Energy Insiders - a RenewEconomy Podcast

Engie's Laura Caspari explains why batteries are paired better with solar than wind, and why data centre load could unlock more renewables. Plus: News of the week.

Marc England, CEO of Ausgrid, shares insights on integrating renewable energy and electric vehicles into the grid. He discusses the innovative approach to local networks creating their own ISP. The conversation dives into the challenges of EV adoption, highlighting the need for improved charging infrastructure. England also touches on community batteries, their economic benefits, and the evolving tariff structures to support consumers, especially renters. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in navigating Australia’s energy transition towards sustainability.

David Scaysbrook from Quinbrook Infrastructure discusses the pivotal fall in costs for solar and battery storage, marking a tipping point in the energy sector. He highlights groundbreaking projects like Sun Cable and innovations in battery technologies, including the shift to lithium iron phosphate. Scaysbrook delves into Queensland's potential as a green industrial hub and the need for massive investments to harness its resources sustainably. He also explores the evolving roles of gas and hydrogen amidst rising energy costs, positioning renewables at the forefront of future energy solutions.

Former US climate envoy Jonathan Pershing discusses Donald Trump’s war on everything, including climate, energy, science and research, and Australia’s energy choices. Plus: Rio Tinto’s stunning choice of solar and batteries to save future of giant smelters.

Iola Hughes, the head of research at Rho Motion, dives deep into the fascinating world of grid and electric vehicle batteries. She highlights the rapid growth of EV sales driven by advancements in battery technology, especially lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The discussion touches on challenges in Europe’s charging infrastructure and contrasting EV trends between Europe and Australia. Additionally, she explores innovative recycling methods and how large battery rollouts enhance grid reliability to meet rising energy demands.

David Cavanagh, an expert in the green hydrogen industry and Chief Hydrogen Officer at Hydrogen West and Hydrogen East, discusses Australia's burgeoning hydrogen economy. He highlights both the barriers and opportunities in developing a robust hydrogen sector. Cavanagh emphasizes the demand for hydrogen fuels domestically and globally, touching on the environmental benefits and economic potential. The conversation also explores the importance of government incentives and the upcoming Hydrogen Society of Australia conference, showcasing the future engagement in this clean energy revolution.

Tim Nelson, Head of the National Electricity Market Wholesale Market Settings Review, shares insights on energy market transformations. He discusses the pressing need for market adaptations amidst rising renewable energy sources. The conversation highlights the role of consumer resources, the implications of falling storage costs, and innovations in pumped hydro projects. Nelson also addresses the challenges in balancing short-term consumer needs with long-term energy contracts, reflecting on how market dynamics are shifting in response to technological advancements.

Simon Holmes a Court, Founder of Climate 200, discusses the evolving political landscape of Australia, emphasizing the rise of independent candidates and their crucial role in climate policy. He dives into lessons learned from political trends, contrasting Australia’s and the U.S.'s electoral strategies. Holmes also addresses the complexities of the green energy transition, such as the dynamics of battery storage, market constraints, and the influence of leadership changes on energy rulemaking. It's an eye-opening chat about making sustainable change feel achievable.

Kane Thornton, the Chief Executive of the Clean Energy Council, shares valuable insights on the positive shifts in Australia's renewable energy sector. He discusses how investments in wind, solar, and storage are aligning with ambitious 2030 targets. The conversation delves into the challenges of market pressures and misinformation affecting the transition. Thornton also highlights AGL and Origin's substantial investments in battery technology and the competitive dynamics reshaping the energy landscape. It's an optimistic view on overcoming hurdles in the path to a cleaner future.

John Grimes from the Smart Energy Council discusses what's on agenda ahead of federal poll, and as SEC celebrates its 70th anniversary. Plus: Energy news of the week.