# Utilities on The No Agenda Show Utilities comes up in 26 chapters across 25 episodes of The No Agenda Show, from November 2008 to August 2026. - **Chapters:** 26 - **Episodes:** 25 - **Discussed:** November 2008 – August 2026 - **Related topics:** [Utility Bills](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utility-bills.md), [California](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [Data Centers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data-centers.md), [Amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [Austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [Broadband](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/broadband.md), [Electricity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electricity.md), [Infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), [Smart Meters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smart-meters.md), [Texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md) ## Chapters 1–20 of 26 ### Detroit Data Center Opposition, Utility Price Concerns - **Episode:** [1894: Fever Concerns](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1894-fever-concerns.md) - **Published:** 2026-08-13 - **Time:** 1:22:25–1:27:01 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1894-fever-concerns/chapter/detroit-data-center-opposition-utility-price-concerns.md Residents in Detroit and other parts of Michigan are expressing fear over the construction of large AI data centers, citing concerns about rising utility bills and massive water usage. A "man on the street" interview highlights the anxiety of seniors regarding $200 water bills. Despite local opposition, GE has reportedly sold out its power-generating turbines through 2030 to meet the needs of these facilities. Keywords: [detroit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/detroit.md), [michigan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michigan.md), [data centers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data-centers.md), [water usage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/water-usage.md), [utilities](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utilities.md), ge turbines, [noise pollution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/noise-pollution.md) ### Microsoft Power Toys and Linux Transition - **Episode:** [1868: Lubio](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1868-lubio.md) - **Published:** 2026-05-14 - **Time:** 2:53:12–2:56:56 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1868-lubio/chapter/microsoft-power-toys-and-linux-transition.md John C. Dvorak provides a "Tip of the Day" recommending Microsoft Power Toys, a suite of free utilities for Windows users that includes image resizers and keyboard remappers. Adam Curry counters by stating he has completely removed Windows from his life in favor of GNU Linux, leading to a humorous exchange about the merits of open-source operating systems. Keywords: [microsoft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/microsoft.md), power toys, [windows](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/windows.md), [linux](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linux.md), [gnu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gnu.md), [utilities](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utilities.md) ### AI Business Model, Too Cheap to Meter - **Episode:** [1850: Error Bars](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1850-error-bars.md) - **Published:** 2026-03-12 - **Time:** 1:54:14–1:58:37 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1850-error-bars/chapter/ai-business-model-too-cheap-to-meter.md Sam Altman compares the future of AI to the energy industry's failed "too cheap to meter" promise, envisioning intelligence as a utility like water or electricity. He describes a business model based on selling "tokens" for reasoning, where AI agents run proactively in the background of daily life. Keywords: [sam altman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sam-altman.md), [energy industry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-industry.md), [tokens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tokens.md), utility, [intelligence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence.md) ### AI Data Centers and Rising Utility Costs - **Episode:** [1790: Florida Ounce](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1790-florida-ounce.md) - **Published:** 2025-08-14 - **Time:** 1:27:44–1:33:35 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1790-florida-ounce/chapter/ai-data-centers-and-rising-utility-costs.md Utility costs are reportedly doubling in regions like Northwest Indiana due to the high energy and water demands of new AI data centers. The segment features a demonstration of an AI persona named "Ara," which illustrates how AI can be used for subversive advertising and emotional companionship. Concerns are raised about the "virtual pastor" trend in American churches. Keywords: [data centers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data-centers.md), [utility bills](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utility-bills.md), [indiana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indiana.md), [electricity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electricity.md), ara ai ### Data Center Power Demands, Utility Bill Increases - **Episode:** [1672: Sand Battery](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1672-sand-battery.md) - **Published:** 2024-06-27 - **Time:** 1:12:40–1:15:02 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1672-sand-battery/chapter/data-center-power-demands-utility-bill-increases.md Reports from "boots on the ground" indicate that massive data centers for Amazon, Facebook, and Apple are causing significant spikes in local utility bills, including a 200% increase in Prineville, Oregon. An industry executive notes that the power demand is exponential and currently outstripping the capacity of nuclear power plants. Keywords: [amazon hq2](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon-hq2.md), [data centers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data-centers.md), [virginia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/virginia.md), [nuclear power](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-power.md), [utility bills](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utility-bills.md) ### Tip of the Day, Glary Utilities and Windows Optimization - **Episode:** [1670: The Meloni](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1670-the-meloni.md) - **Published:** 2024-06-20 - **Time:** 3:11:06–3:20:50 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1670-the-meloni/chapter/tip-of-the-day-glary-utilities-and-windows-optimization.md The "Tip of the Day" features Glary Utilities, a free tool for PC optimization. The hosts discuss the nuances of defragging SSD drives and offer a Windows performance tip involving disabling visual animations in advanced settings. The episode concludes with end-of-show mixes from Clipper Stoddy and Neil Jones. Keywords: glary utilities, [windows](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/windows.md), [ssd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ssd.md), defrag, optimization, b-link, [end of show mix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/end-of-show-mix.md) ### FCC Net Neutrality Vote, Broadband Reclassification - **Episode:** [1655: Illegal Chants](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1655-illegal-chants.md) - **Published:** 2024-04-28 - **Time:** 23:29–25:23 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1655-illegal-chants/chapter/fcc-net-neutrality-vote-broadband-reclassification.md The FCC has voted to restore net neutrality rules, reclassifying broadband as a public utility under Title II. While proponents argue this prevents ISPs from favoring specific content, skeptics suggest the "safe and fast" internet branding is a cover for increased government regulatory power and the potential blocking of decentralized content. Keywords: [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md), [net neutrality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/net-neutrality.md), [broadband](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/broadband.md), [internet service providers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-service-providers.md), public utility ### Build Back Better Rebranding and Utility Meetings - **Episode:** [1424: Guidepost](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1424-guidepost.md) - **Published:** 2022-02-10 - **Time:** 2:55:35–2:58:05 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1424-guidepost/chapter/build-back-better-rebranding-and-utility-meetings.md Reports suggest a tactical shift at the White House to stop using the phrase "Build Back Better" after the legislation stalled in the Senate. President Biden is meeting with utility heads to discuss components of the plan under a different framing. The hosts argue that the "Build Back Better" brand has become tainted and that the administration is now attempting to pass the bill in smaller, rebranded chunks. Keywords: [build back better](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/build-back-better.md), [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [joe manchin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-manchin.md), [utilities](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utilities.md), [rebranding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rebranding.md) ### Gritty, Wholesale Electricity Bills, and Price Surges - **Episode:** [1323: Bidenista](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1323-bidenista.md) - **Published:** 2021-02-21 - **Time:** 21:46–23:34 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1323-bidenista/chapter/gritty-wholesale-electricity-bills-and-price-surges.md Customers of the wholesale electricity provider Gritty reported massive bill surges, with some facing charges of over $1,000 for a single week of service. Gritty, which passes wholesale market prices directly to consumers for a monthly fee, had urged its 29,000 customers to switch providers before the storm, but many were unable to do so. The Texas Public Utility Commission is expected to investigate these extreme billing incidents. Keywords: gritty, wholesale electricity, public utility commission, [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [energy bills](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-bills.md) ### Credit Access and Inclusion Act, Social Scoring - **Episode:** [1171: Slutty Vegan](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1171-slutty-vegan.md) - **Published:** 2019-09-12 - **Time:** 1:46:36–1:51:56 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1171-slutty-vegan/chapter/credit-access-and-inclusion-act-social-scoring.md The "Credit Access and Inclusion Act of 2019" aims to amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to include utility, telecommunication, and subsidized housing payments in consumer credit reports. While framed as a way to help the "unbanked" build credit, critics argue it creates a social scoring system that tracks the behavior of the poor and young. The segment also warns against using apps like Credit Karma due to their data-sharing ties with Google. Keywords: [credit karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-karma.md), [fico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fico.md), [social credit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-credit.md), [utilities](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utilities.md), [hud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hud.md) ### Aerial Fiber Infrastructure, Utility Poles and Aesthetics - **Episode:** [1067: Double Header](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1067-double-header.md) - **Published:** 2018-09-09 - **Time:** 1:15:45–1:20:05 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1067-double-header/chapter/aerial-fiber-infrastructure-utility-poles-and-aesthetics.md Dane Jasper describes the physical process of stringing fiber optic cables on existing wooden utility poles. He explains that Sonic uses lightweight dielectric cables lashed to stainless steel messenger wires, which are more efficient than old copper infrastructure. Jasper addresses community complaints about the "ugly" appearance of additional wires, noting that aerial deployment allows for faster maintenance than underground lines. Keywords: utility poles, aerial fiber, lashing wire, dielectric cable, [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md) ### Google Fiber Challenges, Construction Costs and Pole Rental - **Episode:** [1067: Double Header](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1067-double-header.md) - **Published:** 2018-09-09 - **Time:** 1:58:15–2:02:17 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1067-double-header/chapter/google-fiber-challenges-construction-costs-and-pole-rental.md Dane Jasper speculates that Google Fiber slowed its expansion due to the high cost and difficulty of physical construction. He reveals that underground construction in San Francisco can cost nearly $500 per foot, leading Sonic to favor aerial deployment. Jasper explains the regulatory process of renting space on utility poles within public easements, which costs Sonic approximately $7 per pole annually. Keywords: [google fiber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-fiber.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), microtrenching, utility easement, pole attachment ### California Climate Credit, Utility Bill Rebates - **Episode:** [1026: DE-ISIS](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1026-de-isis.md) - **Published:** 2018-04-19 - **Time:** 2:29:08–2:30:43 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1026-de-isis/chapter/california-climate-credit-utility-bill-rebates.md California residents are receiving a "California Climate Credit" on their utility bills as part of the state's efforts to combat climate change. The credit originates from a program requiring large industrial polluters to purchase carbon permits under the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. While the state frames the credit as an investment in cleaner energy, critics view it as a minor rebate for a much larger regulatory burden. Keywords: [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), climate credit, [greenhouse gases](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenhouse-gases.md), [utility bills](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utility-bills.md), global warming solutions act ### Irish Water Charges and Austin Utility Bills - **Episode:** [671: White House Moat](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/671-white-house-moat.md) - **Published:** 2014-11-20 - **Time:** 2:48:42–2:51:15 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/671-white-house-moat/chapter/irish-water-charges-and-austin-utility-bills.md The introduction of water charges in Ireland has sparked widespread protests. One of the hosts compares this to his own utility bill in Austin, Texas, noting the oddity of being charged more for sewage than for the actual water consumed. Keywords: [ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ireland.md), water charges, [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [sewage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sewage.md), public utilities ### Common Carrier Regulation, Comcast and FCC Influence - **Episode:** [651: Plague Grenade](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/651-plague-grenade.md) - **Published:** 2014-09-11 - **Time:** 34:34–36:29 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/651-plague-grenade/chapter/common-carrier-regulation-comcast-and-fcc-influence.md The discussion focuses on the push to classify the internet as a common carrier under Title II. The hosts argue that this move actually benefits large incumbents like Comcast and Time Warner by creating a regulated utility environment that stifles smaller competitors and municipal broadband projects. Keywords: [comcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/comcast.md), [time warner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/time-warner.md), [common carrier](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/common-carrier.md), [section 706](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/section-706.md), utility ### Michael Powell, NCTA Keynote and Infrastructure Decay - **Episode:** [613: Carbon Overload](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/613-carbon-overload.md) - **Published:** 2014-05-01 - **Time:** 2:09:11–2:15:28 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/613-carbon-overload/chapter/michael-powell-ncta-keynote-and-infrastructure-decay.md Michael Powell, Chairman of the National Cable Television Association, delivered a keynote arguing against regulating broadband as a public utility. Powell pointed to the crumbling state of U.S. roads, water mains, and the electric grid as evidence that government utility regulation leads to decay. He contrasted these failing systems with the privately funded, rapidly expanding broadband network. Keywords: [michael powell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-powell.md), ncta, [broadband](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/broadband.md), public utility, [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), [blackouts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackouts.md) ### California Climate Credit and Utility Bill Bribes - **Episode:** [605: "Biostitutes"](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/605-quot-biostitutes-quot.md) - **Published:** 2014-04-03 - **Time:** 21:48–24:44 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/605-quot-biostitutes-quot/chapter/california-climate-credit-and-utility-bill-bribes.md California residents and small businesses are receiving a "Climate Credit" on their utility bills in April and October, funded by payments from large industrial emitters. The hosts describe this as a "bribe" or a "round-robin" tax scheme where the government takes money from industries and returns a portion to consumers to gain support for climate policies. The credit applies to customers of major utilities like PG&E and Southern California Edison. Keywords: [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), climate credit, [pg&e](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pg-e.md), [carbon tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-tax.md), public utilities commission, [greenhouse gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenhouse-gas.md) ### Utility Bicycles, Austin Transportation Culture - **Episode:** [533: Clip Show II](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/533-clip-show-ii.md) - **Published:** 2013-07-25 - **Time:** 1:48:33–1:52:56 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/533-clip-show-ii/chapter/utility-bicycles-austin-transportation-culture.md The lack of practical "utility bicycles" in Austin, Texas, is contrasted with the bike culture of Amsterdam. One host expresses frustration that American bike shops primarily sell expensive racing or mountain bikes rather than simple bikes with baskets and fenders. They propose a business opportunity for functional, one-speed transportation in flat urban areas. Keywords: [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [bicycles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bicycles.md), utility bikes, [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), fixies, [transportation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transportation.md) ### Juiced Riders, Electric Utility Bicycles, Hipster Culture - **Episode:** [488: Sponsor Influence](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/488-sponsor-influence.md) - **Published:** 2013-02-17 - **Time:** 49:13–51:37 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/488-sponsor-influence/chapter/juiced-riders-electric-utility-bicycles-hipster-culture.md Tora Harris of Juiced Riders is "de-douched" after donating and sharing information about his electric utility bicycle startup. The hosts examine the design of the bikes, noting their high payload capacity and integrated frames. However, the conversation quickly turns to the high cost of such items and their appeal to "hipster douchebags." Keywords: juiced riders, electric bikes, utility bicycles, [hipsters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hipsters.md), [startups](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/startups.md) ### Charity Scams, Red Cross Criticism and Power Monopolies - **Episode:** [460: Nein Nein Nein Nein](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/460-nein-nein-nein-nein.md) - **Published:** 2012-11-11 - **Time:** 1:01:30–1:04:27 - **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/460-nein-nein-nein-nein/chapter/charity-scams-red-cross-criticism-and-power-monopolies.md CNN reports on "pop-up" charity scams following Superstorm Sandy, which the hosts argue distracts from the inefficiencies of major organizations like the Red Cross. There is also a discussion on community organizers targeting utility monopolies to facilitate contract changes for power restoration. Keywords: [red cross](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/red-cross.md), sandy relief, drew griffin, [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), utility companies, community organizers [Next page](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utilities.md?offset=20) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`. - [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt) - [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md) - [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md) - [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md) - [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)