Volts

Michael Leggett, from Evergreen, and Peggy Kellen, a seasoned expert in greenhouse gas policies at the Center for Resource Solutions, dive into the complex world of renewable energy certificates (RECs). They debate the proposed '24/7' model for matching energy consumption with renewable production. Michael and Peggy explore the implications of such reforms—how they could impact market participation, transparency in sustainability claims, and the pace of decarbonization. Tune in to discover the nuances of RECs and their critical role in the renewable energy landscape!

Daniel Duckwitz from SMA Solar Technology, and Katerina Augusto, a renewable energy engineer with Solar Power Europe, dive into the crucial role of inverters in stabilizing modern electricity grids. They discuss the shift from traditional fossil fuels to inverter-based resources like solar and wind. The conversation covers the concept of grid-forming versus grid-following inverters, the advantages of synthetic inertia, and the need for robust policies to support these vital technologies. They also touch on real-world examples of successful grid stabilization efforts.

Landon Mossburg, CEO of Peak Energy and former leader at Tesla and Northvolt, discusses the exciting world of sodium-ion batteries. These batteries offer longer life and lower costs compared to their lithium-ion counterparts, thanks to innovative passive cooling designs. Mossburg also highlights the chance for the U.S. to enter the battery market and compete geopolitically, especially against China. He delves into the economic benefits, safety, and environmental impact of sodium-ion technology, showcasing its potential to transform energy storage.

Dan Stein, founder of Giving Green and chief economist at ID Insight, delves into the intersection of climate philanthropy and effective altruism. He discusses the challenges of measuring impactful change against a backdrop of fossil fuel dominance. The conversation navigates the balance between technocratic solutions and grassroots activism, reflecting on political barriers and the pressing need for informed, strategic donations. Stein emphasizes the importance of local partnerships and the urgent call for progressive collaboration to combat rising authoritarianism in climate advocacy.

Veteran climate activist Bill McKibben, founder of 350.org, and Jamie Henn, co-founder of the same organization and founder of Fossil Free Media, discuss the future of clean energy activism. They celebrate the global rise of solar power as not just an energy source but a symbol of freedom. The duo explores effective grassroots strategies, the importance of communication in the clean energy narrative, and how solar initiatives can transform industries and empower communities. They also highlight the thrilling community engagement in the movement.

Join Frank Rambo, founder of the Horizon Climate Initiative and a former senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, as he dives into the controversial practice of 'uneconomic dispatch.' He discusses how utilities can get away with running costly coal plants despite cheaper alternatives. The conversation also highlights the Trump administration's misleading 'reliability' claims to bolster coal. Rambo emphasizes the importance of tackling these issues at the state level for a cleaner environment and lower consumer costs.

Jake Higdon, a former senior advisor at the Department of Energy, and Isabel Munilla, former deputy secretary focused on critical minerals, delve into the complexities of FEOC standards. They discuss the precarious balance of enhancing domestic supply chains while addressing security risks. Insights reveal how recent Republican budget actions threaten these initiatives. The conversation highlights the urgent need for clear regulations in clean energy and explores international partnerships for resilient supply chains, especially amid rising tensions with China.

Jigar Shah, a clean energy entrepreneur and investor, shares his insights on climate policy and economic equity. He argues for a pivotal shift in the climate movement towards addressing everyday cost-of-living issues rather than just focusing on high-tech solutions. Shah emphasizes the importance of integrating energy policy with socioeconomic challenges and advocates for smart finance as a means to scale the energy transition effectively. The discussion also critiques current policies while exploring innovative funding solutions and the role of community engagement in driving real change.

Alon Levy, co-founder of NYU's Transit Costs Project, delves into the staggering expense of U.S. transit construction compared to global counterparts. He highlights how countries like Spain and Italy achieve efficiency through in-house expertise and standardized designs, contrasting with the costly privatization ideology seen here. Levy discusses strategies to bring ambitious projects, like high-speed rail in the Northeast, within reach, advocating for empowered civil servants and the adoption of international best practices to combat bureaucratic fragmentation.

Missy Stults, Ann Arbor's Director of Sustainability and Innovations, is championing a groundbreaking municipal utility focused on renewable energy. She discusses the intricacies of creating a Sustainable Energy Utility, including the collaboration with DTE and innovative funding strategies. Topics dive into challenges like outdated infrastructure and balancing community needs with sustainable practices. Stults also highlights the importance of community involvement and the potential impacts of these initiatives on wider energy policy and climate goals.