

Volts
David Roberts
Volts is a podcast about leaving fossil fuels behind. I've been reporting on and explaining clean-energy topics for almost 20 years, and I love talking to politicians, analysts, innovators, and activists about the latest progress in the world's most important fight. (Volts is entirely subscriber-supported. Sign up!) www.volts.wtf
Episodes
Mentioned books

18 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 1h 8min
The fate of the EV tax credits
Albert Gore, leader of the Zero Emission Transportation Association, dives into the intricacies of electric vehicle tax credits. He reveals how these credits support U.S. manufacturing and why removing them could benefit foreign competitors, particularly China. The conversation also touches on the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act in promoting EV adoption and the political debates surrounding these crucial incentives. Gore emphasizes the need for strategic investments in domestic lithium production to foster growth in the EV sector.

Feb 28, 2025 • 9min
What the F is happening?
Dive into the turbulent world of clean energy as journalists dissect the impact of a recent executive order stalling wind energy projects. Discover the intricate regulatory challenges facing offshore wind initiatives in U.S. federal waters, compared to developments overseas. The conversation highlights the tension between political actions and sustainable energy goals, offering insights into manufacturing investments and tax credits shaped by the Inflation Reduction Act. Get ready for a deep dive into the complexities of transitioning to greener energy!

25 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 1h 1min
Pakistan's solar boom
Mustafa Amjad, Program Director at Renewables First, and Waqas Moosa, CEO of Hadron Solar and chair of the Pakistan Solar Association, explore the explosive growth of solar energy in Pakistan. They discuss how skyrocketing grid prices and affordable solar panels sparked a grassroots energy revolution. The conversation dives into innovative integrations of solar power in industries, battery technology's rise, and solar's potential to reshape energy access and economic growth, painting a hopeful vision for a solar-powered future in the country.

46 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Massachusetts utility regulator trying to orchestrate a shift away from gas
James Van Nostrand, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and veteran energy expert, discusses the state's groundbreaking move to phase out natural gas. He highlights the ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets and the complexities of transitioning to renewable energy. Key topics include the potential of networked geothermal alternatives, the challenges of existing gas infrastructure, and the need for regulatory oversight to protect workers and consumers during this crucial shift towards a sustainable energy future.

47 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 14min
What YIMBYs are learning from their victories across the country
Annemarie Gray, who leads Open New York after serving as a policy advisor, and Felicity Maxwell, a dedicated housing advocate in Austin, discuss the YIMBY movement's triumphs in tackling the housing crisis. They share insights on collaboration between cities, including key reforms in New York and Austin. The duo examines the balance of increasing housing supply while addressing community concerns, highlighting the importance of bipartisan support and grassroots movements. Learn how they are paving the way for sustainable urban development.

Feb 14, 2025 • 58min
Austin's quest to reach net zero
Lisa Martin is the Deputy General Manager and COO of Austin Energy, while Michael Enger serves as VP of Energy Market Operations. Together, they discuss Austin's ambitious plan to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035. Topics include innovative geothermal technology and the potential of green hydrogen as part of the energy strategy. They also cover the complexities of navigating the ERCOT market and the importance of community support in transitioning to renewable energy. Plus, learn about Austin's unique e-ride programs promoting sustainability!

29 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 10min
Catching up with enhanced geothermal
Tim Latimer, CEO of Fervo Energy, shares insights into transforming geothermal energy with innovative techniques akin to fracking. He discusses the significant cost reductions and the launch of a commercial power plant in Utah, positioning enhanced geothermal systems as key players in the renewable energy landscape. The conversation delves into the partnership between geothermal companies and tech giants, highlighting the pressing energy needs of data centers. Latimer also touches on the future competitiveness of geothermal against natural gas and nuclear energy.

33 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 7min
What's the deal with enhanced rock weathering to store CO2?
Zeke Hausfather, a climate scientist and communicator at Frontier, dives into the innovative approach of enhanced rock weathering (ERW) to store CO₂. He explains how crushed basalt rock can improve soil health, boost agricultural productivity, and aid carbon sequestration. The discussion covers the logistics of implementing ERW, its advantages over traditional methods, and the challenges of measuring effectiveness. Zeke also shares insights on how farmers might benefit from this technique and its potential role within the broader climate solutions landscape.

98 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 10min
The cybersecurity implications of a clean-energy grid
Harry Krejsa, Director of Studies at the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology, dives into the intersection of cybersecurity and clean energy. He discusses how a modern clean energy grid could bolster defenses against China's cyber threats. Krejsa emphasizes the urgent need for collaboration between cybersecurity experts and clean energy advocates to mitigate risks. He also explores the complexities of integrating IT and OT in energy infrastructure and the importance of establishing robust cybersecurity standards as the sector transitions.

63 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 10min
Chris Hayes on the attention economy
Chris Hayes, MSNBC host and author of "The Siren's Call," dives into the complexities of the attention economy. He discusses how attention has evolved into a valuable commodity, highlighting its implications for society. Hayes explores the internal struggles of self-control in the digital age and the emotional toll of seeking validation online. He warns of potential dystopian outcomes from commodifying attention and emphasizes the need for collective action against misinformation and superficial engagement. The conversation touches on reclaiming the open internet for meaningful connections.


