In episode 93 of the [i3] Podcast, we speak with Michael Bonte-Friedheim, the Founding Partner and Group CEO of NextEnergy Capital, a firm that specialises in investing in solar energy plants. We talk about the role of subsidies, the growth of the sector and the fact that ESG in solar isn't just about renewable energyOverview of Podcast with Michael Bonte-Friedheim01:00 The genesis of NextEnergy Capital04:00 Solar is our choice of technology05:00 The technology of solar hasn’t changed a lot, but the efficiency and the cost of components has changed dramatically. So much so that in most countries, solar energy does not require subsidies10:00 What makes one solar plant more attractive from an investment perspective than another?12:00 ESG issues in solar: integration of solar plant in landscape and community16:00 On floating solar plants: water evaporation and birds20:00 The impact of the Inflation Reduction Act21:00 Solar in China23:30 More and more institutional investors are breaking down what is in that infrastructure and real asset bucket28:00 Solar Plus30:00 Solar is expected to double in size over the next few years31:00 Biodiversity – what happens to soil if you leave it alone for 40 years?35:30 The NextEnergy Foundation receives five per cent of our group’s profits