

Transmission
Modo Energy
Transmission is the weekly podcast from Modo Energy, the global standard for benchmarking and valuing electrification assets. Each episode, we sit down with the sharpest minds in energy, finance, climate, and technology - to unpack the forces reshaping our power systems. From market design and trading strategies to emerging technologies and investment flows, Transmission explores how innovation and capital are colliding to accelerate the shift toward a net-zero world. Guests range from founders and policymakers to traders, engineers, and investors - the people actually building the future of energy and electrification. If you want to understand how renewables, energy storage, and markets fit together - and what it means for business, climate, and society - Transmission is your guide to the clean energy economy. Want all the latest power market news, analysis, price indices, and video content from your region - delivered to your inbox, every week? Head to modoenergy.com to sign up for our free Weekly Dispatch newsletter.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 22, 2024 • 46min
Grid connection reform with Ed Birkett ( Director of New Project Development @ Low Carbon)
With only around 200 GW of the potential 700 GW pipeline needed to meet Great Britain's electricity demand, many projects will never reach completion. Many of these projects will never be completed, and some ‘zombie’ projects that are stuck in the queue with no real chance of progressing take up valuable grid connection space.It's becoming clear that the current system, where projects are connected on a ‘first in, first connected’ basis, is creating major delays. As critical deadlines approach, there’s growing pressure to add more renewable energy and improve the grid connection process.In this episode, Ed Porter is joined by Ed Birkett, Director of New Projects at Low Carbon, UK Development. Over the conversation, they discuss:How changes in Contracts for Difference auctions could help reach net zero targets.Issues with long lead times for integral equipment needed for grid connections.The current state of the grid connection queue and what could be done to improve the system. Insight into the types of costs involved at each stage of the development process for solar. Why we need to find a balance between strategic planning and the market-based approach to connecting to the grid. About our guestLow Carbon’s mission is to create renewable power capacity for the world, at scale. Through building, developing and managing solar, wind and waste-to-energy projects, whilst limiting environmental impact. Low Carbon also has a dedicated Asset Management team that oversees a ~1GW portfolio of operating renewable energy assets. For more information on what they do, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides forecasts, benchmarking, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on Linkedin or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on grid connections, check out our written research.

Aug 15, 2024 • 54min
Batteries in Future Energy Scenarios with Claire Dykta (Director of Strategy & Policy @ ESO)
The Electricity System Operator (ESO) has released its annual Future Energy Scenarios report for 2024, which outlines potential pathways to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Storage plays a crucial element in the transition to a clean energy future. However, for batteries to successfully fulfil their role, significant system changes are necessary. From refining the grid connection process to optimizing how batteries are dispatched by the control room. The Future Energy Scenarios In this episode, ESO's Strategy and Policy Director Claire Dykta, returns to discuss:The ESO’s Future Energy Scenarios: Pathways to Net Zero framework and the key actions required to achieve it.The evolving role of energy storage and the future needs of the network.The proposed shift in connection policy from a "first come, first served" to a "first ready, first connected" system.Insights into the initial months of the Open Balancing Platform (OBP).The impact of the multi-dispatch tool and other recent changes that have increased the utilization of batteries in the balancing mechanism.Mentioned in the episodeExploring the Balancing Mechanism with Claire Dykta NG ESOData on dispatch rates - discussed in our article Battery energy storage revenues decrease by 26% in July 2024.About our guestESO is the Electricity System Operator for Great Britain, making sure that Great Britain has the essential energy it needs by ensuring supply meets demand every second of every day. They are responsible for moving high voltage electricity from where it’s generated, through the energy system. For more information about what ESO do, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides forecasts, benchmarking, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on Linkedin or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on energy policy and market reform, check out our written research.

Aug 15, 2024 • 54min
Batteries in Future Energy Scenarios with Claire Dykta (Director of Strategy & Policy @ ESO)
Claire Dykta, the Director of Strategy and Policy at the Electricity System Operator, shares crucial insights about the Future Energy Scenarios aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. She discusses the vital role of battery storage in the energy transition and proposes a shift in connection policy to optimize system efficiency. Dykta delves into advancements in the Open Balancing Platform and the impact of new dispatch tools, emphasizing the need for innovative technologies and strategic actions to meet future energy challenges.

Aug 8, 2024 • 47min
Accelerating clean British power with Merlin Hyman (Chief Executive @ Regen)
In just one month, the new Labour government has taken significant positive steps toward improving the British energy system. However, to achieve the net-zero targets, much more needs to be done. The approach to implementing these changes is crucial for the system's success. Is radical market reform essential, or could it cause more harm than good? How will the migration of many public-to-private sector workers over the years impact progress, now that many mechanisms have been given the go-ahead? Regen recently published their ‘Accelerating Clean British Power’ report highlighting their calls to Labour for its first 100 days in government. In this episode, Merlin Hyman, Chief Executive at Regen, joins Ed Porter to discuss:Some of the key highlights of Regen’s ‘Accelerating Clean British Power’ Report.Labour's initiatives to date and the proposals outlined in their manifesto.Potential developments in market mechanisms as renewable energy generation continues to evolve.Regen’s stance on zonal vs national pricing - could radical reform scare off investment? Mentioned in the episodeRegens ‘Accelerating clean British power – our call to Labour for its first 100 days in government’.Regen's ‘Progressive market reform for a clean power system’More information on the Electricity Storage Network.About our guestRegen is an independent not-for-profit centre of energy expertise and market insight whose mission is to transform the world’s energy systems for a zero carbon future. Regen offers independent expert advice and market insight on all aspects of sustainable energy delivery to support a range of public and private sector organisations to make the most of their clean energy opportunities. For more information on what Regen do, check out their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides forecasts, benchmarking, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on energy policy and market reform, check out our written research.

Aug 8, 2024 • 47min
Accelerating clean British power with Merlin Hyman (Chief Executive @ Regen)
In just one month, the new Labour government has taken significant positive steps toward improving the British energy system. However, to achieve the net-zero targets, much more needs to be done. The approach to implementing these changes is crucial for the system's success. Is radical market reform essential, or could it cause more harm than good? How will the migration of many public-to-private sector workers over the years impact progress, now that many mechanisms have been given the go-ahead? Regen recently published their ‘Accelerating Clean British Power’ report highlighting their calls to Labour for its first 100 days in government. In this episode, Merlin Hyman, Chief Executive at Regen, joins Ed Porter to discuss:Some of the key highlights of Regen’s ‘Accelerating Clean British Power’ Report.Labour's initiatives to date and the proposals outlined in their manifesto.Potential developments in market mechanisms as renewable energy generation continues to evolve.Regen’s stance on zonal vs national pricing - could radical reform scare off investment? Mentioned in the episodeRegens ‘Accelerating clean British power – our call to Labour for its first 100 days in government’.Regen's ‘Progressive market reform for a clean power system’More information on the Electricity Storage Network.About our guestRegen is an independent not-for-profit centre of energy expertise and market insight whose mission is to transform the world’s energy systems for a zero carbon future. Regen offers independent expert advice and market insight on all aspects of sustainable energy delivery to support a range of public and private sector organisations to make the most of their clean energy opportunities. For more information on what Regen do, check out their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides forecasts, benchmarking, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on energy policy and market reform, check out our written research.

Aug 1, 2024 • 32min
Energy market design in the US with Gary Cate (Director of Energy Market Analytics @ Fluence)
Energy market design across the US varies from one Regional Transmission Operators (RTOs) or Independent System Operators (ISOs) to another. With each organization encompassing a distinct generation mix, the market design differs to optimize outcomes with their respective infrastructure and tools on hand. With the increase of storage and renewables growing, what changes in market design are we seeing and what policy shifts are in motion to support this going forward?In today’s episode, Quentin talks with Gary Cate, Director of Energy Market Analytics at Fluence USA. Over the conversation, Gary and Quentin cover:Key differences in market designs across RTO’s and ISO’s across the USAERCOT’s market design and its intended goals.How current market design supports battery energy storage.The key considerations for market designers with more renewables connecting to the grid.Policy Hot Topics for Battery Energy StorageAbout our guestFluence is on a mission to create a more sustainable future by transforming the way we power our world. Fluence brings proven energy storage products and services, and digital applications for renewables and storage to support the modernization of our energy networks. For more information on the services Fluence provides, check out their websiteAbout Modo EnergyModo Energy provides benchmarking, forecasts, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on Linkedin or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on market design, check out our written research.

Aug 1, 2024 • 32min
Energy market design in the US with Gary Cate (Director of Energy Market Analytics @ Fluence)
Energy market design across the US varies from one Regional Transmission Operators (RTOs) or Independent System Operators (ISOs) to another. With each organization encompassing a distinct generation mix, the market design differs to optimize outcomes with their respective infrastructure and tools on hand. With the increase of storage and renewables growing, what changes in market design are we seeing and what policy shifts are in motion to support this going forward?In today’s episode, Quentin talks with Gary Cate, Director of Energy Market Analytics at Fluence USA. Over the conversation, Gary and Quentin cover:Key differences in market designs across RTO’s and ISO’s across the USAERCOT’s market design and its intended goals.How current market design supports battery energy storage.The key considerations for market designers with more renewables connecting to the grid.Policy Hot Topics for Battery Energy StorageAbout our guestFluence is on a mission to create a more sustainable future by transforming the way we power our world. Fluence brings proven energy storage products and services, and digital applications for renewables and storage to support the modernization of our energy networks. For more information on the services Fluence provides, check out their websiteAbout Modo EnergyModo Energy provides benchmarking, forecasts, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on Linkedin or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on market design, check out our written research.

Jul 25, 2024 • 46min
Modo Selects: Renewable power trading with Julie Arnold (Head of Power, Gas and Emissions @ Dare)
Curious about the world of power trading? The sector has undergone significant changes over the years and is continuing to evolve as the generation stack transforms. This episode explores the shift from manual trades to data-driven strategies and examines how these changes have impacted the market. We explore the complexities and strategies involved in power trading, focusing on the role of renewable energy in today’s trading landscape.In this Modo Selects episode, we revisit an earlier conversation from January 2023, featuring Julie Arnold, Head of Power, Gas, and Emissions at Dare. Julie shares her extensive experience in the evolving energy markets, delving into the complexities of power trading.Over the conversation Quentin and Julie cover the following key points:An overview of power trading and its evolution over the past 20 years.The impact of interconnectors on the market.The role of data and information flow in power trading.The effects of Exchanges entering the market and how they have transformed the landscape.Julie’s insights on what makes a great power trader.About our guestDare are an energy tech company generating liquidity and value across global commodities markets. Combining deep trading expertise with proprietary technology, Dare are harnessing the power of data science to help the world reach a renewable future, faster. They plan to help renewable asset owners navigate the energy markets, secure superior returns, and create long-term investment plans for a more sustainable future. For more information visit their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides benchmarking, forecasts, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on Linkedin or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on interconnection to the grid, check out our written research.

Jul 25, 2024 • 46min
Modo Selects: Renewable power trading with Julie Arnold (Head of Power, Gas and Emissions @ Dare)
Curious about the world of power trading? The sector has undergone significant changes over the years and is continuing to evolve as the generation stack transforms. This episode explores the shift from manual trades to data-driven strategies and examines how these changes have impacted the market. We explore the complexities and strategies involved in power trading, focusing on the role of renewable energy in today’s trading landscape.In this Modo Selects episode, we revisit an earlier conversation from January 2023, featuring Julie Arnold, Head of Power, Gas, and Emissions at Dare. Julie shares her extensive experience in the evolving energy markets, delving into the complexities of power trading.Over the conversation Quentin and Julie cover the following key points:An overview of power trading and its evolution over the past 20 years.The impact of interconnectors on the market.The role of data and information flow in power trading.The effects of Exchanges entering the market and how they have transformed the landscape.Julie’s insights on what makes a great power trader.About our guestDare are an energy tech company generating liquidity and value across global commodities markets. Combining deep trading expertise with proprietary technology, Dare are harnessing the power of data science to help the world reach a renewable future, faster. They plan to help renewable asset owners navigate the energy markets, secure superior returns, and create long-term investment plans for a more sustainable future. For more information visit their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides benchmarking, forecasts, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on Linkedin or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work. For more information on interconnection to the grid, check out our written research.

Jul 18, 2024 • 41min
Interconnection and BESS development in ERCOT with Ramsey Ayass
Ever wondered how energy storage projects go from concept to reality? What do developers consider when planning interconnections to the grid? ERCOT's unique approach to interconnections is a game changer for energy storage projects, allowing faster and more flexible grid connections. But how does this compare to other ISOs across America, and what factors are crucial when considering interconnections?In this episode, Quentin is joined by Ramsey Ayass, Senior Vice President of Grid Strategy at SMT Energy, to discuss the intricacies of battery energy storage development in ERCOT and beyond. Over the course of the conversation, they explore: The process of securing grid interconnection for new storage projects in ERCOT.ERCOT's approach to grid interconnection compared with other markets like CAISO, MISO, and SPP.Key considerations when selecting a site and the importance of understanding grid conditions.The opportunities and challenges developers face when building Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in ERCOT.The potential business case for BESS across U.S. markets as demand increases.About our guestFounded in 2019 SMT Energy has grown to encompass over 1.5 gigawatts of renewable energy projects. The company focuses on battery energy storage infrastructure in strategic high-value locations to generate resilient revenue in the fast-evolving clean energy landscape. For more information about SMT Energy, visit their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy provides benchmarking, forecasts, data, and insights for new energy assets - all in one place.Built for analysts, Modo helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets. Modo’s paid plans serve more than 80% of battery storage owners and operators in Great Britain and ERCOT.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our video series of bite-sized chunks explaining how different battery energy storage systems work.