Mario Fernandez

Mario Fernandez leads Breakthrough Energy's FOAK finance program, specializing in infrastructure investment for climate technologies. He explores the challenges in funding first-of-a-kind projects, explaining why investors seek multiple repeatable projects. The discussion includes strategies for scaling, like the pilot-demo-FOAK path, and the difficulties of innovative commercial contracts. Mario also highlights the balance needed in financing structures and offtake agreements to attract cautious investors and reduce risks, showcasing successful models like Rondo's 'Steam as a Service'.

In this engaging discussion, Mario Fernandez, Head of Breakthrough Energy’s FOAK finance program, shares his expertise in energy infrastructure investment. He explores the challenges of securing funding for first-of-a-kind projects, emphasizing the need for repeatable models to attract conservative investors. Mario discusses the critical steps from piloting to scaling innovations, as well as the complexities of negotiating flexible offtake agreements. Additionally, he highlights innovative pricing strategies and the importance of precise capital estimation in today's evolving market.