11:40 AM
Utility Keynote Session: Driving Sustainable Change with Innovative Solutions
The speaker will present cutting-edge technologies and strategies aimed at transforming energy industry and fostering a more resilient, greener planet. Attendees will learn about actionable steps being taken to tackle climate challenges head-on. This session underscores the importance of real-world solutions and how they are driving meaningful change in the fight for a sustainable future.
Keynote Speaker
11:40 AM - 12:15 PM
Leveraging AI to Scale CX Driven - DER & Energy Management Programs
We will explore the possibilities of integrating CX + AI with Distributed Energy Resources and Energy Management programs so as to create scalable processes to accommodate the accelerated growth in this area, while also enabling and promoting customer choice through the automation of decision-making for customers
James Douglas
Spencer Gill
Asset Management & Grid
Modernization
Ted Tayavibul
Response System and Pilots
(SCE)
N S Bala
George Hunt
SEW.AI 101: An Overview of SEW's Vision and Technologies
Let's connect at the Innovation Lab where you will explore how leveraging human intelligence and AI-powered platforms can address the climate, energy, and water crises. At the lab, industry experts will highlight the pivotal role of connected experience, powered by Human + AI in fostering sustainability. Discover how advanced technologies and comprehensive strategies in clean energy, eMobility, and resource conservation can drive transformative change.
12:15 PM - 1:20 PM
Lunch and Networking
E-Mobility & Energy
1:20 PM - 02:00 PM
Platforms, Customer, and Everything in between - The Future of eMobility
Discover the success mantra to thrive in an EV-driven future. It is not customer experience in a silo, grid readiness, or even charging ecosystem planning. The key is for all ecosystem players to work together to further EV adoption and build resilient systems. In this session, we see a platform approach to eMobility and get guidance on what energy providers need to do today.
James Douglas
Lincoln Wood
Sean Kane
Kevin Boughan
Shishir Shekhar
Technology & Strategy - EV and
Energy Transition Group
Piyush Awadhesh
Amith Kota
AI and Platforms that Enhance the EV and Charging Experience
Its Everything about EV.
Let's discuss -
- How utilites can create a seamless EV customer journey
- How tech and utilities can work together to drive future vehicle electrification
- What utilities need to know about effective EV education, integrated charging an AI analytics.
2:00 PM- 2:10 PM
Partner Keynote - Spotlight on PwC
Manish Anand
SEW & INNOVATION
2:10 PM - 3:00 PM
SEW Platform Innovations and Launch
Get ready for the latest in SEW’s customer and workforce experience platforms!
We’re unveiling new capabilities, industry-specific AI platforms, and groundbreaking innovations.
Deepak Garg
Manoj Singh
3:00 PM - 3:25 PM
Networking Break
3:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Utility Keynote with SMUD: Brandy Bolden on Digital Impact and a People-First Approach
Join Brandy Bolden, Chief Customer Officer of SMUD, as she shares her insights on the transformative power of digital platforms in enhancing customer experience. Learn how SMUD is putting people first through innovative strategies and the AI initiatives that are shaping the future of customer experience. Discover the impact of their forward-thinking approach and how they’re serving their community with excellence and care.
Brandy Bolden
AI Customer Experience
3:45 PM - 4:20 PM
Energy Technology Innovation Session
This session will explore how innovations in technology and business models are crucial for building a modern energy world. As the utilities industry faces increasing challenges, it must become more agile and efficient, adopting advanced technologies and exploring new business models to future-proof operations. Key topics will include:
- Creating a AI- driven innovation culture within utilities.
- Encouraging an enviornment of connected experience in the power and water utilities sectors.
- Leveraging digital technologies to enhance operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
- Fostering collaboration between utilities and technology companies to drive innovation.
Julia Zhu
Innovation Officer
Janie Gonzalez
Jody Allison
David Etheridge
Harish Raju
The AI Experience Your Customers Expect- SEW CX Innovation in Chatbots
Step into the SEW CX Innovation Lab and discover "The AI Experience Your Customers Expect."
As industries leap ahead with comprehensive customer experiences, utilities must ensure they are not just keeping up but leading with innovation. Explore how advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital channels are revolutionizing customer engagement. Experience live demos showcasing robust digital platforms that empower utilities to build strong, data-driven customer relationships. Discover the essentials of superior digital CX, from intuitive design and seamless multichannel communication to catering to diverse customer segments and promoting sustainability.
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM
Partner Keynote- Spotlight on Itron
This session by Itron explores how utilities can transform smart meter data into actionable insights that move customers from passive users to proactive managers of their own energy. Discover how real-time data can empower consumers to optimize energy usage, reduce costs, and participate in demand response programs, all while enhancing grid efficiency. Join us to see how data-driven innovation is shaping a sustainable, customer-centric future in energy management.
Jim Fisher
4:35 PM - 4:55 PM
Grid 360 + Customer 360 - Future for Energy and Utilities
Explore the powerful synergy of Grid 360 and Customer 360, where advanced grid management meets personalized customer engagement. This session will dive into how these integrated platforms are shaping the future of the energy and utilities sector, driving efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Discover how the combination of AI, data, and digital transformation is paving the way for a smarter, more connected energy future.
Deepak Garg
Suresh Kotha
DeAnna Hardwick
Customer-Centricity in Action: Pioneering AI-Powered Digital Payment Solution
In this WE3 Innovation Lab, we’ll explore iPaySmart’s ground-breaking AI-powered digital payment platform, designed with a strong focus on customer-centricity and vertical-specific use cases. As utilities serve a diverse range of customers—each with unique preferences and needs—this solution provides an omni-channel, frictionless payment experience that adapts to different users seamlessly.
With a vertically connected, AI-powered platform, utilities can offer personalized payment options, automate routine tasks like recurring payments, and deliver real-time insights into billing and consumption. Customers can make payments through smart devices, mobile apps, or self-service platforms, ensuring they always have convenient options at their fingertips. The aim is clear: to empower customers with choice, reduce complexity for utilities, and enhance sustainability efforts through operational efficiency.
5:00 PM- 5:10 PM
WE3 Pledge
At the WE3 Summit, the WE3 Pledge ignites a collective drive for change, urging organizations and individuals to unite in advancing sustainability, digitalization, and innovation. This initiative aims to build a global network tackling energy conservation, climate change, and resource management. By committing to sustainable practices and leveraging cutting-edge technology, participants will contribute to a greener, more resilient future.
Join us in making a lasting impact through the WE3 Pledge.
Deepak Garg
7:00 PM
Special Address by Celebrity Guest | WE3 Awards Dinner
As we close our Day 1 sessions, we will take a moment to recognize and celebrate the utilities and forward-thinking partners who continue to push boundaries and set new benchmarks of innovation, progress, and hard work.
7:00 AM
Registration Opens
7:00 AM - 8:15 AM
She-Suite Synergy : Women Advancing in Energy & Utilities
The WE3 (Water, Energy, and Engagement) series is a global platform that brings together thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers across energy and utilities to drive collaboration, inspire action, and showcase pioneering solutions. This session is part of our mission to elevate voices that shape the future, especially those of women who are redefining leadership in this sector.
Prepare for an inspiring and empowering morning with women who are leading the charge in transforming the energy and utility landscape. This is more than just a panel—it's a platform for candid conversations, networking, and real action steps toward breaking barriers and building careers. Expect to walk away with invaluable insights, fresh connections, and an energized spirit to take on your career journey with renewed momentum
Clean Energy and AI
8:30 AM - 8:50 AM
Celebrated Energy and Utilities Leader shares his Journey and Important Leadership Lessons
In this keynote, Michael O'Donnell, Co-CEO of SEW.AI and former Chief Revenue Officer at SAP, will explore how an AI-driven vision and strategic digital mindset can revolutionize the energy and utility sector. With insights drawn from his extensive experience, Michael will examine the critical role of AI and advanced technologies in transforming utility operations, optimizing energy management, enhancing customer interactions, and promoting sustainability.
Attendees will discover how to effectively harness AI, address digital disruption, and build resilient, future-ready organizations equipped to lead in the digital age.
Michael O'Donnell
8:55 AM - 9:25 AM
Embedding AI Technology into CX
This panel session will discuss how leading utilities are building partnerships with their customers through technology and innovation in order to provide them with the right portfolio of services to help them be successful through this clean energy transition. Learn how utilities are looking at opportunities to leverage AI to enhance the customer experience and reduce the cost to serve. Gain insights into how energy and water companies are building and executing their customer strategies to continue to drive digital adoption while also expanding energy program and services to address sustainability goals.
Monica Whiting
Chimaobi Chijioke
Mark Podorsky
Darren Brady
9:30 AM - 9:45 AM
Embracing Change - Dominion Energy's Digital Transformation Journey
Join us for a fireside chat with Dominion Energy, SEW, and Accenture executives, who will share insights into their transformative journey toward customer empowerment through digital innovation. Serving around 7 million customers, Dominion Energy has made significant strides in understanding and meeting the diverse needs of their clientele.
In this session, you’ll hear how their digital platforms provide modern experiences tailored to various customer personas. From residential customers seeking easy billing options to enterprises looking for effective energy management solutions, Dominion Energy’s digital transformation has redefined the customer journey.
Ruari Monahan
Adam Slayton
Harish Raju
The AI Experience Your Customers Expect- SEW CX Innovation in Chatbots
Step into the SEW CX Innovation Lab and discover "The AI Experience Your Customers Expect."
As industries leap ahead with comprehensive customer experiences, utilities must ensure they are not just keeping up but leading with innovation. Explore how advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital channels are revolutionizing customer engagement. Experience live demos showcasing robust digital platforms that empower utilities to build strong, data-driven customer relationships. Discover the essentials of superior digital CX, from intuitive design and seamless multichannel communication to catering to diverse customer segments and promoting sustainability.
9:45 AM - 10:20 AM
Partnerships, Programs, Products and Platforms – Exploring how AI further enhances these well proven strategies
In this fireside chat, panelists from across the world will discuss how the proven strategies of adopting strategic partnerships, connected platforms, targeted programs, and innovative products will be further enhanced by AI in utilities. The panel discussion will include key topics including customer service and experience, asset management and grid management, distributed energy resources (DERs) and energy efficiency.
Jeff Smith
Michael O'Donnell
George Hunt
Olga Volodina
Kevin Bar
Albert Murungi
Company Limited
10:20 AM - 10:35 AM
Intelligent Connected Utility: What's Next in Grid Evolution?
The global push for Net Zero has spurred rapid decentralization of energy sources, while changing weather patterns and increasing electrification demand stable, reliable grid networks. Additionally, the rise of "prosumers"—consumers who also produce energy—has transformed energy production and consumption. These prosumers now expect the same level of experience, engagement, and choice they enjoy in other areas of their lives. This session will explore how these forces are reshaping the energy landscape and what the future holds for utilities and consumers alike.
N S Bala
Adriana Karaboutis
National Grid
SEW Amplify- Empowering Customers, Communities and Utilities
The focus is on leveraging cutting-edge outreach and marketing strategies that align with SEW’s customer-first approach.
During this time, we will delve into how SEW utilizes its holistic platform , which goes beyond simply offering digital solutions. By combining advanced communication strategies, marketing automation, creative content development, and AI-driven performance analytics, SEW enables utilities to not only meet their outreach goals but also engage with their communities in meaningful ways.
- Holistic Approach: Understand why it's not just about platform adoption for utilities, but about connecting the dots to drive long-term customer engagement.
- Outreach and Marketing Capabilities: From communication strategy to app store management, SEW offers a comprehensive suite of services to empower utilities.
10:35 AM - 10:55 AM
Networking Break
Transformation and Technology
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Vertically Connected Digital Transformation Journey
The Digital Transformation Journey is core to the overall transformation journey that global energy and water companies are undergoing. This technology undertaking is critical to achieving the sustainability and clean energy transition targets placed upon the industry. Appropriately positioning a utility and their internal and external stakeholders for success upfront is seen as an important step in this multi-year undertaking. In this session you will hear from utility executives who are now embarking on this transformation journey and gain valuable insights on how each of them are positioning their utilities for success.
Brad Adamske
Nathan Shannon
Collaborative (SECC)
Oliver Daniels III
Customer Self Service
Technologies
Travis Murray
Peter Hanna
Empowering Grid Resilience: Evolution of Field Service Management in Utilities
In this Innovation Lab, we explore the critical role of Field Service Management (FSM) in shaping the future of grid resilience for utilities. As grids face increasing demands due to climate challenges, aging infrastructure, and evolving customer expectations, FSM must evolve to meet these complexities head-on.
We’ll delve into how SEW’s SmartWX platform is revolutionizing Field Service Management (FSM) to empower grid resilience. With features like auto-scheduling and dispatching, real-time technician tracking (tech en route), AI-powered reports and dashboards, and robust work order and document management, SmartWX optimizes utility operations. Learn how self-serve WX platform can enhance field worker’s decision-making, reduces downtime, and improves service quality by integrating learning systems and delivering actionable insights.
11:35 AM- 11:55 AM
SEW AI Platfoms Spolight
Packed with innovative advancements, V11+ is set to redefine customer and workforce experience and establish a new benchmark. Get ready—SEW V11+ is a game-changer you’ll have to see to believe.
12:10 PM-12:25 PM
Partner Keynote
Travis Murray
Erin Christy
AI and Platforms that Enhance the EV and Charging Experience
Its Everything about EV.
Let's discuss -
- How utilites can create a seamless EV customer journey
- How tech and utilities can work together to drive future vehicle electrification
- What utilities need to know about effective EV education, integrated charging an AI analytics.
12:25 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch and Networking
1:30 PM -1:45 PM
Beyond Boundaries: Latin America's Digital AI Success Stories
Join us for a captivating discussion on how AI is revolutionizing customer experiences across Latin America. In this fireside chat led by Alessandra Guarino, hear from Giovanni Ramirez and Cancian about their transformative projects that have redefined customer engagement and led to significant value generation. They will share their experiences, the lessons learned, and the innovative strategies that have driven success in their organizations.
Wellington Cancian
Giovanni Ramirez
Alessandra Guarino
Katty Lemus
Field Service Resilience & Enablement
1:45 PM- 2:05 PM
Connected AI Platform : Field Workers + Asset + Customers
Energy transformation requires a comprehensive upgrade of the entire asset and work management lifecycle—from planning and investment to operation, maintenance, and data analysis. We will explore how AI and ML technologies serve as a unifying thread, enhancing customer and workforce engagement while streamlining asset management. The session will highlight how these technologies can revolutionize the utility sector over the next 5-10 years, bridging gaps between communities, field workers, and assets to create more responsive and efficient utility operations.
Discover how these AI-powered solutions and standardized approaches are driving efficiency and sustainability throughout the industry.
Jordan Baculpo
Manish Anand
Tony Williams
James Douglas
Customer-Centricity in Action: Pioneering AI-Powered Digital Payment Solution
In this WE3 Innovation Lab, we’ll explore iPaySmart’s ground-breaking AI-powered digital payment platform, designed with a strong focus on customer-centricity and vertical-specific use cases. As utilities serve a diverse range of customers—each with unique preferences and needs—this solution provides an omni-channel, frictionless payment experience that adapts to different users seamlessly.
With a vertically connected, AI-powered platform, utilities can offer personalized payment options, automate routine tasks like recurring payments, and deliver real-time insights into billing and consumption. Customers can make payments through smart devices, mobile apps, or self-service platforms, ensuring they always have convenient options at their fingertips. The aim is clear: to empower customers with choice, reduce complexity for utilities, and enhance sustainability efforts through operational efficiency.
Key Industry Growth Drivers
2:05 PM - 2:40 PM
Smart Cities and AI: Advancing Sustainability with Technology Innovation
This session will explore how AI and technology are driving the development of smart cities, advancing sustainability, and improving urban living. Discover how innovations in data, automation, and intelligent infrastructure are transforming cities to be more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and resilient.
Ysni Semsedini
Frank Carnevale
Dan Weiss
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM
Voices of Change: Diverse Voices and Leadership Lessons for the Evolving Energy Landscape
This session will explore how diversity in leadership strengthens decision-making, accelerates innovation, and tackles critical challenges like sustainability, AI digital transformation, and customer engagement. By sharing their experiences, these leaders will discuss the value of diversity in thought and action, the role of collaboration in achieving sustainable outcomes, and the lessons they’ve learned while leading complex transformations.
Linda Mattes
Nicole Denton
Customer Modernization
Vanessa Edmonds
Erin Christy
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Vertical Integrated CX Payments Powered by AI
In today’s landscape of personalization and endless options, payment methods significantly influence customer satisfaction. From mobile apps to digital wallets, understanding and catering to individual payment preferences is crucial. This session will explore the diverse range of payment options available and highlight how an AI-powered, vertical-specific digital CX payment platform can address varied customer needs. It will also discuss how such platforms not only enhance user experience but also streamline revenue management.
Linda Mattes
Erin Christy
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
Mann Ki Baat
Wrap Up WE3 2024 - Learnings from 2 days
Deepak Garg
Brian Bentz
Harish Raju
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Closing Remarks: Future Perspectives on Sustainable Energy
Deepak Garg
George Hunt
100+ Global leaders
Discussing on Crucial Topics
Countdown for the Mega
Energy and Water Summit
Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
Empowering Billion Possibilities
By fostering collaboration and a shared commitment to Engage, Educate, and Empower, we harness a collective force capable of reshaping the landscape of energy and water. A trusted community and advocate for sustainable transformation, WE3 movement spans more than five years of growth and collaboration with world leaders, governments, utility providers, members, and other stakeholders.
With WE3, we celebrate our shared cause, ignite meaningful conversations, and be catalysts for positive transformation.
Together, we find practical solutions to climate, people, policy and technology issues - bound by the mantra of Engage. Educate. Empower.
More From the WE3 Movement Thought Leadership
We are committed to providing access to innovative solutions, discussions and thought leaders’ views across the utility industry – all housed in by our subject matter experts.
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