Redefining Energy - TECH (Michael Barnard)

Michael Barnard has been researching, analyzing and publishing on the biggest hitters in decarbonization transformation for years. His multi-decade scenarios of major concern areas such hydrogen, marine shipping, aviation and grid storage help shape investment, policy and corporate strategies around the world. He assists investors, Boards and start ups to pick the best course through the next few years by understanding what is most likely to still be valuable in the 2030s and 2040s. And now he’s starting a new channel under the award winning Redefining Energy group, Redefining Energy - Tech.
Listen in as he and Laurent Segalen discuss what the podcast will feature. Subscribe to listen to his deep and broad discussions with global climate solution thought leaders.

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) along with Canadian, EU and other jurisdictional policies are incentivizing a transition to green hydrogen, albeit in different ways and with often foolish use cases. If governmental money is a thumb on the scale, they should be insuring that the hydrogen actually is green. From that perspective, three terms become important: additionality, temporality and locality. They aren't in the debate for heat pumps or EVs, but are in the debate for hydrogen.

Paul Martin is a co-founder of the Hydrogen Science Coalition and has worked with hydrogen in chemical process engineering design and pilot plants for decades. He’s worked on almost every use case imaginable for the molecule and knows what it’s suitable for. And that isn’t a store or carrier of energy or a pre-cursor of expensive synthetic fuels.

The Coalition’s members thought long and hard about their position on what makes hydrogen actually green as opposed to blackish-blue, and Paul shares his thoughts on the subject. The first principle is that a kilogram of CO2 produced when manufacturing a kilogram of hydrogen, regardless of the process used to get there, is reasonable. The Coalition is agnostic on the process, but that doesn’t mean that they are unrealistic about the costs, quite the opposite. Low-carbon hydrogen will be more expensive hydrogen without significant governmental subsidies like the $3 per kg under the US IRA.

Governmental money should come with strings attached. Those strings are that the low-carbon electricity should be net new generation on the grid (additionality), that production of hydrogen should be matched to the times when the new generation is operating (temporality) and production facilities shouldn’t be on filthy grids where extra electricity will actually be generated by coal or gas with the new renewable generation a thousand kilometers away.

Listen in as Paul and Michael discuss what makes sense, edge conditions and nuances around green hydrogen.

Don’t forget to like the episode and follow Redefining Energy - Tech, and don’t forget to follow parent channel Redefining Energy, where Laurent Segalen and Gerard Reid focus on how the global transition is getting financed.

Michael Barnard welcomes CEO and co-founder of Camus Energy, Astrid Atkinson, to Redefining Energy - Tech for the first half of their lengthy discussion.
Astrid shares her background in big tech at Google before transitioning to grid management in the energy industry. She discusses the parallels between building reliable software systems and decarbonizing the grid. Her interest in climate change inspired her to apply her skills towards creating utility grade reliability for electrical utilities.
The discussion highlights the importance of understanding what it takes to create electricity and ensure its consistent availability.The co-founders of Camus Energy both come from Google and how they came to start a company that provides grid orchestration software for distribution utilities is an interesting journey. They differentiate themselves by going further upstream in understanding conditions on the grid and integrating with wholesale markets, as well as working with legacy systems through their team's unique mix of expertise in hardware, firmware, and large-scale system infrastructure.Camus Energy leverages local resources for local services, including virtual power plant use cases and capital deferral. They integrate data from operational sources and provide utilities with universal visibility into what's happening on the grid. Camus Energy uses machine learning technologies to build a pseudo real-time view of the grid that helps in controls use cases such as peak shaving and substation deferral. Forecasting load growth is important for managing costs and feasibility of grid expansion towards 100% electrification goal.

Don’t forget to like the episode and follow Redefining Energy - Tech so you won’t miss the second half of the conversation with Astrid, and don’t forget to follow parent channel Redefining Energy, where Laurent Segalen and Gerard Reid focus on how the global transition is getting financed.

Michael Barnard welcomes CEO and co-founder of Camus Energy, Astrid Atkinson, to Redefining Energy - Tech for the second half of their lengthy discussion.

Astrid shares her background in big tech at Google before transitioning to grid management in the energy industry. She discusses the parallels between building reliable software systems and decarbonizing the grid. Her interest in climate change inspired her to apply her skills towards creating utility grade reliability for electrical utilities.
The discussion highlights the importance of understanding what it takes to create electricity and ensure its consistent availability.The co-founders of Camus Energy both come from Google and how they came to start a company that provides grid orchestration software for distribution utilities is an interesting journey. They differentiate themselves by going further upstream in understanding conditions on the grid and integrating with wholesale markets, as well as working with legacy systems through their team's unique mix of expertise in hardware, firmware, and large-scale system infrastructure.Camus Energy leverages local resources for local services, including virtual power plant use cases and capital deferral. They integrate data from operational sources and provide utilities with universal visibility into what's happening on the grid. Camus Energy uses machine learning technologies to build a pseudo real-time view of the grid that helps in controls use cases such as peak shaving and substation deferral. Forecasting load growth is important for managing costs and feasibility of grid expansion towards 100% electrification goal.

Don’t forget to like the episode and follow Redefining Energy - Tech so you won’t miss the second half of the conversation with Astrid, and don’t forget to follow parent channel Redefining Energy, where Laurent Segalen and Gerard Reid focus on how the global transition is getting financed.

In this episode of Redefining Energy Tech (part 1 of 2), host Michael Barnard interviews David Cebon, director of the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight at the University of Cambridge. They discuss David's expertise in heavy ground transportation and his involvement in the hydrogen science coalition.

Full transcript.

Cebon spent 20 years studying how heavy road vehicles actually impacted roads. That segued a dozen years ago to look into how the segment would decarbonize. Cebon stresses the importance of thinking about the entire day of a truck's journey when considering electrification and the need for a centralized solution to charging infrastructure. It’s not about one segment of the day, but the whole day, end points and availability of charging.

He worked through the implications of batteries, overhead catenary lines and hydrogen, as well as other power options. He’s settled on batteries and overhead lines in suitable high-volume road segments as the right mix for the transition. While battery energy density is clearly going to improve to the point where pure battery solutions for every range and mix of loads will be both viable and dominate, we can’t wait to start decarbonizing the segment.

In the second part of his conversation with David Cebon, head of the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight and professor of mechanical engineering at Cambridge, Michael Barnard discusses the challenges of integrating logistics activity and energy activity in decarbonization efforts. The need for bigger batteries in trucks is temporary and will eventually become a matter of economics.

Transcript.

However, the challenge lies in charging infrastructure at warehouses, where vehicle turnarounds require tens of megawatts to charge during half-hour periods. This distributed problem requires warehouse owners to spend millions on electricity grid connections to charge third-party vehicles. Overhead contact lines are seen as an important solution because they eliminate the need for big fat grid connections and can be built out along heavily trafficked roads through a single contract rather than thousands of distributed warehouses needing upgrades simultaneously worldwide. Modular electric vehicle platforms with battery swapping capabilities could help cover most logistics solutions globally by allowing OEMs to make slightly different configurations depending on country needs while reducing costs compared to adding megawatt hours or hydrogen fuel cells.
Finally, there is a debunked piece of folklore that heavier electric vehicles cause more road damage when truck weight laws vary widely among U.S states with Michigan having double Class 8 tractor semi-trailer weights allowed while civil engineers use something called "the fourth power law" based on outdated constructions from late 1950s AASHO Road Test results which saw most damage occur due to weather conditions rather than vehicle loading factors.Cebon discusses the fourth power law and its impact on road damaging potential of axles, which has been debunked. They also talk about the history of lane width and how it affects driver behavior. Additionally, Cebon shares his opinion on hydrogen fuel cell trucks for heavy ground vehicles and highlights their high cost compared to electric trucks due to a steep learning curve for hydrogen technology in small quantities.

Michael Barnard welcomes Elisabet Liljeblad, PhD, the sustainability and energy lead with Stena Teknik, to discuss decarbonization in the maritime industry. Elisabet shares her diverse background including studying the magnetosphere of Mercury and a stint in Afghanistan keeping the peace, and how she ended up in shipping.
Full transcript.
They explore the scale of the maritime industry and its challenge of decarbonization due to its size, variety of vessels, and dependency on fossil fuels. Shipping constitutes a significant amount of emissions globally. The conversation touches upon different types of ships within Stena's business units, including drilling, bulk transportation, passenger ferries, technical services, and their varying operational characteristics. They highlight the need for different fuel logistics as ships transition away from fossil fuels towards electrification or alternative fuels like ammonia, methanol, hydrogen or biodiesel blends. The challenges faced by ports in accommodating these diverse refueling options are also discussed along with onboard carbon capture as a potential solution.The potential for electrification in marine shipping is significant, with projections suggesting that 40% of container ships can be electrified within this decade.
Methanol is another opportunity for shipping fuel, and Stena has converted a ropax vessel to run on both diesel and methanol. Methanol has half the energy density of fossil diesel but doesn't evaporate at room temperature. It's relatively easy to store and handle but requires separate tanks from other fuels due to its characteristics.
Biodiesel, particularly hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), burns cleaner than fossil fuels with lower emissions of pollutants like sulfur oxide (SOx) and nitrogen oxide (NOx). HVO is considered a high-quality biofuel that emits fewer harmful substances and doesn't require special considerations like microbial growth.However, as green hydrogen becomes more prevalent in HVO production processes, it may become more expensive compared to other biofuels that don't rely on green hydrogen.
There's no magic bullet solution for decarbonizing marine shipping; it requires a mix of solutions depending on the type of ship and route involved.
They discuss the difference between N20 and NO2, both created by burning anything in our atmosphere, with a focus on their effects on human beings and the environment. Ultimately, the goal is to move away from burning fuels and transition to electric engines as much as possible for more efficient energy utilization.

Michael Barnard welcomes back Elisabet Liljeblad, the sustainability and energy lead with Stena Teknik, for the second half of their conversation on redefining energy Tech.

They start by discussing the efficiency of electric drive trains in shipping and compare it to reciprocating engines.
Methanol is explored as a shipping fuel with lower emissions and cleaner burning properties. Ammonia is discussed as a potential transportation fuel but poses toxicity and safety challenges.
Hydrogen is also considered, highlighting its clean combustion but issues with storage, cost, and low conversion efficiency. Equinor abandoned their cryogenic hydrogen bunkering due to high costs. There are doubts about the viability of hydrogen-powered ships, as batteries tend to be cheaper. However, some companies like Swedish Goslin Ferries are still pursuing hydrogen solutions. The challenges of producing and storing liquid hydrogen make it less energy-dense than diesel or ammonia.
A potential solution for ships is a battery-biofuel hybrid model that gradually replaces diesel with biodiesel over time. Electrification using containerized batteries in ports and on ships is another promising option, especially for roll-on/roll-off vessels. Collaboration between the shipping and rail industries could allow shared use of battery containers for more efficient electrification efforts.
Additionally, bunkering electrons instead of conventional fuel is being explored as an alternative for reducing emissions from cruise ships in Norwegian fjords by 2026. Liljeblad discusses the concept of electron bunkering vessels, which are ships with batteries that provide energy to other ships. She emphasizes the need for a total rethink in how we value companies and use resources to address environmental issues.
Liljeblad closes by highlighting the importance of individual responsibility and making sustainable choices as consumers. She believes there is great potential for electrifying container shipping and using existing solutions to transition towards a more sustainable future.

In this engaging episode, host Michael Barnard welcomes Vincent Pluvinage, the physicist, inventor, and CEO of OneD Battery Sciences, discussing his diverse background, love for physics, and the path that led him to become involved in silicon-based batteries.

From his initial work in designing chips for programmable hearing aids to meeting influential figures like Andy Grove and David Packard, Vincent shares his unique journey.

The conversation delves into the development and potential of OneD Battery Sciences' groundbreaking battery technology, specifically the use of silicon nanowires, which promises to revolutionize the industry with the potential for low-cost manufacturing at scale.

The discussion also touches on color perception, the complexity of electrochemistry, and the challenges of modeling larger batteries.Additional topics include the distinct characteristics and challenges of EV batteries compared to smaller consumer batteries, trade secrets in the battery industry, the importance of managing heat in EV batteries, and the complexities of different critical minerals in battery supply chains.

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.

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!
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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!

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.

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.

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 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/

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 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 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 episode of "Redefining Energy Tech," host Michael Barnard continues and concludes his conversation with Cornelis Plet, DNV's VP for Power Systems Advisory in North America. They delve into high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission, focusing on the contrast between Line Commutated Converters (LCC) and Voltage Source Converters (VSC). Cornelis explains LCC's suitability for stable grid connections and VSC's advantages in control and reduced harmonics, also noting the prominence of MMC-VSC technology in modern HVDC systems.

The discussion then shifts to HVDC's role in efficiently connecting asynchronous AC grids, highlighting China's significant advancements in this field. Cornelis and Michael examine China's HVDC infrastructure, acknowledging its global leadership with the longest operational lines and ultra-high voltage projects. They also touch upon challenges related to China's HVDC systems' reliability and its aspirations to export this technology amidst cybersecurity and political concerns.

Additionally, the podcast explores the varied governance frameworks in HVDC project development across different regions. They compare China's streamlined approach to the more complex scenarios in Europe and North America, where diverse stakeholders and policies often slow down progress.

The episode concludes with reflections on the future of HVDC technology, emphasizing its critical role in the energy transition and the need for clear communication in the sector. This discussion offers valuable insights into the evolving world of energy transmission and the emerging technologies shaping our sustainable future.

Welcome to the latest episode of "Redefining Energy Tech," where host Michael Barnard delves into the evolving world of renewable energy technology. In this engaging session, Michael introduces his esteemed guest, Mark Wilson, CEO and founder of Intelligent Land and Investments (ILI) of Scotland.
Mark shares his remarkable journey, beginning with securing land for eco-friendly housing projects, leading up to his current ventures into renewable energy projects such as onshore wind and pump storage. The highlight of the discussion is ILI's advanced project, Red John, poised to significantly bolster the power grid. Mark elucidates the intricacies of pump storage technology and its application in Red John, setting a precedent in the renewable energy sector.
The conversation also touches upon other global pumped hydro facilities, including China's ambitious plans, underscoring the worldwide impact of such initiatives. Mark points out the long-term commitment of these projects, indicated by the 125-year leases on their Scottish sites.
Mark and Michael delve into the challenges and triumphs of integrating new technologies in the renewable energy space. Emphasizing the comprehensive approach required for successful project execution, Mark shares his team's expertise in site selection and development. They address and debunk common myths about the scarcity of suitable locations for pumped hydro storage, demonstrating the feasibility of these projects globally.
The environmental considerations of closed-loop systems and their design intricacies based on mathematical calculations are also discussed. Further into the conversation, they explore the strategic approaches to energy storage, contrasting river-based systems with closed-loop methods. Mark voices his concerns about the environmental impact of river-based systems and advocates for the efficiency and lower impact of closed-loop systems.
The episode also sheds light on the rigorous approval processes for such projects, referencing an incident involving a dam breach and the consequent enhancement of safety measures in dam construction. The UK and Scottish governments' role in fostering a conducive environment for renewable energy projects surfaces as a key topic.
The UK's cap and floor mechanism, designed to ensure safe investment in strategic assets like pumped hydro facilities, is discussed, highlighting the nation's commitment to achieving net zero emissions. This segment underscores the optimism surrounding the future of energy storage in the UK, positioning it as a potential global leader in renewable energy technology.

Michael Barnard welcomes back Mark Wilson, CEO of Intelligent Land Investments of Scotland for the second half of their discussion. They embark on a detailed discussion about the intricacies of pumped hydro facilities, including engineering, design considerations, and the role of pumped hydro in the evolving landscape of renewable energy.
Mark Wilson sheds light on the design aspects of pumped hydro facilities, particularly focusing on the size and length of tunnels, and emphasizes a broad brush approach over detailed design specifications. He also touches upon their foray into battery projects, acknowledging a learning curve in this area. Michael Barnard raises the critical issue of risk management in large infrastructure projects, underlining the importance of meticulous planning and design.
The conversation pivots to the technicalities of turbine selection for pumped hydro facilities. Mark explains their preference for fixed turbines over variable ones, citing cost-effectiveness and alignment with their project goals. This leads to an intriguing discussion on the recent growth of battery storage, an area that has surpassed Mark's initial expectations when they began focusing on pump storage projects. They explore Scotland's position in the battery market, considering its first-mover advantage and future prospects around 2030-2035.
Delving into the broader scope of energy storage, Michael and Mark discuss the UK's potential as an exporter of 100% renewable energy to Europe, underscoring the significance of energy security. They categorize different types of grid storage and debate the feasibility and necessity of extensive seasonal storage. The conversation also covers the practical aspects of developing projects like Red John, encompassing land rights, planning permissions, and the importance of local partnerships and workforce arrangements.
Mark reflects on his company's journey, emphasizing the importance of ethics, relationship-building, and resilience in the face of industry challenges. He candidly discusses the stress and pressures associated with developing pumped hydro projects and the regulatory and funding challenges they face.
Comparing the UK and US contexts, Mark advocates for pump storage as a key solution for achieving net-zero emissions and urges companies to push for policy changes that support project development.

In the latest episode of "Redefining Energy Tech," hosted by Michael Barnard, we had the pleasure of welcoming Roberta Cenni, head of biofuels at the Maersk McKinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.
With a rich background in chemical engineering and a passion for sustainability, Roberta shared her journey and the pivotal decision to join the center. This pioneering organization, established by Maersk as a non-profit, spearheads the mission to decarbonize the shipping industry through collaboration across sectors to innovate in alternative fuels and low-carbon solutions.
Our conversation delved into the promising role of biofuels, particularly focusing on biomethane and methanol, in the quest for decarbonizing maritime shipping. The challenge of methane emissions from anaerobic digesters was a critical point of discussion, highlighting the need for further research and technological advancement in capturing these emissions effectively. We also explored the landscape of LNG-powered ships and the emerging interest in ammonia as a potential fuel option, underscoring the complexity and evolving nature of port infrastructure and bunkering requirements for these alternative fuels.
The dialogue was enriched by Roberta's insights into the economic viability and technological pathways for producing bio-methanol as a viable shipping fuel, alongside the ongoing developments in port infrastructure to accommodate the bunkering needs of such alternative fuels. Roberta outlined her action items, emphasizing the importance of continued research into the decarbonization potential of biomethane and methanol, including their production methodologies and the adaptation of port infrastructures to support their use.
These steps are crucial for navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead in achieving a zero-carbon future for maritime shipping.

In this insightful second episode, Roberta Cenni, the head of biofuels at the Maersk McKinney Mueller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, delves into the potential of biofuels as a sustainable energy source for the shipping industry.
With biodiesel currently being the only commercially available biofuel derived from fats, oils, and greases, she discusses its limitations due to supply constraints and explores the possibilities of other biofuels like biomethane and biomethanol, which could be produced from waste materials through processes such as gasification and pyrolysis.
Cenni elaborates on the technical aspects of converting biomass into valuable fuels, highlighting methods like gasification that converts biomass into synthesis gas for methanol or synthetic diesel production, and pyrolysis, a less energy-intensive process for breaking down solid substances. She also touches on hydrocracking and hydro treating processes that use hydrogen to upgrade biocrude or clean feedstocks of impurities.
Additionally, the conversation covers the potential of ammonia as an alternative fuel, despite its toxicity risks, emphasizing the importance of safety in its maritime use. The episode not only provides a deep dive into the science behind biofuel production but also stresses the significance of using waste biomass sustainably.
Cenni's discussion underscores the need for responsible sourcing practices to prevent negative impacts on biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of biofuel production for the shipping industry. Through a comprehensive exploration of biofuels, from their current state to future potentials and challenges, this episode sheds light on the critical role of innovative energy solutions in achieving zero carbon shipping.

In a captivating episode of "Redefining Energy Tech," host Michael Barnard welcomed Kevin Antcliff, the head of product at X Wing, to discuss the transformative trends in the aviation industry. Kevin, who has an impressive background with a 13-year tenure at NASA, shared his journey from a childhood fascination with aerospace to leading product vision at X Wing, a startup focusing on autonomous aviation.
At NASA, Kevin was deeply involved in projects related to urban air mobility and autonomy mapping, experiences that fortified his belief in the future of unmanned flight. The conversation delved into the aviation industry's current challenges, including the significant pilot shortages, the high operational and crew expenses, turnover rates, and the restrictive regulatory environment. An important part of their discussion highlighted the advantages of electric aircraft, such as lower certification and maintenance costs and operational savings, which stand in stark contrast to traditional planes.
Furthermore, they explored the concept of regional air mobility (RAM), emphasizing its potential to utilize existing airport infrastructure to enhance connectivity. This segment brought to light the historical backdrop of the abundance of airports in the US following World War II and the impact of liability concerns on aircraft manufacturing until recent regulatory changes encouraged new entrants into the small plane production market.
The episode painted a picture of an aviation industry at a pivotal point, moving towards increased autonomy and electrification, driven by the need for cost efficiency, safety improvements, and the leveraging of RAM to improve regional connectivity.
Kevin's insights from his NASA days, particularly his work on mapping the autonomy landscape and drafting a white paper on RAM, provided valuable context to understand the ongoing shifts in the industry. 

In the second half of the discussion with Kevin Antcliff from XWing, the focus shifted to the transformative power of autonomy in aviation, exploring its broad applications, the hurdles it faces, and its potential to reshape industries like cargo delivery and aerial photography. The conversation illuminated the critical function of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) across diverse sectors, highlighting their operations within tightly controlled environments managed by advanced ground stations and the essential communication with air traffic controllers for seamless integration into the airspace.
A central concern discussed was the emerging threat posed by regional air mobility, fuelled by advancements in electric aircraft and digital air traffic control systems, to the realm of general aviation. This led to an exploration of the necessity for structured airspace environments specifically designed for autonomous flight operations—a sharp contrast to the unstructured dynamics of road travel, underscoring the complexities of safely and efficiently integrating autonomous systems into the global airspace.
Kevin Antcliff shared XWing's journey towards commercial autonomy in cargo delivery, detailing their successes in military demonstrations and laying out an ambitious roadmap for obtaining commercial certification for autonomous cargo delivery within the next decade, despite the challenges posed by rigorous safety regulations. The dialogue opened up about the obstacles in the certification process, against the backdrop of optimistic projections for advancements that could revolutionize logistics, particularly in remote areas.
The podcast delved into the critical role of autonomous technologies in tackling global sustainability challenges, suggesting their potential to contribute significantly toward creating smarter, greener transportation systems. It painted a future where the rapid evolution of autonomous aviation could lead to more efficient, sustainable, and safer aviation ecosystems.
The episode highlighted several key insights, including the utility of UAVs in tasks such as aerial photography and agriculture, the evolution and significance of digital air traffic control, the operational challenges and certification hurdles X Wing navigates, and the overarching impact of autonomous technologies in promoting a sustainable, efficient future. This discussion serves as a pivotal resource for stakeholders in the aviation industry and those interested in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and transportation.

In this insightful episode of "Redefining Energy Tech" (part 1/2) Professor Amy Wagoner Johnson, a materials scientist from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, delves into her groundbreaking work in coral reef restoration. Transitioning from her background in bone tissue engineering, Amy discusses how she applies similar principles to innovate in the field of coral regeneration, utilizing advanced techniques such as 3D printing and material science.

Wagoner Johnson begins by detailing the significance of coral reefs in supporting biodiversity, protecting shorelines, and sustaining local economies through tourism. Despite their importance, these ecosystems face severe threats from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. To combat these challenges, Wagoner Johnson's research focuses on developing calcium carbonate-based substrates enriched with trace elements, designed to enhance coral skeletal growth and promote larval settlement. This approach is particularly crucial given the rapid environmental changes threatening coral survival and biodiversity.

A significant aspect of her research involves the use of flume tanks to simulate oceanic conditions that influence larval settlement patterns. By studying the interaction between fluid mechanics and surface structures, Wagoner Johnson and her team are uncovering how to optimize conditions for coral larvae to settle and thrive. Mimicking natural cues from algae, the team explores strategies to encourage larval metamorphosis into polyps, enhancing reef recovery and resilience.

The podcast episode covers a broad range of topics related to coral reefs, from the basic structure and chemistry of coral polyps to the challenges of adaptation and the potential of oceanic geoengineering to mitigate acidification effects. Each segment builds on Wagoner Johnson's innovative approach to coral restoration, emphasizing collaboration, such as her work with Carmabi Lab in Curaçao and support from the National Science Foundation.

In closing, the episode touches on future directions for Wagoner Johnson's research, including her plans to incorporate specific minerals into restoration materials to better attract larvae and foster their growth. This episode not only highlights the critical role of interdisciplinary research in addressing environmental issues but also calls for continued support and interest in such vital conservation efforts.

In this engaging podcast episode (part 2/2), Professor Amy Wagner Johnson shares the challenges and innovative strategies for coral reef restoration. She highlights the potential of artificial reef materials that support healthy growth without detrimental chemical leaching, and introduces cutting-edge methods like 3D printed structures, referred to as arcs, which are tailored for mobile ecosystems.

Throughout the conversation, Wagoner Johnson emphasizes the critical need for interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve successful reef restoration. The discussion covers the slow growth rates of coral polyps and the dynamics of larval settlement, both vital for effective reef rebuilding. Challenges such as enhancing disease resistance and adapting to environmental conditions are explored, alongside novel strategies like tenting damaged corals with larvae to boost repopulation efforts.

Further insights reveal ongoing research into the effectiveness of different substrates and methods to improve larval settlement, underscoring the complex and multifaceted nature of coral reef preservation. Wagoner Johnson calls on global listeners involved in climate solutions and technological advancements to join forces in marine ecosystem conservation, stressing the urgency for diverse expertise and creative solutions.

The episode concludes with a strong call to action, urging collaborative innovation and collective efforts toward sustainable conservation practices for protecting coral reefs. The discussion not only sheds light on the complexities of coral restoration but also inspires hope through the possibilities of multidisciplinary approaches in environmental conservation.     

In our latest podcast episode, Host Michael Barnard is thrilled to have Paul Martin. Paul, a seasoned chemical engineer, share his profound insights on the electrification of industrial heat processes. Here’s a brief summary of the conversation:

The discussion kicked off with a critical analysis of the inefficiencies associated with using fire for heat generation compared to electricity. Paul emphasized that electricity not only offers cost advantages but also enhances safety.

A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to the concept of exergy, highlighting its crucial role in the energy transition towards decarbonization. Paul underscored the potential of direct electricity usage for heating processes, moving away from traditional methods of burning chemical energy. 

We also delved into the advancements in battery technology, discussing how these innovations are revolutionizing energy storage and management. Paul provided fascinating insights into the practical applications of batteries in industrial settings, particularly for short-term high-power requirements. 

The episode further explored the diverse heat requirements in industrial food preparation, comparing the efficiency of natural gas with other energy sources. Paul highlighted the practicalities and benefits of heat pumping in industrial processes, stressing the importance of understanding different heat metrics for efficiency calculations.

In addition to these technical discussions, Paul addressed the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the technology readiness levels and market readiness of heat pumping applications. He also explained the significance of temperature lift in heat pumping and its applications below 200 degrees Celsius.

Overall, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in industrial heat electrification and the future of energy systems.  

In our latest podcast episode, host Michael Barnard and guest Paul Martin dove deep into innovative solutions for industrial heat. The conversation covered a wide range of topics, from the use of electrical and heat batteries to advancements in thermal storage, underscoring the potential benefits of storing energy as heat rather than relying solely on electricity.

Paul Martin shared insights on various types of industrial heat, including cement clinkering and specialty high-temperature processes, highlighting the importance of efficient heat management. The discussion also touched on the potential of changing wire types for better energy transfer and the role of smart demand and storage solutions during peak energy periods.

The episode explored cutting-edge heating technologies such as induction heating, thermolysis, and electrolysis, emphasizing their advantages over traditional combustion methods. Environmental considerations were a key focus, with a shift towards electric heating for sustainability and exploring alternatives to fossil fuels for high-temperature processes.

Closing remarks from Michael Barnard and Paul Martin highlighted the value propositions and technological innovations discussed, endorsing consulting services for chemistry process engineering with Paul Martin at Spitfire Research. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of industrial heat and clean energy solutions.  

In our latest episode, host Michael Barnard has the pleasure of speaking with Jan Rosenow, who shared incredible insights into energy policy and the critical steps needed for decarbonization. Here’s a brief overview of the key takeaways:

Jan, with his strong background in geosciences and energy policy, highlighted the pivotal role of energy in global carbon emissions. He elaborated on the Regulatory Assistance Project’s (RAP) mission to aid policymakers and regulators in designing more effective energy policies across the US, Europe, China, and India. We delved into RAP's diverse funding sources, including philanthropy, government contracts, and research grants.

A significant portion of our discussion focused on the intricate landscape of EU policy-making. Jan explained the complexities arising from the EU's 27 member states and the collaborative roles of the European Commission, Parliament, and Council. He also touched on the influence of Germany and France on EU energy policies and the ongoing impact of the UK's exit from the EU.

The conversation took an interesting turn as we explored the historical and current hype around hydrogen as a decarbonization solution. Jan provided a critical analysis of hydrogen's realistic applications, the challenges it faces, and the institutional inertia that hampers policy innovation in this area.

Finally, we addressed the crucial topic of decarbonizing building heat. With heating accounting for a significant portion of global carbon emissions, Jan emphasized the need to shift away from fossil fuels. We discussed promising alternatives like biomass, heat pumps, and district heating systems, while expressing skepticism about hydrogen’s viability as a heating solution.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these pressing energy issues and the paths we can take toward a sustainable future. Your feedback and thoughts are always welcome! 🌍💡 
 

In our latest episode, Host Michael Barnard and Jan Rosenow, European director for RAP, delved into the multifaceted world of heat pumps and their critical role in the energy transition (part 2/2). 

Here’s a brief summary of the insightful discussion: We kicked off by exploring the terminology and rising popularity of heat pumps in the media, highlighting their growing presence in publications and public discourse. The conversation then shifted to the marketing and design of heat pumps, emphasizing the need for improved aesthetics and customer experience to make them more appealing.

Efficiency and demand reduction measures were a key focus, with discussions on the potential of insulation and draft proofing to reduce heat demand and enhance property efficiency. We also debated the priority of electrifying heat versus insulation, considering the impact of both strategies on energy use and climate change mitigation.

Heat pumps' dual capability to provide heating and cooling was another highlight, particularly in the context of increasing heat waves. The episode also featured a meta-analysis on hydrogen for heating, revealing that hydrogen is not a scalable or efficient solution compared to alternatives.

The future of gas grids was scrutinized, with discussions on the need for a managed transition away from gas and examples from France and the UK on the rising costs of gas grid maintenance. An orderly regulatory framework for decommissioning gas grids was deemed essential.

We concluded on an optimistic note, drawing parallels to the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy, and expressing belief in innovation and private equity driving the energy transition.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these vital topics and the steps we can take towards a sustainable future! 🌱💡

Michael Barnard talks with Professor Bent Flyvbjerg (part 1/2), a leading expert on megaprojects and author of "How Big Things Get Done."

Flyvbjerg shares insights from his extensive research, revealing that a staggering 99.5% of projects fail to meet budget, timeline, and benefit expectations. He discusses the critical importance of analyzing successful projects, particularly in the context of renewable energy, where solar and wind initiatives have proven to be more effective than nuclear power.  

Flyvbjerg highlights the creation of a database containing over 16,000 megaprojects, which provides a comprehensive overview of the inherent challenges of nuclear energy. These challenges include regulatory hurdles and skill shortages, which contribute to the poor performance of nuclear projects. Additionally, Flyvbjerg explores the concept of small modular reactors as a potential solution to some of these issues, although they also face significant limitations.  

Through this discussion, the episode sheds light on the complexities of project management within the energy sector and the factors that lead to successful outcomes. Flyvbjerg emphasizes the importance of studying successful projects to understand how they overcome the odds and achieve their goals. He highlights solar power, wind energy, and transmission as examples of successful project types, contrasting them with poorly performing projects like nuclear power and the Olympic Games.

Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the dynamics of megaprojects, particularly in the renewable energy sector, and underscores the need for effective project management strategies to ensure success.

In Episode 34 of the podcast "Redefining Energy Tech" (part 2/2), host Michael Barnard engages with Professor Bent Flyvbjerg, author of "How Big Things Get Done," to delve into the intricacies and strategies of megaprojects, focusing particularly on the comparison between pumped hydro storage and battery systems.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of modularity and repeatability in large-scale projects and highlights various risks associated with construction, including data deficiencies and stakeholder management.   

Professor Flyvbjerg introduces the concept of the 'window of doom,' underscoring the necessity of swift project delivery to mitigate risk. The episode explores the advantages of modular construction as evidenced in projects like the Tesla Gigafactory and renewable energy sectors, contrasting these with the prolonged timelines typical of nuclear power plant constructions.

The discussion provides actionable recommendations, urging listeners to review critical risk management heuristics and the variance chart from Flyvbjerg's book. These insights are aimed at enhancing project management practices in infrastructure development. 

Listeners are encouraged to understand base rates and project risks, utilize heuristics for successful project management, and consider the significance of the variance chart in Chapter 9 of Flyvbjerg's book. The episode concludes with a call to develop personal heuristics for managing megaprojects effectively.

In Episode 35 of "Redefining Energy - Tech," host Michael Barnard engages with Michele Wucker, the author of *The Gray Rhino* and *You Are What You Risk*, in a thought-provoking discussion on risk perception and management. Wucker introduces the concept of the "gray rhino," which symbolizes obvious yet often overlooked risks, in contrast to the "black swan," which represents unforeseeable and improbable events.

The conversation highlights climate change as a prime example of a gray rhino, underscoring the importance of recognizing and responding to such evident threats before they escalate.   Wucker shares her background in emerging market debt and sovereign credit risk, providing context for how she developed the gray rhino concept. The discussion explores the historical and societal dimensions of risk perception, with Wucker emphasizing the need for greater awareness and proactive action regarding significant, visible risks like climate change. The episode also examines how human perception of time influences our responses to long-term threats, drawing parallels with the global reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further into the conversation, Wucker introduces ideas from her book *You Are What You Risk*, including the concepts of "risk fingerprint" and "risk empathy." She discusses how cultural differences, particularly between Eastern and Western societies, shape varying approaches to risk assessment and decision-making. The episode concludes by exploring the interconnectedness of personal, organizational, and governmental decisions in managing obvious risks, highlighting the collective responsibility in addressing gray rhino threats. This episode offers listeners valuable insights into how we can better identify and respond to the risks that are most apparent yet frequently ignored.   

In Episode 36 of the "Redefining Energy" series, host Michael Barnard engages Michele Wucker in a nuanced discussion about the complex nature of risk, focusing on the distinction between risk profiles and risk fingerprints.
These fingerprints, shaped by an individual's inherent traits, experiences, and environmental influences, are crucial in understanding how people and organizations perceive and manage risks.

The conversation emphasizes climate change as a significant "gray rhino" that requires strategic, rather than merely tactical, responses. Wucker examines the fossil fuel industry's risk perceptions, considering the potential for these companies to transition into the clean energy sector and exploring the implications of peak oil demand.

The episode also addresses the evolving risk landscape in the wake of COVID-19, highlighting the importance of shared responsibility between individuals and corporations in reducing carbon footprints and adopting sustainable practices. Wucker underscores the need for collaborative efforts and the role of governments in shaping behaviors through policies and incentives. In the final segment, the discussion turns to the equitable distribution of risks and benefits in policy-making, particularly concerning independent workers.

The episode advocates for improved systems to support these workers and stresses the importance of understanding personal risk decisions and their broader impact on society.    

Rob Jackson, Chair of the Global Carbon Project and Senior Fellow at the Woods Institute, dives into a critical discussion on methane emissions and their impact on climate change. In this episode of Redefining Energy - Tech, he outlines methane’s potency, noting that it is 80-90 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat during the first few decades after its release. Methane's role in climate change is not to be underestimated, especially since it makes up the majority of natural gas, which is often marketed as a "clean" fuel.

Jackson raises concerns about methane emissions, particularly in household appliances like gas stoves. These appliances not only leak methane but also release other harmful pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide and benzene, which pose significant health risks to vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly. He also discusses the widespread leakage that occurs throughout the natural gas supply chain, challenging the perception of natural gas as a clean energy source.

The conversation shifts to the challenges of detecting methane emissions, particularly from oil and gas operations. Jackson highlights advancements in technology, such as satellites, drones, and helicopters, which are used to identify methane super-emitters —large, concentrated leaks of methane. However, pinpointing smaller leaks remains difficult. These advancements, though promising, still face limitations, particularly when it comes to smaller-scale emissions from agriculture or subtle leaks in oil fields.

Jackson stresses the need for a comprehensive approach to methane detection. He calls for integrating multiple types of sensors at different scales to address the full scope of emissions. Despite the improvements in technology, methane emissions from various industries continue to be underestimated. The International Council on Clean Transportation's (ICCT) FUMES project, which found higher-than-expected methane emissions from liquefied natural gas (LNG) ships, and Shell's own internal discoveries of methane leaks from its operations, were part of the discussions.

The episode concludes with a call to action, as Jackson emphasizes the necessity of reducing methane emissions by enhancing detection methods and accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels. He advocates for a multifaceted strategy to address climate change, one that considers not just methane but also the broader implications of fossil fuel reliance.

In Episode 38 of Redefining Energy - Tech, Rob Jackson addresses the growing challenge of methane emissions, which are over 90 times more potent than CO2 in the short term. He reveals that two-thirds of methane emissions come from human activities such as fossil fuels, agriculture, and landfills, with livestock, especially cows, being the largest agricultural source. Methane's rapid increase is a major contributor to climate change, and Jackson explores its direct and indirect effects, including its interaction with ozone and how blending hydrogen with natural gas can extend methane's atmospheric lifetime.

Jackson presents several solutions to reduce methane emissions, emphasizing the transition from gas to electric appliances like heat pumps and induction stoves. Regulatory changes and best practices in the oil and gas sector, such as improved methane capture during drilling and better pressure relief systems, are crucial. He also notes the European Union's plan to include methane in its emissions trading system by 2026.

The episode concludes with strategies for agriculture and landfills, including reducing cow populations, using feed additives and vaccines to cut methane from livestock, and preventing organic waste from entering landfills. Jackson advocates for a holistic approach, linking methane reduction to broader climate and health benefits, and highlights clean energy as a critical part of the solution.

In this episode, host Michael Barnard engages in an enlightening conversation with Michael Raynor, co-author of The Innovator’s Solution and an expert in carbon reduction strategies. Raynor shares his personal journey into sustainability, the evolution of his focus on decarbonization, and his current work developing innovative solutions for addressing corporate carbon challenges. A key topic in the discussion is the Raynor’s new firm, S3 Markets, which emphasizes the need to decarbonize upstream commodities to meet net zero commitments. Rayner highlights the difficulty corporations face in managing Scope 3 emissions and suggests shifting from traditional carbon offsets to “insets,” where companies pool small investments to make a meaningful impact. This approach targets the 80-90 high-emission commodities responsible for the bulk of industrial emissions, which make up 15% of global GDP.

The conversation takes a practical turn as Raynor discusses Mississauga’s hydrogen bus pilot program. He recounts how he identified potential issues with the initiative and reached out directly to the city’s mayor and council. His insights led to an invitation to present his findings to the Mississauga City Council on October 30th. 

The conversation turns to Barnard’s dive into the CUTRIC (Canadian Urban Transit Research and Innovation Consortium) in advancing urban transit decarbonization through research and policy recommendations, as well as some red flags.

Barnard and Raynor explore the financial and environmental trade-offs between hydrogen and battery-electric buses. Barnard provides a critical analysis of data from California and the EU’s JIVE program, showing that hydrogen buses come with significant costs for refuelling infrastructure and maintenance. Comparatively, for the cost of five hydrogen buses, municipalities could procure twelve battery-electric buses, making the latter more attractive both financially and environmentally.

The episode wraps up with a closer look at CUTRIC’s recent report for Brampton, where Barnard identifies questionable assumptions about hydrogen system costs. One factor alone, the cost assumption for gray hydrogen could have a $200 million swing, dwarfing the $10 million variance called out justifying a blended hydrogen + battery electric fleet instead of a battery electric only fleet.

Raynor examines the varying carbon costs of different hydrogen types—gray, blue, and green—and emphasizes the importance of carefully choosing technologies based on actual benefits. The battery-electric buses offer superior emissions reduction per dollar spent. 

In this second part of the episode, Michael Raynor and Michael Barnard offer an in-depth analysis of the comparison between hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric buses, focusing on key findings and discrepancies in a recent CUTRIC study. 

Barnard critically examines issues related to replacement cycles, carbon pricing, refuelling facilities and individual bus complexity. He highlights the study’s failure to account for technological advancements in batteries, such as decreasing costs and improving lifespans, which position battery electric buses as a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.  

Raynor digs into financial projections and the challenges of managing multiple bus technologies in transit systems like Brampton’s. He applies his expertise related to scenario-based planning, gained in his Harvard DBA and published in his 2007 book, The Strategy Paradox, pointing out flaws in CUTRIC’s use of point estimates without error bars. Raynor notes the complexity involved in maintaining hydrogen buses, both in terms of infrastructure and organizational demands, compared to simpler battery systems. He raises concerns about Brampton’s decision to move forward with a potentially expensive and inefficient hydrogen pilot, citing a $1.1 billion discrepancy caused by timing assumptions in hydrogen bus deployment.  

Raynor also explores how the study’s reliance on discounting future costs skews financial comparisons between the two technologies. He discusses the need for carbon emissions to be integrated into transit planning decisions and contrasts CUTRIC’s analysis with the EU’s more sophisticated approach to carbon pricing.  

The episode concludes with Raynor’s personal reflection on the difficulties of tackling climate challenges while underscoring the importance of rigorous evaluation processes in transit planning. Raynor and Barnard call for Brampton’s transit proposals to undergo third-party reviews and improved quality control to ensure transparency and better decision-making.    

Michael Barnard invites John Fitzgerald, the CEO of Supernode. John delves into the transformative potential of energy transmission technologies and the critical role of interconnectors in shaping the future of renewable energy. Drawing from his extensive background in engineering and utility management, Fitzgerald recounts his journey in the energy sector, which includes developing power stations, trading over interconnectors, and spearheading the East West Interconnector project between Ireland and the UK. His leadership at Supernode reflects his commitment to advancing superconducting transmission technology as a solution to modern energy challenges.
Fitzgerald discusses the inherent limitations of alternating current (AC) transmission, particularly for underground and underwater cables, and highlights the advantages of direct current (DC) technology for long-distance energy distribution. He explains the technical intricacies of DC systems, including their capacity to manage inertia and integrate non-synchronous renewable energy. Throughout the episode, Fitzgerald emphasizes the need to address public consultation challenges in infrastructure projects to ensure the successful deployment of energy transmission networks.
A central theme of the conversation is the evolving role of interconnectors. Once primarily used to exploit price differences between energy markets, interconnectors are now crucial for balancing variable renewable energy across regions. Fitzgerald explores the immense potential of continental-scale grids in Europe and advocates for tripling grid capacity to meet future energy demands. He also highlights groundbreaking projects like Sun Cable, which aims to connect Australia to Singapore, and the NATO-L project, which envisions transatlantic power transmission, underscoring the benefits of intercontinental energy connectivity for enhancing energy security.
The episode concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the energy transition. Fitzgerald calls for greater investment in HVDC technology, praises China's advancements in this area, and urges listeners to stay informed about opportunities to integrate renewables through interconnectors. By fostering interconnected grids, he argues, the global energy landscape can achieve greater efficiency, resilience, and sustainability.

Michael Barnard concludes his conversation with John Fitzgerald, CEO of Supernode. They explore the game-changing potential of superconducting transmission technology. Superconductors, capable of carrying electricity with zero resistance at extremely low temperatures, are already used in applications like MRI machines and are now poised to revolutionize urban power distribution.

Fitzgerald highlights advances in cryogenic systems, such as smooth bore cryostats, which allow cables to run three times longer between cooling stations, reducing infrastructure needs and enhancing efficiency. The episode spotlights projects like Munich’s upcoming 12-15 km superconducting power cable, which will transfer more power using less space, offering a cost-competitive solution for urban energy demands. Fitzgerald also underscores the importance of developing a European super grid and anticipatory investments in high-capacity power corridors to address growing renewable energy integration and reduce curtailment. He contrasts Europe’s efforts with rapid grid advancements in India and China, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and investment.

Looking ahead, Supernode aims to commercialize its technology by the end of the decade. Fitzgerald calls on policymakers, utilities, and system operators to bridge gaps in energy infrastructure, establish partnerships, and secure funding to promote innovative transmission solutions for a sustainable future.