What if data center growth could directly lower energy costs for vulnerable communities? Molly Bauch outlines a model that connects private capital with distributed solar and storage, creating flexible grid assets while addressing affordability. A practical look at how virtual power plants, social license, and deployment at scale can reshape energy systems.
Main Topics Discussed
• Linking data center investment to low-income solar and storage deployment
• Virtual power plants as flexible, scalable alternatives to traditional grid infrastructure
• Role of distributed energy in improving affordability and grid resilience
• Challenges of financing and deploying assets in low-income communities
• Future potential of VPP-enabled housing portfolios for capacity and grid services
