Shift Key with Robinson Meyer and Jesse Jenkins The Biggest Energy and Climate Stories of 2026
60 snips
Dec 23, 2025 Emily Pontecorvo is a staff writer at Heatmap known for her climate and energy reporting, while Matthew Zeitlin dives into energy technologies and policy. They discuss predictions for 2026, including how Democrats might shift their relationship with the oil and gas industry. The panel also tackles the future of geothermal projects, the nuances of heat pump regulations in California, and key developments in renewable energy deployment. They forecast rising electricity prices and potential political shifts that could reshape the energy landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Democrats' Quiet Shift Toward Fossil Outputs
- Matt Iglesias' op-ed pushed the idea that Democrats should publicly align more with oil and gas, sparking debate about strategy.
- Panelists note Democrats already sometimes signal support for fossil outputs like cheap gasoline without full industry embrace.
Rhetoric Versus Energy Policy Reality
- Democrats often emphasize affordable energy rather than celebrating oil and gas industry itself, producing rhetorical tension.
- The Biden era approved fossil projects without an upbeat industry defense, leaving room for different political approaches.
Climate Movement's Waning Political Momentum
- The climate movement suffered major political setbacks in 2025, weakening momentum compared with 2016 and 2020 peaks.
- Panelists say pessimism and economic headwinds reduced appetite for ambitious national climate projects.