Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations

In today's episode we have two insightful interviews that explore the frontiers of clean energy and the political landscapes shaping its future.Sign up for our UK election night livestream on 4th July at 9pm UK time with a great panel including Sarah Mackintosh, Rupert Read, Prashant Rao, Ben Cooke and more.Part 1: Hal Hodson, Americas Editor of The EconomistHal Hodson discusses his recent deep dive into solar energy, exploring the rapid advancements and exponential growth in the sector. He emphasises the importance of solar energy in the global energy transition and shares insights into the positive feedback loops driving solar's expansion. Key Points:The role of solar energy in the energy transitionPositive feedback loops in solar energy adoptionThe challenges and future potential of solar energyComparison to information processing technologiesRead more from Hal Hodson: The Economist - Solar Special IssuePart 2: Sarah Mackintosh, CEO of Cleantech for UKSarah Mackintosh provides an analysis of the different party manifestos in the UK, focusing on their support for innovation and the growth of the climate tech sector. Sarah also discusses the importance of cross-party collaboration and the potential for the UK to regain its leadership in climate tech.Key Points:Analysis of party manifestos and their support for climate tech Labour's framing of climate tech as an economic opportunityThe need for detailed plans and ambitious policiesThe importance of skills transition and workforce planningLearn more about Cleantech for UK: Cleantech for UKCatalystsOliver Morton - Editor and author known for his works on climate and energy. Recommended books:Eating the SunThe Planet RemadeScience Fiction Classics - Authors like Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, whose imaginative works have inspired Hal's thinking about technological unlocks and future possibilities.James Gleick - Nonfiction author known for his precise and holistic approach to fundamental issues. Notable works:The InformationChaosSign up for the live stream: Election Night Live StreamGet more at wickedproblems.earth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Wicked Problems features a profound discussion featuring Dr. Tadzio Müller - an influential German climate activist who writes at Peaceful Sabotage - on recent elections, the failure of previous climate activism strategies, the psychological dynamics of society's rejection of climate action, and the need to reinvent activism to empower communities amidst impending climate disasters.Tadzio and Richard Delevan cover a range of topics from the hunger strikes of climate activists in Germany, the emotional and practical aspects of activism, to the rise of right-wing populism in Europe and its implications. They compare current activism challenges to historical contexts, discuss the legitimacy and critique of electric capitalism with Tesla as a case example, and explore the importance of collective action and neighbourhood-level organisation in times of crisis. The conversation underscores the necessity for pragmatic and hopeful actions aligned with harsh realities to achieve meaningful change.00:00 Introduction: The Struggle Against History's Most Powerful System00:53 Guest Introduction and Previous Conversations01:23 Heat and Climate Activism02:56 The Chessboard Analogy and Climate Movement Challenges03:17 The Hunger Strike and Its Implications10:21 Empowerment in Climate Activism14:13 Climate Justice and Social Cooling21:02 Election Analysis and Youth Voting Trends29:44 Exploring the Capital Stack for Climate Solutions30:07 The Nightmare Scenario: Grid Failure and Heatwaves31:03 Book Recommendations and Activism Insights31:43 Reflecting on Climate Probabilities and Activism32:43 The Reality of Climate Collapse and Hope36:13 Political Shifts and Right-Wing Movements38:51 The Rise of Fascism in Europe41:49 The Coming Out of the Asshole Society46:32 The Role of Climate Activism in Society50:46 Tesla and Electrocapitalism56:34 Final Thoughts and Personal ReflectionsAnd check out our playlist to find songs from the show: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokut?si=b860f6aff6074649 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Delevan reports from London Climate Week 2024. Starting at the Groucho Club, he brings listeners to the flagship event at the ExCel, showcasing the vibrancy of the climate tech sector. He highlights interviews with key industry leaders including Duncan Reid of Reset Connect, Sarah Mackintosh of Clean Tech UK, and Lukky Ahmed, CEO of ClimateX, who discusses their recent $18 million funding round.Wicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Ahmed explains how ClimateX focuses on helping financial institutions integrate climate risk into their models through sophisticated data analytics. Further discussions touch on the challenges and opportunities of the private sector in climate adaptation finance, the role of public policies, and the upcoming political developments that could impact the sector.Additional insights come from of Carbon Risk, discussing the effects of political shifts on carbon markets. The terrific Carbon Risk political risk pricing analysis that led to this chat: Europe's green backlash was priced in a long time ago And EDB’s Kenneth Ler on the ambitious sustainability goals of Singapore.The episode underlines the importance of policy stability, innovation, and global collaboration in tackling climate change.01:58 Overview of ClimateX's Mission02:13 ClimateX's Unique Approach to Climate Risk04:16 Focus on Financial Sector06:23 Data and Technology Behind ClimateX11:55 Adaptation and Future Plans20:45 Advice for Founders25:46 Introduction to Peter Sainsbury and Carbon Risk27:50 European Elections and Green Backlash33:35 Impact on Carbon Markets and Policies40:23 UK Political Landscape and Climate Policies45:44 Discussing Market Opportunities and Challenges46:12 Singapore’s pitch at Reset ConnectOur ad-free member feed is at wickedproblems.earth. And check out our playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokut?si=2320c971486e4799 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the Future of Europe's Energy Transition: A Conversation with Christian RubyIn this episode of 'Wicked Problems, Climate Tech Conversations,' host Richard Delevan talks with Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in Europe's energy transition, highlighting the need for investment in grid infrastructure and the balance between environmental protection and climate goals. Ruby shares insights on the impact of recent geopolitical events and legislation on Europe's energy policies and emphasises the importance of industrial competitiveness, implementing renewable energy solutions, and stimulating electricity demand. The conversation also touches on the role of digital technologies and anticipatory investments in modernising the grid.00:47 Introduction and Welcome01:02 Overview of Eurelectric01:43 Eurelectric's Advocacy and Goals03:45 Challenges and Changes in European Energy Policy07:14 Biodiversity and Renewable Energy12:58 Grid Expansion and Infrastructure Needs20:26 Investment and Regulatory Challenges28:36 Christian Ruby's Personal Insights and Inspirations31:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Delevan sits down with Colin Mahoney, founder of Mahoney Communications Group, to explore the burgeoning climate tech scene in New York City. From policy-driven growth to the key players driving innovation, Colin provides an insider's perspective on what makes NYC a unique hub for climate technology. They also delve into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, the role of private capital, and the importance of adaptation technologies.New York City as a Climate Tech Hub:Role of NYSERDA and state policies in fostering innovation.Comparison with other cities like Boston, San Francisco, and Austin.Key Companies and Projects Mentioned:Goldwind: A leading wind turbine manufacturer that Mahoney Communications helped move to the U.S. Goldwind Official SiteNthcycle: Innovators in clean recycling for nickel and cobalt. NthCycleElectrified Thermal Systems: Developing solutions for electrifying industrial heat. Electrified Thermal Systems Official SiteIon Storage Systems: Advancing solid-state battery technology. Ion Storage Systems Official SitePrisma Photonics: Working on decongesting the grid with real-time data solutions. Prisma Photonics Official SitePolicy and Private Capital:The impact of federal and state policies on private capital investment.How companies are adapting to changes in the financial landscape post-SVB collapse.Adaptation Technologies:The growing importance of technologies to adapt to climate change.Potential areas for investment and innovation in food security, water desalination, and urban resilience.Our theme music is by Suncharmer. Assuming the copyright gods let it thru, check out one of the potential outros here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokut?si=e94c425911a149aaLinks:Mahoney Communications GroupNYSERDAGoldwindNthCycleElectrified Thermal SystemsIon Storage SystemsPrisma PhotonicsConnect:Follow us on Twitter: WickedProblemsConnect on LinkedIn: Richard Delevanwickedproblems.earth: Subscribe, get goodies, and all our transcripts and show notesThank you for tuning in! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Delevan sits down with Edward Matthew, Director of Campaigns at E3G, to discuss the crucial role of climate policy in the upcoming UK election. They delve into the manifestos of various political parties, exploring their commitments (or lack thereof) to climate action, and what this could mean for the future of the UK and the planet.Wicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Key Topics:* The current political climate in the UK and its impact on climate policy.* Analysis of party manifestos from the Conservatives, Labour, Liberal Democrats, Greens, and Reform UK.* The implications of potential electoral outcomes for climate tech and environmental policy.* Edward Matthew's perspectives on the necessity for ambitious climate action and the economic opportunities of a green transition.Links & Resources:* E3G - Third Generation Environmentalism: Website, Manifesto Analysis* Edward Matthew on Twitter: @Ed_Matthew1* Richard Delevan on LinkedIn: Richard DelevanConnect:* Follow Richard on Twitter: rdelevan* Subscribe to Wicked Problems on YouTube: Wicked Problems YouTube Channel* Become a member at wickedproblems.earthOur theme music is by Suncharmer.Outro Music: "Big Yellow Taxi" by Joni Mitchell. Check our playlist for more tunes from the show -https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokutCall to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review on your podcast platform of choice. Check out our YouTube feed for video versions of our episodes. Most importantly, support independent climate tech media by becoming a member at wickedproblems.earth. It'd be a lot cooler if you did!Transcript: For a full transcript of this episode, visit wickedproblems.earth.Tell us what you think - email us at info@wickedproblems.earth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist Maeve Allsup investigates Running Tide's collapse in carbon removals while Duncan Reid discusses making sustainability mainstream at London Climate Week. They explore tech viability, government funding for carbon removal, and the impact of failure on the climate tech market.

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan sits down with Jeff Chamberlain, CEO of Volta.vc, to discuss the future of electric vehicles and long-duration energy storage. Jeff shares insights from his extensive career in the energy sector, highlighting the importance of combining technical and financial lenses in investment, the evolution of battery technology, and the challenges and opportunities in the current market landscape. The conversation delves into Volta's unique approach to ‘deep’ (as opposed to just ‘due’) diligence in climate tech investing, the slow adaptation of legacy automakers, and the critical role of supply chains in scaling new technologies.Wicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber at wickedproblems.earth.Key Topics DiscussedThe Future of Electric Vehicles - Industry changes and the impact of emerging markets.Lithium-Ion Batteries - Advancements and long-duration storage potential.Investment Strategies - Combining technical and financial perspectives.Supply Chain Integration - Importance for scalability and market readiness.Market Trends and Adaptation - Challenges for legacy automakers and future predictions.Most Interesting Takeaways[#LDES] is “like fusion. That's very far away."Jeff on the long-term potential of long-duration energy storage technologies."We look at every deal through two lenses: the technical lens of what it takes to scale a technology and the financial lens of making a return for our investors."Jeff discussing Volta's unique investment approach."The biggest surprise remains the slowness of the legacy automakers. Anyone paying attention could see electric vehicles coming, but they dragged their feet."Jeff on the challenges legacy automakers face in adapting to new technology.00:00 Introduction to Wicked Problems00:06 The Rise of Chinese Automobiles00:46 UK General Election Insights01:26 Climate Litigation and European Elections02:12 Ocean-Based Carbon Removal Startup Shuts Down03:48 Tesla's Strategic Moves and Global Implications05:55 Interview with Jeff Chamberlain: Volta's Mission06:15 Challenges and Innovations in Battery Technology28:21 The Future of Long Duration Energy Storage33:43 Market Dynamics and Investment Strategies38:13 Closing Thoughts and RecommendationsResources MentionedThe Idea Factory: Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Panelists Ben Kilbey and Allister Thomas, along with Dr. Noah Walker Crawford from the Grantham Institute, discuss the impact of political changes on renewable energy and oil sectors, the role of attribution science in climate litigation, and the need for a coherent industrial strategy in the UK. They also highlight community concerns about energy transitions and the upcoming UK general election.

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan welcomes Tim McDonnell, the Climate and Energy Editor at Semafor, speaking from Kyiv, Ukraine. Tim shares his experiences and insights on covering a global beat, covering critical issues of climate and energy, amidst the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.1 Reporting from Kyiv:Tim discusses the challenges and realities of reporting on energy and climate issues from Kyiv, highlighting the severe power outages and the impact of Russia’s attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.He emphasises the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the strategic importance of energy in the conflict.2 Tim’s Journalism Journey:Tim shares his journey from studying environmental science to becoming a prominent climate and energy reporter. He talks about his early career at Mother Jones, his work in Sub-Saharan Africa as a Fulbright fellow, and his freelancing experiences in Nigeria.He explains how his perspective on covering environmental issues evolved, shifting from a science-focused approach to incorporating business and market dynamics.3 Energy Transition and Global Perspectives:Tim reflects on the global energy transition, the role of traditional oil and gas industries, and the emerging importance of renewable energy sources.He discusses his attendance at industry conferences, such as Baker Hughes’ annual meeting, and the evolving narratives within the energy sector, including the growing focus on hydrogen as a potential future fuel.4 Climate Finance and Legal Accountability:The conversation covers the upcoming COP 29 summit, emphasising the critical need for increased climate finance from wealthy nations to support poorer countries in their climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.Tim touches on the rising legal pressures on oil and gas companies to be held financially accountable for climate-related damages, a trend that could significantly impact the industry.5 US Election and Its Implications:The episode also touches on the potential implications of the upcoming US elections on climate policy and global climate action, highlighting the stakes involved in political leadership changes.Call to Action:Subscribe: Stay updated with Semafor’s Net Zero newsletter, where Tim McDonnell shares his latest insights and stories on climate and energy, published every Wednesday and Friday.Connect with Us:Website: wickedproblems.earthTwitter | LinkedIn | BlueSkyEmail: info@wickedproblems.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.