Volts

In this episode, I dive into the UK's decarbonization journey with Lucy Yu of the Centre for Net Zero. We discuss how the UK has become a world leader in offshore wind while lagging in heat pump adoption, why electricity market reform is essential to prevent gas from setting electricity prices, and how community ownership models overcome NIMBY resistance to wind projects. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.volts.wtf/subscribe

Doug Lewin, a seasoned energy consultant and newsletter creator, joins the discussion to dissect Texas's unexpected role as a renewable energy leader. They talk about the state's legislative pushback against clean energy, highlighting measures that could stifle solar and wind development. Doug delves into the implications of recent funding for microgrids versus gas plants, and the challenges posed by new bills like Senate Bill 715, which complicate the transition to more reliable renewables. The conversation also touches on Texas's appeal to tech companies and the importance of policy in shaping the energy landscape.

Helena Sarén, Head of the Zero Carbon Future mission at Business Finland and a veteran in the clean energy sector, shares insights on Finland's remarkable journey to nearly 95% carbon-neutral electricity. She discusses Finland's pragmatic embrace of nuclear power and its ambitious goal for carbon neutrality by 2035. Helena highlights the synergy between industry and government in pushing for aggressive climate targets, and how Finland navigates energy independence amid geopolitical tensions. The conversation uncovers innovative energy solutions and sustainable forestry practices shaping the future.

Join Bryony Worthington, the founder of Ember, and Nicolas Fulghum, lead author of the Global Electricity Review, as they dive into the global electricity landscape. They discuss how clean electricity surpassed 40% of global generation in 2024, fueled by solar advancements. Insights on how China's energy decisions impact global trends stand out. The conversation also covers rising demand for electricity driven by electrification, the role of battery technology, and the geopolitical influences shaping the transition to cleaner energy.

In this engaging discussion, Antoine Vagneur-Jones, head of clean energy, trade, and supply chains at BloombergNEF, dives into the complexities of global clean energy supply chains. He highlights China’s manufacturing dominance and the hurdles Western countries face in onshoring production. The conversation also tackles the unintended consequences of tariffs, the struggles of the solar and battery industries, and the pressing need for investment to reach net-zero goals amid geopolitical tensions. Vagneur-Jones provides a thought-provoking look at the future of clean energy technology.

Join U.S. Representative Sean Casten, a leading voice on energy and climate policy, as he unpacks the tangled politics behind clean energy in Congress. He reveals the internal conflicts over IRA tax credits and the surprising bipartisan support among some Republicans. Casten emphasizes the need for civic engagement to navigate these challenges and discusses the evolving clean energy landscape influenced by AI and electric vehicles. Despite the political chaos, he urges developers to push forward with clean energy solutions.

Dive into an electrifying discussion about a new electric vehicle that has captured the speaker's heart, challenging a lifelong aversion to cars. Explore the complexities of hybrid solar technology and the costly realities behind home battery systems. Delve into the promising rise of battery-only installations and how they could revolutionize residential energy. The conversation even touches on the political landscape surrounding decarbonization, revealing intriguing insights about the future of energy.

In this discussion, Patrick Robbins from Public Power NY and Ioana Bozuwa of the Climate and Community Institute dive into New York's transformative Build Public Renewables Act. They share insights on how this landmark legislation empowers public utilities to spearhead large-scale renewable energy projects. The conversation explores the grassroots activism that made it possible, the political hurdles ahead, and the vital role of public ownership in making renewable energy accessible and resilient. Expect a candid examination of community-driven energy solutions!

Tom Lumsden, the development manager for Blatchford, and architect Tom Young share insights into creating Edmonton's largest sustainable community on a former airport site. They discuss innovative urban solutions like a biomass energy system and pedestrian-friendly designs. The duo highlights the complexities of integrating sustainability with community affordability, ensuring the project is inclusive for all income levels. Challenges of implementing a district energy system and the fascinating evolution of Blatchford's urban landscape showcase the ambitious vision for a carbon-neutral future.

In this episode, I talk with Devrim Celal from Kraken about ensuring all our smart home energy devices can actually talk to the grid. We discuss how Mercury will certify devices to create reliability standards, preventing your fancy EV charger or heat pump from becoming useless if a manufacturer disappears while helping utilities manage load growth. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.volts.wtf/subscribe