

Battery Insiders
Battery Associates
Battery Insiders is a podcast produced by Battery Associates that covers the topic of batteries and how they can contribute to a sustainable world. The podcast features a diverse range of experts and is hosted by Bhavya Jha, Mariam Awara, and Dr. Simon Engelke. The episodes feature live recordings from Clubhouse, session reflections, and in-person video podcast recordings.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 9, 2024 • 21min
Exploring second life Li-ion battery ecosystem of India by Dr. Rashi Gupta
In this episode, Our guest speaker Dr. Rashi Gupta, CEO of Vision Mechatronics, discussed her journey in lithium battery manufacturing during the Battery Insiders Podcast, highlighting her early start in 2015 and overcoming skepticism about the industry's viability. She emphasized the significance of second-life batteries in India's price-sensitive market, bridging the gap between traditional lead-acid systems and modern lithium technology. Gupta also stressed the importance of safety and the need for better implementation of battery standards. Additionally, she highlighted her company's success in indigenizing battery systems while advocating for the empowerment of women in the energy sector through targeted training and inclusive product design.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA program (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Nov 2, 2024 • 18min
Insights into the Indian Electric Mobility Market by Uday Narang
In this episode, Our guest speaker Uday Narang, Founder of Omega Seiki Mobility, discusses the rapid growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market, especially in emerging economies like India, where affordability and local customization are driving adoption. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong EV ecosystem, including infrastructure and strategic global partnerships, to support this transition. While large-scale battery manufacturing may come later, Narang believes that the long-term potential for EVs is significant, predicting they will surpass internal combustion engines within the next few years. Success, he notes, requires a long-term vision and collaboration across industries.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA program (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Oct 26, 2024 • 12min
Insights on the Indian BESS market by Debmalya Sen
In this episode, Our guest speaker Debmalya Sen discusses the rapid development of India’s battery storage sector, despite starting late. India currently has a small installed capacity of 2 GWh but is targeting 200 GWh by 2030 to support its renewable energy goals. The government has introduced policies and incentives, such as energy storage obligations and waivers, to accelerate the industry. While India has made significant strides in electric mobility, particularly with two- and three-wheelers, challenges remain in areas like charging infrastructure and maximizing revenue from battery applications. India’s efficient tendering process can serve as a model for other regions, but further investment in research and talent development is needed.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA program (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Oct 21, 2024 • 11min
PowerCo COO Sebastian Wolf on Unified Battery Cells, EV Market Challenges, and Innovation
In this episode, our guest speaker Sebastian Wolf, COO of PowerCo SE, discusses the company's role as a Volkswagen subsidiary focused on producing standardized battery cells, known as unified cells, for electric vehicles. He talks about the challenges and opportunities in the European battery market, including sustainability requirements, high labour and energy costs, and competition from Asian manufacturers. Wolf also touches on PowerCo's innovation efforts in battery chemistry and production processes and the growing adoption of EVs in Europe.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Oct 15, 2024 • 18min
Insights on Greenvolt Power’s BESS Operation Management Strategies
In this episode, Our guest speaker Antonio Montoto Rojo from Greenvolt Power joins us to discuss the future of energy storage and green energy projects across Europe and beyond. Learn about the company's innovative projects in countries like Poland, Hungary, and the UK, and gain insight into procurement strategies, capital management, and key revenue models in the energy sector. Don't miss this deep dive into the evolving world of renewable energy! Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful content.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Sep 28, 2024 • 19min
Australia's Role in the Battery Supply Chain: Challenges & Future
In this episode of the Battery Insiders podcast, Gloria joins Simon live from China to discuss Australia's role in the global battery market. They explore the country's strong focus on upstream resource extraction, especially for critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Gloria highlights the challenges Australian companies face in securing investment and advancing technology for energy storage. They also dive into the growing trend of vertical integration, where downstream companies collaborate directly with upstream resource suppliers. Looking to the future, Gloria outlines the significant capital needed to meet global energy transition goals by 2050, emphasizing the crucial role of government and international cooperation in the battery value chain.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Sep 21, 2024 • 12min
Philippines' Vision for Green Energy & Battery Industry
In this episode, Our guest speaker Glenn Penaranda, a representative from the Philippine Trade and Investment Center, discusses the Philippines' vision for its battery industry. The country aims to promote renewable energy and green mobility by leveraging its rich reserves of green metals, such as nickel and copper, which are essential for battery manufacturing. The government has removed tariffs on electric vehicles and charging stations to boost adoption and attract investments, especially from China. Additionally, they are encouraging partnerships with international companies to expand mining and processing of battery materials locally. The Philippines has also introduced policies to simplify investment procedures and opened up the renewable energy sector to foreign investors, creating opportunities across the entire value chain.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Sep 14, 2024 • 9min
Insights on Theion’s Lithium Sulfur Battery Technology
In this episode, Our guest speaker Dr. Ing Ulrich Ehmes discusses the promise of lithium-sulfur batteries developed by Theion. These batteries aim to achieve a carbon-neutral future by significantly increasing energy density to 1,000 Wh/kg while reducing costs by a factor of three and cutting CO2 emissions. Sulfur's abundance and low cost make it an attractive alternative to traditional materials like nickel and cobalt. The use of sulfur also simplifies the supply chain and production process, as it is readily available as a waste byproduct. Dr. Ehmes emphasizes the need for Europe to adopt such disruptive technologies to remain competitive and address the energy demands of the future.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Sep 7, 2024 • 28min
Deep dive into battery supply chain with Henry Sanderson
In this episode, Our guest speaker Henry Sanderson, Executive editor at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence and author of "Volt Rush," delves into his book which examines the critical role of raw materials in the clean energy transition and China's control over these supply chains. Sanderson highlights the energy-intensive nature of mining and processing materials like lithium and graphite, mostly dominated by China, leading to hidden emissions and the need for cleaner supply chains. He discusses the geopolitical implications of the energy transition, focusing on the West's efforts to reduce dependence on China through challenging supply chain dependencies and significant investments. The podcast also explores the specific roles of lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel in battery production, China's strategic investments, and dominance in these areas, particularly in cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo and nickel processing in Indonesia. Additionally, Sanderson addresses future trends and technological developments, including sodium-ion and lithium-metal batteries, the impact of price volatility on these innovations, and the move toward vertical integration within the battery and automotive industries. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the complexities and future of the clean energy supply chain.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!

Aug 31, 2024 • 14min
Unlocking Zimbabwe’s Lithium Potential: A Conversation with Eric from the Lithium Association
In this episode, Our guest speaker Eric from the Lithium Association of Zimbabwe discusses Zimbabwe's strategy to maximize the benefits of its substantial lithium reserves. Zimbabwe aims to ensure that its lithium resources directly benefit the local economy by mandating that all stages of lithium production, from mining to battery-grade processing, occur within the country. The government has implemented policies to support this, including an export ban on unprocessed lithium and various incentives for investors to establish local processing plants. Despite challenges with the market being dominated by traders and speculators, Zimbabwe offers significant opportunities for direct investment and collaboration in the lithium industry. Eric encourages investors to visit Zimbabwe to explore these opportunities and engage with local stakeholders.
If you are interested in learning more about batteries and connecting with industry experts, consider joining the BatteryMBA programme (htpps://battery.mba). Apply by 18th December 2024 for the upcoming January 2025 cohort. Hope to see you there!


