Catalyst with Shayle Kann cover image

Catalyst with Shayle Kann

Latest episodes

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Sep 24, 2024 • 20min

The state of connected DERs [partner content]

The podcast dives into the surge of distributed energy resources in the U.S. and U.K., predicting an influx of 500 gigawatts soon. Experts discuss the challenges utilities face in managing millions of new generators and the essential roles of digitalization and automation. Texas shines as a beacon for renewable investment, with strong battery revenue potential. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to integrating DERs, including virtual power plants and the importance of consumer engagement in driving the energy transition.
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8 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 39min

Can AI revolutionize materials discovery?

Ekin Dogus Cubuk, a materials researcher at Google DeepMind, dives into the complexities of using AI for materials discovery. He discusses how AI can enhance traditional methods like density functional theory, while also acknowledging the need for extensive lab work and larger datasets. The conversation explores AI's potential in optimizing superconductors and developing better battery materials for climate technology. Despite breakthroughs, Dogus emphasizes that AI hasn't yet delivered commercially viable materials, shedding light on the challenges ahead in this innovative space.
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9 snips
Sep 12, 2024 • 47min

The better mousetrap fallacy

The discussion dives into the choice between innovation and scaling up existing technologies in climate tech. Insights reveal how scaling solar and battery technologies has effectively reduced costs. The conversation raises questions about whether certain industries need new breakthroughs or just solid execution. Topics also include the misconceptions in nuclear energy regulatory challenges and oversaturation in carbon removal startups, emphasizing the need for practical solutions over endless innovation.
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12 snips
Sep 5, 2024 • 40min

The rise of climate adaptation tech

Katie MacDonald, co-founder and managing partner at Tailwind, dives into the crucial realm of climate adaptation technologies. She discusses how these innovations can help mitigate current climate impacts while also attracting investors. Topics include wildfire prevention, air filtration, and health monitoring—all vital areas drawing attention from various sectors. Katie emphasizes the need for metrics to measure success and the significant role of government policies in shaping demand for these technologies. It's a fascinating look into a booming investment category!
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15 snips
Aug 29, 2024 • 34min

Why are we still flaring gas?

Tomás de Oliveira Bredariol, an energy and environmental policy analyst at the IEA, delves into the staggering issue of gas flaring, revealing that 150 billion cubic meters were flared last year alone. He explains why oil producers burn this valuable gas instead of utilizing it. The conversation explores the nine countries responsible for most flaring, challenges in building infrastructure, and the potential of converting flared gas into compressed or liquefied forms. They also discuss effective regulations and financial incentives needed to encourage reductions in flare volumes.
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42 snips
Aug 23, 2024 • 50min

Hunting for geologic hydrogen

The podcast dives into the exciting world of geologic hydrogen as a low-carbon energy source. It discusses the potential of naturally occurring hydrogen reservoirs that could drive down costs significantly compared to conventional methods. Challenges like infrastructure, leakage, and the need for viable reserves are explored. With startups like Koloma leading the charge, the conversation highlights the transformative implications of this energy source for industries and the environment. Emphasis is placed on balancing optimism with realistic expectations in this emerging field.
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18 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 46min

The cost of nuclear

Dr. Jessica Lovering, co-founder of The Good Energy Collective and nuclear energy expert, tackles the intriguing subject of nuclear construction costs. She explains why U.S. nuclear projects are among the most expensive globally, contrasting these figures with significantly lower costs in South Korea. The conversation delves into the implications of passive safety designs, regulatory challenges in the U.S., and the potential of small modular reactors. Lovering emphasizes innovation's role in reshaping the future of nuclear power while addressing public perception and policy shifts.
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Aug 13, 2024 • 33min

Frontier Forum: Is America’s green bank ready?

The podcast dives into America's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and its quest to leverage $27 billion for clean energy projects. Experts discuss the pressing need for a transparent market and uniform lending standards to maximize impact. Hear about the critical role of innovative startups in facilitating funding and the significance of empowering underserved communities through accessible financing. Case studies reveal successful strategies from green banks, spotlighting collaboration's importance in navigating the urgent deployment of capital for a sustainable future.
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71 snips
Aug 8, 2024 • 44min

Understanding the transmission bottleneck

Rob Gramlich, founder and president of Grid Strategies, is a leading voice on energy transmission issues. He dives into the urgent need for expanded transmission capacity as the U.S. power grid faces severe congestion, delaying renewable energy projects. They discuss the historical evolution of the transmission network and its impact on climate tech. Gramlich shares innovative strategies like energy storage and regional planning to overcome the bottleneck, emphasizing that past successes show progress is possible if we act swiftly.
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12 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 48min

Pathways to decarbonizing steel

Steel production is a major climate challenge, emitting nearly two tons of CO2 for every ton of steel made. Experts explore the dual emissions from heat and the production process, revealing why coal remains hard to replace. Recycling offers some benefits, but its potential is limited. Innovative methods like Direct Reduced Iron using hydrogen could change the game, while electrolysis presents exciting alternatives. The major players in this transition are taking bold steps, yet the path to a decarbonized steel industry is complex and filled with challenges.

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