**Elizabeth Ouzts: Influential Energy Policy Analyst in North Carolina** Elizabeth Ouzts is a prominent energy policy analyst whose insights shape the discourse around North Carolina's evolving energy landscape. With recent legislative developments such as the SB730 Ratepayer Protection Act, which could delay coal plant retirements while proposing new nuclear facilities, Ouzts emphasizes the complex interplay between energy sources and the financial implications for consumers. Her analysis reveals how these decisions could elevate electricity bills, especially amid growing demands from data centers and regulatory shifts. Recent federal guidelines under the Trump administration have further complicated the electrification landscape in North Carolina, threatening incentives for home electrification and prompting significant pushback from advocates. With Duke Energy's new tariff structure for data centers, Ouzts highlights a crucial pivot in energy management, suggesting that stakeholders must navigate these changes carefully to optimize their operations and financial outcomes. As the state looks to balance energy efficiency with economic growth, Ouzts' expertise will be vital in guiding both policymakers and consumers through this transformative era.