Shift Key with Robinson Meyer and Jesse Jenkins

Sonia Aggarwal, CEO of Energy Innovation and former climate policy advisor under President Biden, discusses the pivotal role of the 2024 election on U.S. emissions. She highlights how different political outcomes could drastically alter climate trajectories. The conversation delves into impactful decarbonization strategies, the transformation of steel production, and the economic ramifications of clean energy policies. Aggarwal emphasizes the urgency of aggressive actions to meet 2030 climate goals and the game-changing potential of solar energy innovations.

Josh Freed, a key figure in climate politics, discusses the pivotal year of 2025 for U.S. climate policy. He explores how the outcome of the 2024 elections could reshape the Inflation Reduction Act and tax legislation, highlighting potential scenarios with Trump or Harris in power. The conversation covers the implications for EV production and consumer tax credits, the evolving political dynamics, and the challenge of integrating climate action with economic competitiveness. Freed emphasizes the urgent need for strategic planning in a polarized landscape.

Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, and Joe Biden discuss the changing landscape of climate discourse in politics. They analyze the reduced emphasis on climate change in this election compared to 2020 and its implications for voter engagement. The conversation delves into the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on American manufacturing and clean energy investments. They also explore the tension between economic concerns and climate initiatives, touching on progress in solar energy and the challenges facing wind capacity in the U.S.

The podcast dives into the monumental impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act, specifically its tax credits aimed at green energy. Wally Adeyemo, a key figure in implementing the Act, discusses the critical need for permitting reform to support clean energy initiatives. The conversation highlights how these changes can boost job creation and the economy while balancing environmental protections. With bipartisan support emerging, the urgency for efficient regulatory frameworks is emphasized to keep pace with America's energy transition.

Cody Finke, CEO of Brimstone, discusses decarbonizing cement production to reduce its massive climate impact. Topics include the challenges in developing carbon-free cement, the importance of sustainable practices in the concrete industry, and innovative methods for lowering emissions through silicate rocks.

Discover how Fleetzero is revolutionizing the shipping industry by using batteries to decarbonize massive ships, reducing emissions and offering a cleaner alternative to traditional bunker fuel. Learn about the challenges and advancements in battery technology, the potential impact on international shipping, and the importance of transitioning to more sustainable practices.

A solo episode discussing how recent Supreme Court rulings impact climate change regulations, affecting agencies like the EPA. Experts analyze the limitations on federal regulatory power, focusing on cases like Loperbright. The episode explores implications for climate law and the challenges of the deregulatory revolution.

Former EU official, Ann Mettler from Breakthrough Energy, discusses climate policy challenges in Europe and US. Topics: Inflation Reduction Act surprise in Europe, American policy outlook, preparing climate policy for rising tensions. Insights on Europe's Green Deal, global economic order shifts due to China, and EU-US cooperation. Emphasis on regulatory enhancements, clean energy collaboration, and technological deployment for climate action.

Guest Ryan No discusses the bipartisan support for nuclear energy in Congress, the implications of the ADVANCE Act, and the timeline for new nuclear power plants. Topics include the role of nuclear energy in decarbonization, the potential for unique nuclear reactors in the US, and the commercial viability of advanced designs. The episode also explores policy support for the nuclear industry, challenges with infrastructure, and the importance of nuclear power in a decarbonized grid.

Ilaria Mazzocco discusses China's booming EV industry, US tariffs on Chinese EVs, and the implications for global markets. The conversation explores China's intentional efforts in developing EV industry, strategic shifts in manufacturing to Europe, and the impact on the global automotive market. Analysis includes China's industrial policy, collaboration with the US in clean energy transition, and projections of peak oil demand by 2029.