Switched On

Carbon capture is experiencing a fascinating transformation, with over $11 billion invested in 2023 but facing a slowdown in 2024. Innovations like Direct Air Capture (DAC) and novel ocean removal techniques are gaining traction. The discussion also dives into the impact of government policies and tax credits on global CCS projects. Surprisingly, whales play a role in carbon capture strategies. As the landscape evolves, the balance between investment, innovation, and environmental implications remains critical.

Fauziah Marzuki, the Global Head of Gas Markets at BNEF, dives into the rapidly changing landscape of liquefied natural gas (LNG). She discusses how a surge in LNG supply could lead to a market glut and examines the pivotal roles of the US and China in global trade. The conversation touches on the impact of sanctions on Russian LNG, introducing the concept of a 'shadow fleet' evading detection. Ultimately, Fauziah explores the implications of shifting energy policies and the need for a balance between gas supply and demand in an evolving economic climate.

Helen Kou, Head of US Power, and Ian Berryman, Head of Energy Systems Modeling, delve into the intricate world of power markets. They explore how supply and demand dynamics shape electricity pricing and the vital role of capacity markets. Using tandem bicycles as an analogy, they explain how power plants synchronize their outputs for efficiency. The discussion also highlights challenges for renewable energy integration and the importance of innovative market designs to support a transition to a lower-carbon economy.

Land use is at the heart of our fight for a sustainable future. The demand for food, biofuels, and renewable energy is squeezing available land. Experts discuss how agriculture competes with energy projects and the innovative strategies needed for a balanced approach. Co-location of renewable energy sources with farming is explored as a potential solution. The urgency of policies to harmonize food production and decarbonization efforts is emphasized, highlighting the profound implications for ecological health and resource management.

Yiyi Zhou, a clean power specialist at BNEF, and Evelina Stoikou, a senior associate on BNEF's energy storage team, dive into the future of energy storage technologies. They examine the competitive landscape for long-duration storage solutions that could rival lithium-ion batteries. The discussion includes insights from their Long-Duration Energy Storage Cost Survey, highlighting innovations like sodium-sulfur and molten salt batteries. They also explore how government policies are shaping the adoption of these technologies globally, particularly in China.

Head of Electric Vehicles at BloombergNEF, Aleksandra O’Donovan, explores the EV sales slowdown in some regions, the impact of Chinese battery prices on the market, and the rise of electric commercial vehicles. The podcast delves into trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy.

Hydrogen analyst Adithya Bhashyam and Dana discuss the global clean hydrogen production outlook, US leadership in blue H2, challenges in project materialization, government support for offtake agreements, and the gap between supply and demand. They also cover the uncertainty around future Chinese green hydrogen production capacity and the need for supportive policies to drive the transition to a lower-carbon economy.

David Hostert, BNEF's expert, discusses the energy transition pillars needed for net-zero future. They assess scenarios for a low-carbon economy and the value of scenario exercises in climate work. They highlight the technological trends driving the transition and the importance of investing in clean energy technologies.

Solar module oversupply leads to record low prices, US companies seek tariffs on Asian manufacturers, impact on US solar manufacturing and global markets discussed, potential drawbacks of tariffs for US solar projects and economy highlighted

Guests Herbert Diess and Jacek Truszczynski debate if protectionist policies can boost EU clean energy and EV sectors, discussing trade barriers, inflation risks, foreign market investments, and US-China trade dynamics at the BNEF Summit Munich.