Switched On

Hydrogen Moves From Hype Cycle to Hard Economics

Wed, 20 May 2026 10:34:21 +0000

Hydrogen’s place in the energy transition is changing. After years of hype around its role in reaching net zero, many projects have been delayed or canceled as costs remain high, policy support weakens and demand proves slow to materialize. Yet hydrogen is far from disappearing. Industries already consume vast amounts of the molecule today, and sectors such as fertilizers, refining and potentially steelmaking still have few viable alternatives for deep decarbonization. At the same time, countries like China and India continue to push ahead with deployment and industrial policy support. So after the hype cycle, where does hydrogen actually make economic sense in the energy transition? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Martin Tengler, BloombergNEF’s head of hydrogen research, to discuss some of his department’s recent work, including “No, Iran War Won’t Boost Clean Hydrogen – Except in China” and “Hydrogen Supplier Market Shares 2026: US Blue in the Lead.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Hydrogen Lifted by AccelerateEU, But Expect No Miracles - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/tdxp93kk3ny800

Clean Hydrogen Production Assets Update - https://www.bnef.com/insights/39161

No, Iran War Won’t Boost Clean Hydrogen - Except in China - https://www.bnef.com/insights/39077

Hydrogen Supplier Market Shares 2026: US Blue in the Lead - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38839

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BNEF Tier 1 Lists: The Mark of Credibility

Wed, 13 May 2026 09:27:47 +0000

BloombergNEF’s Tier 1 lists have become a defining feature of the clean energy industry. Built on real project deployment data, they track which manufacturers’ products are actually being used in large, recently financed projects, offering a transparent way to navigate markets crowded with hundreds of suppliers. That simplicity has made the lists highly influential, but being on (or off) the list doesn’t tell the full story about product quality or risk. So what do these lists really reveal about the industry, and how should they be used in practice? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Jenny Chase, lead solar analyst at BNEF, to discuss the Tier 1 lists’ genesis, their application, and why they help us understand the “Wild West” of the energy transition.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

BNEF Energy Storage Tier 1 List 2Q 2026 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33123

Company Ranking: Tier 1 PV Module Makers - https://www.bnef.com/insights/10610

Company Ranking: Tier 1 Power Inverter Makers - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32073

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Data Centers and the Future of Energy Storage

Thu, 07 May 2026 10:00:02 +0000

The AI boom is ushering in a new era for energy storage. As data center buildout accelerates, batteries are evolving from short-duration backup tools into larger, more flexible systems that can help bring facilities online faster and manage complex power needs. In the US in particular, a growing pipeline of projects is emerging, with batteries increasingly paired with on-site generation or used to smooth demand and unlock faster connections to the grid. So how are data centers changing the energy storage market, and what role could these systems play in the power grid of the future? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by, Caitilín McManus, a technology and innovation associate at BloombergNEF, to discuss her recently released note “Data Centers’ Energy Storage Ramp Up: Project List Grows.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Data Centers’ Energy Storage Ramp Up: Project List Grows - https://www.bnef.com/insights/39221

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Energy Strategy in an Era of Global Fragmentation

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:43:25 +0000

Middle powers are navigating a more fragmented global order. As tensions rise between major economies, the countries caught in between are being forced to rethink how they manage trade, security and economic ties. Energy is at the center of that shift. Reducing reliance on imported fuels is becoming a strategic priority, with electrification and domestic clean energy seen not just as climate solutions, but as tools of resilience and sovereignty. So how are these countries adapting to a more uncertain world – and what does that mean for the future of the energy transition?

This episode features a conversation between Malcolm Turnbull, the 29th prime minister of Australia, and Kobad Bhavnagri, BNEF’s global head of strategy. Titled “Energy Transition in a Multipolar World: The Middle Power Perspective,” this discussion was recorded live at the 2026 BNEF Summit New York.

To learn more about our Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://www.bnef.com/events

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Hormuz Delivers an Aluminum Shock: Analyst Reaction

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:20:33 +0000

Severe disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is rippling far beyond oil markets. Around 10% of global aluminum supply is tied to the Middle East, and with exports constrained, prices are surging and supply chains are tightening. The impact will extend across the global economy as aluminum is used from cars and electronics to construction, meaning higher prices can quickly feed through to everyday goods. While the shock may not change long-term supply outlooks, it is creating near-term shortages, and exposing vulnerabilities across multiple stages of the supply chain. So how does a regional conflict translate into a global materials crunch, and what does it mean for the energy transition? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling is joined by BloombergNEF’s head of metals and mining, Kwasi Ampofo, to discuss notes including “Industrial Metals Monthly: Supply Risks Rise on Iran War.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Industrial Metals Monthly: Supply Risks Rise on Iran War - https://www.bnef.com/insights/39205/view

Transition Metals Outlook 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/transition-metals-outlook

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nuclear Fusion Powers Up for Commercial Breakthrough

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:02:43 +0000

Fusion energy is entering a new phase. After decades as a scientific pursuit, the sector is attracting billions in private and public capital, with big tech, oil companies and governments all racing to bring the first commercial plants online. Advances in areas like superconductors, materials and computing are opening new pathways, while surging demand for reliable, clean power, particularly from data centers, is accelerating momentum. But the landscape remains uncertain, with multiple competing technologies, ambitious timelines and no clear winner. So how close is fusion to commercial reality, and which approaches are most likely to deliver first? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BloombergNEF’s lead nuclear analyst, Chris Gadomski, to discuss his note “Fusion Investment Pursuing Commercial Viability.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Fusion Investment Pursuing Commercial Viability - https://www.bnef.com/insights/39071

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PJM Grapples With Data Center Load and Supply Gaps

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:59:45 +0000

PJM Interconnection is entering an era of explosive power demand. Home to a significant share of the world’s data centers, the largest US electricity market could soon be facing sky-high prices and scant supply. Yet stakeholders are divided on how best to respond. Should PJM focus on building new generation, or should it lean on flexible demand? And with no lever able to solve the problem single-handedly, what happens if supply simply can’t keep up? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by two members of BloombergNEF’s US power team, analyst Lara Kammen and senior associate David Mohammadi, to discuss their note “PJM Power Market Outlook 2026: Brace for Impact.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

PJM Power Market Outlook 2026: Brace for Impact - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38947

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spanish Blackout Lessons One Year On: Analyst Reaction

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:50:38 +0000

It’s been nearly a year since Spain’s catastrophic blackout and key questions remain. Post-mortem reports point to a complex chain reaction in the grid, with no single trigger and gaps in coordination between operators, regulators and generators. The findings expose deeper challenges: inconsistent voltage rules, rising operational complexity and a system evolving faster than its controls. Renewables were initially blamed for helping trigger the crisis, but they are fundamental to the Iberian grid and must be part of the solution. So what has Spain really learned, and how prepared are other power systems for the next shock? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling is joined by Eva Gonzalez Isla, a senior associate from BNEF’s grids team, to discuss her note: “Spain’s Blackout Reports Expose Voltage Safety Risks.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Spain’s Blackout Reports Expose Voltage Safety Risks - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/tcd1wrkjh6v700

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Fuel Price Shocks Are Rewiring Clean Tech Trade

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:10:22 +0000

Energy shocks don’t just move prices, they reshape trade. As oil and gas prices rise, countries reliant on energy imports are accelerating the shift toward clean technologies, from solar and batteries to electric vehicles. In many cases, that change is being driven by businesses and consumers responding directly to higher costs. Yet it also relies on trade dynamics and government priorities, at both the local and regional level. On today’s show, Tom Rowands-Rees is joined by Antoine Vagneur-Jones, BloombergNEF’s head of trade and supply chains, to discuss findings from some of his team’s notes, including “Trade Transition Scenarios: Outlook to 2050” and “Clean-Tech Tariffs Are Lower Than You Think.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Clean-Tech Tariffs Are Lower Than You Think - https://www.bnef.com/insights/39069

Trade Transition Scenarios: Outlook to 2050 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38709

EVs Could Dominate Global Auto Trade in Just Five Years - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/tbfrcjt96oso00

What EU Guardrails Could Mean for Chinese Battery Firms - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/tbfdc1t9njlv00

Clean Energy Trade and Emerging Markets - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37867

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond Climate: The Rise of Nature Risk

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:32:38 +0000

Nature risk is becoming a critical challenge for companies. It’s also incredibly complex. Exposure spans an array of largely local issues, from water and biodiversity to waste and pollution, making it harder to measure and compare across sectors and geographies than its better-known sibling climate risk. BloombergNEF’s new Nature Risk Management Scores aim to bring structure to that complexity, analyzing not only company exposure but also how effectively risks are managed. The results highlight a clear gap: firms with the greatest exposure are not always those taking the most action, and progress varies widely across different risk areas.So how do you measure something as diffuse as nature risk, and what do these scores reveal about which companies are best prepared? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Alistair Purdie, a senior associate from BNEF’s nature and biodiversity team, to review findings from the note “Managing Nature Risk: Company League Tables.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Managing Nature Risk: Company League Tables - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38829

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding Opportunity in a Complex Energy Transition

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:42:17 +0000

The energy transition is entering a more complex phase. Geopolitics, trade tensions and rapid technological change are reshaping markets, creating new risks as well as new opportunities. Demand is rising across clean power, electric vehicles and data centers, even as supply chains tighten and policy becomes more fragmented. At the same time, falling costs and new business models are opening fresh pathways for investment. So how can global markets navigate this complexity – and where are the opportunities emerging in the next phase of the transition? On today’s show, Kobad Bhavnagri, BloombergNEF’s head of strategy, reads a briefing note that was presented by BNEF CEO Jon Moore at this year’s Davos summit, titled “The Energy Transition: Finding Opportunity in Complexity.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clean Power Costs Split After Years of Alignment

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:41:35 +0000

The cost to build and run clean-power projects used to be heading in one direction: down. That story is now getting more complicated. Battery storage costs continued to fall last year, while most other technologies became more expensive. Yet comparing technologies is far from straightforward. So how should we interpret these shifts in an increasingly complex power system, and what do these changing cost dynamics mean for the next phase of the energy transition? On today’s show, Tom Rowands-Rees is joined by Amar Vasdev, a senior associate from BNEF’s energy economics team, to discuss findings from the “Levelized Cost of Electricity 2026,” an annual flagship benchmark comparing the cost of building and running different power-generation technologies.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Levelized Cost of Electricity 2026 - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/lcoe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European Power Confronts Gas Shock: Analyst Reaction

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:04:08 +0000

Oil and gas prices are rising again as the Iran war shakes global energy markets. But so far Europe’s power system is holding up better than in 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine. More renewables and lower demand have made Europe’s energy system more resilient, even as prices edge higher. Yet gas still matters, and as coal exits the power mix, exposure to future shocks could grow. So how vulnerable is Europe if disruption deepens? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling is joined by Kesavarthiniy Savarimuthu, BNEF’s head of European Power, to discuss her note: “Iran War Hasn’t Sparked a New European Energy Crisis - Yet.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Iran War Hasn’t Sparked a New European Energy Crisis - Yet - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38917

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Clean Energy Factbook: Generation Hits 20-Year High

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:54:50 +0000

The US energy transition has hit an inflection point. Electricity generation reached a 20-year high last year, as renewables and energy storage accounted for 90% of new capacity additions. Energy-transition investment reached a record $378 billion, and more electric vehicles were sold than ever before. Yet all these headline figures occurred as federal policy support for clean technologies was scaled back. So what do the numbers really reveal about the state of the US energy transition, and how resilient are clean technologies as policy winds shift? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Ethan Zindler, BloombergNEF’s head of country and policy research, and Trina White, a senior associate from the North America transition team, to review findings from the 2026 edition of the “Sustainable Energy in America Factbook,” which is produced each year in collaboration with the Business Council for Sustainable Energy.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Sustainable Energy in America Factbook: 2026 Edition - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38735

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Private Capital: Turning Mega Funds Into Megawatts

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:41:53 +0000

Private capital is reshaping the energy transition. Once a niche corner of finance, private markets now manage tens of trillions of dollars globally, with a growing share directed toward clean energy strategies What sets this capital apart is not just scale, but structure: real assets such as wind, solar, grids and storage dominate, reflecting a preference for infrastructure-style returns and contracted cash flows. Dedicated transition funds have surged over the past decade, yet billions still sit as “dry powder,” committed but not yet deployed. So how does private capital influence where megawatts get built, and what does its rapid growth signal about the next phase of energy transition investment? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Ryan Loughead, a senior associate from BNEF’s finance and investment team, to review findings from the note “Private Markets Primer: Mega Funds to Megawatts.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Private Markets Primer: Mega Funds to Megawatts - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38547

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biofuels Cash In on US Tax Credits: Analyst Reaction

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 10:56:35 +0000

New guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit has clarified the outlook for US biofuels. The Treasury Department has confirmed that manure-based fuels can earn negative emissions scores, unlocking potential credits of around $7 per gallon for some renewable natural gas projects. The decision gives manure-based RNG a clear advantage, likely displacing other sources in the already saturated road fuel market. But beyond transport, where stacked subsidies make RNG viable, new demand remains uncertain. So how far can 45Z reshape the broader US biofuels market before the credit expires in 2029? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling is joined by Jade Patterson, a BNEF specialist in renewable fuels, to discuss his analyst reaction “Dairy and Swine Win Big in New US Biofuel Guidance.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Dairy and Swine Win Big in New US Biofuel Guidance: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t9wrgjkk3o1c00

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Record Energy Transition Investment, But Slower Pace

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:58:05 +0000

Investment in the energy transition reached a record $2.3 trillion last year. That’s a huge figure, but it tells only part of the story. Renewables investment dipped year-on-year as China shifted its power market policy, clean industry and carbon capture gained ground, and growth shifted toward Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Behind the total lies a careful process to define what counts, decide when capital is truly committed, and reconcile everything from electric-vehicle sales to nuclear construction and green debt issuance. So what does this year’s record really reveal about the trajectory of the energy transition? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BNEF’s deputy CEO, Albert Cheung, to review findings from the “Energy Transition Investment Trends 2026.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Energy Transition Investment Trends 2026 - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/clean-energy-investment

Publicly Available Summary - https://about.bnef.com/insights/finance/energy-transition-investment-trends/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What Really Determines Where Data Centers Get Built

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:15:43 +0000

The geography of data center development is being redrawn at speed. BloombergNEF is tracking nearly 23 gigawatts of new capacity under construction worldwide, as AI and cloud workloads drive the next phase of digital infrastructure growth. But siting decisions are becoming more complex. Energy availability and land permitting now dominate, while taxes, fiber connectivity and existing ecosystems still shape competitiveness. As AI demand scales and ambitions grow, regions from the Nordics and Iberia to the Middle East and Latin America are positioning for the next wave. So which markets are best placed to win, and what really determines where the next gigawatt gets built? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Lloyd Arnold, an analyst from BNEF’s technology and innovations team, to review findings from their note “Data Center Development: Regional Drivers and Hurdles.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Data Center Development: Regional Drivers and Hurdles - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38579

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clean Tech’s US Tariff Whiplash: Analyst Reaction

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:52:49 +0000

A US Supreme Court ruling is shaking up global clean-tech trade. By striking down Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs, the justices have created an opening for some solar equipment and stationary storage batteries. Yet not everyone will benefit equally, and with the administration moving to put new tariffs in place, just how durable is this reprieve? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling is joined by Derrick Flakoll, a senior policy associate for North America, and Matthew Hales, an associate on BNEF’s trade and supply chains team, to discuss their analyst reaction “Trump’s Tariff Loss Opens Window for Clean Tech Imports.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Trump’s Tariff Loss Opens Window for Clean Tech Imports: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/tarz9pt96osl00

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sustainable Finance Enters Its ‘Messy Middle’

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:31:54 +0000

Sustainable finance has entered what might be its “messy middle.” For years, governments leaned into reporting regulations and other policies in support of ESG-aligned financial activities. Then came 2025, with the European Union weakening flagship rules, the US rolling back federal guidance, and other markets pausing or delaying new standards. Yet investors still demand standardized data on how companies are spending their money. So is this retreat a sign that the era of sustainable finance is coming to an end, or simply part of the shift to its next phase? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Maia Mesanger, a BNEF specialist in finance policy and transition risk, to review findings from her note “Sustainable Finance Policy Quarterly: 4Q 2025.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Sustainable Finance Policy Quarterly: 4Q 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38471

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Climate Risk Flows From Insurance to City Budgets

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:56:51 +0000

Climate adaptation is increasingly a matter of financial resilience, not just physical protection. Across the US, climate risk is filtering into rising insurance costs, shifting property values and heavy reliance on property tax revenues, exposing some cities and counties to mounting fiscal strain and potential spillovers into municipal bond markets. With climate exposure, tax dependence and access to federal aid varying sharply by location, risks are emerging unevenly across the country. So how are climate stresses reshaping municipal finances, and what should investors and policymakers be watching? On today’s show, Tom Rowands-Rees is joined by Danya Liu, a BNEF specialist in climate resilience and adaptation, to discuss findings from her note “Climate Risk and US Municipal Finances: Storm Ahead.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Climate Risk and US Municipal Finances: Storm Ahead? - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38257

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond the Chip: Rewiring Data Center Supply Chains

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:25:15 +0000

As AI drives a new wave of data center expansion, the focus is shifting from chips to the infrastructure that powers and cools them. Denser AI workloads are accelerating the move toward liquid cooling, higher-capacity electrical equipment and new power architectures, putting pressure on traditional supply chains and forcing rapid innovation across the ecosystem. So how is AI reshaping the hardware behind data centers, and what does it mean for the future of power, cooling and grid infrastructure?

At the BloombergNEF Summit San Francisco, Mark Daly, BNEF’s head of technology and innovation, moderated a panel titled “Seeing Beyond the Chips: Innovations in Data Center Supply Chains.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Steven Carlini, chief advocate for data centers and the AI energy management business unit, at Schneider Electric; Haroon Inam, the co-founder and chief executive officer of DG Matrix; Jill Macari, the chief financial officer of VEIR; and Angela Taylor, the chief of staff and head of strategy at LiquidStack.

To learn more about BNEF’s Summits taking place around the world and to see recordings of BNEF Talks at previous Summits, head to https://about.bnef.com/events/type/summit/

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How Co-Located Batteries Are Reshaping Solar’s Future

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 10:52:08 +0000

After years of rapid expansion, the buildout of solar power is starting to slow. Capacity additions are set to dip slightly in 2026, the first decline since BloombergNEF began tracking the market. At the same time, the way solar is built is changing, with developers increasingly pairing projects with batteries to manage curtailment, share grid connections and boost revenues. So what does this new phase mean for solar, and how far can co-location carry the industry? On today’s show, Tom Rowands-Rees is joined by BNEF’s head of solar research, Lara Hayim, and analyst Cosmo van Steenis to discuss findings from the notes “4Q 2025 Global PV Market Outlook: First Ever Dip” and “Co-Located Storage Boosts Solar’s Business Case.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

4Q 2025 Global PV Market Outlook - First ever dip - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38279

Co-Located Storage Boosts Solar’s Business Case - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38241

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Power Grid Spending Surges But Capacity Still Lags

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:15:58 +0000

Investment in power grids is rising fast. Worldwide, spending on this critical piece of infrastructure rose 17% last year. Yet higher outlays are not necessarily translating into new capacity on the ground. Aging assets, supply-chain constraints and the rollout of new technologies are slowing delivery, while connection queues for both generation and load are getting longer. With grids under pressure from all sides, what’s really holding expansion back, and what will it take to turn rising investment into real-world capacity? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BloombergNEF’s head of grids research, Peter Wall, to discuss findings from his team’s note “Grid Investment Outlook 2025: Double-Digit Growth – Again.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Grid Investment Outlook 2025: Double-Digit Growth - Again - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38127

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI’s Tilt from Clean Power to Gas: Analyst Reaction

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:09:00 +0000

Data centers are expanding at an unprecedented rate, and their need for fast, reliable electricity is reshaping power generation plans across the US. Grid bottlenecks and delivery timelines are tipping the balance between gas and renewables. And while clean energy remains central to long-term strategy, speed to power is becoming a decisive factor in short-term plans. As utilities race to serve AI-driven demand, how will the future mix of gas, renewables, and 24/7 clean energy evolve? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling talks with Atin Jain, a specialist from BNEF’s wind team, to discuss his Analyst Reaction “NextEra’s AI-Led Gas Pivot Leaves Space for Renewables.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

NextEra’s AI-Led Gas Pivot Leaves Space for Renewables: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t70aepkjh6v400

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil, Gas and Metals in 2026: What to Watch This Year

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:18:41 +0000

Commodity markets are in a period of upheaval. Wars, sanctions and political shifts have already rewired global trade, and a new wave of pressures is coming into focus. A liquefied natural gas glut is looming, China is rapidly expanding its biofuel production, the global copper market is facing a supply crunch, and US military actions in Venezuela have thrown a new wild card into the mix. With so many forces pulling in different directions, which trends are set to define commodity markets in the year ahead? On today’s show, Tom Rowands-Rees is joined by David Doherty, BloombergNEF’s head of natural resources research, and Enrique Gonzalez, head of US gas, to discuss findings from the note “Commodities in 2026: 10 Numbers to Watch From Power to Oil.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Commodities in 2026: 10 Numbers to Watch From Power to Oil - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38261

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where Venezuela’s Oil Fits in the Global Market: React

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:37:46 +0000

What the recent US action in Venezuela means for global oil markets is still an open question. While the prospect of additional oil is drawing interest, high production costs, infrastructure constraints and political risk complicate any near-term jump in Venezuela’s oil output. As markets weigh the scale and speed of a potential comeback, how much could Venezuela really move the needle in a global oil system already facing a glut of crude? On today’s show, Kamala Schelling talks with David Doherty, BNEF’s head of natural resources research, to discuss some of his team’s recent analyst reactions, including “Venezuela’s Oil Market Impact Hinges on Cost Per Barrel” and “Venezuela’s Oil Renaissance Faces Several High Hurdles.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Venezuela’s Oil Market Impact Hinges on Cost Per Barrel: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t8giodkjh6v600

Venezuela’s Oil Renaissance Faces Several High Hurdles: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions

Trump’s Venezuela Move Could Shift Crude Flows Back to US: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t8dsuukk3ny800

US Action in Venezuela and the Commodity Markets - https://www.bnef.com/themes/t8fw2ut96osi00

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Progress Amid Fragmentation: Energy Transition to 2030

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 10:00:49 +0000

The push toward a lower-carbon global economy ran into strong headwinds last year, and 2026 offers little sense of a clean reset. Political uncertainty, uneven policy support and slower progress in some markets continue to complicate the outlook for climate-focused investors and companies. Yet beneath the noise, the energy transition is still advancing, driven by economics, technology and long-term structural change. As global priorities and pathways diverge, what does progress really look like for the energy transition? On today’s show, BNEF’s Deputy CEO Albert Cheung reads his recent note, titled “Progress Despite Fragmentation: Energy Transition to 2030,” in which he explores how the global context has changed, and why the energy transition is set to continue growing through this decade.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Progress Despite Fragmentation: Energy Transition to 2030 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38367

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

LNG, Biofuels and the Future of Maritime Transport

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 13:40:09 +0000

Maritime shipping is a notoriously tricky sector to decarbonize, yet options for a greener industry are slowly emerging. Bio-LNG is helping clean up fuel tanks. New ship-building and navigational techniques, from advanced hull coatings to smarter routing, are making a dent in emissions. And new European rules are pushing ship owners toward cleaner options. Yet with a myriad of competing incentives – and no global consensus – how far can alternative fuels and efficiency gains really take maritime shipping on its long road to decarbonization? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees speaks with Fauziah Marzuki, BloombergNEF’s global head of gas, and Nikolas Soulopoulos, BNEF’s head of commercial transport. Together they discuss some of their teams’ research, including “Marine Fuel Costs to 2040 – Oil to Biofuels and Beyond” and “Global Shipping’s Net-Zero Framework Delay a Worst Option: React.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Marine Fuel Costs to 2040 - Oil to Biofuels and Beyond - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37781

Global Shipping’s Net-Zero Framework Delay a Worst Option: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t4ac8igoymtc00

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pay-Per-Mile Comes to UK EVs: Analyst Reaction

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:52:44 +0000

The UK’s latest budget sends mixed consequential signals for electric vehicles. A sharp increase in purchase subsidies is paired with plans for a new pay-per-mile charge, reshaping the economics of EV ownership as adoption accelerates. The changes could affect drivers very differently, depending on mileage, charging access and whether vehicles are privately owned or part of company fleets. As fuel tax revenues fade and public charging costs stay high, the UK is testing what it means to move from encouraging EV uptake to living with electric mobility at scale. On today’s show, Kamala Schelling is joined by Madeleine Brolly from BNEF’s EV charging team and Shananthan Kalaichelvan from BNEF’s EV team, to discuss their Analyst Reaction “UK Makes EVs Cheaper to Buy But More Expensive to Run.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

UK Makes EVs Cheaper to Buy But More Expensive to Run: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t6drndt9njlw00

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Surplus for Many, Strain for a Few Transition Metals

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:50:49 +0000

Global metals markets are shifting faster than anyone expected. Once projected to face widespread shortages, most key energy transition metals now show far more balanced outlooks. Surpluses are pushing battery metal prices down and accelerating the adoption of new chemistries, while demand for steel, copper and aluminum strengthens across clean energy infrastructure. Yet slow mine development, production caps, and rising geopolitical risks are creating new uncertainties. From batteries to transmission lines to electric-vehicle bodies, what do these changing metals dynamics mean for the future of the energy transition? On today’s show, Tom Rowands-Rees is joined by Kwasi Ampofo, BloombergNEF’s head of metals and mining, to discuss findings from the “Transition Metals Outlook 2025.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Transition Metals Outlook 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38151

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heavy Industry’s Bumpy Path to a Low-Carbon Future

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:04:56 +0000

Heavy industry faces one of the hardest paths to net zero, yet momentum is starting to build. New decarbonization commitments reached nearly $15 billion by mid-2025. The largest chunk of investment is concentrated in the steel industry, where electric arc furnaces and hydrogen-ready technologies are already pushing down emissions. Other sectors, like aluminum, cement and plastics, are experimenting with recycled materials, electrified heat and bio-based feedstocks. Policy is also proving decisive, with Europe, Australia and Asia pushing carbon border tariffs, retrofit funds and industrial carbon markets. So is heavy industry finally turning a corner on its path to decarbonization? On today’s show, Kobad Bhavnagri is joined by Allen Tom Abraham, BloombergNEF’s head of sustainable materials, to walk through his team’s note “Industrial Decarbonization Market Outlook 2H 2025.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Industrial Decarbonization Market Outlook 2H 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38051/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Mini EVs to Mega Scale: China’s Cars Go Global

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:05:12 +0000

China’s electric vehicle market is moving at extraordinary speed. Generous incentives, trade-in subsidies, and aggressive pricing have fueled mass-market growth, and roughly half of the cars sold in the country today come with a plug. Now, this EV success story is moving beyond its domestic borders. Chinese brands already account for nearly one in five EVs sold outside the country, and new factories across Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are helping them stay ahead of trade barriers. Could this be the moment when China’s electric mobility clout reshapes the global auto industry? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Siyi Mi, a senior associate on BloombergNEF’s electric vehicles team, to discuss notes including “More of China’s Automakers Step Into Overseas Markets” and “EVs Are Just the Start for Global Carmakers’ China Rebound.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

More of China’s Automakers Step Into Overseas Markets - https://www.bnef.com/insights/38069

EVs Are Just the Start for Global Carmakers’ China Rebound - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37181

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Smart Chips Are Rewiring the Car Market

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:08:49 +0000

As vehicles become increasingly intelligent and connected, the chips powering them are transforming the automotive industry. Traditional supply chains are giving way to new partnerships, and advanced processors are reshaping everything from vehicle costs to the balance of power between automakers and chipmakers. With automation advancing and chipmakers taking a larger role in vehicle development, could this be the moment that redefines how the automotive industry is built? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Andrew Grant, BloombergNEF’s head of intelligent mobility, to discuss the note, “AI Chips Are Turning Vehicles Into Supercomputers.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

AI Chips Are Turning Vehicles Into Supercomputers - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37555

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adaptation and Resilience: A New Investment Imperative

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 06:51:36 +0000

How well prepared are we for a warming world? Climate adaptation is quickly moving from theory to strategy, reshaping investment priorities and exposing new risks and opportunities. On this bonus episode, Kobad Bhavnagri reads his note “Adaptation and Resilience: The New Investment Imperative” to explore how businesses, policymakers and financiers are adapting to a changing climate, and where the biggest gaps in knowledge and action remain.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Adaptation and Resilience: The New Investment Imperative - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37701

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ranking Resilience: Economies Adapting to Climate Risk

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:05:38 +0000

Climate is reshaping the global economy. Losses from major weather events are now estimated at $1.4 trillion each year, and as the damaged assets, disrupted supply chains and declines in productivity pile up, climate risk is turning from an environmental issue into a financial one. BloombergNEF has thus developed an Adaptation Preparedness Framework to assess how major economies are preparing for this new reality. Which countries are best equipped to withstand what’s coming, and how are they getting there? On today’s show, Kobad Bhavnagri is joined by Danya Liu, a senior associate on BloombergNEF’s climate risk team, and Natasha Mawdsley, a strategy analyst, to discuss their note, “Ranking Resilience: Assessing Country Climate Adaptation.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Ranking Resilience: Assessing Country Climate Adaptation - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37695

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heavy Duty, Low Carbon: How Trucks Are Going Electric

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:17:07 +0000

The 85 million medium- and heavy-duty trucks on the road last year were responsible for nearly a 10th of global emissions, and an array of technologies and business models are in trial as a way to cut these vehicles’ carbon footprint. A lack of charging infrastructure and high upfront prices remain high hurdles to clear. Yet China boasts record e-truck and e-tractor sales, Europe offers them considerable policy support, and even in the US (where sales are slow) the charging market is evolving quickly. From ports in Shanghai to freight corridors in California, could cleaner trucking prove the real test of how fast heavy industry can decarbonize? On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by BloombergNEF’s head of commercial transport, Nikolas Soulopoulos, and associate Maynie Yang to discuss their team’s recent notes, “Zero Emission Commercial Vehicles: Accelerating the Transition” and “Commercial Vehicle Decarbonization Monthly: E-Tractors.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Commercial Vehicle Decarbonization Monthly: E-Tractors - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37859

Zero Emission Commercial Vehicles: Accelerating the Transition - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37519

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hydrogen Hurdle: Costs, Policy and Progress

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 09:37:34 +0000

Hydrogen was once the golden child of the energy transition. Yet high costs and limited policy support proved high hurdles for the technology’s progress, global deployment has fallen well short of expectations. Forecasts now project around 5.5 million tons of production by 2030 – half of what was expected just a few years ago and far below industry and government ambitions. Of course, as with all things energy transition, the story gets more complicated the closer you look. The US is betting on blue hydrogen even as it turns away from many clean technologies, China is driving ahead with green, and India is emerging as a low-cost producer. And around the world, hydrogen is gradually gaining a foothold in hard-to-abate sectors like shipping and aviation, where the fuel could play a transformative role. On today’s show, Kobad Bhavnagri is joined by BloombergNEF’s head of hydrogen research, Martin Tengler, to discuss some of his team’s recent work, including “Hydrogen Supply Outlook 2025: Blue Takes the Lead” and “Ammonia Supply Outlook 2025: Tenders Shape Demand.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Hydrogen Supply Outlook 2025: Blue Takes the Lead - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37489?context=eyJ0eXBlIjoiaW5zaWdodCIsInNvcnQiOiJkYXRlIiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbIjQwMjc3Il0sImluc2lnaHQtdHlwZSI6W119

Ammonia Supply Outlook 2025: Tenders Shape Demand - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37457?context=eyJ0eXBlIjoiaW5zaWdodCIsInNvcnQiOiJkYXRlIiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbIjQwMjc3Il0sImluc2lnaHQtdHlwZSI6W119

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

COP30 Countdown: Ambition, Politics, Reality

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:36:07 +0000

In a few days’ time, world leaders will gather in Brazil for the COP30 climate conference. It’s been 10 years since the Paris Agreement laid out ambitions for a net-zero future, yet momentum is waning. Fewer than a third of nations have submitted their 2035 climate pledges, and current trajectories suggest that the global warming threshold agreed in Paris will be far exceeded by the end of the century. Political shifts, economic pressures, and the US’s withdrawal from the Agreement are all casting a shadow over the upcoming negotiations. Still, there are glimmers of progress, including China unveiling its first absolute emissions target and Brazil pushing for a global carbon market. So can COP30 reignite the collective drive toward net zero? On today’s show, Kobad Bhavnagri is joined by BloombergNEF’s head of global policy, Victoria Cuming, and energy transitions associate Brynne Mary Merkley to discuss their recent note “COP30 Climate Talks to Advance Amid Geopolitical Turmoil.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

COP30 Climate Talks to Advance Amid Geopolitical Turmoil - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37817

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capital Clash: Clean Energy vs Fossil Fuel Finance

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:45:27 +0000

Global energy investment is entering a period of realignment. Tariffs, inflation and geopolitical tensions have disrupted financial models, while a backlash against ESG along with renewed fossil fuel demand, driven partly by AI’s power needs, are redirecting capital flows. At the same time, electricity demand continues to rise, intensifying competition between clean and conventional energy. So how can investors and banks determine where their best opportunities lie, whether in clean technologies or fossil fuels?

At the BloombergNEF Summit London, Jonathan Luan, BNEF’s head of finance & investment research, moderated a panel titled “Weighing the Investment Opportunity: Conventional Versus Clean Energy.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Ulrik Fugmann, Co-CIO, Environmental Strategies Group at BNPP Asset Management; Ralph Ibendahl, Managing Director, Global Head of Energy Transition for RBC Capital Markets; and Bianca Ziccarelli, Managing Director of CPPIB.

To learn more about BNEF’s Summits taking place around the world and to see recordings of BNEF Talks at previous Summits, head to https://about.bnef.com/events/type/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Business of Breathing Life Into Old Wind Turbines

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:45:47 +0000

The first generation of wind turbines is now approaching retirement. Developers across Europe, the US and China thus find themselves at a crossroads: should they refurbish and extend the life of existing wind fleets, or dismantle them and build new projects from scratch? Wind technology has evolved considerably over the last 20 years, maintenance costs can be steep, and new projects generally boast bigger turbines with far greater capacity. However, the dismantling of older projects incurs significant costs, the regulatory approval process for new projects can be intricate, and the disposal of turbine components often presents an environmental and logistical challenge. On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by co-host Kobad Bhavnagri, BloombergNEF’s global head of strategy. Together, they speak to Oliver Metcalfe, BNEF’s head of wind research, about the research note “Wind End of Life 2025: Global Repowering Surges by 2035.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Wind End of Life 2025: Global Repowering Surges by 2035 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37547

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deep Freeze Risk Raises Stakes for Europe’s Gas Supply

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 08:00:45 +0000

Winter is coming, and with it a rise in demand for natural gas. With growing liquified natural gas exports from the US now crossing the Atlantic and filling European storage, the continent looks to be well prepared for the coming winter. However, BloombergNEF weather analysts are forecasting that this winter could be a cold one, with the possibility of reduced wind speeds eating into turbine generation, piling even further pressure on natural gas reserves. So just what impact could these unfavorable weather conditions have on gas commodity prices, and with the “third wave of liquefied natural gas” set to flood global markets, could we be facing an upcoming supply glut? On today’s show, Dana Perkins talks with BNEF weather analyst Jess Hicks and gas team senior associate Olympe Mattei-D’Ornano about the note “European Gas Winter Outlook 2025-26: Final Crunch?”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

European Gas Winter Outlook 2025-26: Final Crunch? - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37391

Weather Shifts Stir Europe’s Power Markets - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37673

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wired for the Future: Reinventing the US Power Grid

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:01:51 +0000

The US power grid is under mounting strain from aging infrastructure, slow interconnections and regional bottlenecks, while demand, complexity and variability are on the rise. Building a future-ready grid will require major investment, smarter infrastructure and policy reform. So just what can be done to expand transmission capabilities to meet oncoming energy challenges in the US?

At the BloombergNEF Summit Houston, Ethan Zindler, BloombergNEF’s head of country and policy research, moderated a panel “Revolutionizing the Grid.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Page Crahan, general manager of Tapestry at X, Alphabet; Michael Skelly, co-founder and chief executive officer of Grid United; Frank Kreikebaum, senior vice president and chief of engineering at Smart Wires; and Rina Harris, vice president of strategic business growth and engagement at CenterPoint Energy.

To learn more about BNEF’s Summits taking place around the world and to see recordings of BNEF Talks at previous Summits, head to https://about.bnef.com/events/type/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Data Centers Are Fueling a Global Copper Crunch

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 09:02:43 +0000

Copper is a cornerstone of the world’s infrastructure. From transportation to the energy transition to massive new data centers, demand for the metal is everywhere, and supply is feeling the crunch. Copper demand is forecast to outstrip supply by 6 million metric tons a year come 2035, but at the same time, market economics are limiting exploration and some mines are even closing up shop. So who is going to win, and who may lose out, in the global battle for a limited critical resource? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees talks with Rosemary Katz, a senior associate from BNEF’s metals and mining team, about her note “Tracking Copper in Data Centers 2025-2035: Supply Crunch.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Tracking Copper in Data Centers 2025-2035: Supply Crunch - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37209

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global Investment in Clean Energy Outpaces US Slump

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 07:32:06 +0000

Despite the gloomy headlines in the US, global investment into clean energy technologies is still rising. The first half 2025 saw a record $386 billion flowing towards clean tech, a 10% rise from the same period last year. Yet despite the continuing rise in investment numbers, the devil lies in the details. For instance, solar was propelled by small-scale installations, while utility-scale investment waned. And the regional investment picture is fragmented, with declines in investment figures in the US possibly indicating capital reallocation to other markets. On today’s show, Dana Perkins talks with the BloombergNEF’s Head of Clean Energy, Meredith Annex, about her team’s note “2H 2025 Renewable Energy Investment Tracker: Record High.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

2H 2025 Renewable Energy Investment Tracker: Record High - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37317

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data Centers Could Supercharge US Gas Demand

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:42:45 +0000

Artificial intelligence needs power, and lots of it. If all the data centers in the current US pipeline get built, they could suck up the electricity from 100 nuclear power plants and still be left wanting more. One obvious solution for supplying this massive demand is natural gas, which is plentiful and cheap in the Lower 48, and now has the enthusiastic backing of the Trump administration. But with a global shortage of turbines and lucrative liquefied natural gas contracts competing for supply, gas generation faces an obstacle course rather than a smooth road to running the country’s data centers. On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees talks with BloombergNEF gas market analyst, Henry Eaton, about his recent note “Fueling the Cloud: Data Centers’ Bond With US Gas.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Fueling the Cloud: Data Centers’ Bond With US Gas - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36619

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renewables Bruised, Not Broken, by US Policy Shift

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 09:03:02 +0000

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has reshaped the US clean energy landscape. Designed to scale back major US decarbonization programs while promoting fossil fuels, the OBBBA has severely restricted the rollout of solar, wind and energy storage projects while also taking direct aim at electric vehicles. The impact of the new law has been dramatic, but could it have been worse? And what does the whiplash between presidential administrations mean for the feasibility of future investments in the US? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees talks with BloombergNEF’s head of country and policy research, Ethan Zindler, who also previously worked as climate counselor to former US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Joining them is senior policy associate for North America Derrick Flakoll, and together they discuss recent BNEF notes including “One Big Bill, Many Impacts for US Energy Economy” and “New US Clean Energy Tax Rules Could Have Been Worse.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Trump Signals Deeper Cuts to Clean-Tech Factory Subsidies - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37297

New US Clean Energy Tax Rules Could Have Been Worse: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t11xthgp9vd100

Trump Slams the Brakes on US Wind and Solar Growth - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37073

One Big Bill, Many Impacts for US Energy Economy - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37051

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Direct Air Capture’s Cost Curve Conundrum

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 07:24:04 +0000

Right now, there are technologies that can pull carbon dioxide directly out of the air. That could be a critical tool in a world where climate change is rampant. Yet to fulfill this carbon removal potential, the sky-high costs of direct air capture need to fall. Today, capturing a metric ton of carbon dioxide with DAC costs around $900 on average, presenting a huge challenge to scaling the technology when there are more affordable alternatives available. So what is the cost outlook for direct air capture, and which technology type offers the most financially viable means of growth? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Brenna Casey, an associate on BNEF’s sustainable materials team, to discuss findings from her report “Out of Thin Air: The Cost of Scaling Direct Air Capture”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Out of Thin Air: The Cost of Scaling Direct Air Capture - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37093

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reshaping Trade Flows in a Fragmented World

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:43:59 +0000

The Trump administration’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs are reshaping global trade flows. With the US currently renegotiating its trade positions with traditional partners and rivals alike, the tariffs’ true impact is yet to be fully understood. Even the handful of new deals that have been struck offer little guidance, as they break from the legally binding forms that international trade deals traditionally take and their contents remain largely undisclosed. Assessing the geopolitical landscape has thus become critical for making business decisions. On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by Jennifer Welch, chief analyst of Bloomberg’s geoeconomics team, and Antoine Vagneur-Jones, BloombergNEF’s head of trade and supply chains, to delve into the decisions currently shaping global trade.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

US Energy Trade and Tariff Indicators: June 23-July 28 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/37117

Trump Tariffs Are Thrashing the US Energy Storage Market - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36483

Solar and Battery Makers Stung by Latest Trump Tariffs - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/t0h9c7gpqq6j00

To find out more about Bloomberg's geoeconomics research, email us at geoeconomics@bloomberg.net

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BNEF Pioneers: Making Light Industry More Sustainable

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:19:06 +0000

Cutting industrial emissions has long been one of the most intractable hurdles in the energy transition. That may finally be changing, as a new generation of smart technologies not only paves the way for abating industrial emissions but promises to do so at scale. Four companies emerged victorious in this year’s BloombergNEF Pioneers challenge dedicated to decarbonizing heavy and light industry: AtmosZero, Circ, Rondo and Everdye. On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by guest host Benjamin Kafri, co-chair of BNEF Pioneers, to interview the leaders of these companies.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Climate-Tech Companies to Watch in 2025: BNEF Pioneers - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36311

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fueling Change: Cutting Aviation’s Carbon Footprint

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 06:25:49 +0000

With air travel on the rise, the need for cleaner aviation is growing. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) presents the simplest means of decarbonization, but it’s expensive. Aircraft that burn less fuel, engines powered by hydrogen, and even electric air taxis are all potential means of decarbonizing air travel, but none are the silver bullet. So what will it take to green the aviation sector, and what will it cost consumers? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Nikolas Soulopoulos and Takehiro Kawahara, BloombergNEF’s head of commercial transport and aviation specialist respectively, to discuss findings from the report “Aviation Decarbonization Outlook 1H 2025”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Aviation Decarbonization Outlook 1H 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36893

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harvest Halted: Why Agriculture Funding Is Withering

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:41:50 +0000

Agriculture is responsible for around a third of global emissions. Yet investment in low-carbon means of growing food has stalled. Venture capital and private equity funding has declined by a massive 76% since 2021, ag-tech firms have declared bankruptcy, and large companies are backtracking on their green ambitions. So are there any “good news” stories about the food of the future? And in the current geopolitical climate, can the agriculture sector green itself while maintaining growth? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by co-host Kobad Bhavnagri to talk with Alexander Liddington, a BloombergNEF food and agriculture analyst, about findings from the inaugural “Food and Agriculture Transition Indicators” research note.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Food and Agriculture Transition Indicators - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36969

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inside the Blackout That Froze the Iberian Power Grid

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:15:00 +0000

When the Iberian electrical grid blacked out earlier this year, there were real-life consequences. Widespread disruption of transportation, communication networks and essential services left Spain and Portugal temporarily paralyzed. Following the event, two separate reports were released by the Spanish government and the grid operator, Red Electrica de Espana, where both agreed that voltage fluctuations were the root cause of the outage. However, they then went on to present conflicting opinions as to why authorities were unable to bring voltage under control. So why did this voltage fluctuation occur in the first place, and what actions have been taken to protect the Iberian electricity grid from future incidents? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Eva Gonzalez Isla, a senior associate from BNEF’s grids team, to discuss findings from her research note “Iberia Blackout: Blame Before Facts”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Spain Clears €750 Million for Grid After 16-Hour Blackout: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/sz4qsadwlu6800

Iberia Blackout: Blame Before Facts - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36887

Spain Blackout Accounts Pin Blame But Do Little for Grid: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/sy3km9dwlu6800

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus: Will Trump’s bill trigger a ‘Big, Beautiful’ energy crunch?

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

This week, we explore how the legislation’s attack on renewable energy may push up electricity bills and damage US competitiveness in AI.

The tax credits in President Joe Biden’s sprawling Inflation Reduction Act were introduced to help the US keep up with rising electricity demand by making clean power sources cheaper. But now the big bill has changed all that, and an executive order issued days after its passage suggests his war on renewables isn’t over yet.

Joining host Stephanie Flanders to discuss this dramatic turn of events are guests Ethan Zindler, head of country and policy research at BloombergNEF and previously climate counselor to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Bloomberg lobbying and influence reporter Emily Birnbaum.

For more episodes of Trumponomics, subscribe on Apple or Spotify.

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Capex and Investment in the New Industrial Revolution

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Just how green are the investment portfolios of credit, equity and multi-asset funds? Building on its existing suite of banking and investment ratios, BloombergNEF has introduced the Energy Supply Fund-Enabled Capex Ratio, which assesses how much a given investment portfolio is contributing to low-carbon capital expenditures for every dollar directed to fossil fuels. Worldwide, low-carbon energy gets just 48 cents for every fossil-fuel dollar, but the regional picture when it comes to funding this new “industrial revolution” is far more complex. On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by BNEF finance and investment associate Ryan Loughead to discuss how investors are funding the low-carbon industrial revolution and the inaugural “Energy Supply Fund-Enabled Capex Ratio” report.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Energy Supply Fund Enabled Capex Ratio - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36751

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI Data Centers: Making Waves in the Energy Demand Sea

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:20:00 +0000

Everyone is talking about how much energy data centers and artificial intelligence will gobble up in the coming years. Yet AI is just one part of a vast, complex and constantly evolving energy landscape. So how will the AI revolution fit into a world where electric vehicles are displacing liquid road fuels, renewable-power projects are stuck in grid queues and big tech is investing in nuclear? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Ian Berryman, BloombergNEF’s head of energy systems modeling, to discuss findings from this year’s edition of the New Energy Outlook. For the first time ever, BNEF’s flagship report has modeled the impact of data centers on the transition to a low-carbon economy. But how much of the global power supply will AI really require? And will additional clean energy sources be built to meet that added demand, or could the extra grid strain simply extend the lifespan of fossil-fuel generation?

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

New Energy Outlook 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36179

Executive Summary - https://about.bnef.com/insights/clean-energy/new-energy-outlook/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China Drives Global EV Sales as US Support Fades

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:10:00 +0000

Sales of electric vehicles are set for another record-breaking year. Thanks to falling battery costs and a rise in affordable models, plug-in EVs will represent a quarter of global passenger car sales in 2025. And while a rollback in government support has taken a bite out of EV uptake in the US, other countries are more than making up for this setback. Chinese automakers have been growing their footprint overseas, leading to strong growth in emerging markets. In China itself, organic consumer demand will lead to 50% of new vehicle sales this year coming with a plug, far surpassing government targets, and strong domestic sales of range-extended EVs have led them to become the fastest-growing drivetrain in the world. On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Colin McKerracher, BloombergNEF’s Head of Clean Transport, to discuss findings from this year’s Electric Vehicle Outlook.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Electric Vehicle Outlook 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/ev-outlook

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

White House Nuclear Energy Push Meets Uncertain Market

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:20:00 +0000

The Trump administration has made no bones about its desire to revitalize the US’s nuclear power industry. With four new executive orders hot off the president’s desk, nuclear is being treated as a silver bullet, capable of meeting AI power demand while shoring up the country’s energy independence. The US is also looking to counter China and Russia, which in recent years have led the way in nuclear technology rollout both at home and abroad. But can this new policy push elicit the market response required to rebuild the US’s nuclear energy industrial base? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BloombergNEF’s lead nuclear analyst, Chris Gadomski, to discuss findings from his note “Trump Pushes Nuclear But Market Pull Is Uncertain.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Trump Pushes Nuclear But Market Pull Is Uncertain - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36697

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burnt by the Boom: Solar’s Growing Pains

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:05:00 +0000

Solar module prices have been cratering in recent years, dragged down by global oversupply. Yet while this glut of photovoltaics has hammered manufacturer profits, it has also allowed emerging economies that are hungry for affordable energy to get into the solar game, and demand growth is still strong this year. So what lies ahead for this notoriously tricky market, could energy storage help mitigate electricity price spikes, and what impact could the Trump administration’s tariffs have on domestic US solar manufacturing? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Jenny Chase, a BloombergNEF solar specialist, to discuss findings from her note “2Q 2025 Global PV Market Outlook.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

2Q 2025 Global PV Market Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36693

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Big Oil Is Investing in the Energy Transition

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:55:00 +0000

The oil and gas sector invested $33.4 billion in the energy transition last year. Yet while this figure suggests that decarbonization is a serious consideration for some fossil-fuel majors, just seven companies accounted for 85% of the sector’s low-carbon spend in 2024, and only 13 of 41 companies assessed raised low-carbon investment as a share of capex. So what are the different strategies oil and gas companies are pursuing when it comes to the energy transition? And why would a fossil-fuel company invest in clean tech in the first place? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Claudio Lubis, an associate from BNEF’s downstream oil and chemicals team, to discuss findings from his note “Oil and Gas Energy Transition 2024: Clean Capex Jumps.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transitions to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Oil and Gas Energy Transition 2024: Clean Capex Jumps - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36589

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting Decarbonization Megaprojects Off the Ground

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:10:00 +0000

Europe is making quick work of executing large industrial decarbonization infrastructure projects. The continent now boasts large-scale facilities for carbon capture, storage and transit in the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands, Italy and Norway. But how have policymakers managed to incentivize and facilitate the installation of these massive projects, and what’s required to push the sector even further? At the 2025 BloombergNEF Summit Munich, Martin Tengler, BNEF’s head of hydrogen research, moderated a panel titled “Getting Industrial Decarbonization Megaprojects on Their Feet: Evaluating Early Success.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Kristin Myskja, director general and head of climate, industry and technology for the Norwegian Ministry of Energy; Anders Hoffman, deputy permanent secretary for the Danish Ministry for Climate, Energy and Utilities; Dick Benschop, chair of the board at Mission Possible Partnership; and Stefanie Hiesinger, head of unit for low-carbon solutions for Directorate-General for Climate Action (DG CLIMA) at the European Commission.

To learn more about BNEF’s Summits taking place around the world and to see recordings of BNEF Talks at previous Summits, head to https://about.bnef.com/summit/.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weathering the Storm: Climate Risk Stress Tests

Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Extreme weather has always meant extreme risks for businesses and investors. Yet climate change has varied the calculus, and many businesses are facing new, potentially existential risks as the world and the energy transition heat up. As such, central banks and financial supervisors have begun conducting climate risk stress tests, to ensure these institutions are capable of mitigating the potential impacts of a changing climate. But what do these tests entail, which markets have been the most proactive in conducting them, and what exactly is “climate risk” anyway? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Tifenn Brandily, BloombergNEF’s head of transition risk and alignment, and special guest Edo Schets, Bloomberg’s head of climate, nature and regulatory financial solutions, to discuss findings from the note “Climate Risk Stress Test Review”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transitions to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Climate Risk Stress Test Review - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35901

TRACT - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34869

Worksheet Sample Library for Physical Risk - WSL PHYSICALRISK

Worksheet Sample Library for Water - WSL WATER

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CORSIA’s Flight Plan for Credible Carbon Markets

Thu, 22 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

A United Nations-led aviation decarbonization scheme could offer some respite for carbon credit markets mired in controversy. With the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, also known as CORSIA, the UN is looking to offer legitimacy for carbon credits, to help tackle emissions at scale. The scheme has a global footprint, with a roster of 126 markets set to expand to 135 in 2027, but with the US and EU threatening to pull their involvement, just how impactful can CORSIA really be? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Layla Khanfar, an associate on BNEF’s environmental markets team, to discuss her recent note “Aviation Credits Market Outlook: CORSIA Gets Its Wings”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Aviation Credits Market Outlook: CORSIA Gets Its Wings - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36451

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Silicon States: US Data Center Expansion in the AI Era

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:02:28 +0000

The rise of AI data centers is reshaping the outlook for US power markets. Forecast to account for nearly a 10th of all US electricity demand by 2035, data centers are gobbling up power more quickly than electric vehicles, hydrogen or any other demand class this decade. A profound concentration of capital has allowed for this rapid expansion, which is now exerting influence over energy infrastructure and planning investment. But what forms do data centers take, and what are the factors and strategies that influence associated decision making? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of US Power, Helen Kou, and Senior Associate Nathalie Limandibhratha to discuss their recent note “US Data Center Market Outlook: The Age of AI”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

US Data Center Market Outlook: The Age of AI - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36281

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Powering Ahead: The Future of US Renewable Investment

Wed, 07 May 2025 08:55:00 +0000

Clean energy investment in the US grew $50 billion last year. With interest rates easing and inflation in decline, the market appears to be well positioned to meet skyrocketing power demand from sources like artificial intelligence and data centers. Yet it’s not all smooth sailing: price cannibalization, curtailment risks, tariffs and clean energy policy shifts from the new Trump administration all present challenges for investors. So what business models and strategies are required to keep the momentum going? At the 2025 BloombergNEF Summit New York, Pol Lezcano, a senior associate from BNEF’s solar team, moderated a panel titled “Sustaining Momentum in US Renewable Investments.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Andrew Gongaware, managing director at BMO Capital Markets; Matt Ransweiler, senior vice president for finance and capital markets at Invenergy; Miguel Pena, managing director and head of project finance for the Americas at BBVA; and Corinne Still, partner at Apollo Global Management.

To learn more about BNEF’s Summits taking place around the world and to see recordings of BNEF Talks at previous Summits, head to https://about.bnef.com/summit/.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump’s First 100 Days: Tariffs, Turmoil and Policy

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:40:25 +0000

One hundred days of the second Trump presidency have passed, and the impact has already been significant. While running for president, Donald Trump put the Inflation Reduction Act, ESG investing and clean energy policy in his crosshairs, only to have been held up once in office by courts, members of Congress and some states. The “Liberation Day” tariffs created turmoil on global markets, and his administration has again had to pause and row back some levies, while others are being renegotiated. To guide us through these first 100 days of the second Trump term, Tom is joined on today’s episode by Derrick Flakoll, BloombergNEF senior policy associate for North America, to discuss recent BNEF research notes including “Trump’s Investment Rules Hold Back Made-in-US Clean Tech” and “‘Reciprocal’ Tariffs Spell Chaos for Clean Energy Markets: React”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Trump’s Investment Rules Hold Back Made-in-US Clean Tech - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36067

Reciprocal’ Tariffs Spell Chaos for Clean Energy Markets: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/su5u2hdwx2ps00

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crude Reality: Oil Demand Growth Falls After Tariffs

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:05:00 +0000

Oil demand growth outlooks have taken a heavy hit in recent weeks. In the wake of the Trump administration’s “Liberation Day” tariff announcements, US business and consumer sentiment tanked and global GDP expectations were trimmed, with knock-on effects for oil demand. On the other side of the globe, China’s demand for gasoline is falling fast, with domestic policy stimulating an already-buoyant electric vehicle sector. Yet these blows to demand come at a time when OPEC+ and other major oil producing nations are looking to raise production levels. So what does this mean for the global oil sector and the price of a barrel of oil? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Wayne Tan, BloombergNEF’s head of oil markets research, to discuss the recent note “Oil Markets Monthly: Tariffs, OPEC+ Hike, Structural Shift”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Oil Markets Monthly: Tariffs, OPEC+ Hike, Structural Shift - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36245

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rainforest to Revenue: Brazil’s Carbon Market Opening

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Brazil, the host nation of this year’s COP30, looks set to be at the center of most major carbon market developments in 2025. The country is working hard to develop its domestic carbon market, and could quickly leapfrog others in terms of scale and impact, with the ramping up of its nature-based carbon supply for international trading. At the 2025 BloombergNEF Forum Sao Paulo, Kyle Harrison, BNEF’s Head of Environmental Markets, moderated a panel titled “Brazil’s Role in the Evolution of Global Carbon Markets.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Thiago Picolo, chief executive officer at re.green; Fabiana Alves, chief executive officer at Rabobank; Fabio Galindo, chief executive officer at Future Climate; and Angela Pinhati, chief sustainability officer at Natura.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to BNEF Forums and Summits:

Link to BNEF's Regional Forums page - https://bbgevent.app/bloombergnef-forum-2024/#/

Link to BNEF's Flagship Summits page - https://about.bnef.com/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Power Play: EU Courts Chinese Battery Manufacturers

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 09:35:00 +0000

The European Union’s battery manufacturing sector has been struggling to stay competitive. In the face of supply chain concerns, technological barriers and record-low prices fueled by the global oversupply of battery packs, existing policy has proved too light to support local producers. Yet with the introduction of the EU’s new Action Plan, further policy support could be on its way, and Chinese battery giants are announcing production facilities in the bloc. Elsewhere, BYD has introduced a brand-new battery that could revolutionize the sector, with promises of rapid charging speeds and extended range for passenger EVs. On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BloombergNEF energy storage analyst Andy Leach and trade and supply analyst Matthew Hales to discuss their recent notes “Plan to Save EU Battery Making Marks Protectionist Shift” and “Chinese Battery Makers Double Down on European Factories”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Plan to Save EU Battery Making Marks Protectionist Shift - https://www.bnef.com/insights/36075

Chinese Battery Makers Double Down on European Factories - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35985

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EU Dials Down Green Finance Rules as US Wages ESG War

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

The EU has taken an ax to its sustainable reporting regulations. While the bloc is widely considered the global leader for sustainable finance policy, this rollback could limit investors’ access to climate data and their ability to push capital towards the energy transition. With the ramping up of anti-ESG laws in the US, fears over competitiveness lie behind the softening of these EU policies. Yet just as these regions are watering down their requirements, Asia Pacific is stepping up, strengthening its own sustainable finance policies and potentially filling the Western void. On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by BloombergNEF sustainable finance analysts Maia Mesanger and Jameson McLennan to discuss their recent notes “Sustainable Finance Market Outlook 1H 2025: Back on Track” and “EU Weakens Sustainability Leadership with Rule Rollback: React”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Sustainable Finance Market Outlook 1H 2025: Back on Track - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35863?context=eyJxIjoic3VzdGFpbmFibGUgZmluYW5jZSIsImNvbnRlbnRUeXBlIjoiaW5zaWdodCIsInJlZ2lvbiI6W10sInNlY3RvciI6W10sImF1dGhvciI6W10sImluc2lnaHQtdHlwZSI6W119

EU Weakens Sustainability Leadership with Rule Rollback: React - https://www.bnef.com/analyst-reactions/ssb4jtdwlu6800

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unlocking Southeast Asia’s Clean Energy Potential

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:12:00 +0000

Southeast Asia is an up-and-coming player in the energy transition. As the region’s production capacity has grown, so have its exports of key clean-power technologies. Within Southeast Asia, favorable policy has encouraged the growth of cheap renewable energy and electric vehicle adoption. Yet recent US tariffs and aid cuts have had an impact. Just how damaging have they been, and can better regional cooperation help mitigate the fallout? On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by Shantanu Jaiswal, BNEF’s head of India and Southeast Asia research, and analyst Felix Kosasih, to discuss some of BNEF’s recent research including “US Climate Fund Withdrawal Imperils Indonesia’s Transition” and “Southeast Asia in Short: Energy Storage, Net Zero Push”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Southeast Asia in Short: Energy Storage, Net-Zero Push - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35639

US Climate Fund Withdrawal Imperils Indonesia’s Transition - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/ssqqiot0g1kw00?context=eyJxIjoic2luZ2Fwb3JlIiwiY29udGVudFR5cGUiOiJzaG9ydCIsInJlZ2lvbiI6W10sInNlY3RvciI6W10sImF1dGhvciI6W119

Net Zero Transition: Opportunities for Vietnam - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35529?context=eyJxIjoib3Bwb3J0dW5pdGllcyBmb3IgdmlldG5hbSIsImNvbnRlbnRUeXBlIjoiaW5zaWdodCIsInJlZ2lvbiI6W10sInNlY3RvciI6W10sImF1dGhvciI6W10sImluc2lnaHQtdHlwZSI6W119

Southeast Asia and Energy: Things to Watch in 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35745?context=eyJxIjoic2hhbnRhbnUiLCJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6Imluc2lnaHQiLCJyZWdpb24iOltdLCJzZWN0b3IiOltdLCJhdXRob3IiOltdLCJpbnNpZ2h0LXR5cGUiOltdfQ==

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liquid Demand: Tech Solutions for Water Stress

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

We live on an increasingly thirsty planet. Growing populations and rising demand from industry, data centers and farming have led to water stress across the globe. Even under a scenario where global warming is limited to 2C, some three billion people are projected to live in areas where water demand exceeds supply by the middle of the century. Energy-intensive desalination plants offer a solution, but what other opportunities lie in technologies that can not only increase water supply but more efficiently manage it? On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by Stephanie Diaz, a BNEF technology and innovation analyst, to discuss her recent research note “Tech Radar: Water Supply, Use and Treatment”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Tech Radar: Water Supply, Use and Treatment - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35987

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hydrogen: Bucking the Low-Cost Clean Power Trend

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:05:00 +0000

The cost of producing clean power has never been lower. Improving financial conditions and oversupply of key equipment drove costs to record lows in 2024. Yet while the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) declined as a global average, different regions and technologies fell at different rates, and one key technology proved to be an outlier. On this episode, Dana Perkins is joined by Amar Vasdev, a senior associate from BNEF’s energy economics team, and Martin Tengler, BloombergNEF’s head of hydrogen research, to discuss findings from the flagship report “Levelized Cost of Electricity 2025: Record Lows”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Levelized Cost of Electricity 2025: Record Lows - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/lcoe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data Center Dynamics: AI and Energy Demand

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:35:00 +0000

Energy-hungry data centers are on the rise. Power demand driven by artificial intelligence has been met by an increase in power purchase agreements (PPAs) for low-carbon energy. Meanwhile, DeepSeek has reduced demand through more efficient computations. So what is driving decision making at tech companies that work in the AI and data center space? At the 2025 BloombergNEF Summit San Francisco, Mark Daly, BNEF’s head of technology and innovation, moderated a panel titled “Data Center Dynamics.” This episode brings listeners that panel, which featured Steven Carlini, chief advocate of data centers and AI at Schneider Electric; Will Conkling, head of data center energy for the Americas and EMEA at Google; Kleber Costa, chief commercial officer at AES Corporation; and Darwesh Singh, founder and CEO at Bolt Graphics.

To learn more about BNEF’s Summits taking place around the world and to see recordings of BNEF Talks at previous Summits, head to https://about.bnef.com/summit/.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Investors Bet $2 Trillion on the Energy Transition

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:54:34 +0000

Annual investment in the energy transition has surpassed $2 trillion for the first time. Investors placed bets on renewable energy, power grids and energy storage, while buzzy emerging technologies fell out of favor. On this episode, Dana Perkins is joined by Meredith Annex, BNEF’s head of clean power, to discuss the report ‘Energy Transition Investment Trends 2025.’

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

A publicly available summary report of Energy Transition Investment Trends 2025 can be found at - https://about.bnef.com/energy-transition-investment/

BNEF subscribers can find the whole report at - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/clean-energy-investment

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weather and Commodities: A Perfect Storm

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:16:53 +0000

Little connects the natural world to our lives more tangibly than the weather. Weather impacts everything from food to energy production, and shifting weather patterns have the power to shift the economy. From wind droughts to heatwaves, utilities and commodities traders are seeking a better understanding of how enhanced weather modeling could help them predict the future. On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by BNEF weather analysts, Jess Hicks and Willa Tobin, to discuss their recent research notes “Weather and Commodities - Nine Things to Watch in 2025” and “Shifting Weather Patterns: A Black Swan for US Commodities”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Weather and Commodities - Nine Things to Watch in 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35719

Shifting Weather Patterns: A Black Swan for US Commodities - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35305

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bank Transition Ratios Plot Route for Decarbonization

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:33:02 +0000

Banks are still spending less money on low-carbon solutions than on fossil-fuel projects. At last count, the energy supply ratio for bank financing was just 0.89 cents of low-carbon spend for every $1 spent on fossil fuels. That’s an improvement over previous years, but with a ratio of 4:1 by 2030 required to meet a 1.5C climate scenario, the world is still a long way from hitting that target. On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by analyst Trina White, a member of BNEF’s sustainable finance team, to discuss the third annual Energy Supply Investment and Banking Ratios”. Together they discuss worldwide and local trends in energy financing, which banks have the highest energy financing ratios, and why the average ratio is still below 1:1 even though global clean energy investment has hit a new record and surpassed fossil-fuel financing for the first time.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Third Annual Energy Supply Investment and Banking Ratios - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35765

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global Wind Market Shifts as Chinese Exports Expand

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:03:00 +0000

Chinese wind turbine makers are expanding their global footprint at an impressive rate. Leading manufacturers like Goldwind, Envision, Mingyang and Windey are exporting their turbines at a significant discount to Western incumbents, undercutting their rivals and establishing themselves in developing economies and emerging markets. Yet while the volume of their orders has risen, significant barriers to entry remain, including low brand awareness, a limited track record outside of China and political risks that are raising red flags for buyers, lenders and insurers. So just how large is the threat these Chinese manufacturers pose to established Western companies? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Oliver Metcalfe, BloombergNEF’s Head of Wind, to discuss the note “China Wind Turbine Export Update: Momentum Builds”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

China Wind Turbine Export Update: Momentum Builds - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35671/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public to Private: The Shift in Clean Energy Ownership

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 08:33:58 +0000

Over the past five years, clean energy company valuations have reached new heights. As the ESG hype cycle ends, inflated public market valuations have given way to industry fundamentals. Increasing energy demand aided by the hype around AI and data centers mean that the world needs more clean power than ever before, and project developers are requiring new sources of capital. In response, a new trend is emerging, in which public investments are shifting into private hands. On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by BloombergNEF Solar Specialist Pietro Radoia and Sustainable Finance Analyst Ryan Loughead to dive into the recent research note “Listed Clean Energy Firms: Moving Back Into Private Hands”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Listed Clean Energy Firms: Moving Back Into Private Hands - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35367

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five Energy Transition Lessons for 2025

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 09:41:46 +0000

Was 2024 a good or a bad year for clean energy and climate progress? Looking through one prism, we saw record global electric vehicle sales, massive clean power capacity additions, and the adoption of new energy storage technologies. Yet, if we compare these record numbers to what is actually required to achieve net zero by 2050, we find ourselves falling short. What lessons can be learned from the year gone by, and how might we apply these lessons to improve future outcomes? On today’s show, BloombergNEF’s Deputy CEO, Albert Cheung, shares his note “Five Energy Transition Lessons for 2025.”

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Five Energy Transition Lessons for 2025 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35643

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Energy Security in Flux: Gas Faces 2025 Stress Test

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 09:18:29 +0000

This could be a challenging year for natural gas. Market dynamics are in flux, and how buyers and sellers react to the changes will make the year ahead a ‘stress test’ for the fuel and how the sector positions itself for the future. On the supply front, a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape has had a massive bearing on the trade flows of pipeline gas and LNG. In terms of demand, heat waves and extreme weather events have inverted seasonal consumption trends. So what can we expect from 2025? On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees is joined by Fauziah Marzuki, BloombergNEF’s Global Head of Gas Markets, to discuss findings from her recent report “Gas Things to Watch in 2025: Crunch Time Before Comeback”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Gas Things to Watch in 2025: Crunch Time Before Comeback - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35571/view

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Drilling for Gold: The Hydrogen Beneath Our Feet

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 09:49:20 +0000

At first glance, gold hydrogen could be a game changer. This naturally occurring molecule, which is found in reservoirs below the Earth’s surface, has the potential to be less carbon intensive and less expensive than man-made hydrogen. But all that glitters is not necessarily gold, and a myriad of factors, from possible synergies with helium extraction to ongoing technical challenges, could still tip the scales either toward or away from gold hydrogen’s economic viability. On today’s show, Dana Perkins is joined by Sami Alisawi from BNEF’s Hydrogen team and Musfika Mishi from BNEF’s Technology and Innovation team to discuss findings from their recent report “Technology Radar: Geologic Hydrogen”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Technology Radar: Geologic Hydrogen - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35101

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japan Powers Up: Market Liberalization Sparks Interest

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 11:21:25 +0000

Japan’s power market is creating a stir. Having faced natural disasters, global energy crises and ever more extreme periods of weather, the world’s third-largest liberalized power market has had to contend with some almighty challenges in recent years, and yet it has still piqued the interest of foreign investors. The long process of restarting Japan’s nuclear fleet, completely shuttered after the Fukushima disaster, has dragged on, and with little available land, utility-scale renewables have traditionally struggled to gain a foothold. To fill the energy void, the resource-poor nation has had to import coal, gas and oil to fuel its power plants. Yet the arrival of energy-intensive data centers and semiconductor manufacturing plants mean power demand is once again on the rise, and with it new opportunities for energy installations. On today’s show, Tom is joined by two analysts from BNEF’s Global Power Markets Team, Mariko O’Neil and Yumi Kim, to discuss key findings from the report “Japan Power Market Outlook 2H 2024: Tailwinds Ahead”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Japan Power Market Outlook 2H 2024: Tailwinds Ahead - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34981

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Splitting Atoms, Scaling AI: Big Tech’s Nuclear Gambit

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:42:50 +0000

The boom in energy-hungry data centers in the US has led to a revival of interest in nuclear power. Small modular reactors, or SMRs, are often held up as the way forward, but the technology remains in development, which has led some big tech firms – or ‘hyperscalers’ – to explore other pathways for using nuclear power. One alternative is restarting some of the 11 nuclear facilities that have been shut in the US in the last 15 years, an option made all the more attractive given the regulatory hurdles, cost concerns and schedule overruns that tend to plague new nuclear projects. On today’s show, Tom is joined by Chris Gadomski, BloombergNEF’s lead nuclear analyst, to discuss key findings from his report “Hyperscalers’ Energy Appetite Boosts Nuclear Prospects”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Hyperscalers' Energy Appetite Boosts Nuclear Prospects - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35223

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting Real: Net Zero Isn’t Enough for Fortescue

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The world is focused on net zero. Yet some companies, like Australian mining giant Fortescue, have set their sights higher, and are now aiming for ‘real zero’. On today’s show, we bring you an interview from the recent BNEF Summit Shanghai, where Fortescue Founder and Executive Chairman Andrew Forrest sat down with Leonard Quong, BNEF’s Head of Australia Research, to talk about green hydrogen, green iron ore, and why real zero is good for people, the planet and the bottom line.

Today’s episode was recorded live at BNEF Summit Shanghai. To learn more about our Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/

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Under the Hood of Emerging Markets’ Energy Transition

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:15:43 +0000

Emerging markets have big plans when it comes to the energy transition. Today, 95% of developing economies have a renewable energy target in place, and many of them are seeing massive growth in solar and other renewable power technologies. Yet this clean power revolution won’t come cheap. While EMDEs attracted more than $100 billion for clean energy development last year, that’s a drop in the bucket of what it’ll take to reach net zero, and many markets are racing to implement the policy and infrastructure needed to attract many billions more. On today’s show, BloombergNEF researchers Sofia Maia and Ana Paula Fonseca Teixeira present the newest edition of Climatescope, a public BNEF resource that evaluates and ranks emerging markets’ readiness to utilize energy transition investment.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Climatescope 2024 - www.global-climatescope.org

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Climate-Tech Finance: India Surges, China Slumps

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Climate-tech funding is falling precipitously. During the third quarter of 2024, worldwide investment in the sector reached just $10.3 billion, a far cry from the $22.6 billion raised in the third quarter of 2023 and the $40.9 billion seen in 3Q 2022. These dramatic declines have been led in part by manufacturing overcapacity in China, where a collapse in market funding has allowed India to supersede China for the first time in BloombergNEF’s climate-tech rankings. With protectionism on the rise, questions have also arisen about how tariffs will impact equity funding moving forward, but where some see barriers, others see opportunities. On today’s show, Dana is joined by Mark Daly, BloombergNEF’s Head of Technology and Innovation, to discuss key findings from the recent report “Investment Radar 3Q 2024: Funding Drop Again”.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Investment Radar 3Q 2024: Funding Drop Again - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35203/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burning Issue: Peak Coal Close But Demand Lingers

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

“It looks like coal weather today,” is an unlikely forecast, but it shouldn’t be. Coal production and consumption are linked to weather, and the return of a La Niña weather cycle has the potential to extend the lifespan of coal power assets and influence fuel switching. While peak coal demand is close, near-term drivers point to stagnation rather than a rapid decline. Developed economies are shutting thermal power assets at scale, but China is responsible for 56% of global coal consumption and continues to import and stockpile coal in vast quantities.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Fauziah Marzuki, BloombergNEF’s Global Head of Gas Markets, alongside Yumi Kim, Power Markets Associate, to discuss key findings from their recent report Coal Outlook: Hot and Cold to 2050.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Coal Outlook: Hot and Cold to 2050 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35205

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gone With the Wind: Turbine Additions Still Fall Short

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 11:37:55 +0000

Wind is key to tripling global clean energy capacity by 2030, but in recent years both onshore and offshore additions have been blowing cold. The landscape improves as we look ahead to 2030, when BloombergNEF expects annual installations of wind to have risen by a massive 70%. China, which is currently responsible for over a half of all global wind additions, is leading the charge. But now that its massive turbine manufacturing base is looking outside its borders, the picture for equipment exports is about to be shaken up.

On today’s show, Tom Rowlands-Rees speaks with BNEF’s head of Wind Research, Oliver Metcalfe, about key findings from three recent reports: Unlocking Investment to Triple Renewables by 2030, 3Q 2024 Wind Turbine Order Dataset: Volume Surges, and Floating Offshore Wind: Big Potential But Big Price Tag. Together they discuss what it’ll take for wind to grow at the pace required to meet net-zero goals, the threat to western turbine manufacturers posed by rising Chinese exports, and the impact floating wind could have on the offshore market.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Unlocking Investment to Triple Renewables by 2030 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34887/view

3Q 2024 Wind Turbine Order Dataset: Volume Surges - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35179/view

Floating Offshore Wind: Big Potential But Big Price Tag - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34913

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Current Investments: Expanding the World’s Power Grids

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” This proverb is just as apt if you swap out “trees” for “grid investment.” Some $326 billion flowed into the world’s power grids in 2023, up 7% from the year before. Yet while investment may be increasing overall, only a few markets align with a net-zero pathway.

On today's show, co-hosts Dana Perkins and Tom Rowlands-Rees are joined by Felicia Aminoff from BNEF’s Grids and Utilities team. They discuss the growing power demand from new data centers, strategies for protecting the grid from extreme weather events, and how grid authorities are addressing a backlog of renewable energy projects waiting for a connection. This episode draws upon BNEF research found in the 2024 Power Grid Investment Outlook and the New Energy Outlook 2024: Grids.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

2024 Power Grid Investment Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34703/view

New Energy Outlook 2024: Grids - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35211

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catch Me If You Can: EU Trails US On Clean-Tech Policy

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Tariffs and subsidies loom large in the energy transition. The US Inflation Reduction Act, or IRA, has been of global importance, changing trade relationships and causing some governments to rethink their domestic policies. The European Union responded by introducing the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA), although it has fewer subsidies and trade barriers than its transatlantic counterpart.

On today’s show, Dana speaks with Antoine Vagneur-Jones and Matthew Hales from BNEF’s Trade and Supply Chains team. As they discuss key findings from the report US Clean-Tech Industrial Policy Leaves EU Behind – For Now, they look at the risks the IRA faces in the upcoming US election, the relative effectiveness of US and EU tariffs, and whether western markets can realistically expect to challenge Chinese manufacturers on cost competitiveness.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

US-Clean Tech Industrial Policy Leaves EU Behind - For Now - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34863

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heavy Transport Maps Out a Low-Carbon Future

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Heavy transport is at a crossroads. There are many possible paths for decarbonizing aviation, maritime shipping and long-haul trucking, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), ammonia, methanol and synthetic fuels. Now that companies are working to secure feedstocks, governments are writing clean-fuel policies, and investors are looking for new fuels to back, will these sectors coalesce around a single low-carbon pathway? Or will a cornucopia of options be the way of the future?

On today’s episode, Colin McKerracher, BloombergNEF’s Head of Transport and Energy Storage, moderates a discussion at the BNEF Summit London on the future of clean fuels in heavy transport. He is joined by panelists Freya Burton, Chief Sustainability Officer at LanzaTech; Chris Johnson, Chief Commercial Officer at C2X; and Lara Naqushbandi, Chief Executive Officer at ETFuels. Together, they discuss which clean fuels are seeing the greatest uptake, what they’d most like to see from government policy, and how to stimulate investor activity across the sector at large.

Today’s episode was recorded live at BNEF's London Summit. To learn more about our Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who Gives a COP? UN Biodiversity Summit Expectations

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This month, 196 parties are converging in Cali, Colombia for the 16th United Nations Conference on Biological Diversity (COP16). Less famous but no less significant than its climate-focused sibling (which will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, a few weeks later), COP16 offers a chance to negotiate and assess strategies for protecting global biodiversity, with a focus on implementing the targets agreed upon at COP15 in Montreal two years ago. That’s critical, because as one of today’s guests points out, 100% of global economic activity is based to some degree on nature.

To preview COP16, Dana is joined by Hugh Bromley, BNEF’s Head of Food, Agriculture and Nature, and team member Alistair Purdie. Together they discuss BNEF’s outlook for this meeting, published in the research note Expectations for Biodiversity COP16: Cali Fauna Dreamin'.They also discuss the funding gap for the Global Biodiversity Framework, the National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans, and the contentious issue of profiting from genetic data.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Public Research on Climate and Nature - https://about.bnef.com/bnef-climate-action/

Expectations for Biodiversity COP16: Cali Fauna Dreamin' - https://www.bnef.com/insights/35001

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rocky Markets Undermine Energy Transition Metal Demand

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen electrolyzers and transmission lines all require one fundamental ingredient: metals. In other words, there can be no energy transition without massive metal supplies. Lithium demand jumps 17-fold by 2050 in BloombergNEF’s Net Zero Scenario. Manganese demand jumps 15-fold, and copper needs rise 4.5-fold against 2023 levels. Yet as demand skyrockets, supply growth is facing headwinds as low metals prices jeopardize important capacity additions.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Rosemary Katz and Kwasi Ampofo from BNEF’s metals and mining team to discuss the 2024 Transition Metals Outlook. Their conversation focuses on the 10 metals critical to the energy transition, the link between cooling electric vehicle demand and falling metals prices, and whether the world has enough known metals reserves to meet 2050 net-zero targets.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Transition Metals Outlook 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/flagships/transition-metals-outlook

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BNEF Pioneers Award: Net-Zero Fuels and Nature Data

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Innovative climate tech is a key weapon in the battle to halt global warming, but finding the most effective new technologies isn’t always easy. Enter the BloombergNEF Pioneers. This annual award program identifies new tools for tackling three critical challenges in the transition to a low-carbon economy. This year’s awards focused on relieving bottlenecks in the deployment of clean power, decarbonizing the construction and operation of buildings, and creating the next generation of net-zero fuels. They also highlighted an array of ‘wildcard’ entries that were too compelling to ignore.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by guest host Benjamin Kafri, Co-Chair of BNEF Pioneers, to interview two winners from the net-zero fuels challenge, XFuel and CoverCress, and wildcard winner NatureMetrics. More information regarding the upcoming 2025 BNEF Pioneers program, including the three key challenges and submission deadlines, can be found at www.about.bnef.com/bnefpioneers/.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing Problems: Food Companies’ Environmental Impact

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Agriculture is responsible for almost a third of global emissions. It’s also a leading driver of deforestation, water stress and plastic waste generation, and pressure is mounting on food companies to address their climate and nature impacts. The value chain that underpins the sector, however, is vast, involving millions of individuals and tens of thousands of companies, which makes identifying and addressing areas of concern a huge challenge.

On today’s show, Dana Perkins hosts two analysts from BNEF’s Food, Agriculture and Nature team, Helen Ramsbottom and Alistair Purdie. Together they discuss the structure of the agri-food system, the challenges faced by large food companies when it comes to quantifying their true environmental footprint, the rising field of regenerative agriculture, and whether the lack of existing mandates is harming its adoption.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Corporate Sustainability in the Agri-Food System - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34305/view

Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture: Company Targets - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34809

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Satellites Zero In on Elusive Methane Emissions

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Methane might be the world’s simplest hydrocarbon, but its immense global warming potential makes it a complex problem in the battle to halt climate change. It’s also invisible to the human eye, which has made catching the methane plumes leaking from oil and gas assets a challenge. That’s now changing, as a growing network of satellites offers more accurate evidence of methane leaks around the globe.

On today’s show, Dana Perkins speaks with Maria-Olivia Torcea from BNEF’s Oil Team. They discuss the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0, new methods of detecting methane, and how data is being used by those responsible for leaks.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Oil and Gas Methane Monitor: Super-Emitters in the US - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34535

Oil and Gas Methane Fix More Likely With Growing UN Group - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33675

The Methane Bill Facing US Oil and Gas - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31081

Gas With Low Methane Footprint to Grow to 45% of US Market - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33811

Tracing Methane Emissions From Oil, Gas and US Small Wells - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32979

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scaling Clean Energy to Power India’s Growing Demand

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Extending energy access to the world’s most populous nation will be a Herculean task. To do it while also achieving its 2030 clean energy goals, India must increase its wind and solar capacity installations fourfold, highlighting just how much of a feat this energy transition will be.

On today’s episode, Rohit Gadre, a BloombergNEF Specialist, moderates a discussion at the BNEF Summit New Delhi on what it will take to realize India’s clean energy revolution. He is joined by panelists Giorgio Fortunato, Head of Clean Energy and Power in Asia Pacific for Google; Kavita Saha, Managing Director, Head of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energies, India for CPP Investments; Amit Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Adani Green Energy; and Gurdeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, NTPC Limited. Together they discuss the ongoing issue of underperforming renewable energy assets, the role of nuclear power in India’s future and why AI’s energy demand means there is no time to waste.

Today’s episode was recorded live at BNEF's New Delhi Summit. To learn more about our Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Oil Pumps the Brakes on Its Dirty Asset Divestment

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

International oil companies have been divesting assets at a surprising rate. Between 2015 and 2023, nine of the world’s largest IOCs have sold a total of $290 billion of assets, with upstream oil assets accounting for half of the divestment deals. Yet this trend toward ditching dirty assets may now be changing, as divestment proceeds dropped 15% last year.

On today’s show, co-hosts Dana Perkins and Tom Rowlands-Rees are joined by David Doherty, BloombergNEF’s Head of Oil and Renewable Fuels Research, to discuss the key factors that inform these decisions. As they consider the investment and divestment strategies that major oil and gas companies are now pursuing, they also discuss how public and investor pressure to decarbonize is impacting the sector, how a spike in energy prices in 2022 changed the calculus, and why simply selling dirty assets won’t make for a cleaner world. This episode draws on BNEF research, including the note Oil and Gas Divestment Trends 2023: Divestment Slowed.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Oil and Gas Divestment Trends 2023: Divestment Slowed - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34457

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carbon Capture: Innovation Rises as Investment Stalls

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Carbon capture is on a roller coaster these days. Projects in the sector attracted more than $11 billion in 2023, almost double the investment figure from the year before, only to see growth stall in the first half of 2024. Fortunately, carbon removal technology reaches beyond the traditional ‘CCS’ model of carbon capture and storage (or ‘CCUS’ when a utilization component is involved). Coming from a small base, direct air capture, or DAC, is gaining momentum, and new technologies such as direct ocean removal are proving to be hubs of innovation.

On today’s show, Brenna Casey, a member of BloombergNEF’s Sustainable Materials team, joins Dana to discuss new directions in carbon sequestration, how tax credits and other policies are shaping CCS projects around the globe, and what whales have to do with capturing carbon. The episode draws on BNEF research including CCUS Market Outlook 1H 2024: Trough of Disillusionment and Direct Air Capture’s Technology Battle to Heat Up in 2030s.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Tech Radar: Direct Ocean Carbon Dioxide Removal - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34401

CCUS Market Outlook 1H 2024: Trough of Disillusionment - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34161

Direct Air Capture’s Technology Battle to Heat Up in 2030s - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33877

Direct Air Capture Technologies: Primer - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33877

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fuel for Thought: Rising Tide of LNG May Become a Glut

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

A wave of new liquefied natural gas projects are due to be commissioned by the end of the decade. Yet a sharp increase in supply runs the risk of creating a glut, and with the rise of this transportable commodity, what impacts one market could have a ripple effect around the world.

Today’s show addresses the interplay between global and regional gas markets, with co-hosts Dana Perkins and Tom Rowlands-Rees joined by Fauziah Marzuki, Global Head of Gas Markets at BNEF. Together, they discuss the role of the US and China in how LNG moves around the globe, how shifting policies and net-zero goals are impacting the outlook for natural gas, and the ‘shadow fleet’ that recently departed sanctioned LNG terminals in Russia. The show draws upon BNEF research including Global LNG Market Outlook 2030: Focus on Supply Risks and Global LNG Supply Outlook 2030: Second US Wave Incoming.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Global LNG Market Outlook 2030: Focus on Supply Risks - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34357/view

Global LNG Supply Outlook 2030: Second US Wave Incoming - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34307/view

LNG Trade Weekly - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34651

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Great Power Markets Comes Great Responsibility

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Using electricity seems so simple: You flip a switch, and the light turns on. Yet behind that simple action is a sprawling and complex system of supply, demand and free-market economics.

Today’s show dives into power markets. What are they and what role do they play in increasing the efficiency of power systems? Tom Rowlands-Rees, BNEF’s Global Head of Power Markets, hosts Helen Kou, Head of US Power, and Ian Berryman, Head of Energy Systems Modeling, to talk about capacity markets, vertically integrated utilities, power purchase agreements, and how changes to market design could help power markets better incorporate renewable energy.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

US Merit Order Primer: A Supply-Side Power Study - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34361

US Merit Order - LiveSheet (1.0.1) - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34379

US Power Weekly: Cheap Gas Changes Up the PJM Merit Order - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34587

2024 Caiso Market Outlook: Dynamics in Transition - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33467/view

European Carbon Monthly July 2024: Supply Sprints Ahead - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34525

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food or Fuel: The Energy Transition’s Battle for Land

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

What do biofuels, renewable power, and the food on your plate have in common? They all need land, and lots of it. While the technologies required to reach a net-zero future are expanding alongside rising energy demand, growing populations and higher living standards could require roughly a fifth more land be cultivated for agriculture by mid-century. Of the available land on Earth, decisions must be made regarding whether to devote it to agriculture, biofuels, bioplastics, power generation, battery metals or nature conservation. The challenge is profound, yet key solutions are emerging, including co-location and innovations to improve energy output and agricultural yields.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Hugh Bromley, BNEF’s Head of Food, Agriculture and Nature, and Kostas Pegios, who specializes in modeling at BNEF. Together they discuss the vast quantity of land required for the energy transition, which renewable energy technologies can be co-located with existing agriculture, and the competition between food crops and biofuels for suitable land.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

New Energy Outlook 2024 - https://about.bnef.com/new-energy-outlook/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Energy Storage Solutions Test Lithium-Ion’s Reign

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

With the rise of intermittent renewable energy generation, the need for long-duration energy storage is rising fast. Lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the market, with record-low prices fueled by a global oversupply in battery manufacturing, but a group of new energy storage technologies may be about to challenge this technology’s position.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Yiyi Zhou, a BNEF clean power specialist, and Evelina Stoikou, a senior associate on its energy storage team, to review findings from their inaugural Long-Duration Energy Storage Cost Survey. Together they discuss the different types of long-duration energy storage studied in the report, whether these technologies can challenge the dominance of cheap lithium-ion batteries, and which countries are adopting these latest advanced storage options and why.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

2024 Long-Duration Energy Storage Cost Survey: Tough Race - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34105

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EV Sales Growth Cools But Some Markets Still Run Hot

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This year has been a mixed bag for electric vehicles. After EV sales hit new highs in 2023, some automakers have now revised down their near-term targets, citing falling demand. While this may have generated headlines, the overall market offers a more nuanced image, with different segments outperforming others, and growth in developing economies starting to pick up pace.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Electric Vehicles, Aleksandra O’Donovan, and Head of Advanced Transport and Energy Storage, Colin McKerracher, to talk about findings from this year’s Long-Term Electric Vehicle Outlook. Together they discuss the slowdown in EV sales seen in some regions, the collapse in Chinese battery prices and its effect on the wider market, and the rise of electric commercial vehicles.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Electric Vehicle Outlook 2024 - https://about.bnef.com/electric-vehicle-outlook/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Leads Clean Hydrogen Charge But Who Will Buy It?

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Driven by supportive policies and a maturing project pipeline, clean hydrogen supply is set to increase 30-fold by 2030. Demand will be aided in part by Europe’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and other government policies, but fewer than a third of the 1,600 hydrogen projects that have been announced so far actually materialize in our analysis, and they are often subject to delays.

On today’s show, Dana and hydrogen analyst Adithya Bhashyam discuss findings from our recent hydrogen outlooks. Together, they cover the global picture for clean hydrogen production, including how the US is leading the way on gas-fueled blue H2 and the uncertainty around the scale of future Chinese green hydrogen production capacity. They delve into the need for government support for offtake agreements, and the large gap between clean hydrogen supply and demand.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

1H 2024 Hydrogen Market Outlook: Targets Meet Reality - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34075/view

Hydrogen Supply Outlook 2024: Regional Deep Dives - https://www.bnef.com/insights/34093/view

Hydrogen Supply Outlook 2024: A Reality Check - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33965/view

Hydrogen Supply Outlook 2024: Projects - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33959?context=eyJxIjoiaHlkcm9nZW4gb3V0bG9vayBhZGl0aHlhIiwiY29udGVudFR5cGUiOiJpbnNpZ2h0IiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbXSwiaW5zaWdodC10eXBlIjpbXX0=

Hydrogen Offtake Agreement Database 2.0 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32697?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6Imluc2lnaHQiLCJyZWdpb24iOltdLCJzZWN0b3IiOlsiMmQ2MzdhYTg0MTJhNGY3MyJdLCJhdXRob3IiOltdLCJpbnNpZ2h0LXR5cGUiOltdfQ==

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Net-Zero Window Closing But Still Time to Get On Track

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Each year, BloombergNEF’s New Energy Outlook develops and evaluates scenarios for the transition to a low-carbon economy. Delving into electricity, industry, buildings and transport, this flagship report outlines sector and country transition scenarios out to 2050. On today’s show, Dana is joined by co-host Tom Rowlands-Rees, BNEF’s head of research for North America, and guest David Hostert, Head of Economics and Modeling at BNEF and lead author of the New Energy Outlook. They discuss nine technological pillars that underpin the energy transition, and consider which of these are gaining traction or stalling. They also debate the value scenario exercises bring to those working in climate and energy when charting the path to a net-zero future.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

New Energy Outlook 2024 - https://about.bnef.com/new-energy-outlook/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Tariff Threat Risks Own Goal in Solar Trade War

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The persistent oversupply of solar modules has pushed prices to record lows and threatened the competitiveness of manufacturing outside of Asia. Against this backdrop, a group of US companies has petitioned the Biden administration for further tariffs to be applied. While China has historically been the target of the US government, the latest levies are focused on Southeast Asian countries where Chinese manufacturers have set up shop: Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by co-host Tom Rowlands-Rees, and Pol Lezcano from our solar team. Together they discuss whether these tariffs could do more harm than good, given the push for net zero and the significantly cheaper modules that are already available. They also unpack the range and depth of the proposed duties, and how likely they are to support new and existing solar manufacturing in the US.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

US Solar Manufacturers Call for More Expensive Modules - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33971

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does Europe Need to Become More Protectionist?

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The European Union could be leaning towards a more protectionist stance when it comes to clean industry manufacturing, with policies such as import tariffs and domestic content targets under consideration. Would such protectionist measures help the domestic clean energy and electric vehicle sectors flourish?

Today’s show brings you a panel from the BloombergNEF Summit Munich, in which Herbert Diess, Chairman of Infineon and The Mobility House; Jacek Truszczynski, Deputy Head of Unit - Net Zero Industries, Sustainable and Circular Products at the European Commission; Yann Vincent, CEO of Automotive Cells Company; and Håkon Volldal, CEO of Nel Hydrogen were led in conversation by Jon Moore, CEO of BNEF. They debated whether the European Union should follow the US in applying tariffs to Chinese imports, the inflationary risks that could arise should trade barriers go up, and the risks and potential benefits of allowing foreign markets to build clean-tech manufacturing plants in Europe.

This episode of Switched On was recorded live at the BNEF Summit Munich. To learn more about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nuclear Harbors Big Dreams Despite Hurdles

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The global nuclear industry has been plagued with retirements for over a decade. However, after delegates at the COP28 summit last year voiced aspirations to triple nuclear capacity by 2050, the industry could be poised for growth. The usual regulatory, environmental and economic hurdles remain, but small modular reactors have the potential to ameliorate several of these obstacles if they can get off the ground. Meanwhile, exuberance for nuclear energy has been dampened by fluctuations in the price of enriched uranium.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s lead nuclear analyst, Chris Gadomski. He shares insights from the recent report Nuclear Market Outlook 1H 2024: Big Dreams Despite Hurdles, and provides perspective on the feasibility of a comeback story for the nuclear industry.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Nuclear Market Outlook 1H 2024: Big Dreams Despite Hurdles - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33819

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Strained Power Grids Test Flexible Market Solution

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

As already-strained power grids grapple with rapidly increasing demand, Europe is pioneering an innovative and powerful new tool to help system operators manage grid constraints. These local flexibility markets help balance electricity supply and demand by enabling distributed energy resources, such as electric vehicles or storage operators, to solve grid bottlenecks.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Grids and Utilities, Sanjeet Sanghera, along with Felicia Aminoff, lead author of the recent BNEF report, Europe’s Local Flexibility Markets: Aiding a Strained Grid. Together they discuss the mechanisms that can be used to create a flexibility market, the potential scale of future markets and the technology required to grow them, and the existing regulatory models that underpin flexibility in an energy system.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Europe’s Local Flexibility Markets: Aiding a Strained Grid - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33289/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rooftop Solar Boom Turns Australian Power Prices Red

Thu, 30 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Rooftop solar is celebrating a runaway success in Australia, which has positioned itself to become a renewable energy superpower. From a target of doubling its renewable energy capacity by 2030 to $1.2 billion in the federal budget dedicated to the clean energy sector, the country has big plans for its energy transition. Yet the country still has a ways to travel before reaching its goals, with substantial legacy coal-fired power stations still contributing to the energy mix.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Leonard Quong, BloombergNEF’s Head of Australia Research. Together they discuss the state of the energy transition in Australia, including how large volumes of rooftop solar are leading to negative power prices, the country’s ambitions to become a leader in green hydrogen, and how its exports of coal, liquefied natural gas and other commodities continue to shape the region.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

1H 2024 Australia Market Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33285?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6Imluc2lnaHQiLCJpbnNpZ2h0LXR5cGUiOls4XSwicmVnaW9uIjpbImF1cyJdLCJzZWN0b3IiOltdLCJhdXRob3IiOltdfQ==

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Self-Driving Vehicles Navigate Funding Speed Bumps

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Autonomous vehicles might be the cars of the future, but following a flurry of venture capital and private equity funding a decade ago, investment in this space has since tapped the brakes. Last year saw VC/PE fundraising fail to reach $4 billion for the first time since 2017. While green shoots have come in the form of Tesla’s upcoming robotaxi launch, in such a capital-intensive industry, which levels of autonomy are the rest of the field still betting on?

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Intelligent Mobility, Andrew Grant. Together they discuss the recent drop in investment, advances in self-driving vehicle development, and Tesla’s continued resistance to following its peers in adopting laser-based sensor technology known as lidar.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Automated Vehicles: State of the Industry 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33597

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US ESG Backlash Steps Up as EU Strengthens Standards

Wed, 15 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The first quarter of 2024 has seen a flurry of sustainable finance policy activity and a wave of mandatory reporting rules. Yet on the flip side, anti-ESG policies are gaining traction in the US. On today’s show, Dana is joined by Maia Godemer, senior associate for green and sustainable finance at BloombergNEF, to discuss this rapidly changing environment. Together, they consider BNEF’s new Sustainable Finance Policy Quarterly, touching on the new EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and how it differs from the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Sustainable Finance Policy Quarterly 1Q 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33831

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brazil Harnesses Natural Capital to Fuel Green Future

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As the host of this year’s G-20 meetings and next year’s COP30 climate conference, Brazil is in the spotlight. Ranked sixth globally for energy transition investment in 2023, and third for both wind and solar capacity additions, Brazil is aiming to use its vast array of natural resources to ensure its future as a clean energy powerhouse.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s head of Latin America research, James Ellis, and analyst, Vinicius Nunes. They discuss Brazil’s potential for green hydrogen production, growing electric vehicle (EV) adoption in a market that is already dominated by vehicles powered by biofuels, and the role of the Amazon forest in voluntary carbon markets.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Latin America Market Outlook 1H 2024: Brazil Drives Growth - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33999

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Hydrogen Industry at Odds Over Tax Credit Rules

Wed, 01 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000

As part of the Inflation Reduction Act, draft guidance for the US hydrogen production tax credit was introduced in December 2023, with the aim of promoting decarbonization in hard-to-abate sectors and enhancing energy security in the country. While some applauded the draft guidance for preventing greenwashing and driving real decarbonization, others view these requirements as excessive, and fear they could potentially discourage investment in green hydrogen production.

On today’s show, BNEF’s head of hydrogen research, Martin Tengler, hosts a conversation on hydrogen production in the US, with panelists Kathleen Barron, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer at Constellation; Claire Behar, Chief Commercial Officer at Hy Stor Energy; Elena Scaltritti, Chief Commercial Officer at Topsoe; and Andy Vesey, President and Chief Executive Officer at Fortescue North America. They discuss whether the tax credit rules are helping or hurting green hydrogen production in the US, the lack of demand incentives compared with the EU, and the role that nuclear could play in the hydrogen sector’s future.

Today’s episode was recorded live at the BNEF Summit New York. To learn more about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Jet Fuel Mandates Lift Demand for Scarce Supply

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, has the potential to help decarbonize aviation and is the most scalable technology for this hard-to-abate sector in the near term. With offtake agreements for SAF surging over the past two years, the nascent industry has been showing promise. However, hurdles remain due to scarcity of supply, resource competition from renewable diesel, and a lack of technological diversification.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Daisy Robinson and Rose Oates, two members of BloombergNEF’s renewable fuels team. Together they discuss the regional policies that are driving the uptake of cleaner jet fuels, the different feedstocks used to produce SAF, and the greenium that SAF faces when compared with traditional fuels.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

2024 Sustainable Aviation Fuel Outlook: Getting Airborne - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33497/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s Clean-Tech Glut Undercuts US Onshoring Hopes

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 11:00:02 +0000

China is churning out clean energy technology at a breakneck pace, driving down prices on everything from solar panels to lithium ion batteries. With supply far exceeding demand, the timing couldn’t be worse for the many countries that are looking to onshore clean-tech equipment manufacturing.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Trade and Supply Chains, Antoine Vagneur-Jones. They discuss the impetus behind the Chinese government’s drive to dominate the clean-tech export sector, the sheer scale of the global manufacturing overcapacity and whether it’s already sufficient to meet net-zero goals, and the US reaction to Chinese companies potentially offshoring production to countries like Mexico.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

China’s Clean-Tech Overcapacity Threatens Onshoring Dreams - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33543

Mexico Won’t Be China’s EV Export Hub to US Anytime Soon - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33761

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do or Die: Carbon Offset Markets Face Critical Year

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Voluntary carbon markets are coming off a tumultuous year, with constant public scrutiny and high-profile scandals undermining investor confidence. Despite the turmoil, the market has grown to a record size, as corporations look to carbon offsets to reach their net zero goals.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Layla Khanfar, BNEF corporate sustainability and carbon offsets analyst, alongside Kyle Harrison, BNEF’s head of sustainability research for the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. They discuss BNEF’s long-term carbon-market scenarios, the different types of offsets that are available for purchase, and how private companies are stepping in to help fill the regulatory void.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Long-Term Carbon Offsets Outlook 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33315/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Methanol Sets Sail as EU Targets Shipping Emissions

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Seaborne freight is the lifeblood of the global economy. It’s also a heavy polluter. Now that shipping companies, retailers and governments are all looking to decarbonize the supply chain, what is the outlook for clean shipping fuels? In a broad field of competing options including ammonia, methane and LNG, which is the most viable?

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Mohith Velamala, a senior associate on BloombergNEF’s oil team. Together they discuss the maritime sector’s existing decarbonization targets and whether these can realistically be met, the stringent EU policies that are having a global impact, and the long-term outlook for fleet growth and its potential carbon footprint.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

2024 Marine Fuel Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33189

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada Tops China for Battery Supply Chain Potential

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As the world races to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, countries are ramping up their efforts across the supply chain, from mining raw materials to fostering consumer demand. For the fourth year, BloombergNEF has ranked the potential of 30 markets to build a secure, reliable and sustainable lithium-ion battery supply chain, with Canada leapfrogging China to clinch the top spot this time around.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by the head of BNEF’s metals and mining team, Kwasi Ampofo, and metals and mining analyst Ellie Gomes-Callus. Together they discuss the ranking, including which countries are performing best across the five categories assessed, and also unpack the recent volatility in the lithium market and the impact that Indonesian policy has had on nickel prices.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Global Lithium-Ion Battery Supply Chain Ranking - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33323

Harnessing Africa’s Critical Minerals Potential - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33517

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

United Taps Green Jet Fuel as Net-Zero Plan Takes Off

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000

The aviation industry’s pathway to net zero is far from certain. Operational improvements and technologies such as sustainable aviation fuel and zero-emission aircraft could offer substantial emissions reductions, but questions remain around timing, scalability and customers’ willingness to pay. So what strategies can airlines apply to reduce their carbon footprint and meet their net-zero commitments?

On today’s show, Jade Patterson, a BloombergNEF senior associate in sustainable fuels, interviews United Airlines’ Chief Sustainability Officer, Lauren Riley. Together they discuss United’s strategy for achieving its climate goals, the governmental policies that could encourage carriers to adopt greener practices, and the venture fund that United has founded to help clean up aviation writ large.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to BNEF Forums and Summits:

Link to BNEF's Regional Forums page - https://bbgevent.app/bloombergnef-forum-2024/#/

Link to BNEF's Flagship Summits page - https://about.bnef.com/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plastics Greenium Boosts Chemical Recycling Outlook

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With plastic production set to double by 2050, immediate action is needed to address plastic waste pollution and the inefficiencies of existing recycling systems. Chemical recycling could help process lower-grade feedstocks, significantly upping the amount of plastic that can be given a second life, but is the sector ready to do so?

On today’s show, Dana is joined by Kirti Vasta, a senior associate from BloombergNEF’s sustainable materials team. Together they discuss the different forms chemical recycling can take, what’s driving investment in the space, and the unexpected places that recycled plastics can go.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com

Links to research notes from this episode:

Chemical Recycling of Plastics (Part 1): Market Update - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32709

Chemical Recycling of Plastics (Part 2): Tech and Costs - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32963

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mind the EV Battery Recycling Gap

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000

As electric vehicle sales skyrocket, so too will the need for EV batteries and the metals that make them work. That’s where recycling comes in. By 2035, some 3.7 million metric tons of batteries could be nearing the end of their lives. Pull them apart to repurpose their innards, and you could have 10-18% of the key materials needed for battery manufacturing.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF energy storage analyst Andy Leach. Together they discuss why production scrap from the manufacturing process is the most important feedstock for near-term recycling, how EV ownership rates across different regions will impact the longer-term availability of key metals, and the policies and incentives that are designed to encourage and enforce battery recycling.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Market Outlook 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33401

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wind and Solar Scale Up as China Builds Megabases

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The Chinese government is rolling out one of the world’s most ambitious clean energy plans, targeting 1,200 gigawatts of installed renewable capacity by 2030. Part of their strategy involves building megabases, huge clean-energy developments that will generate more than one-third of the targeted total. Yet bringing a multi-gigawatt megabase to fruition, and doing it on such a tight time scale, is no minor feat.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF analysts Tianyi Zhao and Xiangyu Chen. Together they discuss the policies that are driving megabase rollout, how the enormous demand for wind and solar equipment is impacting prices, and the new ultra-high voltage grids that will carry the power generated from remote megabases to major cities.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

China’s Unprecedented 455GW Energy Megabase Plan - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33031

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EVs Race Ahead of Renewables in Transition Investment

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

At the beginning of each year, BloombergNEF releases the Energy Transition Investment Trends report, its definitive resource on global investment in the low-carbon energy transition. Since the report’s inception a decade ago, investment levels have steadily risen, breaking the $1 trillion mark in 2021 and reaching a record $1.5 trillion in 2022. Was 2023 another record year for energy transition investment, and which sectors saw the most notable growth or decline?

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BNEF’s Deputy CEO, Albert Cheung, and Head of Technology and Innovation, Mark Daly. They discuss financing global supply chains, which clean energy technologies are on track for meeting net-zero targets, and whether climate tech equity financing has rebounded from recent lows.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Energy Transition Investment Trends 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33273

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are We Addicted to Cars? The Case for Public Transport

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

California has long been proactive when it comes to environmental policy, implementing measures ranging from a carbon market to put a price on emissions, to legislation to phase out the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars. But are current policies going far enough, and what can be done to ensure the state’s position as the climate leader in the US?

On today’s show, we bring you an interview from our recent San Francisco Summit, where California State Senator Scott Wiener sat down with Corey Cantor, a Senior Associate in BloombergNEF’s Electric Vehicle team. Together they discuss California’s need for better public transportation alongside the shift to cleaner cars, the new law Wiener spearheaded on corporate emissions disclosure, and the potential impact of a Trump second term on the Golden State.

Today’s episode was recorded live at BNEF's San Francisco Summit. To learn more about our Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things to Watch: Hydrogen

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

On today’s bonus episode of the podcast, Dana is joined by Kathy Gao, a Senior Associate from BloombergNEF’s Hydrogen team, to unpack the things to watch for the sector in 2024.

Together they discuss offtake agreements and the potential for shipping and aviation to step up as customers, whether nuclear could become a viable method of hydrogen production among the plethora of available options, and the policies that could drive supply and demand in the year ahead.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Hydrogen: 10 Things to Watch for 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33105/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street Gets Greener But Fossil-Fuel Habit Lingers

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

For every dollar supporting fossil-fuel supply, at least $4 must be put towards low-carbon energy this decade to keep the world on track to limit warming to 1.5C. But are the capital flows of corporations and financial institutions anywhere close to this balance? BloombergNEF has devised the Energy Supply Investment and Bank-Facilitated Financing Ratios to find out.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by two of BNEF’s Sustainable Finance Associates, Trina White and Ryan Loughead. Together they discuss how energy financing varies by geography, how the sector has been performing against the wider market for debt and equity, and the ratios required to 2030 and in the decades ahead.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Energy Supply Investment and Bank Financing Ratios 2022 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33005

Energy Supply Banking Ratio Tool (ESBRT 2.0.1) - https://www.bnef.com/insights/30865

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things to Watch: Industrial Decarbonization

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

On today’s bonus episode of the podcast, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Industrial Decarbonization Specialist, Julia Attwood, to discuss what to watch in this space in 2024.

Together they talk about the expanding opportunities to use captured CO2 and the growth in storage capacity for this gas, the momentum in large-scale chemical recycling of plastics, and the potential decarbonization of the steel and cement sectors.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Industrial Decarbonization: Things to Watch in 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33115

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things to Watch: Wind

Sat, 03 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

On today’s bonus episode of the podcast, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Wind Research, Oliver Metcalfe, to discuss the things to watch for the wind sector in 2024.

Together they talk about whether this year will offer a more stable environment for offshore wind development, if auctions for such projects will see more success, and the challenges facing Chinese turbine makers.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Wind: 10 Things to Watch in 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33227

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Election Fever: Fate of Climate Fight Hangs in Balance

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Set against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, this year will see elections taking place in markets that account for a combined 67% of global GDP. With the uncertainty that changes in leadership can bring, could these crucial votes lead to a slowing of investment in the energy transition as investors wait for the results and clear policy direction?

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Global Policy, Victoria Cuming, and US policy analyst, Derrick Flakoll. Together they discuss the implications for the Inflation Reduction Act should Donald Trump return to the White House, how useful polling data really is, and if growing right-leaning sentiment will be reflected in the upcoming European Parliament elections.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Wave of Elections Poses Risk for the Energy Transition - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33191

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things to Watch: Aluminum, Copper and Steel

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

On today’s bonus episode of the podcast, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF metals analyst Yuchen Huo, to discuss the things to watch in industrial metals markets in 2024.

Together they talk about what a continued slump in China’s property sector could mean for steel demand, how the expansion of electricity grids will drive the need for copper, and the impact of the ongoing surge in solar power capacity on aluminum.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Industrial Metals Monthly: Things to Watch in 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33089/view

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gas Versus Solar: South Africa’s Battle to Ditch Coal

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

With an energy mix dominated by aging and increasingly unreliable coal power plants, South Africans have been putting up with rolling blackouts all the way back to 2007. The government’s latest energy strategy lays out a path to reduce these electricity shortages by replacing coal-fired generation. But rather than renewables being the natural successor, the focus is instead on gas.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by BloombergNEF’s Head of Regional Energy Transitions, Emma Champion. Together they discuss why South Africa is still looking to fossil fuels for its power supply, why the new energy blueprint has rolled back utility-scale solar targets as smaller rooftop installations boom, and the attractiveness of the country as a renewable energy investment opportunity versus other markets in the region.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

South Africa Favors Gas Over Solar as Successor to Coal - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33121

Climatescope 2023 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32751

South Africa Power Transition Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32751

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Road Ahead for EVs in 2024: BYD and Tesla Break Away

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The start of each year sees BloombergNEF look at what could play out across the energy transition over the next 12 months. During January, Switched On will interview the brains behind the ‘Things to Watch’ series, starting with what to expect from the electric vehicle market.

On today’s episode, Dana sits down with Colin McKerracher, BNEF’s Head of Advanced Transport. Together, they discuss the race between Tesla and BYD to claim the global EV sales crown, the new opportunities presented by emerging markets, and whether 2024 could be the year that oil demand sees a real dent from the shift to electric drivetrains.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

EVs and Clean Transport: 10 Things to Watch in 2024 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/33099

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fires, Floods and Freezes: The Cost of Climate Change

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 10:30:00 +0000

Extreme weather events like fires and floods are causing companies to take a closer look at the physical risks posed by climate change, and how they could impact their income and balance sheets.

Despite the financial threat posed, awareness of physical risk is currently low and exposure to potential losses and damage is still underreported in financial disclosures. As demand for transparency grows among investors and policymakers, what is the actual scale of the threat from physical climate risk, and what can be done to improve reporting and data collection?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Danya Liu, an analyst from BloombergNEF’s climate risk team. Together, they discuss the different forms physical risk can take and which weather events leave the largest financial impact, why the financial services industry is especially vulnerable to climate-driven catastrophes, and how insurers could help improve awareness of physical risk and data reporting.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Beyond Fire and Floods: Firms Gauge Costs of Physical Risk - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32983

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BNEF Pioneers Award 2023: Metals and Materials

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

BNEF Pioneers is BloombergNEF’s annual climate-tech competition identifying game-changing innovations with the potential to accelerate global decarbonization and halt climate change. Last year, awards were given in three categories: accelerating the deployment of hydrogen, building a net-zero food production system, and sustainable metals and materials for an electrified future.

On today’s show, Dana is joined by guest host Benjamin Kafri, BNEF’s Head of Client Relations and Innovation, to explore the third of these categories. Together, they interview representatives from Jetti, Nth-Cycle and Li-Cycle, the three Pioneers Award winners dedicated to cleaning up the world’s metals and materials supply chains.

Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

BloombergNEF's 2024 Pioneers Award page - https://about.bnef.com/bnefpioneers/

BloombergNEF's 2023 Pioneers Award winners - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31219

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farming’s New Frontier: AI Steers Path to Green Future

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Pesticides are considered an indispensable part of modern agriculture, but with links to environmental damage and soil pollution, their use comes at a cost. Could cutting-edge technologies that harness artificial intelligence help clean up farming’s chemical footprint?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Alexander Liddington from BloombergNEF’s sustainable agriculture team. Together, they discuss the positive environmental impact and cost savings that ‘green-on-green’ detection could have for farmers, as advanced cameras and AI are deployed to identify the weeds hiding among crops. They also explore the limitations of drones for precision pest control and whether pesticide manufacturers are embracing the technological revolution.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Precision Pesticide Delivery: Booming, to Spray the Least - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32161

AGCO and Trimble Link Up to Develop Anti-Weed Weaponry - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s2eenwdwlu6801

Bayer Enters Collision Path With Farm Equipment Makers - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s4gjmbt1um0w01

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OPEC and Peak Oil: Future of Energy in the Middle East

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

The final agreement signed at the COP28 climate summit marked a significant step forward, addressing for the first time the need to transition away from fossil fuels. Among its signatories were oil-and gas-rich nations in the Middle East, many of whom currently center their economies around the export of fossil fuels. But what are these countries’ clean energy plans, and do they have alternative business models to offset the potential losses from a greener future?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Philip Geurts, an analyst from BloombergNEF’s oil team, to talk about the Middle East. Together, they discuss OPEC+ and the significant output cuts from some of its members, the debate over when and if peak oil demand will be reached, and whether hydrogen offers the region a realistic path away from fossil-fuel production.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Fossil Fuels Are Raking in Investments in Emerging Markets - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s53df5dwx2ps00?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6InNob3J0IiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbIjJkNjM3YWE4NDExYjNiMjUiLCIyZDYzN2FhODQxMWI0YjA5Il0sImF1dGhvciI6W119

Hydrogen Hard-Pressed to Become Pillar of Big Oil’s Future - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32349/view

$290 Billion Oil Cash Edge Allows Late Mideast Transition - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32111

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guarding the Grid: Hackers Target Smarter Power System

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:51:53 +0000

As power grids evolve to accommodate new clean energy sources and smart technology, they are becoming more vulnerable to cyberattackers looking to exploit weaknesses in these increasingly connected systems. But what form do these attacks take, and what can be done to prevent them in the first place?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Amanda Ahl from BloombergNEF’s grids and utilities team. Together they discuss what form a cyberattack on the grid can take and the scale of damage it can cause, the marketplace for cybersecurity and costs involved in securing networks, and how utilities can future-proof their infrastructure against new artificial intelligence and quantum computing threats.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Guarding the Grid: Utilities Fortify Cyber Defenses - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32631

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Offshore Wind Blows Cold as Interest Rates Heat Up

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:50:00 +0000

With a quarter of offshore wind project deals having been canceled in the US this year, the Biden administration’s target of having 30 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2030 is looking even further out of reach. But why are developers coming under so much pressure and are these strains also being felt onshore?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Chelsea Jean-Michel and Atin Jain from BloombergNEF’s wind team. Together, they discuss the impact of inflation and interest rate hikes on US offshore wind projects, why some developers are allowed to re-bid on contracts they’ve canceled, and also why Texas is a bright spot for the rollout of onshore turbines.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Global Wind Market Outlook 2H 2023 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32859?context=eyJxIjoib25zaG9yZSIsImNvbnRlbnRUeXBlIjoiaW5zaWdodCIsInJlZ2lvbiI6W10sInNlY3RvciI6WyIyZDYzN2FhODQxMTJiOTg4Il0sImF1dGhvciI6W10sImluc2lnaHQtdHlwZSI6W119

Offshore Wind Market Outlook 2H 2023: Ramp-Up Delayed - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32797

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cruising to a Million: US EV Sales Near Key Milestone

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 11:20:43 +0000

The US has historically lagged behind mainland China and Europe for electric vehicle ownership, but is this about to change? If you believe GM and Ford, who cite falling demand for the delaying of their near-term EV sales targets, the logical answer would be no. But here at BloombergNEF, we’ve been crunching the numbers and what they show is not only are US sales of battery-electric cars rising, they are poised to cross the 1 million mark this year.

On today’s show, Corey Cantor from BNEF’s EV team returns to talk with Dana. Together they discuss how the Inflation Reduction Act has supercharged the US market, whether red or blue states have the highest EV uptake, and whether Rivian can cross the ‘EV valley of death’ to scale from a startup to mass production.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Rivian’s Path Through ‘EV Valley of Death’ Looking Clearer - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32741

US Annual EV Sales Close In on 1 Million All-Electric Cars - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s3va1ydwx2ps01?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6InNob3J0IiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbIjQwNjI3Il19

US EVs Hit 1 Million Annual Sales - With Time to Spare - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s20elht0g1kw01?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6InNob3J0IiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbIjQwNjI3Il19

EV Sales Speed Past the 10% Tipping Point in 10 US States - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s1p7zydwx2ps01?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6InNob3J0IiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbIjQwNjI3Il19

Biden States Faster to Adopt EVs But It’s Not All Politics - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s1nv4tt0g1kw01?context=eyJjb250ZW50VHlwZSI6InNob3J0IiwicmVnaW9uIjpbXSwic2VjdG9yIjpbXSwiYXV0aG9yIjpbIjQwNjI3Il19

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Solar Supply Glut Crushes Margins But Buildout Booming

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

It’s a good news, bad news situation for solar right now. On the one hand, annual installations are continuing to break records, with China set to build almost as much solar this year as the entire world rolled out in 2022. But on the other hand, the industry is suffering from a supply glut, weighing on the prices and margins of module makers. What is driving China’s boom and will the global momentum continue? Are there any underestimated threats to growth beyond grid bottlenecks?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Jenny Chase, lead solar analyst at BloombergNEF. Together, they discuss the latest outlook for solar, the onshoring of US production and whether its modules can be competitive against cheaper foreign producers, and the role solar can play in ambitions to triple global renewables capacity by the end of the decade.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Global PV Market Outlook, 4Q 2023 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32793

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gridlock: US Struggles to Make Enough Transformers

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:54:45 +0000

Large power transformers, or LPTs for short, are integral for the functioning of the energy grid. But with BloombergNEF forecasting that the US will need to nearly double its units by 2030, will the country manage to meet the demand, or could it be facing further bottlenecks?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Eva Gonzalez Isla from BNEF’s modeling team. Together, they discuss what large power transformers are and what they do, US government policy and whether it has been aiding or hampering production, and the countries that are making up for a shortfall in the US’s transformer production capacity. Today’s episode draws from the BNEF research note US Risks Power Transformer Supply Gap Becoming a Chasm.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

US Risks Power Transformer Supply Gap Becoming a Chasm - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32571

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CCS Extends Its Reach Beyond Oil and Gas

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:01:21 +0000

Investment in carbon capture and storage is skyrocketing. Last year, the technology attracted some $6.4 billion globally, more than double the year before. But why are industries now looking to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) to cut down on their carbon emissions, rather than other, better-established methods?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Allen Tom Abraham and Anastasia Tomasidou from BNEF’s Sustainable Materials team. Together, they take a look at the various sectors that are utilizing CCS technology, methods of carbon capture and storage and potential bottlenecks in the existing system, and the role that policy plays in the expansion of CCS across the globe.

Today’s episode draws from the BNEF research note CCUS Market Outlook 2023.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

CCUS Market Outlook 2023 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32621

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retreat or Engage? Green Investors’ Big Oil Dilemma

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:07:33 +0000

Oil and gas majors have long stated their intention to diversify away from fossil fuels and move toward clean energy production. However, in the last few years, many have wound back these plans, shooting for less ambitious targets or returning to their traditional business models. Against this backdrop, can climate-conscious investors hold major fossil-fuel companies to account?

On today’s show, BNEF Sustainable Finance analyst Ryan Loughead hosts a conversation on oil and gas investment with panelists Annika Brouwer, Sustainability Specialist at Ninety One Asset Management; Ronan Hodge, Technical Lead from the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ); Thina Saltvedt, Chief Analyst in Sustainable Finance at Nordea Bank; and Peter Taylor, Corporate Engagement Programme Director for the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC). Together they discuss the different approaches of asset managers who keep oil and gas investments on their books, the challenges around divesting from fossil-fuel holdings, and the varying strategies of oil and gas majors themselves.

Today’s episode was recorded live at BNEF Summit London. To learn more about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate Risks and Rewards: Rating Companies’ Exposure

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:50:06 +0000

Climate change and the transition to a net-zero economy presents both opportunities and risks to companies and assets. But how might an investor assess this exposure?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Tifenn Brandily and Mike Daly from BNEF’s Transition Risk team to take a look at two proprietary models, the Clean Energy Exposure Ratings and the Transition Risk Assessment Company Tool. Delving into the methodology behind these, Tifenn and Mike explain how they analyze revenues generated by less-transparent industries, and which sectors are most exposed to the transition’s risks and rewards.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Transition Risk Assessment Company Tool (TRACT) - https://www.bnef.com/insights/28081

Clean Energy Exposure Portfolio Tool (CEEPT) - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31449

BNEF Clean Energy Exposure Ratings 2023 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31451

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crises Collide: Balancing Net Zero and Energy Security

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Energy security has come into sharp focus over the past two years, as the shifting geopolitical landscape shakes up power markets around the world. To help customers, numerous governments have introduced regulatory mechanisms to tackle inflation and strengthen domestic energy requirements. But in some instances, these policies have undermined climate goals and even had knock-on effects to the stability of utilities companies themselves. So just how damaging have the last few years been, and are we still on track to meet our net-zero goals?

On today’s show, BNEF’s Deputy CEO, Albert Cheung, hosts a conversation on energy security with panelists Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy; Georgios Stassis, CEO and Chair of Public Power Corporation; and Rui Teixeira, CFO of EDP. Together they discuss the energy ‘trilemma’ of sustainability, affordability and security, including what’s required to increase the pace of clean energy deployment and the compatibility of ever-increasing fossil-fuel investments with a net-zero future.

Today’s episode was recorded live at BNEF Summit London. To learn more about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, please visit https://about.bnef.com/summit/.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pulling Carbon From the Sky: A Pricey Climate Solution

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:28:59 +0000

Removing carbon directly from the air might seem like a technology of the distant future, but ‘direct air capture’ is increasingly becoming a reality, especially as companies try to figure out how they’re going to meet their net-zero targets. How does DAC actually work, and how seriously should we take it compared to other means of carbon removal?

On today’s show, Dana sits down with Sharon Mustri and Brenna Casey from BNEF’s Sustainable Materials team. Together they take a look at the companies that are investing in DAC, the cost of this technology as well as its rival carbon removal methods, and how one can go about storing all that carbon once it’s been filtered and captured.

Today’s episode draws from the BNEF research note Direct Air Capture: Market and Cost Outlook, which assesses the DAC market through 2050.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Direct Air Capture: Market and Cost Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32021

Amazon, Microsoft Boost Demand for Carbon Removal Tech - https://www.bnef.com/shorts/s16pkct0g1kw01

Occidental’s Big Buy May Alter Path of $150 Billion Market - https://www.bnef.com/insights/32055

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japan Revisits Nuclear But Solar and Wind Are Future

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:28:46 +0000

Japan has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, yet the pathways to this target are complicated by the country’s recent history. In the aftermath of the 2011 Fukushima meltdown, Japan suspended all of its nuclear reactors, which at the time supplied one third of the nation’s energy. Today, the majority of these reactors still lie dormant, and fossil fuels are filling the energy void.

So how can Japan achieve its climate goals? On today’s show, Dana sits down with Isshu Kikuma, an associate from BNEF’s Tokyo office. Together they talk about the clean energy technologies Japan is using to replace its fossil fuel outlay, the country’s still-complex relationship with nuclear energy, and the surprising group that’s currently blocking the nation’s geothermal energy potential.

Today’s episode draws upon themes found in BNEF’s New Energy Outlook: Japan. The regional New Energy Outlook reports analyze local technology pathways to reach net zero and the policy recommendations BNEF identifies as key for a successful transition.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

NEO Japan - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31823/view

Geothermal in Japan: A Tale of Hot Springs Vs Net Zero - https://www.bnef.com/insights/30857

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winter Gas Outlook: Cautious Optimism as LNG Steps Up

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

It’s been a volatile year for natural gas. Last winter, global gas prices spiked in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and European nations rushed to replace sanctioned Russian pipeline supply. North America increased LNG exports with most of these volumes going to Europe to meet higher demand for seaborne cargoes. Prices have since normalized thanks to a relatively mild winter, helping the spot demand recovery in Asia. But now, as cold weather returns, European and North Asian demand, and global gas supplies are once again in the spotlight.

On today’s show, Dana speaks to Iryna Sereda, BNEF’s Head of European Gas, and Abhishek Rohatgi, the Head of Global LNG and APAC Gas, about their newly published Winter Gas Outlook. Together they discuss European gas inventories, Asian markets, where new supply is coming online, and how demand dynamics are shifting around the world. They also talk about how climate events from El Niño to global warming are complicating gas market forecasts and why they remain cautiously optimistic for the year ahead.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Global LNG Winter Gas Outlook 2023-24 - https://about.bnef.com/blog/global-lng-winter-outlook-2023-24/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lithium Rush: The Key Metal Powering the EV Revolution

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Lithium is integral to the majority of electric vehicle battery chemistries, making it one of the world’s most sought-after metals. Once it’s out of ground, who controls the supply of lithium and its refining? With the majority of major diversified miners not actively taking part in lithium extraction, who are the companies involved in this space?

On today’s show, Dana speaks with Ellie Gomes-Callus from BNEF’s metals and mining team, and Dr. Andy Leach from the energy storage team. Together, they discuss the different methods of lithium mining and their varying ecological impacts, why the major diversified miners are largely avoiding the extraction of this metal, and the relationship between lithium and different battery chemistries. They also consider whether sodium-ion technology poses a threat to lithium’s current dominance.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

1H 2023 Battery Metals Outlook: Shift In Demand Dynamics

Energy Transition Metals Production Scores: Australia Top

Sodium-ion Batteries Target China’s Mini EVs to Cut Costs

Rio Tinto Doubles Down on Lithium Mining With Rwanda Deal

Battery Metals Monthly - August 2023

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Domino Effect: How Tesla Is Winning the Charging War

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:41:04 +0000

When it comes to charging an electric vehicle in the US, drivers face a complex landscape. Tesla currently dominates the sector with its highly efficient stations and ultra-fast chargers, but an array of companies are vying for a share of this burgeoning market. And with $7.5 billion from the Biden administration’s NEVI program now available for building out the nation’s charging network, the competition is hotter than ever. On today’s show, Dana speaks to Ryan Fisher, BNEF’s head of EV Charging, and Corey Cantor, a Senior Associate from BNEF’s New York office. Together they discuss the different US charging networks, who owns them, how many chargers they each have. They also discuss how the public charger rollout varies from state to state, the subsidies involved, and whether anyone is in a position to challenge Tesla.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Automakers Assemble for US EV Charging - Six Years Late - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31871

EV Charging Outlook 2023: Grounds for Optimism - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31781

GM Crawls Back to Twitter and Tesla to Save EV Ambitions - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31583/view

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Ammonia: From Fertilizer to Fuel of the Future

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:21:04 +0000

Ammonia is one of the world’s most widely used chemicals, found in everything from fertilizers to explosives. But this tiny, crucial molecule has a heavy carbon footprint, with ammonia production and end use applications accounting for 2-3% of emissions worldwide. Now, green ammonia could be within reach, as hydrogen, its key component, moves toward an emissions-free production process of its own. To find out more, Dana speaks with Adithya Bhashyam, an Associate from BNEF’s Hydrogen team. Together they explore the relationship between ammonia and hydrogen, ammonia’s potential as a clean shipping fuel, and the prospect of using ammonia as a more efficient means of transporting green hydrogen itself.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Ammonia Market Primer: The Struggle to Go Green

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G-20 Sherpa Sees India as a Global Hydrogen Champion

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:27:24 +0000

This month, BNEF’s New Delhi Summit took place alongside the B20 meetings, the official business community engagement forum for the G20. Among BNEF’s guests was Amitabh Kant, the G20 Sherpa for the Indian government, who sat down for a conversation with BNEF CEO Jon Moore on the Summit stage. Amitabh has had a long career in public service, including serving as the Secretary for India’s Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, the Chairman and CEO of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corporation, and the Secretary for the Indian Ministry of Tourism. He is now the CEO of the Government of India’s think tank NITI Aayog. Together, he and Jon discussed Amitabh’s vision for Indian green hydrogen production, the nation’s expanding EV sector, and how attracting private capital investment will help decarbonize India’s hard-to-abate sectors.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Information on upcoming BNEF summits - https://about.bnef.com/summit/

Videos of interview and talks from previous BNEF summits - https://www.bnef.com/videos?video-type=summit

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Cream of the Crop: The Business of Plant-Based Milk

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The dairy industry relies on 270 million cows to produce over 600 million tons of milk annually, and these cows are having a significant impact on the environment. Plant-based milks have been presented as an alternative, a dairy-free way for us to enjoy our milk and be more environmentally conscious, too. But how does the plant-based milk business work, and just how clean is the industry in comparison to dairy? On today’s show, Dana speaks with Sarrah Raza, a Technology and Innovations Analyst from BNEF’s New York office. Together they discuss a variety of plant-based milk alternatives and their ecological footprints, the major companies that are operating in the space, and how agricultural policies in the US are helping keep plant-milk prices high.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Milking Crops Not Cows: A Primer on Plant-Based Dairy - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31455

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Power Grids: The Backbone of the Race to Net Zero

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The transmission grid is a topic that reaches across many of our episodes, but it’s never before been the center of attention. That changes today. While the installation of clean energy equipment is essential for the net-zero transition, the grid that delivers this electricity to consumers is equally critical. On today’s show, Dana speaks to Meredith Annex, BNEF’s Head of Clean Power, and Sanjeet Sanghera, Head of Grids and Utilities at BNEF. Together they discuss the transmission grid and why it’s so important, which nations are successfully upgrading their grids (and which are failing), and the scale of materials and buildout necessary to prepare the grid for a net-zero world.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

New Energy Outlook: Grids - https://www.bnef.com/insights/30899

Spain Fights Off Its Grid Connection Woes - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31137

Germany's Grid Holds Up Against Renewables Influx So Far - https://www.bnef.com/insights/30949

Grid Connection Queues Threaten Europe’s Net-Zero Goals - https://www.bnef.com/insights/30897

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Ercot’s Extremes: Weather, Solar and Bitcoin

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The Texas power grid has had a volatile few years. As temperatures in the Lone Star State soared earlier this summer, power prices spiked to nearly $5,000 per megawatt-hour. However, that eye-watering price tag paled in comparison to what happened after Winter Storm Uri in February 2021, when per-MWh prices hit a staggering $9,000. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (Ercot) has a grid structure unlike any other in the US, but equally unique are some of its solutions for handling grid flexibility. On today’s show, Dana speaks with Thomas Rowlands-Rees, BNEF’s Head of Research for North America, and BNEF Associate for US Power Nathalie Limandibhratha. Together they discuss the way ERCOT operates, how Bitcoin mines are impacting grid flexibility and the state’s growing renewable energy rollout.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Texas Is Sizzling, But Renewables Keep Power Prices Cool

Ercot Market Outlook: Everything Depends on Bitcoin

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Forging a Clean Future: The Challenge for Steelmakers

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:21:02 +0000

Steel is one of the world’s most widely used materials. It also accounts for 7-8% of global emissions, and ‘greening’ its production process presents an enormous challenge. So how can manufacturers decarbonize this crucial product? On today’s episode, Dana talks with Dr Julia Attwood, BNEF’s Head of Sustainable Materials, and Yuchen Tang, a sustainable materials analyst from Bloomberg’s Beijing office. Together they discuss the tech that’s helping steel manufacturers reduce their emissions, how the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism is impacting steel manufacturing, and the role nuclear power could play in the sector.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Decarbonizing Steel: Corporate Strategies - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31199

Decarbonizing Steel: Company Profiles - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31409

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Mining for Scrap: The Future of Green Aluminum

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:08:08 +0000

Aluminum is one of the most commonly used metals today, appearing in everything from new buildings to food packaging. But what, exactly, makes aluminum such an important metal, and why are its emissions so difficult to abate? On today’s show, Dana talks to Dr Kwasi Ampofo, BNEF’s head of metals and mining. Together they offer a deep dive into aluminum production and consumption, discussing not only the metal’s applications across a range of sectors, but also the sky-high energy needs of primary aluminum production, the importance of aluminum scrap and recycling, and how ‘urban mining’ could help alleviate supply-chain snags.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Global Scrap Outlook: Filling the Supply Gap

Transition Metals Outlook 2023

Global Aluminum Outlook, 2021-2040

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Embracing Imperfectionism, with Charles Conn

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Imperfection is usually considered a negative, but is there something to be said for embracing ‘imperfectionism’? What can we learn from failures, and what are the mindsets and tools we need to turn imperfect outcomes into long-term gains? On today’s show Dana talks with Charles Conn, the current chair of the Patagonia board, about his new book, The Imperfectionists: Strategic Mindsets for Uncertain Times. Together they discuss real-life applications for Conn’s six different mindsets, how AI illustrates a curiosity mindset in practice, and how imperfectionism can be harnessed to boost the climate-sensitive areas of our economy.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

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Electric Vehicle Outlook 2023: On the Road to Net Zero

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 13:50:49 +0000

Electric vehicle sales are gaining momentum around the world, ushering in the end of the internal combustion era. On today’s episode, Dana speaks with Colin McKerracher, BNEF’s Head of Advanced Transport, about his team’s newest Electric Vehicle Outlook. Delving into electrification, shared mobility and autonomous driving (among other factors), the annual report considers how road transport will evolve in the coming decades – and what these changes could mean for the automotive, energy, infrastructure and battery-materials markets.

Together, Dana and Colin dive into this flagship publication, considering policy changes and the pace of global EV adoption, the speed bumps that still face e-trucking and the advances in tech that could pave the road to net zero.

BNEF's Long-Term Electric Vehicle Outlook 2023 can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app. A publicly available executive summary can also be found here: https://www.bnef.com/flagships/ev-outlook

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Sun, Wind and Pink Tides in Latin America

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Clean energy is booming in Latin America, where wind and solar are breaking records year after year. But as the world battles inflation, can the trend continue? And can the region harness its clean-energy resources to become a key green hydrogen exporter? To find out more, Dana spoke with BNEF’s Head of Latin America Research, James Ellis, and São Paulo-based BNEF Associate Natalia Castilhos Rypl. Together they discuss the key findings from BNEF’s most recent Latin America Market Outlook, which nations are throwing their weight behind renewable energy installations, and whether the region could be on the brink of a green hydrogen boom.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

1H 2023 Latin America Market Outlook - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31585

Latin America’s Big Green Hydrogen Export Dreams May Slip - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31343

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Resourceful Diplomacy with Helaina Matza

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Countries are racing to acquire the rare minerals and resources necessary for clean energy tech. So how can they secure their own positions while also building strategic partnerships? Helaina Matza, who has spent her career as a diplomat and negotiator with the US Government, is here to help explain the process. Now the Deputy Special Presidential Coordinator for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, Helaina has also served as Director of Energy Transformation at the Bureau of Energy Resources and Director of Climate Diplomacy and Energy Transformation at the National Security Council in the White House.

Helaina sat down with BNEF Editor Kamala Schelling to discuss US policy and the energy transition, the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, and what her work as a diplomat has taught her about tackling climate change.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

To find out about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, go to https://about.bnef.com/summit/

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Perennial Possibilities for Agriculture

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:56:12 +0000

Agriculture, forestry and land use are among the most climate-sensitive areas of our economy. They also account for almost a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions, which begs the question: Can anything be done to reduce farming’s sizable carbon footprint? On today’s show, Dana talks to Caroline Lewis, an analyst from BNEF’s Sustainable Agriculture team, about perennial crops, one possible solution. Together they discuss the benefits of multiyear lifecycles, the evolution from annual to perennial cereals, and how these crops could aid carbon sequestration while also reducing overall emissions in the sector.

This podcast drew upon themes found in the BNEF research note, Perennial Cereals: The Root of Regenerative Agriculture. Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

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G-20 Climate Policy in Focus

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The last year has been a tough one for the G-20 member nations, with soaring energy prices and a global inflationary crisis. Against such a backdrop, what is happening to climate policies and net-zero targets? Victoria Cuming, Head of Global Policy at BloombergNEF, returns to the pod to talk with Dana about the 2023 edition of the G-20 Zero-Carbon Policy Scoreboard. Together they discuss a range of topics, including this year’s ‘winners and losers,’ the US Inflation Reduction Act’s global impact, and what the upcoming G-20 meeting may mean for climate goals worldwide.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

G-20 Zero-Carbon Policy Scoreboard: Issue 2023 - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31383

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DOE Loans and How to Get Them, with Jigar Shah

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 13:17:59 +0000

Have you ever wondered what it would take to get a clean energy transition loan from the US government? Jigar Shah knows all about it. An entrepreneur, podcaster, and director of the US Energy Department’s Loan Programs Office, Jigar helps businesses fund their clean energy transition while offering thought leadership in the field. He recently sat down with BNEF Senior Editor Vandana Gombar to discuss his current role, available DOE loans and how companies can apply for them, and who should pick up the tab for new transmission capacity in the US.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

To find out about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, go to https://about.bnef.com/summit/

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Webber on Entrepreneurship in the Energy Transition

Wed, 31 May 2023 10:59:58 +0000

From investing in startups and appearing on TV shows to writing books and teaching the next generation of entrepreneurs, Michael Webber, the CTO of Energy Impact Partners and the Josey Centennial Professor in Energy Resources at the University of Texas at Austin, brings an array of experiences and insights to the energy transition. On today’s episode, he joins BNEF Chief Editor Ben Vickers to discuss the art of entrepreneurship, what Energy Impact Partners look for when investing in startups, and how his time working with ENGIE helped him change his mind about ‘green’ hydrogen.

Complimentary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

To find out about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, go to about.bnef.com/summit/

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Will Biden’s IRA Spark a New Era in Clean-Tech Supply?

Fri, 26 May 2023 10:40:11 +0000

The passing of the Inflation Reduction Act by the Biden administration was partly designed to stimulate US clean-tech energy projects and equipment production. In the nine months since its introduction, has the IRA succeeded in increasing domestic renewables production, and what has been the reaction to it outside the US? On today’s show Antoine Vagneur-Jones, BNEF’s head of trade and supply chains, returns to talk to Dana. Together, they discuss a variety of topics, including the potential fracturing of existing supply chains as countries attempt to onshore their clean-tech production, the policies that other nations and trading blocs have introduced in response to the IRA, and the dangers posed to international net-zero targets by these structural shifts.

BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Energy Transition's New Industrial Landscape - https://about.bnef.com/blog/energy-transitions-new-industrial-landscape/

Europe's Bid to Reshore Clean Tech Pulls Its Punches - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31053

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What's in a Name? ESG and Greenwashing

Fri, 19 May 2023 16:56:00 +0000

For more than a century, the ESG label has been used to describe investments that take environmental, social and governance concerns into account. Recently, the label has become a political flashpoint, buffeted between lawsuits from the right and accusations of greenwashing from the left. So where does ESG investing go from here? On today’s show, Dana talks with Maia Godemer, a Senior Associate from BNEF’s Sustainable Finance team. Together they discuss a variety of topics, including how ESG fits into different investment strategies, the greenwashing risks attached to the label, and where ESG sits within the turbulent political landscape in the US.

BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

Links to research notes from this episode:

Mass ESG Fund Downgrades That Rocked Market May Be Reversed - https://www.bnef.com/news/1131545

Unpacking ESG ETFs' Fall From Grace - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31157

US Lawmakers Hoisted By Own Petard With Anti-ESG Push - https://www.bnef.com/insights/31121

To Stop Greenwashing We First Need to Agree on What It Is - https://www.bnef.com/insights/30359

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Powering the World’s Most Populous Country

Fri, 12 May 2023 14:05:09 +0000

Having overtaken China as the world’s most populous nation, and with a developing economy that’s rapidly industrializing, India’s energy demand is growing. But as other countries move toward green energy sources and net-zero targets, can India, this year’s G-20 host, find a way to successfully transition away from its coal-dominated energy market? On today’s show, Dana talks with Rohit Gadre, a Senior Associate from BNEF’s New Delhi office. Together they discuss a variety of topics, including the current makeup of India’s energy sector, the IPPs and global companies taking part in India’s energy auctions, and how – and whether – the country can achieve its net-zero goals.

BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app. BNEF Insight Notes cited in this podcast include, Renewables Meet Peak Power Demand in Latest India Auction and 1H 2023 India Renewables Market Outlook: A Turbulent Time. Information regarding BNEF's New Delhi Summit can be found at https://about.bnef.com/summit/newdelhi

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CEPSA Sets A New Strategy in ‘Positive Motion’

Fri, 05 May 2023 11:36:53 +0000

CEPSA, the Spanish multinational traditionally known for its oil and gas expertise, is looking toward a greener future with its new Positive Motion strategy. On today's show, Albert Cheung, Deputy CEO at BNEF, speaks with CEPSA CEO Maarten Wetselaar about what it means to rethink the future of a business that has traditionally focused on hydrocarbons. Together they discuss a variety of subjects, including how the implementation of the Positive Motion strategy is successfully transitioning the company across multiple sectors, conflicting approaches between public and private multinational investment in renewables, and recent international competition between nations within the green energy space.

Complimentary research from BNEF on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com, or on the BNEF mobile app.

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Presidential Hopeful Baswedan on a Net-Zero Indonesia

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 10:20:21 +0000

Presidential candidate Anies Baswedan spoke to BloombergNEF about his vision for a cleaner future for Indonesia. He shared his views on the country’s 2060 net-zero target, potential funding models for the transition of its domestic energy market, the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapid urbanization of Indonesia’s population, and how a targeted buildup of domestic industry could reduce its overall carbon footprint. Baswedan was interviewed by Ben Vickers, chief editor at BNEF.

Complementary research on Indonesia’s transition in energy, transport and commodities can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com, or on the BNEF mobile app.

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Biofuels and EV Charging in Carbon Credit Tussle

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:48:01 +0000

Carbon credit schemes in Europe and North America are making the roll-out of electric vehicle charging infrastructure increasingly profitable. In this episode of Switched On, we hear from BloombergNEF’s Ryan Fisher, electric vehicle charging specialist and Jade Patterson, renewable fuels specialist. They discuss what the proliferation of carbon credit schemes means for the future of biofuels and electric vehicles. Will the impacts differ in the near and longer term? What should we keep in mind when considering the role that carbon credit schemes play in decarbonization?

This podcast draws upon research found in the BNEF research notes titled EV Chargers, Biofuels Square Off in Billion-Dollar Tussle and Carbon Credits Could Be the Key to EV Charging Conundrum. Complementary research includes 2023 US Biofuels Outlook: Ethanol and Batteries and Biofuels Will Share Europe’s Roads. BNEF subscribers can find research at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

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Google Shakes Up Corporate Renewable Energy Purchasing

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 16:03:56 +0000

Renewable energy power purchase agreements have been integral to many companies’ sustainability strategies. Google was early to enter this space and is now thinking about how to take its targets a step further with around-the-clock carbon-free energy.

But what differentiates Google's new strategy from others that are predominantly based on power purchase agreements, and how does this impact the broader decarbonization of electricity grids? In today’s show, Caroline Golin, global head of energy market development and policy at Google, shares her views. She is interviewed by Kyle Harrison, head of sustainability research at BloombergNEF.

Complementary research from BNEF on corporate sustainability strategies and power purchase agreements can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or on the BNEF mobile app.

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Graichen on Germany’s Way Out of the Energy Crisis

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 16:26:30 +0000

Although the end of winter is approaching, the energy crisis will not end when flowers bloom in the spring. Policymakers around the world are hard at work and considering the actions that will ensure energy security at an affordable price for their country. In this episode of Switched On, Germany’s Dr. Patrick Graichen, State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, sits down in conversation with Emma Champion, Head of Regional Energy Transitions at BloombergNEF. They discuss Germany’s approach to the energy crisis and the things we need to watch in the months, seasons and years ahead.

Subscribers can read related research on the energy transition at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or on our mobile app.

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Electrolyzers Help Heat Up the Great Hydrogen Debate

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 17:48:56 +0000

Hydrogen's role in the energy transition is hotly debated. Technology costs, the practicalities of distribution and storage, and potential applications in hard-to-abate industries are just a few of the discussion topics surrounding this little molecule. In today’s show, we consider the future of hydrogen by zooming in on the electrolyzer market. Cumulative electrolyzer installations are expected to grow from 2 gigawatts in 2022 to roughly 240 gigawatts by 2030. Europe and China are already major electrolyzer markets, and with the advent of the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the hydrogen market in the United States is likely to grow. Today’s show features BNEF hydrogen analysts Adithya Bashyam and Matthew Bravante, who draw upon insights found in BNEF's Global Electrolyzer Outlook 2030 as they lead us through this fascinating field. Subscribers can read this BNEF research note at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or on our mobile app.

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Expanding Charging Networks with Melanie Lane, Shell Recharge

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:51:23 +0000

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining market share and reducing transportation-related emissions around the world. Facilitating this roll-out are the critical charging networks. When supplied with clean energy, these networks can further decarbonize vehicles, and their expansion can combat range anxiety and facilitate user adoption. On today’s episode of Switched On, Colin McKerracher, Head of Advanced Transport at BloombergNEF, speaks with Melanie Lane, CEO of Shell Recharge Solutions Europe, about the role of charging networks in the broader EV landscape, challenges the industry is currently facing and how EV networks may shape our future. Related research on Advanced Transportation can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com or on our mobile app.

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Shifting Supply Chains for Batteries and Solar

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 17:03:13 +0000

When Covid-19 disrupted global supply chains, many people realized for the first time how vulnerable these complex systems really are. Some Western governments have responded by looking to expand manufacturing on their own soil. In today’s episode, we are joined by Antoine Vagneur-Jones, BNEF’s Head of Trade and Supply Chains, to discuss what a turn toward domestic clean-energy manufacturing may mean for battery and solar value chains. As Antoine explains, any such shift would bring benefits – but also come at a cost.

This podcast is based on the BNEF Research Note titled Localizing Clean Energy Supply Chains Comes at a Cost. This can be read at BNEF < GO> on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com or via our mobile app. This episode was produced by Mariko O'Neil.

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COP27 Scorecard Comes Up Short After Overtime

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 15:11:51 +0000

The 27th Conference of the Parties has concluded in Egypt, with the annual UN climate summit finally reaching a deal after two days of overtime. In today’s show, we take a closer look at the Sharm el-Sheikh Implementation Plan.

Headed into COP27, many referred to the event as the “implementation COP,” given the need to deliver on previous commitments. To tell us how this year’s COP performed against stated objectives, we speak with Victoria Cuming, global head of policy at BNEF. From loss and damage, to carbon trading, to funding the $100 billion of climate finance promised to developing nations, Vicky shares her scorecard on how this COP measured up against expectations.

This podcast is based off the BNEF research note “Implementation COP Fails to Implement Much Climate Action.” It can be read at BNEF< GO> on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com or via our mobile app.

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Rewiring the European Electricity Grid with Chris Peeters, Elia Group

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:01:35 +0000

Europe is constructing a more flexible electricity grid to prepare for what is shaping up to be a volatile transition to net zero. There is a range of projects ranging from the mega, such as the proposal to build artificial islands in the North Sea, to the micro, for example, deploying distributed resources to make residential and industrial customers more flexible. In this episode, Sanjeet Sanghera speaks with Chris Peeters, CEO of Elia Group. They explore what Elia is doing in both of these domains of grid flexibility and how Europe is preparing for this winter.

Research on electricity grids by BloombergNEF can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or on BNEF's mobile app.

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Europe Breaks Up With Natural Gas

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 17:18:27 +0000

Natural gas prices remain elevated and security of supply is uncertain. In Europe, the reduced flows of natural gas coming from Russia have impacted everything from home heating to manufacturing. As we head into winter in the Northern Hemisphere, what is likely to happen in natural gas markets and what factors are important to consider when we think about implications beyond this year? In today’s episode, we hear from Stefan Ulrich and Arun Toora, who are both European gas specialists at BNEF. They address outstanding questions like whether Europe has enough gas in storage to make it through this winter and how big of a role demand destruction could play.

Complimentary research from BNEF includes the ‘European Gas Winter Outlook 2022: Demand Swings Too Far?’ and ‘Global LNG Winter Outlook 2022-2023.’ These can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com and on our mobile app.

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Sowing Seeds of Innovation with Agriculture Offsets

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 10:37:22 +0000

The voluntary carbon offsets market is growing as companies and countries look to meet their climate goals. Offsets from agriculture have been getting attention recently. While they comprise only 1% of total offsets today, their potential to spur innovation and change in agricultural practices means there is scope for a much bigger impact. From soil management to livestock-related activities, farmers are at the heart of the agriculture offsets market.

Today, we speak about what agriculture carbon offsets are, what one needs to think about when considering whether the emissions reductions are additional, and who is keeping an eye on them. To provide us with those details, Kyle Harrison, Head of Sustainability Research at BNEF, joins us on the show.

For further reading on this topic, BNEF subscribers can read, Agriculture Carbon Offsets Outlook: Barren to Bountiful, at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, and bnef.com or via our mobile app.

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Africa and The Road Not Taken

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:46:17 +0000

Several countries in Africa are looking to expand their energy systems to meet rising electricity demand. The question remains whether they will industrialize in the same way developed nations have done in the past, or whether they will install a greater proportion of low-carbon technologies. The region is at an inflection point and just like in Robert Frost’s poem The Road Not Taken, choosing the road less traveled may have benefits.

As we look ahead to the COP27 summit, which will be held in Egypt in November 2022, climate finance for the developing world will be in the spotlight. Today, we speak with Chasity McFadden, an energy transition analyst at BloombergNEF focused on Africa, about what she is seeing in the region. Through case studies in Namibia and South Africa, we think about what the future energy system could look like in Sub-Saharan Africa.

For additional information, BNEF subscribers can read the research notes titled Namibia Spearheads Energy Storage in Sub-Saharan Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa’s Power Technology Debate, and South Africa Tackles Power Outages Through Private Sector. These can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or on BNEF's mobile app.

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Solar Shines Bright in the Energy Crisis

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:18:48 +0000

Solar has a critical role to play in decarbonizing the global energy system. It also has the potential to reduce power price volatility by increasing domestically produced energy supply in some parts of the world. In 2022, BloombergNEF expects to see yet another record year of solar build. This is all the while the cost of components, materials and projects remains elevated.

In today’s episode of Switched On, Dana Perkins speaks with Jenny Chase, head of solar at BNEF, about what is happening in the solar industry today and what she expects to see going forward.

This podcast draws upon research found in the BNEF 3Q 2022 Global PV Market Outlook, which can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or via our mobile app.

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Scramble for Battery Metals Puts Chemistries in Focus

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 14:08:50 +0000

Batteries for electric vehicles and stationary storage are increasingly in demand. But while ever-cheaper batteries were expected only a couple of years ago, supply turbulence for the key metals needed has increased prices in 2022 and made future costs uncertain. Depending on the chemistry selected, battery metals can make up 60-80% of a battery’s total cost. Alongside human rights concerns, metals prices have led battery manufacturers to take a closer look at their chemistries.

In today’s episode of Switched On, we speak with Kwasi Ampofo, head of metals and mining at BNEF, about the outlook for battery metals – specifically, lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and graphite. This episode draws upon the research found in BNEF’s 1H 2022 Battery Metals Outlook: Supply Turbulence Ahead, which can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or via our mobile app.

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Whatever Floats Your Wind Turbine

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 08:37:50 +0000

Not long ago, floating offshore wind turbines were treated as conceptual cleantech. More recently, they have become reality with gigawatts of capacity slated for installation within this decade. In this episode, we discuss the potential for floating wind, its growth drivers and cost trends with Oliver Metcalfe, head of wind research at BloombergNEF, and Luisa Amorim, the offshore wind specialist at BNEF.

This episode draws upon research found in the BNEF 1H 2022 Offshore Wind Market Outlook and was produced by Sanjeet Sanghera. To access this research, subscribers can find it at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com or via our mobile app.

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Nuclear Stages a Comeback

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In the years following the Fukushima nuclear disaster of 2011, the conversation around decarbonizing the energy sector moved away from nuclear. However, current commodity price volatility has brought nuclear back to the fore and countries that were previously focused on decommissioning nuclear power stations are now, once again, discussing its virtues. Will this spur a nuclear renaissance and how might this time be different from the 1960s and 1970s? What technology breakthroughs could make the future of nuclear different, and will they happen quickly enough to respond to current market signals? To address these questions and more, Dana Perkins speaks with Chris Gadomski, lead nuclear analyst at BloombergNEF.

This episode of Switched On draws upon a BNEF research note titled, Nuclear 1H 2022 Market Outlook: Unprecedented Opportunity. To access this research, BNEF subscribers can find it at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com or via our mobile app.

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Getting Fit for 55

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:04:56 +0000

Fit for 55 is designed to support the European Union’s pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 when compared with 1990 levels. To aid in achieving this goal, there are several changes proposed to the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).

In today’s episode of Switched On, we speak with Bo Qin and Emma Coker, who focus on carbon markets for BNEF. They outline these changes and their impact on the EU ETS. This episode was based on two BloombergNEF research notes: How ‘Fit for 55’ Would Reform the European Carbon Market, as well as Reforms and Offsets Front and Center for EU Carbon Players. These can be found at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or on BNEF's mobile app.

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EV Chargers, Coming to a Street Near You

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0000

The roll out of charging infrastructure is combatting range anxiety and enabling the adoption of Electric Vehicles. Ryan Fisher, whose research focuses on Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure for BNEF, discusses how quickly this is happening, what is facilitating charger installations around the world, and how charging might impact the electricity grid in the future.

Today's podcast pulls from research found in BNEF's Electric Vehicle Outlook (EVO) 2022. For more information, go tohttps://about.bnef.com/electric-vehicle-outlook/. Today's episode was hosted by Dana Perkins.

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Irene Feige from BMW on Designing a Circular Economy Vehicle

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Today’s episode features an interview from BNEF’s Summit in Munich that took place on May 24, 2022. Colin McKerracher, Head of Advanced Transport at BNEF, spoke with Irene Feige, Head of Climate Strategy and Circular Economy at BMW Group. They discuss how to take emissions and the circular economy into account when designing a vehicle. Irene shares her views on the automotive supply chain, spanning from materials to manufacturing.

To find out about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, go to about.bnef.com/summit/.

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Europe's Energy Future in Focus

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 17:23:00 +0000

To understand how the energy transition could play out around the world, one might turn to Europe to see how progressive policies and favorable economics for renewables are having an impact. For the second year in a row, BloombergNEF has taken a closer look at Europe’s place in the energy transition through a series of forward-looking scenarios found in the European Energy Transition Outlook 2022. In today’s episode, we speak with Andreas Gandolfo, Head of European Power Analysis, and Emma Champion, Head of Regional Energy Transitions at BNEF. They tell us what aspects of the report stood out, discuss the repercussions of the current energy crunch, and identify which technologies are likely to have the most impact on a net-zero future for the European energy system.

To learn more, BNEF subscribers can read the European Energy Transition Outlook 2022 at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, at bnef.com, or on BNEF mobile. Today’s episode is hosted by Dana Perkins.

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Mark Carney on the Energy Transition

Thu, 19 May 2022 13:30:00 +0000

Today’s episode features an interview from BNEF’s recent Summit in New York City, where Ethan Zindler, Head of Americas for BNEF, spoke with Mark Carney, UN Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance and Chair of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ). As emphasis on sustainable finance grows and reporting frameworks refine, he highlights the importance of corporate disclosure. Mark also shares his perspective on the role of renewable energy in the energy transition, and how it presents an opportunity for greater energy security.

To find out about BNEF’s Summits and to listen to more interviews, go to about.bnef.com/summit/.

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Sustainable Finance Gets Organized

Tue, 17 May 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Looking to better understand the newly proposed rules on climate-related disclosures from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), or where nuclear and gas belong on the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities, or perhaps what the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) is doing? You’ve come to the right place and today’s episode goes through all of this and more with Maia Godemer and Mallory Rutigliano, who write about sustainable finance for BloombergNEF (BNEF).

Complimentary BNEF research includes the 1H 2022 Sustainable Finance Market Outlook, Including Gas and Nuclear Will Burn Holes in EU Taxonomy, and U.S. Finally Moves on Climate Reporting With SEC Proposal. BNEF clients can access this analysis on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile. This episode of Switched On is hosted by Dana Perkins.

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Consumers and Climate Action

Thu, 05 May 2022 11:10:23 +0000

From flight shaming to solar ‘buycotts,’ political consumers are making their voices heard on climate by using their wallet. In today’s episode we speak with Hugh Bromley, who writes about consumer issues across the global energy, transport, and sustainability sectors for BloombergNEF (BNEF). We discuss case studies from around the world, where political consumers are driving decarbonization through actions like buying electric vehicles or eating vegan diets.

Today’s episode is based on a report titled, Boycotts, Buycotts, Lifestyle Choices and Discursive Acts. BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted by Dana Perkins. This episode was produced by Eva Marina Gonzalez Isla.

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Movie Marathons and Grid Flexibility

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 06:00:00 +0000

By the end of the decade, energy demand could grow by 80% across the five countries containing the majority of European data centers. Instead of placing strain on the grid, data centers have the potential to serve as a source of flexible demand. In today’s episode, Michael Kenefick and Sarrah Raza from BNEF discuss the future of the grid and how data centers might interact.

Today’s episode is based on a report titled, Data Centers and Decarboninziation: Unlocking Flexibility in Europe’s Data Centers. This was done in partnership with Eaton and Stakraft.

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Decarbonizing Petrochemicals

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

They are also one of the largest sources of industrial emissions. In today’s episode we talk about how companies are looking to reduce these emissions and some of the emissions reducing technologies that are being developed. We also discuss how high oil prices might this impact the petrochemicals supply chain. We are joined by Ilhan Savut who writes about sustainable materials for BNEF and Sisi Tang who an oil and chemicals analyst. Today’s episode is based on two separate BNEF research reports titled, Decarbonizing Petrochemicals: Corporate Strategies and Decarbonizing Petrochemicals: Technologies and Costs.

BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched on is hosted by Dana Perkins.

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Carbon Offsets and the New Wild West

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 17:05:19 +0000

What companies are buying voluntary carbon offsets? How much do offsets cost? Are they truly providing an additional carbon benefit? These are just some of the hotly discussed topics in the carbon offset space. This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF’s Head of Sustainability Research, Kyle Harrison, about the outlook for voluntary carbon offsets. He addresses some of the issues being discussed right now and what this might tell us about the future for offsets. This episode is based on the BNEF research note titled, Long-Term Carbon Offsets Outlook 2022. BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted by Dana Perkins. This episode was produced by Eva Marina Gonzalez Isla.

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How to Think About the Future

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

What must be true today, in order to achieve a net-zero future? That is one of the questions considered by the BloombergNEF Energy Economics team when building forward-looking energy transition scenarios out to 2050. This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF’s Chief Economist, Seb Henbest. He talks about our Energy Transition Scenario, as well as what we might learn from the three net zero scenarios that were added in the last release of BNEF’s flagship New Energy Outlook report. Recorded in late-2021.

This episode is based on BNEF’s New Energy Outlook report series. BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted by Dana Perkins.

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Natural Gas Is Wishing for a Warm Winter

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 08:10:47 +0000

Recent volatility and high prices in natural gas commodities markets have created a knock-on effect for utilities and consumers. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF's global head of LNG analysis, Fauziah Marzuki, about the once regional but now global natural gas market. She discusses the future of natural gas including when and under what conditions natural gas prices and trade flows might stabilize.

This episode is based on a report titled Four Ways to Think About the Future of Natural Gas. BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Future of Geothermal Part 2: The Business Case

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 15:48:00 +0000

In June of this year, the California Public Utilities Commission put out a decision requiring an additional 11,500MW of clean energy capacity to be procured by entities supplying the California grid by 2026. But also stipulated 1,000MW of this has to come from zero-emitting, renewable resources that have at least an 80% capacity factor, or, geothermal. In part 1 of this series we talked about the new technologies enabling geothermal development. In part 2, we'll talk about the business case -- how this regulation has set off a wave of activity in the sector, from incumbent geothermal developers, and those planning to utilize new geothermal generation technologies. Today on the show, we’ve got Paul Thomsen, Vice President of Business Development at Ormat Technologies. He’ll tell us about what’s going on in California and how Ormat and others are responding to this demand.

BNEF users can hear this interview and more, on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

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The Future of Geothermal Part 1: Technology Development

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 11:18:46 +0000

Geothermal is a small industry, with just about 14 gigawatts of capacity online globally. But where it matters, it matters a lot. In pockets around the world, geothermal can be not just the cleanest form of power, but also the cheapest. Still, geothermal development is hard -- drilling wells involves similar risks to oil and gas projects, but offers returns more in line with utilities. That risk profile has stunted the growth of geothermal. There are several companies working hard on technologies to de-risk geothermal development and squeeze additional value out of the hot water coming out of the wells. In some cases, they are throwing out the concept of conventional geothermal and starting afresh. Today, Switched On speaks with Hidda Thorsteinsson, managing director for research and innovation at Reykjavik Energy.

BNEF users can hear this interview and more, on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

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Rio Tinto Turns to Carbfix to Bury CO2

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:54:10 +0000

In late October, Rio Tinto announced plans to capture and bury CO2 from its ISAL aluminum smelter outside Reykjavik in the basalt right under its feet. The initiative is part of a $7.5bn effort to reduce firm-wide operational emissions by 50% by 2030. Today, Switched On speaks with Kari Helgason, head of research and innovation at Carbfix, the company that will take Rio's CO2 and inject it underground where it will turn to rock within two years. In our conversation, which takes place on location in Iceland at the site of Carbfix's first CO2 injection project, he tells us how the technology works, and how Carbfix's solution could scale to make a meaningful dent in global emissions.

BNEF users can hear this interview and more, on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched on this week is hosted by Mark Taylor.

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Government Net-Zero Strategy Playbook

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 15:45:59 +0000

Hundreds of countries and companies aim to hit net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, or thereabouts. But even after COP26, most have not laid out clear pathways to getting there, and are putting themselves in the position of starting too late to meet the mid-century deadline. This decade is critical to get things going. This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF head of energy transition, Luiza Demoro, about the Pathfinders Initiative. Launched on October 18, Pathfinders is a resource from Bloomberg for policymakers to see what has worked around the world and get actionable ideas for policies to meet their net-zero targets.

You can find out more about the Pathfinders Initiative at bloomberg.com/netzeropathfinders.

Switched on this week is hosted by Mark Taylor.

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Methane's Big Moment

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 15:46:21 +0000

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas. When it comes to reducing methane emissions, monitoring technology, economics, and policy all have an important role to play. This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF analysts Antoine Vagneur-Jones, who covers EMEA Energy Transitions, and Nakul Nair, who covers U.S. Gas & LNG. They tell us about methane emissions and what can be done.

This episode is based on a report titled Global Demethanization Poised to Give U.S. LNG an Edge. You can also find Bloomberg’s coverage of COP26 and the Global Methane Pledge on the Bloomberg COP26 blog.

Switched on this week is hosted by Dana Perkins.

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The Final Countdown: Biden's Last Push Before Glasgow

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 12:56:47 +0000

The pressure is on the U.S. to get its climate house in order before it seeks to lead negotiations in Glasgow. This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF head of Americas, Ethan Zindler, and BNEF head of global policy, Victoria Cuming. They will walk us through the politics in the U.S. and what to watch out for in Glasgow, whether or not Biden shows up to the conference as a leader, or just an attendee.

This episode is based BNEF's ongoing coverage of U.S. and global policy, and special coverage of COP26. BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Europe Energy Crunch, Explained

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 17:03:37 +0000

Europe's energy crunch is complex and weeks in, does not yet seems to be resolving, with higher gas prices, gasoline shortages and electricity retailers going out of business. This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF head of research for EMEA, David Hostert. He will walk us through the big picture -- why the energy crunch, why now -- and talk us through how gas, coal, carbon and renewables are all tied into this. The podcast also touches on the implications for governments and consumers.

This episode is based BNEF's ongoing coverage of European power, gas, and carbon markets. BNEF clients can access this analysis at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hydrogen 101

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 12:37:28 +0000

Hydrogen is a clean burning molecule that could be used to cut carbon emissions in some of the hardest to abate sectors like steel, cement, and aluminum production. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF lead hydrogen analyst Martin Tengler about the fundamentals of hydrogen. He will talk us through the many ways hydrogen can be produced, transported and used, plus the challenging economics behind this promising energy source for the clean energy transition.

This episode is based on a report titled, Hydrogen for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Glencore on Net-Zero Mining

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 16:12:24 +0000

International mining company Glencore has set a net-zero 2050 ambition across its operations for scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, meaning not only the mining but the use of its products, like coal. Today, Switched On speaks with Anna Krutikov, head of sustainable development at Glencore. She walks us through the company's targets, opportunities faced by Glencore in the energy transition in areas like battery metals, and some of the ethical considerations associated with decarbonization timelines.

BNEF users can hear this interview and more, on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Technology for Greener Cities

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:15:33 +0000

The urban sprawl can seem endless, but in reality, cities only cover 3% of global landmass, while accounting for 70% of global emissions. Cities around the world are therefore turning their focus to sustainability. This week, Switched On speaks with Technology & Innovation analyst for BNEF, Kirti Vasta. She will tell us about cities making moves toward sustainability and why now. How different types of cities are approaching the challenge in different ways, and how all cities are using technology as a key component to their strategy.

This episode is based on a report titled Digital Technologies for Smarter, More Sustainable Cities. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coming Boom in Offshore Wind

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 17:05:24 +0000

The offshore wind sector is set to grow more than 10-fold over the next 15 years. Growth has been largely in Europe to date, but China is about to go big with more than 25 gigawatts coming online in the next five years, and President Biden is pushing for 30 gigawatts to be installed in the U.S. by 2030. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF offshore wind analysts Imogen Brown and Chelsea Jean-Michel about why offshore wind and why now, and who is positioned to win in the boom ahead.

This episode is based on a report titled 1H 2021 Offshore Wind Market Outlook. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EV Future so Bright Biden Wears Shades

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

BloombergNEF's Electric Vehicle Outlook is our long-term view on how electrification, shared mobility, and autonomous driving will re-shape road transport in the next three decades. This week, Switched On speaks with Colin McKerracher, the report's lead author and head of transport analysis, about when the world must start to meet net zero targets, which sectors are on track to do so, and what surprised him most in this year's analysis.

This episode is based on the Electric Vehicle Outlook 2021. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Energy Transition Fund Frenzy

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 12:44:00 +0000

Over the past four months more than $30 billion has been raised by some of the world's largest asset managers for energy transition-focused funds. The capital raised will be invested in things like wind, solar, and energy storage projects, and equity in the companies developing and supplying these projects. Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF Chief Content Officer and Bloomberg Opinion columnist Nat Bullard about this fundraising activity, why now, who's involved, and whether this is just the start of things to come.

This episode is based on Bullard's latest Sparklines column, More Money Than Ever Is Flowing Into Climate Tech, which can be found on the Bloomberg terminal under NI BULLARD, and on bloomberg.com.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AES Chief on the Transition to Net Zero

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 18:41:56 +0000

Power company AES has been an energy company in transition for well over a decade, and continues to develop and own renewable and other power assets globally. Today, Switched On's Dana Perkins speaks with AES CEO, Andres Gluski. He shares his views on the many aspects of the energy business -- from generation to storage to nuclear -- as well as what AES is doing to reduce its own carbon footprint as it drives toward its net zero goal.

BNEF users can hear this interview and more, on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tesla Crushing it in China's Car Cap and Trade

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 17:17:56 +0000

China will be a huge market for electric vehicles. In BloombergNEF's latest Electric Vehicle Outlook, published last month, we project that EVs will be 25% of China's passenger vehicle sales in 2025, 48% in 2030, and 77% in 2040. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF electric vehicle analyst Siyi Mi about the policies China has in place to accelerate this growth, and how pure-play EV manufacturers - including Tesla - are benefiting.

This episode is based on a report titled China’s New Energy Vehicle Credit System – 2021. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. Shale Oil Walks the Line

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 09:57:40 +0000

U.S. benchmark oil prices are up almost 50% this year, as global demand continues its pandemic recovery. In the States, rising demand and rising prices have led to production increases - but only modest increases so far. This week, Switched On speaks with Tai Liu and Anna Dialynas, U.S. oil analysts for BloombergNEF. They will tell us us about how most U.S. oil producers are choosing fiscal discipline over major production increases, and opting for debt reductions and shareholder paybacks over drilling new wells.

This episode is based on a report titled U.S. Shale Oil Quarterly Outlook: 3Q 2021. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BP EVP of Sustainability Giulia Chierchia on Net-Zero Ambitions

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 11:22:00 +0000

Oil major BP has ambitions to cut its greenhouse gas emissions from its own operations, its oil & gas production, and the products it sells to net-zero by 2050. Also during that time the company plans to ramp up investment in non-oil and gas activities, like renewables, hydrogen, and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS). Today, Switched On's Dana Perkins speaks with Giulia Chierchia, executive vice president of strategy and sustainability at BP about the energy transition from an energy company perspective.

BNEF users can hear this interview and more, on BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cost of Clean, Green Aluminum

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 13:52:52 +0000

The aluminum industry can achieve net-zero carbon emissions, and there are multiple routes to get there, starting from recycling and going all the way to carbon capture and storage (CCS) and offsets. Producers will need a combination of technologies to decarbonize fully. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF analysts Sharon Mustri and Julia Attwood about the costs of decarbonizing aluminum, and the implications for policymakers and aluminum producers.

This episode is based on a report titled Decarbonizing Aluminum: Technologies and Costs. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carbon to Hit 100 Euros Sooner Than You Think

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 10:19:38 +0000

For more than a decade, BloombergNEF has been forecasting the price of carbon credits under the European Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS), and in the latest edition, the forecast breaches the 100-euro barrier for the first time ever. This week, Switched On speaks with Jahn Olsen, lead carbon analyst for BNEF about the factors contributing to this price forecast, and what it means for carbon emissions and the players involved.

This episode is based on the 1H 2021 EU ETS Market Outlook. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Opel CEO Lohscheller on the Transition to Electric Vehicles

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 17:53:00 +0000

Electric vehicles are creating a lot of buzz, but are they profitable for the manufacturers? This week, Switched On speaks with Opel Automotive CEO Michael Lohscheller about his strategy for the transition to EVs. He discusses what the automotive industry must do to drive up profit from electrified cars, which includes taking a closer look at supply chains and battery manufacturing.

Nikolas Soulopoulos, advanced transport analyst at BloombergNEF (BNEF), interviewed Lohscheller as a part of the BNEF Munich Summit on May 21. For more information regarding BNEF's Summits, go to about.bnef.com/summit.

BNEF users can see this interview and more, including all the BNEF Analyst Talks at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, on bnef.com, or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cutting Carbon with Giant Mechanical Trees: Direct Air Capture

Mon, 17 May 2021 08:50:18 +0000

Elon Musk put out a $100 million prize earlier this year for innovation in 'carbon negative solutions', or pulling carbon dioxide (CO2) out of the air. But BloombergNEF carbon capture analyst David Madrid says Musk is missing the point -- what is needed for direct air capture is scale, not new technologies., This week, Switched On speaks with David about direct air capture, how it works, and the pilot projects aimed at bringing the technology down the cost curve.

This episode is based on a report titled Material Tech Highlight: Direct Air Capture. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, or on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Great Divide: Why Some Fear, Others Ignore Climate Change

Thu, 06 May 2021 20:51:57 +0000

Why does the threat of climate change give some nightmares while others simply ignore it? Where do perceptions lie and how do they differ by country, age, education level, or political affiliation? This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF consumer research analyst, Hugh Bromley, about several recent surveys that ask how people perceive climate change and whether they see it as a top risk.

This episode is based on a report titled What Divides and Unites on Climate Action and Awareness. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, or on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Biden Time for Global Climate

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 17:10:25 +0000

This year is looking like a major year for dialogue on - and commitments to - climate action. This week, Switched On speaks with two BloombergNEF colleagues to put this Summit into context and discuss some early indicators of how countries plan to meet their net-zero targets: Victoria Cumming, global policy lead, and Ali Izadi-Najafabadi, Head of Asia Pacific Research.

This episode is based on our ongoing research on national climate commitments and the run-up to COP26 later this year. BNEF clients can access this research at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, or on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wind Power Boom of Today Is Just the Start

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 16:48:00 +0000

The global wind market is booming, with nearly 100 gigawatts of new capacity going online in 2020. Today, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF wind analysts Isabelle Edwards and Leo Wang, who talk about what made 2020 a record year for installations, where the growth is happening, who is supplying all those turbines, and how all of this is just the start of things to come.

This episode is based on a report titled 2020 Global Turbine Market Shares. BNEF clients can access this at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, or on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. Energy Secretary Granholm on Biden’s Green Dreams

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 16:56:29 +0000

This week, Switched On speaks with U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, who was sworn into office on February 25th. One of Secretary Granholm's objectives at the Department of Energy will be to set the U.S. on a path to achieving President Biden’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions from the power sector by 2035 by advancing cutting-edge clean energy technologies, and creating millions of clean energy jobs.

Ethan Zindler, head of Americas for BloombergNEF did the interview as part of the BNEF New York Summit on April 13th.

BNEF users can see this interview and more, including all the BNEF Analyst Talks on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Energy Transition Fuels Competition in European Utilities

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 14:42:54 +0000

European utility strategy continues to evolve as the energy transition moves forward. Today, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF carbon analyst, Bo Qin, and decentralized energy analyst, Michael Kenefick. They will tell us about how low gas prices, combined with high carbon prices and renewables output, are squeezing coal out of the merit order in Europe, and how retail power continues to be a highly competitive market.

This episode is based on a report titled European Utility Company Profiles 2020. BNEF clients can access this report on at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, or on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

VW and GM Revv Up to Challenge Tesla in Electric Vehicles

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 17:06:18 +0000

On March 15, Volkswagen signaled its ambition to compete in the growing electric vehicle market by building out battery production and charging infrastructure, as well as adding new EV models. And in January, General Motors announced its plan to only sell zero-emission light-duty vehicles by 2035, on its way to becoming carbon-neutral. This week, Switched On speaks with Colin McKerracher, head of transport research for BNEF, about VW, and electric vehicle analysts Alejandro Zamorano Cadavid and Nikolas Soulopoulos about GM's plans. They will tell us about the motivations behind these announcements, the strategies involved, and how clarity of mission could help these companies compete with EV frontrunner Tesla.

This episode is based on a report titled Volkswagen's Plan to Bridge the Tesla Charging Gap, and another titled GM to Deal With Electrification Transition Risks, BNEF clients can access these reports on at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal, or on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Europe Must Go 'Ludicrous Speed' to Meet Climate Targets

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 17:37:16 +0000

The transition to a low-carbon economy has been at the center of policy making in the European Union over the last decade. But Europe is still not on track to meet its 2030 clean energy and climate goals. This week, Switched On speaks with Dario Traum, global head of energy transition research for BloombergNEF, and Andreas Gandolfo, head of European power research. They will tell us about progress on climate targets in Europe, and what might accelerate things. They also say that change could happen a lot faster than we think.

This episode is based on a report titled European Energy Transition Outlook 2021, BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Texas Winter Storm – Lessons for Power, Gas, Oil

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 13:55:39 +0000

Prolonged frigid temperatures last weekend caused electricity demand in the Texas power grid, or ERCOT, to explode. The extreme cold resulted in more than 30GW of power plant outages, and a situation where demand outstripped supply by 30%. This resulted in millions of Texans being without power, heat, and clean water. This week, Switched On speaks with Anastacia Dialynas, head of US oil research, and Nick Steckler, head of North America power analysis for BNEF. They're going to tell us about how the state’s power, oil and gas sectors went down at once, and what Texas might consider to 'build back better'.

BNEF users can find ongoing coverage of U.S. power, oil and gas markets on bnef.com, the bnef mobile app, and the Bloomberg terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How New EU Sustainability Disclosure Rules Will Affect Companies

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 19:24:00 +0000

The EU Taxonomy regulation, which defines what the European Union considers an environmentally sustainable economic activity, will require additional disclosures from large listed companies in Europe starting in January 2022. This week, Switched On speaks with Maia Godemer, sustainable finance analyst for BNEF, about what the new rules mean for large European companies and asset managers.

This episode is based on a report titled EU Taxonomy: How to Prepare Your Reporting for 2022, BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Modeling the Energy Future: Ants, Birds and Dr. Strange

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 17:52:08 +0000

The engine behind the analysis in BloombergNEF's New Energy Outlook (NEO) is the New Energy Forecast Model, or NEFM. This week, Switched On speaks with Ian Berryman, modeling analyst for BNEF. He'll tell us how the model works, the process he and team went through in building it, and how he took cues from ants and birds in building a lot of the software that powers it.

This episode is based on the model powering the New Energy Outlook 2020, BNEF's flagship report. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2020 Vietnam Put Solar Panels on Everything

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 17:44:21 +0000

Vietnam had a boom in rooftop solar installations in December 2020 as installers raced to capture a generous feed-in tariff that expired at the end of the year. This week, Switched On speaks with Caroline Chua, BloombergNEF analyst focused on Southeast Asia, and Jenny Chase, head of solar for BloombergNEF. They talk about how this massive buildout occurred, how it beat BNEF forecasts, and what other market players and policy makers can learn from Vietnam's big year in solar.

This episode is based on a report titled Vietnam Was Likely the Third-Largest Solar Market in 2020. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.K.'s Climate Envoy on the Race to Net Zero

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 16:31:00 +0000

This week, Switched On speaks with Dr. John Murton, COP26 envoy for the U.K. government. During a conversation which was part of the BNEF Shanghai Summit on December 2, he and Veronika Henze, head of communications for BloombergNEF look at the upcoming global climate conference in November 2021, carbon neutrality, and the race to net zero emissions.

BNEF users can see this interview and more, including all the BNEF Analyst Talks on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peak Oil and the Long Descent Down the Mountain

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 18:18:45 +0000

Electric vehicles, plastic alternatives, electrification of industrial processes – and more – are set to cut into demand for oil. In fact, we may have already reached a peak for the amount of oil produced in a single year, an idea known as ‘peak oil’. This week, Switched On speaks with oil demand analyst David Doherty. He will tell us about what peak oil means, how it is more than an academic concept, and how oil producers are managing this change – pivoting their business models, or going all-in on black gold.

This episode is based on BloombergNEF's flagship report, New Energy Outlook 2020. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fake Meat, Real Food

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 17:35:32 +0000

Startups and food industry giants alike are working to improve the taste, texture, and appearance of alternative proteins, or fake meat. If they can get it good enough there is a huge market out there. This week, Switched On speaks with Hugh Bromley, consumer insights analyst for BloombergNEF. He talks about the various options out there for alternative proteins, along with go-to-market strategies and potential barriers for producers.

This episode is based on a report titled Alternative Proteins: Fake It Till You Make It. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greasing the Way to Sustainable Transport

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 18:02:24 +0000

The renewable diesel market is set to triple in the next four years. Increasingly stringent environmental standards, and imperatives to reduce transport emissions, make this like-for-like replacement for conventional diesel an attractive option. This week on the show, Switched On speaks with BNEF oil demand analyst Daisy Maugouber about market players, growth, and just where all the fry grease it needs will come from.

This episode is based on a report titled Renewable Diesel: A Green Light for Refiners. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amazon, Walmart, and Microsoft Compete to Have the Least Impact

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 13:59:02 +0000

A net-zero target is achieved when a country or company balances out its greenhouse gas emissions with other activities that store, reduce or offset those emissions. So in the end, what you’re putting up into the air is effectively, well, nothing. This week on the show, Switched On speaks with BNEF corporate sustainability analyst Kyle Harrison about what is driving the many corporate net zero announcements of late, what net zero actually means in practice, and the bumpy ride ahead for those going down this road.

This episode is based on a report titled Corporate Net-Zero Targets Primer: Jump on the Bandwagon. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Airbus on Ambitions for Zero Emissions Flight

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 11:57:16 +0000

Airbus aims to have an electric airliner in service by 2035. As part of this, the company announced three electric concept planes in September that are targeted for demonstration by 2025. Today Switched On speaks with Glenn Llewellyn, vice-president of zero emission aircraft at Airbus. He speaks with BloombergNEF Sustainability Editor Bryony Collins about this effort, the tradeoffs between batteries and hydrogen, and other challenges to be overcome for no-emissions planes to become a reality.

BNEF users can read a transcript of this interview, and see all BNEF analyst content on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enough EVs at the Right Price Is a Good Start for Net Zero

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 17:20:00 +0000

Minister Rachel Maclean says that for the United Kingdom to meet its 2050 net zero-emissions target, the country will need to expand the electric vehicle charging network, and offer enough EVs at the right price. During a conversation as part of the BNEF London Summit on October 20, she and Dana Perkins look at the future of transport in the UK as a whole. They discuss hydrogen, trains, planes, emissions standards, bikes, scooters and how each can contribute to the 2050 net-zero target.

BNEF users can see this interview and more, including all the BNEF Analyst Talks on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ex-BP CEO Bob Dudley on Big Oil Going Green

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 19:41:00 +0000

Reducing methane emissions and carbon intensity of upstream operations are two main objectives of the Oil & Gas Climate Initiative, or OGCI, a coalition of 12 of the world's largest oil companies brought together to drive the industry toward meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. This week, Switched On speaks with its chairman, Bob Dudley, about the organization, its mission, and learnings so far. Dana Perkins, head of Europe, Middle East & Africa for BNEF did the interview as part of the BNEF London Summit on October 19th.

BNEF users can see this interview and more, including all the BNEF Analyst Talks on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digital Supply Chains Know Where Your Lettuce Comes From

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 16:26:00 +0000

To keep up with regulations around products -- on sourcing, greenhouse gas emissions, safety -- and to answer questions from consumers, companies need a lot more visibility on their supply chains. This week, Switched On speaks with Kirti Vasta, Digital Industry Analyst for BloombergNEF. She will tell us about new developments in track and trace, and how implementing advanced technologies and systems to more deeply understand their supply chain can make a company's operations safer, more efficient and competitive.

This episode is based on a report titled Track and Trace: Digitalizing Supply Chains. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sustainable Finance Outlook, Way Up and to the Right

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 14:28:00 +0000

Green bond issuance has hit the trillion-dollar mark, but this year appears to be the year of social bonds, up 376% in the first half of 2020 to $41.9 billion. This week Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF analysts Maia Godemer and Mallory Rutigliano about the state of sustainable finance. They will tell us about the many types of available financial products, who's using what, and trends in this fast-growing area.

This episode is based on a report titled 2H 2020 Sustainable Finance Market Outlook. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

California’s Paradox: Cutting Power to Protect Public Safety

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 10:01:00 +0000

Grid operators in California face increasingly frequent decisions to abandon their operational commitment to 24/7 availability and cut service to retail customers in regions threatened by wildfires. This week Switched On speaks with Logan Goldie-Scot, head of clean energy research at BloombergNEF, and Yayoi Sekine, who leads decentralized energy coverage, about the challenges of maintaining the utility mission in the face of climate change.

This episode is based on a report titled Pandemics and Power Networks, and another titled Policy Responses to California's Wildfires. BNEF clients can access these reports on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biden, Trump and the U.S. Energy Transition

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 15:58:00 +0000

Many issues are at stake in the November U.S. election, including energy and climate. This week Switched On speaks with Head of Americas Ethan Zindler, and Stephen Munro, senior policy analyst for BloombergNEF, about what wins on the Republican or Democratic side could mean for these issues. Their wide-ranging conversation speculates on the Paris Climate Agreement, the Green New Deal, coal, electric vehicles, and the two trillion dollars former Vice President Joe Biden has pledged for climate initiatives should he win.

BNEF clients can access ongoing U.S. and energy transition coverage on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sparks Fly -- Are Lithium-Ion Batteries Safe?

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 12:25:00 +0000

Generous policy support in in a handful of markets has led to a rush to deploy energy storage projects. But the eagerness to deploy quickly resulted in shortcuts with alarming outcomes. There have been 29 fires at battery storage facilities in South Korea since 2017. Whether or not this should raise red flags for players is a bit more complicated. This week Switched On speaks with decentralized energy analyst Yayoi Sekine and energy storage analyst James Frith.

This episode is based on a report titled Ensuring Safe Use of Lithium-Ion Batteries. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deliveroo and DoorDash, You Mean So Much to Me

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 17:13:00 +0000

Food delivery services have an impact on vehicle miles traveled, at least right now. But will food delivery services be around long enough to make a dent in this metric in the long term? This week Switched On speaks with intelligent mobility analyst Andrew Grant about food delivery and the market dynamics in that sector. He'll also tell us more about why food delivery is important for BNEF to understand, how he's thinking about it, and what it could mean for our long-term transport forecast.

This episode is based on a report titled Can Food Delivery Services Deliver Profits? BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mini-Grids, Mighty Power

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 21:20:00 +0000

For universal electrification to become reality by 2030, some 238 million households will need to gain electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and island nations. Mini-grids can serve almost half of this total – an estimated 111 million households. This week, Switched On speaks with Takehiro Kawahara, head of Frontier Power for BloombergNEF, and senior modeling analyst Ulimmeh Ezekiel, about a report they did in collaboration with the Sustainable Energy for All initiative on the global mini-grid market -- the challenges, drivers, opportunities, and potential impact on electrification.

This episode is based on a report titled State of the Global Mini-Grids Market 2020. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal. Listeners can also find this report at seforall.org.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Old Wind or Solar Farm: Run it Ragged, or Rebuild?

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 16:48:00 +0000

We all know wind and solar are intermittent -- at some point the sun stops shining and the wind stops blowing. But is wind and solar power reliable? The answer seems to be that at least with a battery, yes, it is. This week Switched On speaks with Nat Bullard, chief content officer for BloombergNEF, about the future of renewables on the grid. We discuss renewables reliability, competitiveness of gas peakers in a renewables-plus-storage world, and what to do with old wind and solar farms.

This episode is based on the weekly Sparklines series from Bloomberg Green, by Nat Bullard.

Users can access this series on bloomberg.com, or on Bloomberg Anywhere at NI BULLARD.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fight for Mexico's Energy Future

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 16:38:00 +0000

Mexico became one of the hottest markets for clean energy development. Newly open Mexico attracted billions in investment driven by three highly successful auctions that are tied to more than 8GW of new wind and solar capacity. But policy under president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, or AMLO, has taken a U-turn. Since taking office in late 2018, AMLO has cancelled Mexico’s renewable energy auctions and sidelined national clean energy targets. And recent regulation goes further, asserting that renewables threaten Mexico’s power grid, placing at risk over 4.5 gigawatts of wind and solar currently under development.

This episode is based on a report titled No Winners in AMLO's Clean Energy Feud. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiny Satellites: Eyes in the Sky, Thousands of Them

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 13:15:08 +0000

Lower manufacturing costs, innovative launch vehicles, miniaturized sub-systems and new sensor technologies have resulted in a surge in the number of satellites orbiting earth. The more than 1,300 small satellites orbiting earth means we can now scan any given location on the planet multiple times per day -- and not just with cameras, but with sensors that measure atmospheric pressure, temperature, and more. This week, Switched On speaks with technology analyst Sarrah Raza about the rapid growth in the industries that make these small satellites, send them to space, and analyze the data they send back.

This episode is based on a report titled Tiny Satellites – Space’s Next Frontier. BNEF clients can access this series on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Stimulus: Nice Work, If EU Can Get It

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 17:24:44 +0000

The European Commission on 27 May proposed 1.85 trillion euros in stimulus spending over the next seven years, 25% of which must go to things classified as ‘green’. Notable parts of the proposed spending include building renovations to improve efficiency, a massive roll-out in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and enough spending on hydrogen to make it competitive a lot sooner than it would be otherwise. This week, Switched On speaks with energy transition analyst Dario Traum about the proposed spending, what it means to be 'green', and the questions that need to get answered before the money can be spent.

This episode is based on a report titled How Green is the EU's Trillion-Euro Recovery Plan? BNEF clients can access this series on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Coal-Free Europe Could Be Sooner Than You Think

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 11:15:41 +0000

A higher carbon price and cheaper gas have made coal-fired power less competitive in Europe. Reduced demand from the pandemic have made it almost impossible for coal to keep up. This week, Switched On speaks with energy transition analyst Katherine Poseidon, and power analyst Andreas Gandolfo about how several countries have gotten away from coal entirely since the pandemic started -- a trend that is likely to continue even after things get back to normal.

This episode is based on a series of reports titled the EU Power Weekly. BNEF clients can access this series on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia's Roads Go From Rumble to Whirr

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 11:53:56 +0000

We hear a lot about growth in the electric car market, but what about electric two- and three-wheelers? In 2040 about half of the 1.25 billion mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles out on the road will be electric, and most of these will be in Asia. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF mobility analysts Nick Albanese and Allen Abraham about the future of two- and three-wheeled transport.

This episode is based on a report titled How Fast Will Two-Wheelers Electrify? BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To Save on Lithium, Buy Local

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 20:46:26 +0000

Lithium is used the world over for electronics and, increasingly, electric cars. There is a supply and security risk in that most of this lithium comes from just a few countries, and those are not where the phones and cars get made. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF metals analyst Sharon Mustri about growing demand for unconventional lithium. Alternative lithium resources that put the source of the mineral closer to the factory.

This episode is based on a report titled Unconventional Lithium: The Road to Supply Security. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Enough's Not Enough, Try Carbon Offsets

Tue, 19 May 2020 19:57:31 +0000

Companies can do everything they can to reduce their carbon footprint, and most often it is still not enough to cover all their emissions. After everything they can do themselves, they can buy carbon offsets -- investments in projects that reduce CO2, like tree-planting or cook stoves. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF sustainability analyst Kyle Harrison. about growing demand for these offsets as more companies set plans to reach net-zero emissions, and challenges as this market grows.

This episode is based on a report titled Voluntary Carbon Offsets: a Shortcut for Heavy Emitters. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins and Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CCUS: Clean Coal Is So Last Season

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:27:45 +0000

Carbon capture, utilization and storage -- taking CO2 out of the air and putting it underground or into products. The sector has had a few false starts, but appears it could be having a revival. In this episode, Switched On speaks with Julia Attwood, head of advanced materials research for BloombergNEF, and advanced materials analyst Ryan Anderson about the current state of play in CCUS. They will also introduce promising new applications that could give a boost to the sector and make a dent in global emissions.

This episode is based on a report titled CCUS: Applications in Oil & Gas, Power and Industry. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Solar Cars: The Future Now May Be Now, Almost

Wed, 06 May 2020 13:27:31 +0000

Solar on cars has been around for a long time. But until recently, it has either been pure gimmick or used to power small auxiliaries -- not the drive train. In this episode, Switched On speaks with Hugh Bromley, head of consumer research at BloombergNEF, about solar cars. He will tell us about how they are starting to power the wheels, even if just a bit.

This episode is based on a report titled Solar-Powered Cars: Trickle or Charged? BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digital Strategies in the Time of Covid

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 17:17:51 +0000

In this episode, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF head of digital industry research, Claire Curry, and digital industry analyst Kirti Vasta. Claire and Kirti tell us about digital strategies in the time of Covid-19. Some companies are all-in on their digital strategies. Others have pedaled back, and are retrenched in what they know best. A few are even giving away software, on the hopes that new users they hook today, will pay up once economic conditions improve.

This episode is based on a report titled Technology Radar April 2020: Covid-19 Impact. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal. Users can also subscribe to this report and ongoing Covid coverage at bnef.com/series.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Stockpiles and Order Backlogs We Trust

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 15:54:16 +0000

In this episode, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF head of clean energy research, Logan Goldie-Scot, and head of transport, Colin McKerracher. Logan and Colin give the bird's-eye view of how Covid-19 will shape the year in clean energy and transport. Supply and demand balances are definitely disrupted, but order backlogs, existing stockpiles and construction queues, could provide significant buffers to short-term shocks.

BNEF users can follow ongoing Covid coverage at bnef.com/series or at BNEF.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To go Carbon Neutral, Electrify (All Of) It

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 16:30:43 +0000

In this episode, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF head of research, Albert Cheung, and head of policy, Vicky Cuming. Albert and Vicky tell us about how electrifying more sectors of an economy can enable countries to make substantial progress toward carbon neutrality. BNEF calls it "sector coupling", and it brings both new industrial opportunities and a significant increase in total power generation.

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China Wants to Sell, the World's Not Ready to Buy

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 19:53:28 +0000

In this episode, Switched On speaks with Ali Izadi-Najafabadi, head of Asia Pacific research for BloombergNEF. He'll tell us about China starting to get back to work -- how it seems ready to go, but is waiting on the rest of the world to catch up.

BNEF users can follow ongoing Covid coverage at bnef.com/series.

This episode of Switched On is hosted by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coronavirus Blew Up Your Forecast – Now What?

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 11:33:53 +0000

What do you do when a pandemic upends every one of your forecasts and expectations for the future? This week, Switched On speaks with BNEF Head of Research, Albert Cheung, about making sense of things during Covid-19. He’ll walk us through how we started to get our heads around the problem, and the frameworks BNEF analysts developed to explain what’s happening and accommodate the ever-changing impacts the virus is having on the global economy.

BNEF users can follow ongoing Covid coverage at bnef.com/series.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robots, Drones, and Sensors Help You Mine More By Digging Less

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 12:26:21 +0000

To stay competitive in a world where commodity prices fluctuate and environmental pressures grow, for miners, going digital is no longer a question of if or should, but a question of when, or how. This week Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF Digital Industry analyst Danya Liu about recent advances in mining digitalization. She’ll walk us through the ways miners are incorporating sensors, robots, drones, and more to improve operational efficiency, conserve resources, and raise their bottom line.

This episode is based on a report titled Digitalization Strategies in Mining. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Making Room for Renewables in Sub-Saharan Africa

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 17:36:00 +0000

Generation oversupply, not enough transmission, and offtaker risk are just a few challenges facing clean energy developers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite these obstacles, projects continue to get built a faster rate than almost anywhere in the world. This week, Switched On speaks with energy analyst Antoine Vagneur-Jones, from BloombergNEF's EMEA team, about clean energy proliferation in this region, what's driving it, and what developers should pay attention to when exploring opportunities there.

This episode is based on a report titled Sub-Saharan Africa Market Outlook 2020.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. Energy: Same As It Ever Was? Not Even Close

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 14:11:30 +0000

The growth of renewables and the fracking revolution has made for a lot of cheap energy in the U.S. and an energy landscape nearly unrecognizable from what it was a decade ago. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF's head of Americas, Ethan Zindler, about the changes we've seen in U.S. energy over the past decade, who is best positioned in the current market, and what to expect going forward.

This episode is based on a report titled Sustainable Energy in America Factbook 2020 done by BloombergNEF in collaboration with the Business Council for Sustainable Energy.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal. This report is also available publicly at www.bcse.org.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Mines Are Hedges, Cars Get Cheaper

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 10:02:40 +0000

Batteries are getting cheaper. This means more affordable electric cars, and wind and solar as a more viable option for round-the-clock power. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF's energy storage analyst James Frith about trends in battery pricing. We discuss results from the latest BNEF battery price survey, the future of battery pricing and technologies, and who is best positioned to win in this market.

This episode is based on a report titled 2019 Lithium-Ion Battery Price Survey.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aviation Demand: Come Fly With Me, and Everyone Else

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 15:50:19 +0000

Do you fly more than you used to, or less? For most of the world, the answer is more, and it’s likely to be more for the foreseeable future. This week, Switched On speaks with BloombergNEF oil demand analyst David Doherty about aviation’s current and future demand paths. Expanding aviation means more demand for aviation fuel, but it also means additional airports, runways, and aircraft. There is increasing pressure to reduce aviation emissions, in a sector that for many reasons is extremely difficult to decarbonize.

This episode is based on a report titled Jet Fuel: Turbulence Ahead for Demand Growth.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EVs in 2020: Buckle Up for Twists and Turns

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 15:35:10 +0000

Have you noticed more electric vehicles on the road recently? How about charging stations? Well, you’ll probably see a lot more in 2020. This week on Switched On we talk with Colin McKerracher, who leads transport analysis at BloombergNEF, about his 10 predictions for EVs and mobility in 2020. The market will speed forward in 2020, but there are some twists and turns in the road ahead. The wide-ranging conversation touches on everything from EV sales projections, to charge-point proliferation and charging speeds, to advances in electric marine and air travel.

This episode is based on a report titled EVs and New Mobility: Trends to Watch in 2020.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chemical Recycling: Break It Down

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 17:45:58 +0000

Today less than 20% of plastic waste is recycled. This week on Switched On we talk with Ilhan Savut and Julia Attwood about chemical recycling, a new way to recycle. Instead of simply washing and melting down plastic, chemical recycling breaks plastics down into their most basic materials. Doing this opens up the options for using recycled plastic and has the potential to save a lot more waste from the landfill or the incinerator.

This episode is based on a report titled Chemical Recycling: Technologies, Costs and Capacity.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

IMO 2020: Holiday Gift Guide, No SOx

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Remember acid rain and worries about sulfur emissions from your car? Maybe. Maybe not. It was a long time ago that sulfur was regulated out of the gas you put in your car. Well those concerns are front-of-mind for the global shipping industry, which still relies heavily on high-sulfur fuel to move goods across the seas. On January 1, new regulations come into play that drastically reduce the amount of sulfur oxide ships can emit. This week on Switched On we talk with Richard Chatterton, who leads oil market analysis for BloombergNEF, about how shippers will meet the new standards, what the regulations could do for refiners, and what it all means for the rest of us.

This episode is based on a report series titled IMO 2020 Monthly. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Solar Boom Without the Subsidy Gloom

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 16:06:15 +0000

In solar’s early days, getting electrons from solar panel to power grid was as much a financial as a technical challenge. Photovoltaic power cost more than conventional grid power, and so deploying it required government subsidy of some kind. Those subsidies could create a booming market, and gloom thereafter when subsidies expired. However, with more than a decade of decreasing costs and increasing efficiency, solar is now not just cheap enough to be viable - it is often cheaper than any other source of power in a given market. This competitive position is driving a boom in Spain, Portugal, and Italy. This week on Switched On we talk with Pietro Radoia about this coming-of-age for solar, and the challenges this boom brings.

This episode is based on a report titled Europe’s Subsidy-Free PV Market Takes Off.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ethical Cobalt: Feel Good About Your Batteries

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 10:24:00 +0000

We use cobalt every day. It's in the lithium-ion batteries in our phones, and in the growing fleet of electric vehicles out on the road. But chances are more than good that at least some of the cobalt in your phone or EV is not ethically sourced. This week on Switched On, we talk with Kwasi Ampofo, a BloombergNEF analyst focused on metals and mining, about his recent travels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We'll hear about what he observed in the cobalt mines there, and what companies are doing to ensure ethical sourcing of this critical metal.

This episode is based on a report titled Solving the ‘Blood Cobalt’ Challenge for EVs.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia Outlook: The Biggest of Everything

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 14:07:58 +0000

Asia has the biggest share of everything -- area, population, economic growth, and now, carbon dioxide emissions. Can Asia keep its pace of development while reducing CO2, or does it have to go dirty to get rich? This week on Switched On, we talk with Justin Wu, head of Asia Pacific for BloombergNEF, about Asia's three largest economies, China, Japan, and India, and BNEF's outlook for how they are approaching the energy and transport transition.

This episode is based on three reports:

2H 2019 China Market Outlook
Japan to Take on Plastics But It’s Not Quite in the Bag
New Energy Outlook 2019, section on India

BNEF clients can access these reports on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Solar Thermal: All Night Long

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 16:00:39 +0000

Solar thermal power plants can provide electricity when demand is most high, during the evening, or even all night long. This ability could become more valuable in certain locations as the amount of less consistent wind and photovoltaic solar power on the grid expands. This week on Switched On, we talk with Jenny Chase, head of solar analysis for BloombergNEF, about where this lesser-known renewable works, and doesn't, and how it fits into the energy mix of the future.

This episode is based on a report titled Solar Thermal Market Outlook 2019. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. Anti-Climate Agenda: So What? Who Cares?!

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 21:50:45 +0000

The Obama-era Clean Power Plan is being cut out by the Trump administration. It probably doesn't matter so much because the U.S. power fleet is decarbonizing anyway. And cars are getting more fuel efficient, despite efforts by the federal government to roll-back regulations there as well. This week on Switched On, we talk with Ethan Zindler, Head of Americas for BloombergNEF, to make sense of what is going on in the U.S. in power, transport and climate.

This episode is based on reports titled Time Running Short for Trump’s Anti-Climate Agenda, and Democrats Go to Town on Climate.

BNEF clients can access these reports on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who's Boring Now: Utilities vs Oil

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 10:31:59 +0000

Oil has always carried with it the possibility of adventure and big wins to be had, and thereby a growth story for investors. Utilities, not so much. But we could be seeing the tables turn as there seems to be no shortage of oil, and the world is increasingly going electric. Could there be a swap of sectors in the dull club? This week on Switched On, we delve into that with Nathaniel Bullard, BNEF's Head of Executive Insights and author of a weekly opinion piece called Sparklines.

This episode is based on the weekly Sparklines series from Bloomberg Opinion, by Nat Bullard.

Or on Bloomberg Anywhere at NI BULLARD.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Business Says: I've Got the Power

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 09:21:00 +0000

Governments play a role, but the private sector may hold the real keys to decarbonization. This week on Switched On, we talk with Kyle Harrison, a BloombergNEF analyst focused on corporate energy strategy, about companies increasing use of renewable electricity and the targets they're setting to cut down on carbon.

This episode is based on a report titled 2H 2019 Corporate Energy Market Outlook. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should We Take My Car, or Get a Robotaxi?

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 09:56:00 +0000

Ride-hailing, e-commerce, micro-mobility, robotaxis – each of these is or will chip away at the need to own a car. Will the day come when the car becomes obsolete? This week on Switched On we talk with Ali Izadi, BNEF’s head of intelligent mobility, about this and whether car sales will peak, or if they already have.

This episode is based on a report titled Peak Car? BNEF Light Duty Vehicle Outlook.

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Battery Metals - A Nickel for Your Thoughts

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 07:50:00 +0000

As demand for lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and stationary energy storage increases, a lot more lithium, cobalt, and nickel will be needed. This week on Switched On we talk with Sophie Lu about BNEF's battery metals forecast to 2030 and some of the political, environmental, and economic challenges of getting these critical metals out of the ground and into the factory.

This episode is based on a report titled 2H 2019 Battery Metals Outlook: Demand Realities. BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

If you want to read more about the Wedderburn meteorite mentioned at the top of the show, have a look here, or here.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hydrogen Economy: It's a Gas

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 22:09:00 +0000

Hydrogen has been in and out of fashion several times over the years. But now its potential to decarbonize long-haul trucking, and industrial processes that have been hard to reach with renewables and batteries, mean hydrogen could be back for good.

This week on Switched On we'll kick off the discussion about hydrogen with some basics, and start to get into the economics. We'll open the discussion with Albert Cheung, Global Head of Research for BloombergNEF who will introduce the topic and why BNEF is looking at it. Then we'll go into further detail with Kobad Bhavnagri and Martin Tengler about a report they wrote titled Hydrogen: The Economics of Storage. This report is the first in a series BNEF is doing on hydrogen, and can be found at:

https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/21015

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I Drive a Tesla, I Do My Part...Right?

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 09:37:00 +0000

Sure, a Tesla has zero tailpipe emissions, but it charges from the grid, and the grid is powered by coal, so it can't really be considered clean, right?

Today on Switched On we talk with Logan Goldie-Scot, who leads energy storage coverage for BloombergNEF, and BNEF Energy Storage Analyst James Frith. We'll discuss the CO2 footprints of electric vehicles and the batteries that go into them. EVs generally produce fewer lifetime emissions than vehicles with internal combustion engines, but there's a bit of nuance to this. It turns out it matters a lot where you are. James and Logan will explain this and the findings that throw BNEF squarely into the debate about whether EVs are actually clean.

This episode is based on a report titled Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturing Emissions, which can be found at:

https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/20953

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Like Netflix for Electricity - New Business Models in Electricity Retail

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 16:55:00 +0000

Light-up your dryer, TV, dishwasher, microwave, air conditioner, and maybe even mine some bitcoin, all at dinnertime, because it's all-you-can-eat electricity. Today on Switched On we talk with Jame Sprinz, Head of Decentralized Energy for BNEF, about the raft of new business models being applied to retail electricity. Never think about your bill and don't want to? There's a company that'll help you do that. Want to take control of your bill to get the best price, or pool electricity with other solar panel owners in your neighborhood? Someone wants to help you there, too. James will walk us through these business models, the start-ups testing them out, and the incumbents scoping their next moves.

This episode is based on a report titled Company Profiles: New Residential Retail Models that can be found at:

https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/20973

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF< GO> on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate Insurance and Chasing Ducks Across the Street

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 08:30:00 +0000

Hong Kong taxi drivers are getting older. What happens when they retire? Is a busy city like Hong Kong ready for driverless cars? Insurance and insurability in a climate change world, and what companies are doing about it. And how climate change is all most of us have ever known. This week on Switched On we have a wide-ranging discussion with Nathaniel Bullard, BNEF's Head of Executive Insights and author of a weekly opinion piece called Sparklines.

This episode is based on the weekly Sparklines series from Bloomberg Opinion, by Nat Bullard. You can sign-up here:

http://link.mail.bloombergbusiness.com/join/4wm/sparklines-signup&hash=b9b2681361bede0e1069ca238efb1ec2

Or on Bloomberg Anywhere at NI BULLARD.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil Majors Going Digital: Personality Test

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 07:47:00 +0000

This week on Switched On we talk with Hannah Davinroy and Claire Curry about oil companies going after digital technologies. Whether it is to make their operations more efficient or help them expand into new areas, oil companies are developing digital capabilities via work in-house, acquisitions, or partnerships with big tech. Is it all just PR or are oilcos making meaningful steps to becoming more dynamic and sustainable organizations? It kind of depends. Listen to Hannah and Claire discuss oilco modernization efforts and how companies have different personalities or traits that lead them to different digital strategies.

This episode is based on:

Digitalization Strategies of Oil Majors: Company Profiles -- https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/20883

BNEF clients can access this report on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by BNEF Head of Product, Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heating and Cooling: Heat Pump Revolution! Or is it?

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 10:51:00 +0000

This week on Switched On we talk with Meredith Annex, who leads BNEF's coverage of heating and cooling. Making buildings warmer or cooler accounts for 21% of global energy consumption, and a considerable share of CO2 emissions. Listen to Meredith explain why this is the missing piece to the energy and emissions puzzle. We will discuss the different ways of decarbonizing this sector, one so far driven by scrappy startups and generational players.

This episode was based on two reports:

The Greening of Heat -- https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/20787

Decarbonizing U.S. Heat: Getting Started -- https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/20779

BNEF clients can access these reports on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF< GO> on the Bloomberg Terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Because Why Not? Floating and Airborne Wind

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 09:43:00 +0000

Today on Switched On we talk with BNEF Wind Industry Analyst Tom Harries, about floating and airborne wind power. These applications are still in their infancy but show promise. Floating turbines can open up new market territory for offshore wind power, allowing for placement in waters too deep for fixed-bottom kit. And airborne wind could potentially provide quick deployment in disaster locations to power relief efforts. But first, costs have to come down at sea and in the air. Switched On is hosted this week by BNEF's Head of Business Development, Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bioplastics: Beyond recycling

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 07:23:00 +0000

Today on Switched On we talk to Dr. Julia Attwood, Head of Advanced Materials for BNEF about bioplastics. Bioplastics comprise just about 1% of the plastics market right now, but its share is growing. Concern about plastic waste in the environment, climate change, and product sustainability has driven interest in bioplastics, though additional capacity has been slow-going.

Julia walks us through the basics and what could push bioplastics to be a more significant part of our daily lives.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The loud hum of air conditioning in global electricity demand

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 16:44:00 +0000

Air conditioning already accounts for 9% of electricity consumed globally, and that demand is set to grow substantially in the coming decades. While many living in hot climates need it just for comfort, others see it as a status symbol – their ticket to the middle class. For businesses, it may underpin worker productivity. BNEF's Seb Henbest and Matthias Kimmel join the show today to discuss the effect of the ever-louder hum of aircon units on global electricity demand. Switched On is hosted this week by Head of Business Development Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bricks from mud and straw - a primer on composites and where to find them

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 16:27:00 +0000

Today we talk to Dr. Julia Attwood, Head of Advanced Materials for BNEF about composites. We see them in high-end sporting goods and automotive, but carbon fiber and other composites are starting to make their way through industry and down the cost curve. Julia will introduce us to composites, go over their uses, advantages and limitations, costs, and future demand. Hosted this week by BNEF's Head of Product, Mark Taylor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

5G in Cars: Is This Where We Go Autonomous?

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 08:12:00 +0000

This week on Switched On we talk with BNEF Intelligent Mobility Analyst Andrew Grant about the role of 5G in cars. It looks like baby steps as we start to see more 5G roll-outs worldwide with things like better video streaming and gaming to entertain passengers. But as more 5G is deployed we could see such applications as cooperative and autonomous transport take hold. Embedded in this 5G future are considerable opportunities for telecoms and automakers.

BNEF clients can find the report this episode was based on at https://www.bnef.com/core/insights/20559 on bnef.com or BNEF Mobile, or at BNEF on the terminal.

Switched On is hosted this week by BNEF's Head of Business Development, Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil Demand for Transport: Stronger for Longer

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 15:46:00 +0000

Will you still be driving an internal combustion engine vehicle in 2040? Maybe.

This week on Switched On we talk to David Doherty, a BNEF senior analyst specializing in oil demand analysis. Today on the show he'll make the case that despite all the EVs and trucks getting out on the road, oil demand and CO2 emissions in 2040 from transport will be largely flat from today. Transport demand in developing economies, as well as growing demand for things -- think of it as the Amazon effect -- will be the main drivers.

David gets right to the point of how this scenario plays out and the factors contributing to it.

Switched On is hosted this week by Mark Taylor and Dana Perkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.