Galvanize Climate Solutions Co-Founder Tom Steyer Talks Renewable Energy & the Outlook for Energy Under President-Elect Trump
Dec 23, 2024
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Tom Steyer, co-founder of Galvanize Climate Solutions and a prominent climate activist, shares insights on renewable energy's future amid Trump's presidency. He discusses the substantial economic benefits of renewable energy, highlighting its supremacy over fossil fuels. Steyer emphasizes the critical need for sustainable energy policies and the potential impacts of deregulation. Additionally, he delves into the role of nuclear energy in the transition to renewables and the challenges it faces, calling for a strategic focus on reliable energy sources.
The transition to renewable energy is largely driven by cost competitiveness and market dynamics, particularly as fossil fuel prices rise.
Ensuring reliable baseload energy is crucial for meeting growing demands, highlighting challenges in integrating various energy sources sustainably.
Deep dives
The Transition to Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is becoming increasingly cost-competitive, driving the transition away from fossil fuels. With 86% of new electricity generation globally in 2023 coming from renewable sources, the shift is primarily fueled by the need for economical energy and international competitiveness. The cost of natural gas has also risen significantly, making renewables an increasingly attractive option for businesses looking to reduce operational costs. This trend signifies that despite political discourse surrounding fossil fuel usage, market dynamics fundamentally support the growth of renewable energy.
Demand for Consistent and Reliable Energy
As energy demands grow, especially from sectors like AI, the need for consistent and reliable electricity becomes paramount. The discussion centers on how to provide baseload energy that is trustworthy and available at all times, whether it comes from renewables, fossil fuels, or other sources. While renewables can offer cheap electricity, ensuring reliability without interruptions remains a critical challenge. The exploration of various energy sources, including enhanced geothermal and innovative battery solutions, highlights the importance of meeting the growing energy needs in a sustainable manner.
Galvanize Climate Solutions Co-Founder Tom Steyer discusses the renewable energy and the outlook for energy in 2025 under President-elect Donald Trump. Steyer spoke with Bloomberg's Scarlet Fu.