Challenges
As utilities race toward carbon-neutral futures, collaboration is critical. Recognizing shared challenges, U2030 convened leaders from several large municipal utilities—including SMUD, LADWP, and others—at SMUD’s headquarters for a collaborative workgroup to discuss strategies for overcoming barriers on the path to zero-carbon goals.
Each utility was progressing along its sustainability roadmap but shared similar pain points: workforce readiness, regulatory uncertainty, and infrastructure bottlenecks. Cultivating the change leadership capability required to guide internal teams through these shifts rarely happens during day-to-day operations.
Approach
Through a full-day facilitated workshop, U2030 guided utilities through scenario-based discussions, shared learnings, and an interactive Gallery Walk that surfaced hidden blind spots and cross-utility opportunities. Applying change management principles alongside U2030’s Learning Experience Design (LXD) methodology, the session encouraged open dialogue, peer learning, and co-creation to address the human side of transition.
Outcomes
Participants left with a clearer understanding of organizational gaps—and practical, peer-informed ideas to overcome them. One attendee remarked, “It was refreshing to realize we’re not alone in these challenges—and even better to walk away with solutions we can try next week.” The workgroup forged lasting partnerships and sparked continued collaboration between utilities on the shared path to a sustainable energy future.
U2030 Capabilities & Success Factors
U2030 specializes in facilitating cross-utility collaboration that transforms shared challenges into shared progress. Through human-centered facilitation, change management expertise, research, and peer-driven dialogue, we create environments where innovation thrives—accelerating the path to zero carbon.
