Matthew Zeitlin

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.

Matthew Zeitlin and Emily Pontecorvo from Heatmap unpack critical insights on recent electoral victories for Democrats. They delve into how electricity politics influenced the New Jersey governor's race and the significance of the Georgia public service commission race. The duo scrutinizes Bill Gates's climate memo, critiquing its focus on technology and affordability politics that may hinder ambitious climate action. They discuss the ramifications of voter sentiment toward utilities and the challenging dynamics of decarbonization in today's political landscape.

In this discussion, Matthew Zeitlin, a staff writer focused on energy politics, Emily Pontecorvo, an expert on climate policy, and Jillian Goodman, deputy editor and producer, dive into key takeaways from New York Climate Week. They address the shifting focus towards electricity affordability, the political ramifications for Democrats, and the complexities of messaging around the affordability of clean energy. They also explore recent changes to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and emerging concerns about climate science, while reflecting on the broader implications for future energy policy.