Plugged In: the energy news podcast

The prices of European guarantees of origin have soared in recent weeks amid robust demand, strong commodity markets and low hydro levels in the Nordic region.Listen to a discussion on the outlook for GO prices amid increasing interest from corporates, as well as forecasts for carbon prices amid ongoing policy and regulatory reforms.Marcus Ferdinand, Head of Analysis, Greenfact

As Russian troops pour into Ukraine, we recorded a special episode looking into the implications for Europe’s wholesale energy markets. As we go to press, piped gas continues to flow from Russia, but what are the chances of a supply curtailment? Europe needs to find alternatives and make some hard decisions, in what our guest calls a “merit order of torture”.Guest: Georg Zachmann, Senior Fellow, Bruegel

Hardly a week goes past without a company announcing ambitious plans to produce green hydrogen. But are these projects realistic?Listen to a discussion on the folly of using hydrogen as a fuel in the transport, heating and power generation sectors and the sectors where H2 has an important role. Is hydrogen a panacea for the green transition, or a vehicle for greenwashing?Guests: Paul Martin, Spitfire Research ConsultingJan Cihlar, Managing Consultant, Guidehouse

After we recorded this episode, French President Macron announced plans to build up to 14 reactors by 2050. But earlier in the week, EDF announced that it would cut its available 2022 nuclear output by about 5% to between 295 and 315 TWh, a record low.Listen to a discussion on the latest corrosion problems at the country’s nuclear plants and what they could mean for supply security and prices across north-west Europe. Is building more reactors the answer, and are such plans economically viable?Guests:Chris Eales, Editor France, MontelPaolo Coghe, CEO, Acousmatics

Continued tension between Ukraine and Russia has supported European wholesale prices, which remain at historically high levels.This week’s pod delves into the potential consequences of an armed conflict for gas supply to Europe, the impact on prices and market ignorance of some key policymakers. Will Russia cut gas flows and are alternative supplies available elsewhere?Guests: Jonathan Stern, Distinguished Research Fellow, Oxford Institute for Energy StudiesCarlos Torres Diaz, Director Power and Gas Market Research, Rystad Energy

The consequences of energy price spikes and massive wholesale market volatility have not only hit the pockets of households and the balance sheets of industrial firms, but have also slowed the pace of deals for power purchase agreements (PPAs). Will the energy crisis and the threat of regulatory intervention cause the expansion of renewables to wobble?Listen to a discussion on the key deals (and dealmakers) of 2021 and the outlook for this year.Guest: Luca Pedretti, COO and Co-Founder of PexaparkTo get more insights from Luca, you can join this Pexapark webinar: link

The Nordic region has not escaped the unprecedented energy price levels seen elsewhere, but according to this week’s guests, remains competitive compared to other parts of Europe and the world.Listen to a discussion on the outlook for electricity prices and the market consequences of the crisis. Could the region see the introduction of price caps and export limitations?Guests: Sigbjørn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm GeoMia Bodin, Head of Analysis, Bodecker Partners

European wholesale gas prices have softened in recent days on forecasts of mild weather and the prospects of LNG imports but they are set to remain at historic highs for many weeks to come.This week’s pod discusses the crucial question of Russian gas supply, LNG shipments in the first quarter and Asian demand. When will the energy crisis ease?Guest: Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Oil and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects

Some German energy retailers went under last year, but many more could follow suit in 2022 as the consequences of soaring prices and poor hedging strategies become clear.Listen to a discussion about whether the existing marginal pricing model is fit for purpose, particularly as renewable energy capacity ramps up and nuclear and coal are phased out. Plus, how will the new German government cope with a potential supply crunch.Guest:Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool

Carbon prices have tripled, gas markets have soared, Europe is burning through its coal stocks but at the same time the demand for green energy procurement has never been higher.Listen to a review of 2021 in carbon, environmental markets as well as in coal and gas and the key drivers for next year. Will all eyes be on the EC’s Fit-for-55 package or will the focus return to speculators in the EU ETS?Guests:Alessandro Vitelli, Freelance Carbon ReporterLaurence Walker, Coal and Gas Editor, MontelRachael Burnett, Environmental Markets Reporter, Montel