

Energy Transition Solutions
Joe Batir
Low carbon, high energy conversations hosted by Joe Batir. Humanity is growing and connecting. Tomorrow’s world needs more energy from more places. But to find our net-zero future we must overcome the natural constraints of many new energy sources. This is the show where we talk about the strategies and innovations powering a new future for global energy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 11, 2024 • 15min
Natural Disasters and Energy Resiliency| Joseph Batir | Ep 155
In this episode, our host, Joe Batir, recaps the past week of his life and quickly discusses the role of energy resiliency in the midst of current natural disasters.
The biggest, fastest ramping natural gas turbine in the world – Siemens Energy and their natural gas turbine
The CHILI Incubator Program with Alex Rozenfeld – the hydrogen incubator program in Houston Texas
Keywords
Natural Disasters, Hydrogen, Siemens Energy, Climate Impact Capital, Alaska, 4th of July
These show notes contain affiliate links. Show your support by using them!
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

Jul 3, 2024 • 39min
Is the (Geothermal) bubble going to burst? | Nick Cestari | Ep 154
In this conversation, Joe Batir interviews Nick Cestari, host of the Core Knowledge Podcast and geologist at Oxy, about the current state of the geothermal industry. They discuss the hype cycle for new technology, the recent hype geothermal in seeing, the recent increase in private investment in geothermal, and the development time scale for geothermal projects. They also touch on the importance of collaboration and a circular economy in achieving net-zero goals. The conversation highlights the potential of geothermal as a sustainable energy source and the need for continued advancement in the industry.
Nick’s Book Recommendation:
Good to Great by Jim Collins
Keywords:
geothermal, hype cycle, private investment, development time scale,
Takeaways:
Geothermal has gone through multiple hype cycles in the past and is currently in a phase of increased interest and investment.
Private investment in geothermal has been growing, with over $500 million invested in the past five years.
The development time scale for geothermal projects, especially on public land, can be lengthy, but efforts are being made to streamline the process.
Collaboration and a circular economy approach are crucial in achieving net-zero goals.
The geothermal industry needs to demonstrate commercial viability and deliver projects that make a significant impact on the grid to attract continued investment and support.
Chapters:
00:00Introduction and Setting the Stage
01:16The Hype Cycle of Geothermal
07:20Streamlining the Development Time Scale for Geothermal Projects
11:16Collaboration and the Circular Economy
27:20The Importance of a Cooperative Approach
35:43Overcoming Hostility and Moving Forward
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

Jun 26, 2024 • 50min
The CHILI Incubator Program with Alex Rozenfeld | Ep 153
SummaryOur host, Joe Batir, talks with Alex Rozenfeld, founder and managing partner of Climate Impact Capital, about the CHILI program. CHILI is an incubator for early-stage hardware innovation in carbon and hydrogen, associated with the non-profit Texas Innovates. The program aims to bring together companies in the hydrogen and carbon space to create a solutions ecosystem. The goal is to focus on hardware-intensive technologies that are capital-intensive and require incubation support. The program is currently funded by the Department of Energy and is in the proof-of-concept phase. The long-term vision is to create a community of hydrogen and carbon companies in the Gulf Coast region and attract startups and entrepreneurs to the area to grow this ecosystem. Alex’s Book Recommendations:Drawdown by Paul HawkenThe Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson KeywordsCHILI, incubator, early-stage innovation, carbon, hydrogen, hardware, Department of Energy, Houston, startups, entrepreneurs Takeaways· The Chile program is an incubator for early-stage innovation in carbon and hydrogen.· The program focuses on hardware-intensive technologies that are capital-intensive and require incubation support.· The program is currently funded by the Department of Energy and is in the proof-of-concept phase.· The long-term vision is to create a community of hydrogen and carbon companies in the Gulf Coast region and attract startups and entrepreneurs to the area. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alex Rozenfeld and Climate Impact Capital03:03 Introducing the CHILI Program and its Acronym06:14 Discussion on the funding of CHILI10:21 When and how the program is engaging Corporate Sponsors and Supporting Startups12:04 Why Focus on Carbon, Hydrogen, and Hardware14:23 Goals and Vision for the CHILI Program23:15 Desired Applicants and Selection Criteria25:34 Promoting Houston as an Innovation Hub31:45 How to Apply for the CHILI Program34:26 Final Questions These show notes contain affiliate links. Show your support by using them!
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

Jun 19, 2024 • 51min
Modular Carbon Capture with Aniruddha Sharma | Carbon Clean | Ep 152
In this episode, our host, Joe Batir, speaks with Aniruddha Sharma, CEO of Carbon Clean. They discuss the importance of carbon capture technology in the energy transition. Carbon capture is a crucial step in decarbonizing industrial facilities and power plants, which are major sources of carbon dioxide emissions. Aniruddha highlights the challenges of current carbon capture systems, including their large size and high cost. He then introduces Carbon Clean’s innovative solution, which uses process intensification to compress the size of the equipment by 10 times, making it more scalable and affordable.
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

Jun 12, 2024 • 0sec
The Role of Geophysics in the Energy Transition| Esther Babcock, Logic Geophysics | Ep 151
Summary
In this episode, our host, Joe Batir, talks with Dr. Esther Babcock, Founder and Lead Geophysicist of Logic Geophysics. She discusses the role of geophysics in the energy transition. She emphasizes the importance of communication of uncertainty in geophysical data and the value of geophysics in understanding and mitigating long-term risks. Dr. Babcock shares fascinating experiences in geophysics, from uncovering buried objects to conducting geophysics campaigns in Antarctica. She also discusses the challenges and opportunities in the energy transition and the role of geophysics in addressing them.
Esther’s Book Recommendations:
Cadillac Desert by Marc Reisner
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
Takeaways
Geophysics plays a crucial role in understanding and mitigating long-term risks associated with energy exploration, infrastructure development, and climate change.
A more well-rounded geophysical curriculum will prepare students for the versatile applications of geophysics in various industries.
Communication of uncertainty in geophysical data is essential for building trust and understanding the limitations of geophysical methods.
Ground-penetrating radar is a versatile geophysical tool that can be used for a wide range of applications, from mapping bedrock to locating buried objects.
The value of geophysics lies in its ability to provide valuable information for understanding and mitigating long-term risks in infrastructure and environmental assessments.
The energy transition presents both challenges and opportunities for geophysics, particularly in the context of cost, value perception, and risk mitigation.
Keywords
geophysics, ground-penetrating radar, seismic, education, uncertainty, risk assessment, climate change
Chapters
00:00 The Role of Geophysics in the Energy Transition
19:28 The Versatility of Esther’s favorite Geophysical Method: Ground-Penetrating Radar
30:01 The future of Geophysics
36:56 Stories from Fieldwork: From Buried Objects to Antarctica
45:42 Final Questions
These show notes contain affiliate links. Show your support by using them!
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

Jun 5, 2024 • 0sec
What we can do now for decarbonization | Cody Johnson, SCS Technologies | Ep 150
This episode is sponsored by Ranch Office—Texas style co-working in Houston. Life is better at the Ranch.
In this conversation, our host, Joe Batir, speaks with Cody Johnson, CEO of SCS Technologies. They discuss methane vapor recovery and its importance in the energy transition. He explains the role of LACT units in measuring the quantity and quality of oil, and how SCS Technologies has expanded to focus on fugitive gas recovery and molecule measurement. Cody emphasizes the significance of methane as a greenhouse gas and the need to capture and mitigate its emissions. He also discusses the EPA\’s regulations on methane emissions and the response from oil and gas producers. Cody shares the work of SCS Technologies in designing and installing vapor recovery units (VRUs) for large integrated majors and mid-size producers. He highlights the importance of modularity and ease of maintenance in VRU design.
Cody’s Book Recommendation:
The Prize by Daniel Yergin
Takeaways
Methane vapor recovery is a crucial aspect of the energy transition, as methane has 40 times more adverse greenhouse gas effects than CO2.
SCS Technologies specializes in designing and installing vapor recovery units (VRUs) for large integrated majors and mid-size producers.
The EPA has introduced regulations on methane emissions, requiring real-time emission detection and reporting.
Advancements are needed in carbon accounting, finance, and carbon sequestration permits to support the decarbonization process.
Keywords
methane vapor recovery, energy transition, fugitive gas recovery, molecule measurement, greenhouse gas, EPA regulations, vapor recovery units, modularity, decarbonization
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Permission
00:45 Background of SCS Technologies and Lacked Units
07:14 EPA Regulations on Methane Emissions
09:34 SCS Technologies: Designing and Installing VRUs
35:21 Advancements Needed in Carbon Accounting, Finance, and Carbon Sequestration
41:47 Individual Actions for a Better World
These show notes contain affiliate links. Show your support by using them!
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

May 29, 2024 • 0sec
High Schoolers want to know Energy | Ep 149
In this episode, our host, Joe Batir, interviews Shia Brown and Kennedy Vital, the co-hosts of a new podcast, The BEN Show (from Blue Energy Nation). They discuss energy, energy literacy, and of course, focus in on Geothermal Energy for a bit.
Specific topics include:
What is energy?
Why are they want to know what energy is?
What is the most surprising thing they learned so far?
What do the two guests know about geothermal energy?
Shia’s book recommendation:
Tangerine by Edward Bloor
Kennedy’s book recommendation:
Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke
These show notes contain affiliate links. Use them and show your support.
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

May 22, 2024 • 52min
The Potential of Flow Batteries with Eugene Beh | Quino Energy | Ep 148
This episode is sponsored by Ranch Office—Texas style co-working in Houston. Life is better at the Ranch.
Eugene Beh, founder and CEO of Quino Energy, sits down with our Host, Joe Batir. They discuss flow batteries and their applications in the energy storage industry. He explains that flow batteries are a type of battery that use two tanks of reactants to generate electricity. Unlike other batteries, flow batteries can be easily scaled up by increasing the size of the tanks, making them suitable for long-duration storage. However, the cost and supply chain limitations of traditional flow battery technologies, such as vanadium flow batteries, have hindered their widespread adoption. Quino Energy aims to address these challenges by developing flow batteries using organic molecules called Quinones, which are cheaper and more sustainable. Their technology is a drop-in replacement for vanadium flow batteries, making it easier for existing systems to transition to their solution. Quino Energy\’s flow batteries are particularly well-suited for mid-duration storage, ranging from 6 to 24 hours. Quino Energy is exploring the repurposing of old oil storage tanks for energy storage. They have found that their flow battery technology is chemically compatible with carbon steel tanks, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution. The US has enough tank storage space to store about four terawatt hours of Quino\’s electrolyte, providing a significant opportunity for energy storage. Repurposing existing infrastructure can save time and money on installation. The conversation also touches on the importance of electrifying the grid, decarbonizing transportation, and exploring other clean tech solutions.
Eugene’s Book Recommendations:
Momo by Michael Ende
The Pushcart War by Jean Merrill
Takeaways
Flow batteries are a type of battery that use two tanks of reactants to generate electricity.
Traditional flow battery technologies, such as vanadium flow batteries, have cost and supply chain limitations that hinder widespread adoption.
Quino Energy is developing flow batteries using organic molecules called Quinones, which are cheaper and more sustainable.
Their flow batteries are a drop-in replacement for vanadium flow batteries, making it easier for existing systems to transition to their solution.
Quino Energy\’s flow batteries are particularly well-suited for mid-duration storage, ranging from 6 to 24 hours. Quino Energy is exploring the repurposing of old oil storage tanks for energy storage, leveraging the compatibility of their flow battery technology with carbon steel tanks.
The US has enough tank storage space to store about four terawatt hours of Quino\’s electrolyte, presenting a significant opportunity for energy storage.
Repurposing existing infrastructure, such as oil tanks, can save time and money on installation and provide a cost-effective solution for energy storage.
Electrifying the grid, decarbonizing transportation, and exploring other clean tech solutions are crucial steps in achieving net-zero emissions and combating climate change.
Keywords
flow batteries, energy storage, scalability, long-duration storage, supply chain, sustainability, drop-in replacement, repurposing infrastructure, decarbonization, clean tech solutions
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:48 Understanding Flow Batteries
08:10 Applications of Flow Batteries
15:20 Challenges and Limitations of Traditional Flow Battery Technologies
20:23 The Advantages of Quino Energy\’s Drop-In Replacement Solution
25:46 The Sweet Spot: Quino Energy\’s Focus on Mid-Duration Storage
27:17 Repurposing Old Oil Tanks for Energy Storage
34:33 The Potential of Tank Storage for Energy Storage
40:52 Cost-Effective Energy Storage with Repurposed Infrastructure
43:22 The Importance of Electrifying the Grid and Decarbonizing Transportation
These show notes contain affiliate links. Show your support by using them!
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

May 15, 2024 • 31min
Geothermal, Rising with Bryant Jones | Geothermal Rising | Ep 147
In this episode our host, Joe Batir, speaks with Bryant Jones, Executive Director of Geothermal Rising. They discuss Geothermal, how they both got into geothermal, and where the industry is going. Specific topics include:
Bryant’s background and how he got into geothermal
What are common misconceptions about geothermal
What is most exciting about geothermal right now
The GEODE award
The geothermal rising conference and role of events in spreading knowledge
Bryant’s book recommendation:The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
This episode is sponsored by Ranch Office—Texas style co-working in Houston. Life is better at the Ranch.
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page

May 8, 2024 • 43min
Nuclear Submarines, Insurance, and Civilian Energy with Brian Fitzgerald | Willis Towers Watson | Ep 146
In this episode of the Energy Transition Solutions podcast, host Joe Batir interviews Brian Fitzgerald, a senior property and nuclear insurance broker at Willis Towers Watson. They discuss nuclear power, specifically nuclear submarines and the connection between nuclear power and insurance. Fitzgerald emphasizes the safety of nuclear power and the importance of trust in the industry. They also touch on the challenges and opportunities in the nuclear industry, including the transition to small modular reactors and fusion power. The episode concludes with a discussion on the role of insurance in the nuclear industry and the need for coverage to mitigate risks.
Brian’s Book Recommendations:
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
These show notes contain affiliate links. Show your support by using them!
Takeaways
Nuclear power is safe and relies on rigorous training, safety systems, and redundant procedures to ensure the well-being of personnel and equipment.
Public perception and trust are key factors in the growth and acceptance of the nuclear industry.
Insurance plays a crucial role in the nuclear industry by providing coverage and liability protection for vendors, suppliers, and other entities involved in nuclear power generation.
The insurance industry is evolving to meet the needs of the growing nuclear industry and to address concerns related to nuclear waste and public safety.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Permission
07:04 Comparison of Nuclear Reactors on Submarines and Power Plants
14:13 Public Perception and Trust in Nuclear Power
39:21 Discussion on Joe Batir\’s Doctoral Dissertation
Keywords
nuclear power, nuclear submarines, insurance, safety, trust, small modular reactors, fusion power
This episode is sponsored by Ranch Office—Texas style co-working in Houston. Life is better at the Ranch.
Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.
Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here.
More from OGGN … PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company Page