Catalyst with Shayle Kann

Colin Campbell, Chief Technology Officer of Redwood Materials and expert in battery recycling, discusses the intriguing world of repurposing electric vehicle batteries for grid storage. He highlights how advancements in software management and cost-efficiency have made this process profitable. Colin emphasizes that even short lifespans for repurposed batteries can be valuable, especially for long-duration storage. The conversation also dives into the competitive landscape against new battery systems and the exciting potential of transforming end-of-life batteries into vital energy resources.

Shayle speaks with Andy Lubershane, a partner at Energy Impact Partners and their head of research, about the complexities following the One Big Beautiful Bill. They delve into the biggest unresolved issue surrounding foreign entity concerns and explore the implications for tax credits across renewable sectors like nuclear and geothermal. The duo also discusses the extended timeline for hydrogen tax credits, how EV tax credits will affect both personal and commercial vehicles, and the broader impact on project planning in climate tech.

In this discussion, Julien Dumoulin-Smith, who leads clean energy equity research at Jeffries, sheds light on the challenges facing residential solar. He examines the implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill, particularly how phasing out tax credits will influence the market. Julien highlights the struggles posed by high interest rates and debt burdens that have led several companies to bankruptcy. He also predicts that leasing will favor larger companies over smaller installers, while energy price hikes might reshape demand in the coming years.

Nat Bullard, cofounder of Halcyon, dives into the intricacies of utility regulatory filings, uncovering insights that reveal how utilities are grappling with unprecedented interconnection requests and the emergence of new tariff structures for large-load customers like data centers. He discusses historical parallels, sharing concerns about rising electricity rates, especially for smaller utilities. Nat also highlights the battle between factories and data centers for prime locations, and the growing costs tied to new gas generation, emphasizing the need for transparency in these projects.

Kurt Kelty, VP of Battery, Propulsion, and Sustainability at GM, previously led Tesla’s battery development. In their discussion, Kurt unveils GM's plans to mass produce lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries by 2028, highlighting their advantages over nickel and lower costs. The pair dive into the vital supply chain shifts required for this innovation, comparing LMR's potential against LFP and high-nickel options. Kurt also shares insights on the future competitive landscape of EV batteries and why LFP might still dominate stationary applications.

Addison Stark, CEO of AtmosZero and self-proclaimed chief boilermaker, dives into the critical need for decarbonizing industrial steam, which makes up about 30% of industrial heat in the U.S. He argues that waste heat is overrated and emphasizes the potential of air-source heat pumps as viable alternatives to traditional fossil fuel boilers. The discussion reveals insights about the economics of steam production, the importance of thermal storage, and the role of electrification in reducing carbon footprints. Get ready to rethink steam!

In this engaging discussion, Chris Sharp, Chief Technology Officer of Digital Realty, shares insights on the evolving landscape of data centers. He delves into how AI's demands create 'data gravity' and influence infrastructure development. The conversation covers the balancing act between large builds and incremental improvements, the reality behind power needs versus hype, and the role of 'bridge power' in today's energy landscape. Sharp emphasizes the critical interplay between data center innovation and the future grid, addressing emerging challenges in a rapidly changing tech environment.

In this engaging discussion, Anthony Brough, founder and CEO of Dora Partners, dives into the current gas turbine market. He highlights the staggering lead times now stretching to four years, driven by rising demand and supply chain challenges. Anthony elaborates on the cyclical nature of the industry and why companies are approaching this peak with 'guarded optimism.' He also explores the impact of renewable energy on turbine demand and the exciting potential for hydrogen technology in the future.

In a fascinating discussion, Carl Hoiland, co-founder and CEO of Zanskar, dives into the world of geothermal energy, shedding light on its transformative potential. He explores why geothermal has been overlooked and how it’s experiencing a rebirth thanks to new technologies and partnerships with major companies. Carl explains the meticulous process of project development, emphasizing exploration risk and the critical role of AI in shaping the future of geothermal exploration. With the economic landscape shifting, he shares insights on resource management and the accelerating pace of permitting.

In this insightful discussion, Hans Smith, President and CEO of Ocean Minerals, dives into the recent executive order from the Trump administration aiming to accelerate deep-sea mining. He explains the economic and geopolitical stakes involved, especially surrounding hotspots like the Clarion-Clipperton Zone and the Cook Islands. The conversation touches on the intricate legal landscape of international waters, the technical obstacles in refining polymetallic nodules, and the financial implications of these untapped resources. It's a fascinating look at the future of energy dominance beneath the waves!