Redefining Energy

The podcast delves into the challenges faced by distribution grids due to the rise of electric cars and heat pumps. It emphasizes the importance of digital technologies, storage, and grid control to ensure grid stability. The conversation also explores the shift towards new business models and technology adoption in utility companies, as well as the integration of digital technologies like edge computing and smart meters in grid systems.

We hear conflicting messages regarding the status of the EV market. On the bright side, IEA predicts 17mEV to be sold this year, EV and Hybrids reach 50% market share in China for Q1, more than 500 EV models are currently on the market. On the dark side, Tesla and BYD deliveries were down in Q1_24, Tesla revenues were down 9% compared to Q1_23 and the price war has cut the EPS in 2.Has Tesla lost its mojo or will Elon refocus and reboot. Lots of announcements, but also a 10% cut in the workforce, and a depressed share price. Meanwhile the “Oil Street Journal” and other publications have been repeating ad nauseum (but falsely) that the EV Story is over.In fact, EV sales in Q1 2024 were 21% higher than Q1 2023. China led the way with at 31% growth with the US and Canada at 13%, and EU and EFTA trailing behind at a 7%. Removal of the BEV subsidies in Germany showing their full impact there.There are also a lot of questions about protectionism, as Elon Musk just declared that “Chinese automakers would "demolish" most of the world's other car companies if there were no trade barriers. Our observation is generally that the Chinese car companies are the most competitive car companies in the world,"To discuss this and the future of the EV market, Laurent brought James Carter. James is a friend of the show and one of the top Auto experts in the world based in Toronto, Canada.And Gerard will be back with us next week. He was simply too busy successfully selling our German Rooftop Solar company Febesol to Thermondo. But that is a story for another day.The pod has just been named number 1 Energy Transition show. Thank you, guys. We love you all.--------PS: when referring to our friend Roger Atkins, Laurent said “Shanghai Auto Show”. Oooops its was Beijing Auto China from which he brings back wondrous stories, including a meeting with the legend Robin Zheng, CATL founder.

Laurent and Gerard have a rapid overview of what’s going on regarding the Energy Transition in China and its political implication in the West.Record production of this, record production of that, overcapacity everywhere…We babble a lot, rant a bit, and conclude that we need to invite a real expert on the show.

Exploring the value of green electrons and the need for real-time tracking in the energy sector. Discussing the innovation in digital platforms like Renewabl for trading green attributes. Highlighting the expertise of JP Cerda in the green commodities market. Addressing the future of digital trading in energy markets and the challenges faced by large corporations.

Markus Wandt, CIO Aquila Capital, debates renewable energy investments at a Global Infrastructure Conference. They discuss past energy revolutions, ESG impacts, evolving power consumption patterns, challenges in transitioning to renewables, and strategies for stability in battery investments.

Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs) and new conductor technologies are revolutionizing the energy sector by increasing grid capacity and efficiency. Jason Huang, CEO of TS Conductor, discusses the challenges faced by the power grid and the importance of innovative solutions. The podcast explores obstacles in grid connectivity for renewables and the advancements in smart conductor technology for enhanced power line capacity. Embracing new technologies is crucial for a smoother energy transition.

Exploring energy gatherings in Houston, Bilbao, and Berlin. Insights on solar company achievements and market challenges. Discussions on energy sector improvements and the Global Infrastructure Summit. Insights on conference crowds, property digitization, and energy transition space. Evolution of renewable asset ownership and rising energy demands.

Exploring Japan's challenging Energy Transition, the podcast discusses the country's reliance on nuclear and hydrogen options, costly in a world of cheap renewables. Shuichiro Kawamura from Energy & Environment Investment talks about supporting startups with innovative technologies in the energy sector. The podcast highlights Japan's unique engineering solutions and extreme energy efficiency in the downstream sector.

Gerard and Laurent discuss recent energy conferences in Germany and London, highlighting the shift in battery investment strategies and the challenges faced by traditional utilities. They explore the excitement over falling battery prices and innovations like 'balcony solar' disrupting the industry.

The podcast delves into the revolution of EV fast-charging, with a focus on the absence of traditional players in the industry. They discuss Gridserve's innovative charging network, Electric Super Hubs, and the shift towards a consumer-centric approach. The conversation envisions a future where petrol stations are obsolete, highlighting the importance of service quality in the EV charging landscape.