Electric Equity looks at energy poverty around the globe, explores how it limits people’s ability to flourish as human beings, and brings to light efforts to increase energy access. Your host is engineering Professor Brian Thomas, Executive Director of the nonprofit organization JustEnergy, which works to combat energy poverty in the poorest and least electrified country in the Western Hemisphere: Haiti. Fighting Energy Poverty is full of challenges: some are technical, some are cultural, some are financial, some are ethical. Our show will demystify energy and electricity and unpack the central role of energy access for international development and human flourishing. We’ll introduce you to people and organizations that are doing something about it and explore philosophical and ethical questions along the way.
Electric Equity
Claim This Podcastby Brian Thomas
Podcast Overview
Electric Equity looks at energy poverty around the globe, explores how it limits people’s ability to flourish as human beings, and brings to light efforts to increase energy access. Your host is engineering Professor Brian Thomas, Executive Director of the nonprofit organization JustEnergy, which works to combat energy poverty in the poorest and least electrified country in the Western Hemisphere: Haiti. Fighting Energy Poverty is full of challenges: some are technical, some are cultural, some are financial, some are ethical. Our show will demystify energy and electricity and unpack the central role of energy access for international development and human flourishing. We’ll introduce you to people and organizations that are doing something about it and explore philosophical and ethical questions along the way.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
12/20/2025
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Recent Episodes
June 4, 2026
The Dam Good Question
In this episode of Electric Equity, guest host Dr. Kayla Garrett speaks with Shannon Ames, the Executive Director of the Low Impact Hydropower Institute (LIHI). How does LIHI move the needle toward access to renewable energy sources, specifically hydropower, while minimizing or eliminating its environmental and cultural impacts? The conversation explores: What "low-impact hydropower" means and the eight environmental and community criteria used in LIHI certification. The historical tension between hydropower developers and river conservation groups. Fish passage technologies, including fish ladders, elevators, nature-like channels, and even the famous "salmon cannon." The differences between run-of-river and peaking hydropower facilities. Why hydropower remains valuable for energy access and grid stability, particularly in remote and developing regions. Whether environmental protection and expanded energy access must be viewed as competing goals. How thoughtful design, community engagement, and emerging technologies can reduce environmental impacts while still meeting urgent energy needs.
April 10, 2026
Food Justice as Energy Justice
In this episode of Electric Equity, Brian speaks with Dr. Jenny Howell of Baylor University and explores the deep connections between theology, ecology, and food justice. Dr. Howell directs a unique graduate program at Truett Seminary that challenges students to break out of traditional silos and think holistically about the world’s most pressing issues. Teaching on-site at the World Hunger Relief Farm, she helps future leaders connect theological ideas about creation with the lived realities of land, food systems, and community life. Together, they unpack how food and energy intersect—not just as resources, but as essential components of human dignity and flourishing. From the weaponization of food in conflict zones to the concept of “integral ecology,” Jenny offers a compelling vision in which the health of the earth and the well-being of people are inseparable. The conversation is both sobering and hopeful, encouraging listeners to resist despair and instead find one meaningful way to participate in healing the world around them.
March 20, 2026
Energy-as-a-Service: Rethinking Energy Equity
In this episode of Electric Equity, Brian sits down with Nick Stolberg to explore the intersection of energy access, rural livelihoods, and sustainable agriculture. From the surprising role of a “chicken farmer” to deeper questions about energy poverty, resilience, and community development, this conversation connects everyday work with global challenges. Together, they reflect on how local food systems, small-scale farming, and decentralized energy solutions can strengthen communities both in the United States and in places like Haiti. This episode will resonate with listeners interested in renewable energy, off-grid systems, regenerative agriculture, humanitarian engineering, and a different business model for renewable energy businesses in energy poor countries. Brian and Nick discuss practical and philosophical dimensions of building a more equitable energy future—one that values human dignity, local knowledge, and appropriate technology. Whether you're a farmer, engineer, nonprofit leader, or simply curious about sustainable living and energy justice, this conversation offers thoughtful insights grounded in real-world experience. Power to the Chicken People.
10 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Electric Equity?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
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This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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