Redefining Energy

Get ready for a deep dive into how AI and digitalization are reshaping energy and industry! Discover the rising electricity demands driven by AI's growth and its historical context. The conversation shifts to solar innovations, which play a key role in future energy sustainability. Business leaders must adapt to AI's complexities while viewing it as a growth enabler. Finally, learn how AI can enhance resource efficiency and transform energy consumption, all while navigating challenges posed by climate change and global dynamics.

Bent Flyvbjerg, a leading expert on megaprojects and author of How Big Things Get Done, shares eye-opening insights from his analysis of over 16,000 projects. He reveals that a staggering 99.5% fail to meet expectations in budget, timeline, or benefits. Flyvbjerg discusses the superiority of modular successes like the Tesla Gigafactory over complex projects like nuclear plants. He emphasizes the importance of risk management and data-driven decision-making in driving successful outcomes, especially in the renewable energy sector.

Juan Rivier Abbad, Head of Global Renewables Regulation at Iberdrola, joins a panel of experts to tackle the pressing issues of solar energy in Europe. They engage in a lively debate on the Green Industrial Deal and its impact on decarbonization and energy affordability. The conversation uncovers the rise of the 'prosumer' in solar investments and the pivotal role of renewables in industrial heating. Insights into innovative strategies for low-carbon steel production and the urgent need for electrification highlight the transition to a sustainable energy future.

The conversation dives into the evolving energy landscape and the speaker's unexpected journey into renewables. It discusses Europe's urgent need for energy independence and modernizing infrastructure, advocating for electrification and innovative technologies. Highlights include enhancing energy efficiency in aging buildings, the importance of grid flexibility, and tax incentives for electrification. The discussion also touches on consumer engagement, technology transfer, and how historical innovations shape the future of energy.

Stephen Lacey, Executive Editor at Latitude Media and host of Open Circuit, joins Jigar Shah, Co-Managing Partner at Multiplier and former DOE director. They discuss the widening energy rift between the U.S. and Europe, sparked by shifting geopolitical tides. The conversation highlights Europe's urgent push for energy independence amid reliance on external sources and implications from the Inflation Reduction Act. They also explore the competitive solar and battery landscape, stressing the need for collaboration to ensure a sustainable future.

Texas is shaking up the energy scene with its rapidly growing renewable sector, now consuming more power than France! Experts discuss how wind and solar have dominated the market despite fierce fossil fuel opposition. There's a deep dive into the state’s blend of innovative energy policies that keep prices low and attract data centers. With rising energy demands and extreme weather, Texas is also navigating the complexities of grid reliability and flexibility. Plus, insights on how AI could shape the future of energy management make for an enlightening discussion!

Markus Rauroma, CEO of Fortum and President of Eurelectric, discusses the unique challenges faced by the Finnish energy company amidst growing tensions with Russia. He shares insights on steering Fortum through the effects of the Ukraine war and how they’ve embraced digitalization for resilience. Markus highlights exciting growth in the Baltics and introduces his leadership team, likening them to an energy Avengers squad. The conversation reveals strategic opportunities in clean energy and the future of data centers, alongside navigating cybersecurity and regulatory hurdles.

Steve Berberich, a global energy expert and former CEO of CAISO, joins the discussion to unpack the Iberian blackout. Unlike previous failures, this incident didn't arise from extreme weather, but rather structural flaws within Spain's grid. The conversation reveals regulatory gaps, design issues, and operational errors that contributed to the blackout. Steve compares this event with other significant blackouts, shedding light on common patterns and necessary reforms. The insights underscore the urgent need for accountability and better energy management to prevent future crises.

Six years ago, Simon Moores, CEO of Benchmark Minerals Intelligence shook the world in a now legendary testimony in front of the US Senate. Then, Simon predicted the exponential growth of batteries and the control that China was starting to exert of the supply chains.Fast forward today, we bring in, Caspar Rawles, Simon’s trusted lieutenant, and COO of Benchmark Mineral Intelligence to assess how Simon’s predictions panned out. What was prophetic and what never materialized. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, a London-based Price Reporting Agency (PRA) founded in 2014, specializes in lithium-ion battery and EV supply chains, offering IOSCO-accredited price assessments, supply-demand forecasts, ESG analytics, consultancy, global events, and policy influence.It focuses on critical minerals and recently expanded with Rho Motion, valued at $500M. Caspar talks about the growth of BMI, about the importance of its agreement with ICE, and how he sees the future.Laurent and Gerard conclude on Lithium and Rare Earths. Not really what you expect.

Dimitar Enchev, Cofounder & CEO of CWP, discusses the evolution of energy security in Eastern Europe, revealing tales of past gas blackouts and current resilience. He highlights how the region is transforming from heavy reliance on fossil fuels to embracing renewables, despite geopolitical tensions. With insights on the dramatic shifts post-Ukraine crisis and Greece's impressive energy transition, Enchev emphasizes the urgent need for energy independence. Challenges remain, but opportunities in wind and solar innovation offer a promising future for sustainable energy in Southeast Europe.