Energy Insiders - a RenewEconomy Podcast

Simon Emms, CEO of Electranet, discusses South Australia’s impressive leap to 100% renewable energy, citing key milestones and the integration of advanced transmission infrastructure. He highlights the allure of the region for industries eager to plug into this green energy boom. Emms also tackles the ongoing debates between nuclear and renewable energy proponents, emphasizing the need for diverse technologies and robust systems to ensure stability as the state moves away from gas. The conversation underscores consumer interest in household energy innovations and the significant role of events like the All Energy Conference.

Ric Brazzale from Green Energy Markets discusses what’s happening in key markets for renewables, emissions, efficiency and electrification. Plus, news of the week.

Julius Susanto, Principal of Ampere Labs, shares his expertise in renewable energy. He discusses Australia’s rapid rooftop solar growth, which now meets nearly 50% of grid demand, and emphasizes the vital role of battery systems. The conversation also highlights challenges faced by the Pilbara electricity grid and innovations that enhance supply stability. Comparisons are drawn between Western Australia and California's energy strategies, showcasing insights on financing transitions from coal to renewables amidst a changing industrial landscape.

Ian Brooksbank, the retiring CEO of Hydro Tasmania with extensive experience in the energy sector, offers fascinating insights on the evolving energy landscape. He discusses the transition from coal to renewables, detailing the challenges and opportunities. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating hydro, wind, and solar energy while considering community engagement. Brooksbank also reflects on the innovative projects in Tasmania and the shift towards decentralized energy control, showcasing Tasmania's potential as a leader in renewable energy.

Carl Hutchinson, the country manager of Enel X, on the difficulties of getting demand response on Australia’s main grid, despite its obvious benefits. Plus: News of the week.

AEMO chief executive Daniel Westerman explains why Australia is shifting from the old paradigm of "baseload" power, and why he still wants spinning machines. Plus: News of the week.

Matt Kean on being a private citizen, duelling with Barnaby, rent-seeking on Eraring and pathways to net zero.

Lesley Hughes, a renowned climate expert, discusses the alarming effects of extreme weather on biodiversity and human life. She highlights the feedback loops of rising temperatures, focusing on Sydney's increasing heat and its implications for global warming. The conversation delves into the urgent need for effective climate action as species face extinction and ecosystems decline. Lesley offers insights on the importance of renewable energy and how fostering public engagement can drive meaningful change amidst the climate crisis.

Dominique van den Berg, the chief executive of ENA, shares her insights on the evolving role of energy networks amidst the rise of distributed resources. She discusses the recent volatility in the energy market and the impacts of fluctuating wholesale prices on consumers. The conversation highlights innovative strategies for integrating renewable energy, like community batteries, and enhancing communication between stakeholders. Dominique emphasizes the importance of collaboration to navigate regulatory challenges and support the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

Andrew Smith, a senior financier at NAB, shares insights on the intricate challenges of raising equity for Australia's renewable energy transition. He discusses the stark differences in financing renewable projects between Australia and the U.S., emphasizing the role of investment incentives. Explore the hesitations of superannuation funds and the rise of private capital within the sector. Smith highlights the crucial need for infrastructure upgrades and the growing demand for green power, especially from digital sectors like AI and data centers.