Redefining Energy - TECH

In this episode of the podcast, host Michael Barnard welcomes Cornelis Plet, Vice President for Power Systems Advisory at DNV North America. Cornelis, nicknamed 'Case', shares his journey from the Netherlands to studying electrical engineering in Germany and London, and his involvement in offshore wind projects with Shell.He further discusses his Ph.D. in inverter-controlled resources in distribution grids and his role in HVDC transmission projects at DNV, particularly the Promotion project aimed at developing an HVDC network in the North Sea.The podcast then delves into DNV's expansion from classifying seagoing vessels to diverse sectors including energy systems, where they provide independent engineering services and technical advice for renewable and storage plants.Cornelis and Michael discuss the competitive landscape of the industry, highlighting DNV's position against firms like Black & Veatch, WSP, and Lloyd's Register. A significant part of the conversation focuses on the advantages of HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) over HVAC (High Voltage Alternating Current) for long-distance energy transmission.They explore the technical challenges and cost implications of HVDC technology, including the development of DC circuit breakers and the integration challenges between different vendors' systems.

In this insightful second part of the episode, Michael Barnard welcomes listeners to a conversation focused on the cutting-edge topic of decarbonizing shipping ports. His guest, Sahar Rashidbeigi, holds a pivotal role at A.P. Moller Maersk, spearheading the decarbonization efforts for their APM Terminals division.Sahar shares her experiences and the complexities faced in adopting new, more sustainable technologies in the shipping industry. The conversation delves into the high costs and challenges associated with decarbonization efforts, underlining the industry's fragmented nature and the lack of standardization.The dialogue further explores the ongoing debate between battery electric solutions and hydrogen as alternative energy sources for ports. Sahar emphasizes the need for a factual, cost-based debate, acknowledging that while hydrogen isn't opposed ideologically, its cost-effectiveness and feasibility for large-scale rollout must be considered.The operational challenges associated with battery electric vehicles, such as charging time and downtime during continuous operations, are also discussed. Sahar and Michael touch upon the role of carbon border adjustment mechanisms, the incentives for shifting to cleaner technologies, and the need for standardization in the industry. They also discuss the critical role port authorities play in promoting the adoption of zero-emission technology. Highlighting her work at APM Terminals, Sahar emphasizes the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, including shipping lines and OEMs, for standardization and modernization efforts.The focus is on making decarbonization more approachable by tackling the more straightforward parts first, rather than waiting for a comprehensive solution. The episode concludes with a discussion on the spillover effects of emissions reduction in the shipping industry into other sectors, showcasing the broader implications of these efforts.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of decarbonizing large-scale industrial operations and the future of sustainable shipping and logistics.

In this insightful podcast episode, host Michael Barnard talks with his guest, Sahar Rashidbeigi, a dynamic professional working for APM Terminals, a division of A.P. Moller Maersk, a leading global shipping and ports management firm.Sahar Rashidbeigi's Career Journey The episode unfolds with Sahar sharing her diverse and inspiring career journey. Beginning as a civil engineer in Iran, Sahar's path led her to offshore projects in Vietnam and Thailand with Schlumberger. Seeking a change, she pursued an MBA and transitioned into the energy sector, joining McKinsey as a consultant. Her focus on energy transition and decarbonization projects took a significant turn when she worked with a Dutch government-backed investment fund, eventually leading her to her current role at Maersk.A Glimpse into APM Terminals and Maersk Sahar provides an overview of Maersk, highlighting its status as an integrated logistics company that not only owns and operates container vessels but also encompasses trucking and warehouse operations. She delves into the specifics of APM Terminals, Maersk's port operating arm, emphasizing their global presence and the importance of switching from trucking to rail transportation for efficiency and sustainability.The World of Container Terminals The discussion pivots to the functioning of APM Terminals, particularly their role in operating transshipment terminals where various modes of transport converge. Sahar touches on the handling of container cargo and the operational intricacies in regions like Europe. She also sheds light on the global impact of container terminals, quantifying their role in global trade and GDP. Decarbonization Efforts in Shipping A significant part of the conversation revolves around Maersk's commitment to decarbonization. Sahar elaborates on the company's strides in this direction, such as investing in methanol-run ships and methanol production projects, underscoring Maersk's pioneering role in reducing emissions within the shipping industry.Container Handling and Technological Innovation The episode explores the standardization and innovation in container handling, discussing various types of equipment like cranes and ground vehicles. Sahar emphasizes the need for electrification in this domain and introduces a report titled "Reaching a tipping point in Battery-Electric Container Handling Equipment," highlighting the debates and complexities surrounding this topic.

In the second half of the discussion with Dr. Joseph Romm, hosted by Michael Barnard, the conversation focuses on sustainability and the critical examination of various climate solutions.They delve into the challenges and potential pitfalls of relying on bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), emphasizing its inefficiency and the unrealistic land requirements for scaling it up. They point out that solely planting trees won't suffice to address climate change or achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, highlighting the need for a holistic and long-term strategy.Dr. Romm and Barnard discuss the limitations of carbon capture and storage systems, underscoring the significant energy input, infrastructural needs, safety concerns, and the limited impact they can have on global warming solutions. They also critically evaluate direct air capture technology, pointing out the massive energy requirements due to low atmospheric CO2 concentrations.The dialogue then shifts to the inefficiency of direct air capture as a method for CO2 emission reduction, advocating for a comprehensive approach to emission reduction, which includes transitioning to electric ground transport and decarbonizing the grid. The potential of heat pumps and the sequestration of carbon through mushrooms are also mentioned as part of the broader solution.Dr. Romm, a senior research fellow at the University of Pennsylvania Center for Science, Sustainability, and the Media, concludes the discussion by urging a focus on proven solutions to climate change and debunking the viability of certain methods like BECCS. He encourages looking into his published papers, available now, via the University of Pennsylvania for a more in-depth understanding. Link to Joe Romm publications: https://web.sas.upenn.edu/pcssm/publications/

Welcome to another episode of "Redefining Energy Tech," hosted by Michael Barnard. Today, we have the pleasure of having Dr. Joseph Romm, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania Center for Science, Sustainability, and the Media. Dr. Romm, with a rich background in physics and public policy, has significantly contributed to our understanding of climate solutions, especially in areas like direct air capture and offsets.Dr. Romm shared about his journey, recounting his time working closely with Amory Lovins at the Rocky Mountain Institute, and his role as the Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Energy. Post his tenure at the Department, he dedicated himself to climate communication, contributing to the Climate Progress blog until its unfortunate closure. Following this, he took up his current position at the Center under the leadership of Michael Mann, where he is actively involved in research and is in the process of writing three papers focusing on bioenergy carbon capture and storage (BECCS), direct air capture (DAC), and carbon offsets as potential climate solutions.The discussion started with the concept of carbon offsets, their limitations, and their role in the broader climate change mitigation strategy. Dr. Romm highlighted the concerning trend of organizations opting to pay for projects in places like Brazil or investing in tree planting and deforestation prevention as a means to offset their own emissions. He emphasized the distinction between voluntary market offsets and regulated offsets, pointing out the lack of oversight in the voluntary market which has led to a decrease in price and quality, and the more robust, yet expensive and complex nature of regulated offsets under agreements like the Paris Accord.The conversation touched upon the 2015 Paris Agreement, its goals, and the challenges in achieving them, specifically addressing the complexities of trading and offsets. They discussed the developments since the agreement, including the introduction of authorized offsets in November 2021, and the concept of corresponding adjustments to prevent double counting of emission reductions. The example of Brazil was highlighted, demonstrating how countries could sell offset credits while maintaining their official emission levels through corresponding adjustments. However, this practice raises concerns about the future, especially for poorer countries that might find themselves at a disadvantage, potentially being pushed out of these markets.The first half of the discussion concluded with the importance of genuine emission reductions, the challenges associated with offsets and corresponding adjustments, and the need for careful consideration to ensure that the mechanisms in place truly contribute to global emission reduction efforts without exploiting poorer nations.Read Dr. Romm’s paper on offsets, bioenergy and carbon capture and direct air capture to prepare for COP28. They are available from the University of Pennsylvania.LInk to Joe Romm publications: https://web.sas.upenn.edu/pcssm/publications/

In the second half of the "Redefining Energy Tech" podcast, host Michael Barnard continues his conversation with Dan Katz, CEO of Orbital Sidekick. They delve into the innovative hyperspectral satellite imaging technology that detects methane emissions from space, discussing its implications for the energy sector and the environment.Kessler Events & Space Debris: Dan elaborates on the potential dangers of Kessler events, where collisions in low Earth orbit can lead to cascading debris fields, rendering certain orbits uninhabitable.The industry's growing awareness has led to stricter satellite deorbiting regulations, but international compliance remains a challenge.Pipeline Monitoring & Methane Detection: Orbital Sidekick's primary focus is on monitoring oil and gas infrastructure for methane leaks.Traditional aerial surveillance methods are limited in detecting these leaks, emphasizing the need for advanced technologies like hyperspectral imaging. The technology's potential extends beyond pipelines to other sectors like mining, energy transition, and environmental safety.Environmental Impact & Global Initiatives: The discussion touches on various methane emission sources, including agriculture and dairy farms, highlighting the environmental impact.Biofuels, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the energy infrastructure sector are also discussed, emphasizing the need for global collaboration and data-driven solutions.

In this episode, Michael talks with Dan Katz, the CEO and co-founder of Orbital Sidekick, launcher and operator of hyperspectral imaging satellites that keep an eye on methane emissions from space.Dan shares his fascinating journey from having a background in STEM, physics, and astronomy to co-founding Orbital Sidekick. The company, which started as a bootstrapped venture in Dan's garage, now pioneers in leveraging hyperspectral imaging technology. This advanced tech is used on satellites to monitor energy infrastructure, particularly focusing on oil and gas pipelines.The conversation takes a technical turn as Dan explains the nuances between hyperspectral and multispectral imaging. He sheds light on how these techniques play a pivotal role in analyzing Earthbound emissions.The discussion also touches upon the challenges Orbital Sidekick faced, transitioning from a garage setup to launching a hyperspectral camera system on the International Space Station.Open-source technologies and the role of 3D rapid prototyping in space technology development are also explored. Dan emphasizes the importance of industry heritage and the collective knowledge that has shaped the space tech industry.The aerospace industry's evolution is another highlight of the conversation.With the advent of reusable rockets and increased accessibility for scheduling launches, the landscape of space missions has transformed. Both Michael and Dan discuss the significance of these advancements and their impact on the future of space exploration.Radiation challenges in space travel, especially concerning interplanetary journeys, are also discussed. Michael shares insights on the risks of scuba diving and draws parallels with the significance of the Van Allen Belt in low Earth orbit.The episode concludes with a reflection on the potential colonization of Mars, emphasizing that Earth, despite its challenges, remains the most hospitable option.

Join Michael Barnard as he delves into the pressing issue of energy poverty with Trish Cozart from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for the second part of their conversation.Together, they explore innovative solutions and collaborations aimed at improving heating and cooling in low-income buildings.Key Takeaways:Discover the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator's focus on energy-efficient solutions like sash heat pumps and Radiator Labs' Cozy system.Dive into the potential of AeroShield's transparent aerogel for windows, a game-changer in building insulation.Learn about the success of startups under NREL's guidance, emphasizing the blend of market-driven solutions with scientific creativity.Tune in to uncover how science and market-driven solutions are joining forces to revolutionize the energy landscape for underserved communities.Don't forget to subscribe to "Redefining Energy - Tech" for more insights!

Dive into the world of renewable energy with Michael Barnard as he chats with Trish Cozart, the driving force behind the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2). Discover NREL's groundbreaking initiatives like Integrated Energy Systems and their journey to electrify everything while solving grid challenges.Cozart delves deep into the world of clean tech, from the intricacies of Technology Readiness Levels to the pivotal role of NREL's incubation programs in transforming ideas into market-ready products. Learn about the unique collaboration between NREL and external organizations, including a spotlight on BlocPower's innovative approach to bringing energy-efficient solutions to underserved communities.For those keen on the building sector, Trish emphasizes its significance as a major carbon emitter and the urgency to decarbonize it. She also shares personal anecdotes on sustainability challenges faced in commercial buildings and the solutions that are making a difference.Key Takeaways:NREL's mission and its unique position in the renewable energy landscape.The role of Technology Readiness Levels in the journey from concept to commercialization.The importance of building networks within the clean tech industry and the role of incubation programs.Insights into collaborations like Block Power that prioritize community needs in their financing models.The pressing need to address carbon emissions from the building sector and the solutions in play.Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that promises to be a treasure trove for energy professionals!Remember to like, subscribe, and stay updated with "Redefining Energy - Tech."

Part 2 of this intriguing discussion continues with Michael Barnard and Vincent Pluvinage discussing battery technologies and their future.They navigate the competitive landscape, comparing Vincent's unique approach to other industry players and emphasizing the role of safety and cost reduction in advancing battery tech. Key aspects of supply chain localization and scaling up production for affordability and efficiency are also explored.Battery Tech Comparisons: The segment kicks off with a comparison of OneD Battery Sciences' technology to major industry announcements. Vincent shares his insights on the potential impact on EVs and the importance of practical applicability.Safety and Cost: Safety, a critical element in battery production, is the next point of discussion. The duo talks about the need for cost-effective and safe batteries for OEMs like GM, considering the financial implications of recalls.Manufacturing and Scaling: The conversation concludes on the note of manufacturing process innovation and scaling production. Vincent highlights how leveraging existing technologies and adjacent supply chains can lead to significant advancements in EV battery production.