Michael Barnard

Michael Barnard, an energy transition expert, joins Gerard and Laurent to kick off the new year with bold predictions for 2025. They discuss the potential decline of U.S. oil production and falling oil prices, forecasting a dramatic shift in the energy landscape. Geopolitical tensions and supply chain stresses may spur innovative solutions. The team humorously reflects on the challenges facing hydrogen in transportation and predicts a record surge in solar and EV adoption. They also foresee the end of ESG-labeled financial products, sparking a lively debate.

Bill Gates, the tech mogul turned philanthropist, teams up with Michael Barnard, an energy transition expert, to dissect the intricacies of Breakthrough Energy Ventures. They delve into Gates's controversial investment strategies, revealing a mixed bag of successes and blunders across 100+ ventures. The conversation critiques the influence of Silicon Valley's elite on climate tech funding, highlighting the need for smarter investments. With insights on the challenges and promising innovations in the climate sector, it's a riveting look at the state of sustainable investments.

This week, Michael Barnard, host of Redefining Energy - Tech, discusses the decarbonization of the shipping industry. They explore electrification options, the role of hydrogen, green ammonia, methanol, and biodiesel. Hybrid and multi-fuel solutions are favored. They also talk about the potential of batteries, alternative fuels like biofuels and ammonia, and the need for a special bunkering infrastructure for alternative fuels. The future adoption of hybrid configurations with batteries is speculated for reduced pollution and noise near ports.

Exploring long-duration energy storage solutions to combat low wind and solar periods. Discussing the potential of pumped hydro storage, flow batteries, and new technologies. Analyzing the challenges and opportunities for grid storage and the need for government intervention and market reforms.

Energy Transition experts Michael Barnard, Laurent, and Gerard discuss the one year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, the issues with Direct Air Capture, CATL's impressive battery technology, the convenience of electric car charging, the rise of VINFAST, and the complexities of Russian uranium exports and sanctions.