Energy Gang

Joining the conversation are Nicolette Bartlett from CDP, who highlights the surge in business opportunities driven by climate action. Mike Train of Emerson shares insights on their ambitious goal for 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and the importance of transparency in sustainability efforts. Maria Mendiluce discusses the We Mean Business Coalition's approach to mobilizing corporate climate action. Johan Falk from the Exponential Roadmap Initiative emphasizes the need for substantial emission reductions, showcasing how businesses can lead the charge in tackling climate change through collaboration and innovation.

Wade Crowfoot, California's Secretary for Natural Resources, Travis Kellerman, Senior Climate Policy Advisor for New Mexico, MIT's Jessica Trancik, and The Climate Group's CEO Helen Clarkson discuss state leadership in climate action amid uncertain federal policies. They illuminate how California and New Mexico are driving clean energy initiatives while navigating potential challenges from a second Trump administration. The conversation highlights the vital role of state coalitions, market-based approaches, and the urgency for innovative solutions to uphold climate commitments.

Harry Boyd-Carpenter, Managing Director for Climate Strategy and Delivery at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, dives into the pivotal role of development banks in climate finance. He discusses how these banks, by leveraging funds, can amplify investments in poorer nations, enabling significant strides towards decarbonization. The conversation centers on the urgent need for financial support from wealthier countries and explores innovative funding strategies crucial for accelerating renewable energy investments in low- and middle-income countries.

Amy Myers Jaffe, a leading energy policy expert, Robbie Orvis, who specializes in energy markets, and Ray Long, CEO of ACORE, discuss the seismic shift in U.S. energy policy after recent elections. They explore how the incoming Republican administration will prioritize affordability over sustainability, potentially reshaping wind, solar, and nuclear energy sectors. The trio analyzes the future of critical initiatives like hydrogen hubs, energy tax credits, and the implications of tariffs on the EV market, all while navigating the intersection of policy, innovation, and market dynamics.

Xizhou Zhou, Head of Power and Renewables at Wood Mackenzie, shares data-driven insights on impending transformer shortages. Melissa Lott, a former Columbia professor, discusses energy transition hurdles. Travis Edmonds from Hitachi Energy highlights supply chain challenges and increasing transformer demand. They explore the implications for clean energy projects, the differences in standards across regions, and the need for robust partnerships. Personal tales about EV infrastructure and the impact of seasonal energy trends add depth to their conversation.

Amy Myers Jaffe, Director of the Energy, Climate Justice, and Sustainability Lab at NYU, joins Mike Battaglia, COO of Blink Charging, to tackle the pressing challenge of EV charging infrastructure. They discuss the frustrating reality of unreliable charging stations and the industry's struggle to keep pace with growing EV adoption. Mike sheds light on Blink's innovative approach and future plans, while they both emphasize the need for improved reliability and strategic placement of charging points to build consumer confidence in electric vehicle ownership.

Join Helen Clarkson, CEO of the Climate Group, and Geoffrey Pyatt, US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, as they dissect the highlights of Climate Week in New York. Helen discusses how Climate Week has transformed from a business-focused gathering to a major platform for actionable climate solutions. They delve into the pressing need to overcome regulatory barriers for renewable energy investment and celebrate the launch of a coalition aiming for 24/7 clean electricity. Geoffrey also shares insights on the U.S. efforts in supporting Ukraine’s energy security.

Marissa Beatty, leader of Turnover Labs, shares her entrepreneurial journey in cleantech, discussing the transition of CO2 waste into chemicals. Alongside Apoorv Sinha from Carbon Upcycling Technologies, they reveal the hurdles of launching sustainable ventures and the critical role of venture capital. They also highlight the importance of community support, strategic focus, and navigating regulatory landscapes in the fast-paced world of cleantech innovation. Together, they explore ambitious goals for reducing carbon footprints in the building materials industry.

Caroline Golin, Global Head of Energy Market Development at Google, and Kate Gordon, Chief Executive of California Forward, discuss the new era of electricity demand in the U.S. Golin highlights Google's drive for 24/7 carbon-free energy while advocating for innovative clean energy business models. Gordon addresses the complexities caused by extreme heat and electrification. Both emphasize the need for collaboration and infrastructure updates to meet the growing demand and decarbonization goals, underscoring the challenges and opportunities for a sustainable energy future.

Bjorn Otto Sverdrup, chair of the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative, and Gernot Wagner, a climate economist, dive into the oil and gas industry's role in the energy transition. They discuss how the industry can leverage its resources to develop cleaner technologies while tackling methane emissions urgently. Sverdrup emphasizes immediate actions, while Wagner warns against short-term fixes that may hinder ambitious long-term targets. Their conversation highlights the challenges and necessity of balancing immediate solutions with overarching sustainability goals.