

Energy Gang
Wood Mackenzie
Covering breaking news in clean tech, going deep on global energy policy, and debating the levers that need to move to accelerate the energy transition. Energy Gang is the podcast covering clean energy technology, renewable energy, and the environment. The world of clean energy moves fast, and you need a reliable source to stay on top of the news that matters. You’ll find it on Wood Mackenzie’s Energy Gang.How will changes to the US government affect decarbonisation and energy security? When will hydrogen, nuclear and carbon capture deploy at scale? Where’s the money for the energy transition green finance coming from and how much more is needed? What’s the outlook for EVs? What are the energy predictions for solar energy? What's the latest on climate change?Get answers to questions like these, bi-weekly on Tuesdays at 7am ET. Plus, get special live episodes recorded at the biggest climate and energy events throughout the year, like COP30 and Climate Week NYC. Don’t worry if you can’t make it in person, Energy Gang brings you all the updates on energy policy, energy finance and energy innovation you need to hear.Energy Gang is presented by Wood Mackenzie and hosted by Ed Crooks, Vice-Chairman of Energy at Wood Mackenzie and a former Financial Times and BBC News journalist. Regular guests are Amy Myers-Jaffe (Director of NYU’s Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab), and Dr Melissa Lott (Partner at Microsoft) – plus a roster of industry leaders and policy influencers, like Jigar Shah (Industry figurehead and former director of the Loan Programs Office in the US Department of Energy), Caroline Golin (Head of North America, Global Energy Market Development and Policy at Google) and Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt (Former Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources).If you like The Energy Transition Show, Catalyst with Shayle Kann, The Big Switch from Columbia University, Open Circuit with Stephen Lacey or The Green Blueprint, you’ll enjoy Energy Gang.Want to get involved with the show? Reach out to podcasts@woodmac.com to:Bring Energy Gang to your eventBe a guest on the showSponsor an episodeAsk a question to Ed Crooks or one of our guestsCheck out another leading clean tech global podcast by Wood Mackenzie, Interchange Recharged: https://www.woodmac.com/podcasts/the-interchange-recharged/Wood Mackenzie is the leading global data and analytics solutions provider for renewables, energy and natural resources. Learn more about Wood Mackenzie on the official website: https://www.woodmac.com/
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 1h 19min
What’s next for energy after the US elections?
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.

43 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 1h 23min
The trouble with transformers
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.

6 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 1h 2min
Why is it so hard to find a charger for your electric vehicle?
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.

Oct 1, 2024 • 42min
The key takeaways from NY Climate Week, with Climate Group CEO Helen Clarkson
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.

Sep 26, 2024 • 1h 8min
Climate Week NYC special: Entrepreneurs in cleantech tell their stories
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.

Sep 25, 2024 • 1h 15min
Climate Week NYC special: Can the US electricity system meet the challenges it faces?
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.

Sep 24, 2024 • 51min
What is the role that the oil and gas industry should play in the energy transition? Does it have one?
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.

5 snips
Sep 17, 2024 • 60min
How to stop America’s outdated grid holding back the deployment of clean energy
The podcast dives into the urgent need for a modernized energy grid in the U.S., highlighting a staggering 60% expansion requirement by 2030 to meet clean energy demands. Challenges in regulatory processes and local opposition are examined, revealing why new transmission lines are difficult to build. The discussion also tackles the controversial Manchin-Barrasso Bill, weighing its potential to streamline infrastructure against concerns over fossil fuel support. Additionally, insights on oil price volatility's impact on clean energy investment showcase the complexities facing the industry.

11 snips
Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 8min
The rise of AI means surging investment in electricity supply. What will that mean for customers?
The podcast dives into the surge in electricity demand fueled by AI, highlighting challenges utilities face in meeting this rising need. Innovative pricing structures and tailored rate classes are essential for large consumers. The discussion emphasizes community trust and collaboration between tech companies and utilities in energy projects. It also explores balancing immediate power needs with long-term sustainability goals, along with the potential for reduced electricity costs amid changing policies. Innovative solutions like carbon capture and clean transition initiatives are key components for a sustainable future.

Aug 20, 2024 • 1h 1min
The next stage of the IRA: permitting reform
Senator Joe Manchin, known for his pivotal role in the Inflation Reduction Act, teams up with Republican Senator John Barrasso to push for significant permitting reforms in energy infrastructure. They discuss the challenges of balancing rapid project approvals with environmental justice concerns. The conversation also delves into necessary strategies for LNG exports and a coherent national energy strategy, all while navigating the complexities of decarbonization and public engagement in policy development.