Energy Gang

The podcast explores the influence of upcoming elections on energy policy, the significance of COP conferences in oil-producing countries, and the potential of enhanced geothermal power. They also discuss the launch of regulated carbon markets in Brazil and the rise of data centers. The chapter concludes with discussions on technologies to watch in the energy sector, tensions in the mining industry, and the speakers' reading goals for the year.

Kevin Kariuki, Vice President for power, energy, climate and green growth at the African Development Bank, discusses increasing investment in emission cuts and adapting to the impacts of climate change. Mark Davis, Chief Executive of Capterio, explores technology for reducing emissions in the oil and gas industry. Conversations from COP28 also cover gas flaring, evaluating the success of COP28, unlocking progress through government leadership and regulations, COP28 progress and actions, investing in development projects in Africa for climate change, and exciting developments in investment and technology for addressing climate change.

On this episode, Ed Crooks is joined by Melissa Lott and Amy Myers-Jaffe as they share their reasons to be cheerful this holiday season. Ed highlights the drop in the cost of solar modules, driving the adoption of solar energy. Amy discusses the continued growth of EV sales, despite setbacks. Melissa chooses the start of construction for Form Energy’s factory, making batteries for long-duration energy storage. The gang also exchanges gifts and discusses EV charger repair and reliability, as well as the board game PowerGrib.

The Energy Gang assesses the outcome of COP28 climate talks in Dubai, discussing the success and potential shortcomings of the agreement. They analyze the need for a transition away from fossil fuels and the importance of justice and equity. The podcast explores the impact and challenges of climate actions, the failure to establish a framework for carbon markets, and the positive outlook on transitioning away from fossil fuels. The podcast also highlights the gender imbalance among world leaders at COP28 and teases a review of the year in energy.

The nuclear industry takes center stage at COP 28, with discussions on the goal of tripling global nuclear power by 2050. Small modular reactors (SMRs) receive attention and support from the US export-import bank. The challenges and successes of nuclear power are explored, including competition from renewables. SMRs are positioned as a key player in the future of nuclear energy, with potential applications in replacing coal power plants. Financing and regulatory challenges are discussed, with emphasis on investor expectations and collaboration with the finance community.

Energy experts Melissa Lott and Morgan Bazilion join the podcast to discuss the latest stories from COP28. They debate the efficacy of the annual climate summit, the potential impacts of next year's US and UK elections, and key takeaways from the talks such as reducing methane emissions and financing challenges. The importance of practical solutions, private sector engagement, and funding for developing countries is emphasized. The speakers also reflect on the value of attending COP, face-to-face interactions, and share their takeaways from COP28 with optimism.

Kristen Siemen, Chief Sustainability Officer at General Motors, discusses the current state of the EV market, GM's plans for the industry, and key takeaways from COP28. Topics include charging infrastructure, efforts to bring down EV prices, battery raw materials, EV supply chain risks, and the role of COP meetings in achieving EV and carbon neutrality goals.

Exploring barriers to cheap green hydrogen, including water use, public resistance, and cost. Interviews with Michelle Lujan-Grisham, Mark Newman, and John Hartley about their solutions. Discussion on electrical efficiency, Komurs' role in energy transition, refrigerant chemistries, membranes, and Levidian's loop technology. Impression of COP event and focus on decarbonization solutions.

Dr. Melissa Lott and Michael Webber discuss the big themes at COP28, including phasing out vs phasing down fossil fuels and the pledge to triple renewable energy generation. They also explore the importance of diversity in climate solutions, the connection between climate change and health, gender representation at COP events, and the role of AI in the energy sector.

Discussions at COP28 focus on the proposal of phasing out fossil fuels. The debate is around low-emissions v high-emissions. Will CCUS enable continued use of fossil fuels? Maria Mendiluce argues for a complete phase-out. Kelly Sims Gallagher expects COP28 to address the future of fossil fuels. The podcast explores the significance of the US-China joint announcement and the potential for improved relations. Balancing ambition and phasing out fossil fuel emissions is discussed, along with the challenges of carbon capture projects. Wind and solar energy are highlighted as low-cost options. The chapter also emphasizes the challenges faced by developing countries in implementing climate policies. The podcast discusses the challenge of phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The progress made by clean energy is acknowledged, drawing parallels to the rapid adoption of smartphones.