Azeem Azhar's Exponential View What does Spain’s blackout mean for the future of clean energy?
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May 7, 2025 
Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, dives into the causes and implications of Spain’s recent blackout. He discusses the urgent need for resilient energy grids as renewable sources grow, exploring innovative solutions like demand response programs. The conversation highlights the potential of virtual power plants and electric vehicles in enhancing grid stability. Jackson also examines market reforms and the unique branding journey of Octopus Energy, emphasizing the need for a consumer-centric approach in the renewable transition.
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Iberian Grid's Key Vulnerabilities
- Spain's grid crisis was worsened by being an energy island with minimal interconnections and virtually no battery capacity.
- Low digitalization of the grid and outdated control systems also hindered its stability and responsiveness.
Inertia Loss in Renewable Grids
- Traditional grids rely on rotational inertia from spinning turbines to stabilize frequency and balance demand.
- Renewable grids lack this inertia, necessitating new digital tools and batteries to dynamically manage supply and demand.
Push Forward With Market Reform
- Accelerate the clean energy transition by redesigning market structures to incentivize battery use and grid flexibility.
- Avoid hesitating mid-transition, as slowing progress risks grid instability and higher costs.