Volts

Anna Jane Joyner discusses the lack of climate change themes in popular entertainment and Good Energy's efforts to assist screenwriters. They explore the impact of industries on Hollywood's portrayal of climate change, promote climate representation in TV and film, and analyze the integration of climate narratives in popular culture. The conversation emphasizes the importance of showcasing positive solutions and diverse perspectives in storytelling to inspire action on climate change.

Grace Van Horn and Jonas Monast from the Center for Applied Environmental Law and Policy analyze the new EPA power plant standards. They discuss the legal battles surrounding the Clean Power Act, the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on clean energy, and the focus on carbon capture technology in meeting emission standards. The conversation explores the flexibility granted to power plants in compliance methods and the challenges faced in navigating legal complexities in clean energy regulation.

Longtime clean-energy analyst Michael Liebreich discusses causes for pessimism and optimism in the net-zero transition. Highlights include challenges in replacing fossil fuel backup systems, expanding electricity infrastructure, political obstacles, technological advancements like battery technology, and the importance of redefining energy efficiency.

Joselyn Lai discusses how hardware and software improvements can make geothermal heat pumps more accessible for large buildings in urban spaces. They explore the advantages of geothermal heat pumps for grid efficiency, innovative cost-effective installation solutions, optimizing systems in urban environments, and the debate on rebranding geothermal terminology.

Eric Gimon and Michelle Solomon discuss alternatives to building new gas plants for rising electricity demand in the US. They explore challenges in transitioning to clean energy, tech companies advocating for clean power, and the importance of maximizing existing grid capacity through innovative technologies.

CEO Alfred Johnson of Crux Climate discusses how the Inflation Reduction Act has created a market for selling clean energy tax credits, driving billions in new investments. Topics include challenges faced by businesses, the evolution of tax credit pricing, IRS guidance, and the impact on renewable energy projects and corporate tax burdens.

Researcher Lauri Myllyvirta discusses China's progress in clean energy adoption, challenges in balancing renewables and coal, rising energy demand, electric vehicle growth impact on emissions, and economic strategies. The podcast also covers China's dominance in clean tech, industrial decarbonization post-carbon neutrality pledge, and global trade dynamics. Insights shared on aligning economic goals with energy policies, China's complex energy landscape, and external influences on Chinese actions.

Former fashion startup CEO, Maxine Bédat, discusses fashion industry emissions, need for regulation, and challenges of fast fashion. Topics include carbon impact, journey from seed to shirt, sustainability challenges, and regulating sustainability in the industry.

Heather House and Rushad Nanavatty discuss the impact of urban land use policies on climate change, focusing on reducing vehicle emissions, the correlation between urban form and emissions, and the potential of state-level policies. They also explore population migration patterns, the influence of local government policies on emissions, and the effectiveness of urban reforms in reducing building energy use. The conversation emphasizes the role of climate philanthropy and diverse coalitions in driving change, highlighting the challenges of balancing short-term gains with long-term sustainability in addressing climate change.

EPA's Jahi Wise discusses the $27 billion carbon-reduction funds, including central vs. regional coordination, support for clean technology projects, challenges in fund distribution, attracting private capital, and ensuring transparency and sustainability in clean energy investments.