Volts

Erik Steimle, Chief Development Officer at Rye Development, shares his insights into closed-loop pumped-hydro energy storage systems. He explains how these innovative projects use artificial reservoirs to provide long-duration storage without harming natural waterways. The discussion highlights the economic potential, longevity, and efficiency of pumped-hydro compared to lithium-ion batteries. Steimle also addresses regulatory challenges, community engagement, and recent bipartisan support aiming to streamline permitting for these crucial renewable energy initiatives.

In this conversation, Eric Gimon, lead author on energy parks, shares his insights on large-scale microgrids that integrate renewable sources, storage, and industrial loads. They discuss how these energy parks can accelerate clean energy adoption and offer new economic prospects, while also tackling regulatory challenges. Gimon highlights the unique transformations of retired coal plants into renewable hubs and the complexities of powering data centers with nuclear energy. The discussion sheds light on the financial dynamics and the importance of collaboration in overcoming interconnection hurdles.

Matt Traldi, co-founder of Greenlight America, discusses the grassroots movement for clean energy. He highlights how local grassroots organizing is vital in overcoming opposition to renewable projects. Traldi shares strategies for mobilizing community support and effective advocacy during crucial government meetings. The conversation delves into fostering strong local networks and navigating nonprofit frameworks for clean energy advocacy. He emphasizes the impact of tangible benefits in rural communities and the importance of aligning clean energy initiatives with community values.

Zeyneb Magavi, executive director of HEET and pioneer in thermal energy networks, joins Eric Bosworth from Eversource Energy, who manages clean technologies. They dive into the exciting shift from gas to thermal energy networks. Topics include the revolutionary efficiency of ground-source heat pumps, the potential for utilities to reinvent themselves, and the collaborative efforts needed for smooth transitions. The discussion also covers challenges and opportunities for equitable energy solutions, particularly in rural communities.

Ben Brown, CEO of Renew Home, shares his expertise on the innovative world of residential virtual power plants (VPPs). He discusses a monumental 1-gigawatt deal with NRG Energy, which could reshape energy management. The conversation delves into the role of smart thermostats and the importance of customer engagement, data privacy, and transparent practices. Brown also highlights the scalability of VPPs to meet rising electricity demands and explores the integration of smart devices for enhanced energy efficiency in homes.

Pier LaFarge, CEO of Sparkfund, shares his insights on the evolving role of utilities in managing distributed energy resources. He argues that rather than being obstacles, utilities are crucial for scaling clean energy solutions amid rising electricity demand. LaFarge discusses the economic advantages of updated energy infrastructure, the potential of virtual power plants, and the necessity for collaboration between utilities and DER providers. He also highlights the need for community engagement and regulatory frameworks in fostering innovation and addressing energy equity.

Malcolm Woolf, CEO of the National Hydropower Association, teams up with Connor Nelson, an insightful author focusing on hydropower's impact in the clean energy sector. They discuss the crucial yet often overshadowed role of hydropower in stabilizing the energy grid amidst the rise of renewables. Delving into the lengthy relicensing challenges and inadequate market compensation, they emphasize the urgent need for reforms. The conversation also highlights opportunities for enhancing hydropower capacity, ensuring it remains a foundational part of America's clean energy future.

In this episode, I chat with author Cory Doctorow about "enshittification," his viral term for how digital platforms and smart technologies inevitably get worse over time. We explore how monopoly power, aggressive IP protections, and lax privacy law enable companies to capture and exploit users — and what that might mean for the clean energy transition as our homes and vehicles become increasingly software-dependent. 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

Kate Gordon, CEO of California Forward and a clean energy veteran, dives into the pressing crisis facing the insurance industry due to climate change. She discusses why insurers are abandoning high-risk areas and the dire consequences for communities. The conversation highlights the challenge of inadequate coverage and potential municipal bankruptcies, stressing the need for innovative solutions and proactive policies. Gordon also touches on the importance of transparency in insurance models and fostering resilience amidst rising climate risks.

Caroline Spears, a strategist at Climate Cabinet, dives into the vital role of local and state elections in advancing climate policies. She highlights recent electoral victories in North Carolina and Wisconsin, which fortify climate initiatives. The discussion also emphasizes overcoming communication gaps between candidate messaging and voter perception, especially regarding gerrymandering. Spears shares insights on Michigan's clean energy commitments and Lancaster County's pro-climate majority, advocating for ongoing community engagement and bipartisan support in climate advocacy.