Current Revolution, Episode 1: The Transformation Cannot Be Stopped

Trailer for The Transformation Cannot Be Stopped

American Resilience Project’s film series and associated outreach campaigns tackles the challenge of how the utility, auto, tech, and defense industries can help modernize the aging power grid to make it more secure and responsive to the needs of its users while enhancing environmental performance. With a focus on national security, economic prosperity, and environmental justice, the films, and campaigns will show how the nation can embrace smart policies and investments that support grid modernization through distributed renewable energy generation and the development of an electric vehicle infrastructure.

For decades, the utility industry has been a driving engine of the U.S. economy, contributing significantly to our progress and standard of living with a business model that focused on centralized generation. But now, because of reduced demand from a number of factors, including more efficient energy systems, power companies face a crisis that requires them to capture new market share to survive in the 21st century. The industry has its sights on the transportation sector, which means a chance to catalyze the electric vehicle industry, but which also sets it on a collision course with major petroleum interests. And with the need for a smart, cyber-secure grid, the tech and defense industries also have critical roles to play.

Through interviews, observational and archival footage with top executives, military personnel, utility workers, elected officials, and others -- from substations to gas stations, board rooms to military bases -- the film tells the story of a towering American industry on the brink of massive change. Whether it fails, prevails, or adapts, the outcome will profoundly affect us all.

Viewing and discussion courtesy of Climate Theater by Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.