Energy Unplugged by Aurora

Jonathan Dillon, a Partner at Clifford Chance, dives into the dynamic world of clean energy investments in Europe. He discusses the surge from €90 billion to €180 billion, fueled by the energy crisis and government initiatives. Dillon highlights the shift from public to private capital, with firms like Blackstone leading the charge. He also addresses emerging market trends, the evolving role of battery storage, and how geopolitical uncertainties shape investors' decisions and strategies for sustainable energy.

This week on Energy Unplugged, we’re delighted to welcome Margaret Cooney, Chief Operating Officer at Octopus Energy in New Zealand. She joins our Managing Director for APAC, Hugo Batten, and our Head of Australia, Weije Mak, to discuss New Zealand’s power market. Prior to Octopus Energy, Margaret was the Head of Powershop in New Zealand. She has also held roles at Meridian in New Zealand, and at OFWAT in the UK as their Head of Market Reform. Main topics include the following: New Zealand’s predominantly green energy mix and the key drivers of investment Evolving from Demand Side Response to Intelligent Demand in a nodal market with extended, linear grids like those in New Zealand. What are the challenges and advantages of operating in smaller, more isolated markets?

Join Jacob Stedman, CEO of Blykalla and seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience, as he discusses the transformative role of small modular reactors (SMRs) in the future of nuclear energy. He highlights Sweden's nuclear renaissance, emphasizing government support and advanced safety features of SMRs. The conversation delves into the innovative journey from software to nuclear, strategic industry partnerships, and the delicate balance of baseload power in the evolving energy landscape. Discover the exciting potential of a cleaner, nuclear-powered future!

Dawn Owens, Head of Project Development at Fervo Energy and an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford, dives deep into the fascinating world of geothermal power. She contrasts traditional methods with innovative enhanced geothermal systems, illustrating their vast potential. The discussion explores the challenges of commercialization, market incentives for flexibility, and the engineering complexities involved in developing geothermal projects. With her extensive experience, Dawn sheds light on how geothermal energy can evolve as a crucial player in the U.S. power landscape.

Marion Calcine, Chief Investment Officer at Ardian Infrastructure, dives into the complexities of long-term investing in unpredictable markets. She discusses innovative strategies for navigating energy investments, the evolving hydrogen landscape, and the financing allure of battery storage. Marion emphasizes the importance of operational efficiency and data optimization in asset management. With insights on risk management and sustainable business practices, she sheds light on managing portfolios in the fluctuating energy sector.

Guillaume de Goÿs, CEO of Aluminium Dunkerque and a leader in low-carbon aluminium production, shares insights on energy challenges facing Europe's aluminium industry. He highlights the impact of soaring energy and carbon prices, discussing the European Clean Industrial Deal's role in navigating these issues. The conversation covers the need for indirect emission compensation and the potential of Power Purchase Agreements. Despite the hurdles, Guillaume expresses optimism about collaboration and innovation in decarbonization efforts.

Sir Alex Chisholm, Chair of EDF Energy, and Kirsty Gogan, Co-CEO of Terra Praxis, dive deep into the critical role of nuclear power in meeting increasing energy demands. They discuss how nuclear energy can support the rise of data centers amidst AI advancements and the acceleration of small modular reactors. Key barriers like funding and public support are examined, alongside the intersection of policy and private investment in shaping the nuclear landscape. Their insights underline the future potential of nuclear energy for sustainable economic growth.

Wendy Lam, CEO of Capsol Technologies, brings over 20 years of experience in industrial tech to the table. She dives into the pivotal role of carbon capture in achieving climate goals and discusses the groundbreaking bio-energy carbon capture plant in Stockholm. The conversation touches on the European Clean Industrial Deal's impact, navigating carbon pricing, and innovations like potassium carbonate methods. With a mix of insights and a fun game on energy transition concepts, Wendy highlights the future of decarbonization and sustainable industries.

Lucy Yu, CEO of the Centre for Net Zero, provides data-driven insights into demand flexibility, while Jon Norman, President of Hydrostor, specializes in advanced energy storage technology. They discuss the pivotal role flexibility plays in transitioning to a clean power grid and the challenges of decarbonizing energy systems. The duo highlights the importance of long-duration energy storage and consumer participation in achieving sustainability goals by 2035, as well as the risks of inadequate flexibility for maintaining a reliable power supply.

Carolina Nester, Head of Operations for Iberia at Sonnedix, brings over 17 years of expertise in the photovoltaic sector. She delves into the complexities of grid curtailment in Spain, discussing negative pricing effects and innovative strategies for asset management. Carolina also explains the Automatic Power Reduction System (SRAP) and its role in optimizing grid stability. With insights on evolving solar installation practices and the necessity for technology adaptation, she emphasizes the importance of balancing renewable energy output with market demands.