Mark Thurber, associate director at Stanford’s Program on Energy and Sustainable Development, dives into the complexities of integrating renewables into energy markets. He shares insights on regulatory challenges and the importance of innovative educational tools to navigate these dynamics. Mark emphasizes the need for risk-taking in both career growth and advancing battery energy storage technologies. He also reflects on the balance of hope and concern regarding global energy and climate change, advocating for transparency and proactive engagement.

Kate Steel, co-founder and CEO of Nithio, discusses her mission to finance clean energy in Africa. She shares insights on the evolving landscape of energy access funding, emphasizing the need for public investment in underserved markets. Kate reflects on her transformative experiences in Kenya and highlights the resilience of the off-grid sector during the pandemic. They delve into trends in electric mobility financing and the significant role of data analytics in building consumer trust, while expressing optimism for future energy initiatives across the continent.

Joel Nana, program manager at Sustainable Energy Africa and Hub fellow, joins the show to talk about climate action planning, the importance of energy planning at a subnational level, and Africa’s solar revolution. Visit our website for more information, including the full show notes and transcript. Follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter and subscribe to our newsletter.

Welcome to the last episode of Season 3! Hosts Rose Mutiso and Katie Auth sit down together to revisit their favorite moments from the past season. They share standout clips from this season’s interviews, highlighting conversations with this season’s guests on everything from Nigeria’s net zero model to the importance of humility. Listen in to relive the laughter, lessons, and unforgettable conversations of this season of High Energy Planet.  Visit our website for more information, including the full show notes and transcript. Follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter and subscribe to our newsletter.

Benjamin Attia, energy transition researcher, delves into blended finance for renewable energy projects in emerging markets. He discusses the challenges, solutions using innovative financial structures, and the need for private investments. The podcast also explores his career shift from law to the energy industry and his passion for working in energy and environmental policy.

Sheila Herrling, international development expert, discusses challenges in development finance, supporting diverse entrepreneurship, and building organizational culture. Topics include safe spaces for curiosity, aligning funds with community needs, and fostering diversity in decision-making. The conversation also touches on quantifying impact in policy work, building relationships, and entrepreneurship challenges. Sheila emphasizes the importance of empathy in problem-solving and shares personal reflections in a rapid-fire round at the end.

Murefu Barasa, founder and managing partner at EED Advisory, comes on the show to discuss starting one of the only Pan-African energy consulting firms, how the energy sector has changed for the better (and worse) in the last decade, and the differences between the energy transition in Africa and the US.  Visit our website for more information, including the full show notes and transcript. Follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter and subscribe to our newsletter.

Hannah Ritchie discusses the importance of ending energy poverty, scientists in activism, and the role of data quality in addressing climate change. She shares her journey from climate anxiety to optimism, highlights disparities in data quality between nations, and emphasizes the significance of transparent data sources for global problem-solving. The rapid-fire round covers various topics including productivity tips, insights about Scotland, and a message for young people.

Hosts Katie and Rose answer listeners' questions on topics including Kenya's role in clean energy, advice for energy professionals, children's engagement with energy, Iceland's fisheries management system, empathy, motherhood, comfort food, music preferences, advice and food dislikes, seafood preferences, and planning an energy dinner party.

Tisha Schuller, oil & gas expert working towards decarbonization, discusses building trust and common ground in high-conflict situations. She highlights the power of a soft heart. They explore bridging divides to achieve decarbonization goals and emphasize the importance of respectful conversations. The hosts appreciate the guest for their bravery and engaging in thought-provoking discussions.