We propose that zonal winds in Saturn's atmosphere cause superrotation of the ionosphere and by virtue of field-aligned currents generate a potential of ~16 kV across the B-ring. Such a potential can momentarily polarize ~1--10&mgr;m size ice particles in a radial sense and thus create the spectacular spokes. A resulting current flowing radially through the B-ring would give rise to a power of ~107 W, which is close to that dissipated in an SED burst.