• 020 - The Invisible MegaWatts killing the Grid
    Aug 20 2025

    Heavy Power Users, such as AI Data Centers or Hydrogen Electrolyzers, swing their load by tens or hundreds of megawatts in a second on their own control logic, without any warning or visibility for the Power Grid Operator,  who can't see the ramp until it's already stressing the system.

    Ravi and JAM speak with Dlzar Al Kez, a Researcher on Net Zero Infrastructure at the University of Manchester.

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    23 mins
  • 019 - Electromobility at a Crossroads [audio]
    Jul 10 2025

    Mats Larsson, founder of the Global Energy Transformation Institute, discusses the staggering scale of transformation required for a full shift to electromobility.

    He warns that electrifying all vehicles in Europe would require nearly half of the continent's current annual electricity production.

    The conversation explores the systemic changes needed in regulation, grid expansion, and workforce training to support a resilient and sustainable transport system.

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    17 mins
  • 018 - Cheap Money for Renewables is Over [audio]
    Jun 1 2025

    Heiko Ludwig shares firsthand insights from the structured finance trenches, revealing how macroeconomic volatility, inflation, and interest rate hikes are reshaping how banks assess and price risk for energy infrastructure.

    He explains that project finance is under pressure, especially in renewables, due to shorter PPAs, cannibalisation risks, and unpredictable regulatory environments.

    The discussion delves into how geopolitical tensions, commodity prices, and policy shifts impact both greenfield and refinancing deals.

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    21 mins
  • 017 - When the Grid Breaks [audio]
    May 16 2025

    When the grid breaks, the impact is brutal and instant. Our latest podcast episode explores the crucial role of grid inertia in energy stability. ⚡️ After the blackout in Spain, we dive into why monitoring and controlling inertia is now a must. 🎧 Listen now to uncover insights every energy professional should know.

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    19 mins
  • 016 - Grid Reliability in an AI World [audio]
    Apr 14 2025

    Michael Bryson, Sr. VP of Operations at PJM, unpacks the complexity of running the largest power grid in the US. From integrating renewables to managing extreme weather events and grid reliability, PJM operates in a delicate dance of supply, demand, and regulation. Bryson shares how policy, tech, and real-time data shape their decisions. This episode sheds light on the unseen, high-pressure world behind your light switch.

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    18 mins
  • 015 - The Mineral Equation: Supply, Sustainability & Geopolitics [audio]
    Mar 10 2025

    Simon Michaux explores the physical requirements to phase out fossil fuels completely, emphasizing the sheer scale of the challenge. He discusses the estimated energy demand, the need for alternative power generation, and the limitations of global mineral resources to sustain the transition.

    Michaux presents a detailed analysis of the metals required for renewable technologies and stationary power storage, questioning the feasibility of current transition plans.

    He highlights the necessity of a comprehensive raw materials strategy, incorporating recycling and alternative battery chemistries.

    The discussion also touches on systemic changes required in energy infrastructure and policy to ensure a successful and sustainable transformation.


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    24 mins
  • 014 - Trump’s Energy Agenda: Boom or Backfire? [audio]
    Feb 14 2025

    Today the Unlocking the Energy Trilemma podcast is one year old, and we celebrate this first anniversary with a Special Episode, the number 14th, where Ravi and JAM debate about the geopolitical shift in the Energy Sector due to Trump's election.

    They will share the Challenges and Opportunities of Trump's Energy Agenda. Is it a Boom or a Backfire?

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    20 mins
  • 013 - Solar Power hits a new WW record [audio]
    Jan 9 2025

    Sonia Dunlop (CEO of the Global Solar Council) discusses the impressive growth of solar power, highlighting the new global milestone in installed capacity. She explores the future of solar energy, addressing challenges like grid flexibility and storage, while emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to integrate solar into power grids. Sonia also touches on the importance of policy frameworks, technological collaboration, and the potential of long-duration energy storage in achieving a sustainable energy future. This insightful conversation outlines the path forward for solar energy and the global energy transition.

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    21 mins