Energypreneurs: Recent Episodes
Sohail Hasnie
Energypreneurs is a podcast that brings solar power, electric vehicles and battery technologies to young entrepreneurs. Sohail Hasnie, our host, is a firm believer that the solution to climate change lies in these technologies, which will also fundamentally change the way we think about electricity and transportation—on road, on water and even on air.
Over the last 35 years, Sohail has applied technology and innovation in many large infrastructure projects across Australasia. As a staff of the Asian Development Bank since 2001, he has developed large investment projects with solar power, battery, and electric vehicles across Asia.
Bruce Nordman spent decades at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory working on demand flexibility. He returns with an argument that cuts against most of what the industry is building: the grid should stop at the meter.
Everything behind it — solar, batteries, water heaters, EVs — belongs to the customer, coordinated by one mechanism: price. Not aggregators. Not cloud platforms. Not utilities micromanaging your devices.
— Standards vs. platforms: what VPPs make you pay for — The case for low-voltage DC — solar is DC, batteries are DC, so why convert twice? — Why under 5% of Californian EV owners let the utility touch their charger — The Bell Labs story: how the smartest engineers alive dismissed the internet
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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- ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
- YouTube @energypreneurs
One in three Australian homes now has solar on the roof. Nobody built a power station to make it happen — millions of households just did it themselves.
That's the largest distributed energy build in history, and it started as a rounding error.
In Brief 03, we distill hundreds of expert conversations into one argument: solar didn't win on policy or ideology. It won because it got cheap, then kept getting cheaper.
We cover: — How solar became the cheapest electricity humanity has ever generated — Why Australia's rooftops are the template for everywhere else — What breaks when the sun does the work — and why storage is the answer
340+ conversations. 1 brief.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Back in 2018, Ozzeir Khan ran an experiment at the Asian Development Bank: could AI predict GDP better than the bank's PhD economists? It came remarkably close. The economists' verdict — if you can't explain it, it's no good, even if it's right.
Eight years on, that argument is over. We talk about what generative AI is doing to document-centric institutions — development banks, law firms, investment banks — and who it displaces first. Ozzeir's answer is uncomfortable: not just the entry-level roles, but the middle management layer, and it's already showing up in the Amazon and Microsoft layoffs.
Also: why the skill that matters now is asking better questions rather than finding answers, and why the biggest disruption he sees is to his own profession — software engineering.
Ozzeir Khan is Director and CIO | Operations and Country Engagement at the World Bank, previously Director of Digital Innovation at the Asian Development Bank.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Most energy retailers earn more the more you use. Octopus Energy built its business on the opposite idea — that a utility should help you spend less. Eric Davids, who leads US strategy, explains how: "plunge pricing" alerts at 50–70% off when renewables are abundant, EV tariffs that cut peak demand 42% and save around £650 a year, and the striking claim that a simple behavioural nudge, at scale, can replace a gas peaker plant. Figures are from Octopus's UK operations.
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There are 200 cars parked outside right now. Each carries a 60–80 kWh battery. Together, that's a small power station sitting idle.
That's Vehicle-to-Grid — and it's closer than most people think.
In Brief 02, we distill hundreds of expert conversations into one argument: your EV isn't just transport. It's a battery on wheels that can power your home, stabilise the grid, and earn you money while it sits in the driveway.
We cover:
- Why V2G will spread like SMS did — slowly, then all at once
- What happens when millions of EVs start feeding electricity back
- The economics that make it inevitable
340+ conversations. 1 brief.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Australia's home battery market is booming — but the gap between the sales pitch and the lived reality is wider than most people think. Christina Li works at the frontline of battery adoption, with visibility across customers, retailers, installers, DNSPs and VPPs that very few people have.
We dig into what's really driving uptake, what's stalling it, why some households see payback in under four years while others can't make the numbers stack, and what the rise of VPPs means for the value of a battery sitting in your garage. If you've ever wondered whether a home battery actually makes financial sense — this is the conversation to have.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Nick Abson made pop videos for Queen, then children's puppets, then built Europe's largest fuel cell company, which was later killed off. At 79, his argument is that a community could build its own fuel cell and run on nothing but its own waste. His figures are unverified, and the units aren't built yet, but it is one of the more unusual conversations I've had on the show.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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For almost a decade I've been convinced electricity will end up free — free the way the internet is free. Last week I charged the car for nothing at a shopping mall, same as I would from my own solar, and drove north out of Manila. The trip cost nothing at all.
Fifty minutes on where that leads, and an argument with Tesla's AI about a future where knowledge is free too.
Only I have finite energy. The AI can go forever. Come find out how far.
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Australia's aggregated EV fleet capacity is expected to exceed Snowy Hydro 2.0 by the early 2030s. The government spent $12 billion on Snowy Hydro. The EV battery potential is sitting in driveways across the country — for free. But only if we can enable bidirectional charging.
Portia Rooney spent three years working on exactly that — and took a Churchill Fellowship to Europe and China to study how the world's most advanced V2G programs actually work. Her verdict: the technology is ready. The OEM approval, interoperability and harmonisation of standards and regulations are the missing pieces.
In this conversation: AC vs DC bidirectional charging, why a Nissan LEAF got bricked trying to do V2G, why power companies are going to have to adapt their business model and why the distributed Lego-block model has no single point of failure. "It doesn't have a central point. If you've got a transmission line transporting energy, there's a single point of failure. This doesn't."
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Ben Hutt runs Janus Electric — converting big diesel prime movers to electric for the same price as a diesel engine rebuild.
In North America alone there are four million of these trucks. It would take the OEMs 50 years to manufacture that many new electric replacements. Conversion is the only realistic path.
Battery swapping in four minutes. 450km range. 25 trucks sold with zero subsidy. And a business model that works like a Netflix subscription.
"Australia needs to get better at exporting technology — not just digging stuff up out of the ground and putting it on a boat."
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Stella Whittaker spent four years doing a PhD on one question: why is it so hard to raise money for climate adaptation — the part of the climate crisis that's already happening?
Her answer is in this episode. And it starts in Copenhagen, where three extreme flooding events in a row caused billions in damage and forced a city to redesign itself from the ground up — 300 projects, new street layouts, underground car parks built to double as flood infrastructure, all funded through a tariff on water.
Stella is Lead of Climate Transition at Haskoning and was part of a €10 million European research project with 50 partners and 20 pilot municipalities. She now works to bring those models to Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
We cover: why adaptation finance is the Cinderella of climate finance, what a real adaptation project actually looks like and how it gets funded, why Danish banks missed a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead the world in adaptation bonds, and how developing countries can use the UNDP guide and Cities Climate Finance Laboratory to actually mobilize money — not just write reports.
"It is possible. We just need to take a little bit of extra time and effort."
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Skip Bowman is an organisational psychologist who started interviewing energy leaders for a book on green leadership — and kept running into one question he couldn't answer: why does energy get more expensive when renewables are the cheapest ever created? Three years later, the answer became a book called "In the Dark." His conclusion: you will never get cheap power unless you take it. In this conversation: sky farming as the only job in a jobless economy, why there is no electricity generator trying to reduce your costs, the $21 billion in citizen capital Australia deployed without noticing, and why solar opens the account, the battery leverages the potential, and the EV sends the check.
15 to 20% return on investment. If you don't take it, somebody else will.
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Two weeks after a dropped call cut our first conversation short, Tim Ryan is back — fresh from Race for 2030's Consumer Grid Summit with 40 of Australia's top energy minds. In this conversation: why VPPs are "a shell game" for businesses trying to control your battery, the NMI number sitting in your switchboard that could work exactly like a phone number once did, and why Tim believes energy will eventually work the way WhatsApp does — invisible, automatic, and nobody thinks about it. We also get into Project Edith, why retailers want to "hasten slowly," and why Tim is convinced this future is coming whether the incumbents like it or not. "It's there and it's possible. The question is how long it takes to get cheaper — and how businesses modify their approach on the way."
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Tim Ryan has spent decades thinking about energy markets — and he talks about them the way most people talk about sport. In this conversation we get into the Cheaper Home Battery Program's 450,000+ installations, why "self-consumption" isn't selfish, and why the old rule that electricity can't be stored is quietly becoming obsolete.
We cover vehicle-to-grid ownership battles, why retailers are hiking daily fees right as consumers start saving, and why Tim believes the energy industry is about to have its own WhatsApp moment — the kind of shift that makes the old way of doing things look as outdated as a 1980s long-distance phone call.
This conversation got cut short by a dropped connection. Stay tuned for Part 2.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Bambang Susantono has had three careers that would each be a full life's work — Vice Minister of Transportation for Indonesia, Vice President of the Asian Development Bank, and then the founding head of Nusantara, Indonesia's new capital city.
In this conversation he explains why Nusantara studied three other purpose-built capitals — Astana, Brasília, and Canberra — to learn what not to do. His verdict on Myanmar's Naypyidaw, a city with five-star hotels and 20-lane roads: "the community doesn't have the soul."
We also get into facial recognition and surveillance technology in modern cities, why AI should remain a tool rather than a replacement for human creativity, and a near-death experience surviving a cyclone in Samoa that reshaped how Bambang thinks about climate resilience.
"Building forward better" — not "build back better." That's Bambang's principle, and it's the thread running through everything he's built.
Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Patrick Strom has spent 25 years in the wind industry, from prospecting sites to predictive maintenance on turbines the size of skyscrapers. His message is simple: renewables don't need subsidies anymore. They're winning on cost, full stop.
In this conversation: why offshore wind's real bottleneck isn't catching the wind but absorbing it onto the grid, why concentrated solar power was "the wrong answer to the right question," and why 60% of decommissioned wind turbines in Denmark get a second life rather than the scrap heap.
We also get into the lithium recycling myths fossil fuel defenders love to repeat, why insurance companies sometimes refuse to cover problems you can predict, and why offshore wind farms are quietly bringing fish habitats back to life.
"It's pumped out of the ground, it's refined, it's burned, and it's gone."
That's the fossil fuel business model. Here's what replaces it.
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Bruce Nordman spent nearly 40 years at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory asking one question: what if we ran electricity the way we run the internet? His answer reframes everything. A notebook computer is already a nanogrid — it can run on battery or grid power, and it distributes electricity to every USB device plugged into it. Scale that idea up, add a price signal that machines (not people) respond to, and you have a model for the entire electricity grid — one that works the same way whether you're in California or an off-grid village in Sub-Saharan Africa. We cover the three things every grid actually needs to coordinate — energy, power, and capacity — why Bell Labs dismissed the internet before it existed, and why Bruce believes electricity technology is still trapped in the 19th century. This conversation ends on a teaser: direct current power distribution, and why your house might one day run almost entirely on it. Part 2, coming soon.
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John Lin grew up Dutch-Chinese, worked strategy at the Netherlands' biggest e-commerce company, and spent years telling his McKinsey colleagues that everything they called "the future of commerce" had already happened in China. Nobody listened. He was right.
He now does 50 keynotes a year telling European boardrooms the same thing about EVs, AI, and energy.
In this conversation, Xiaomi built a car factory in 180 days and took 200,000 pre-orders in 3 minutes for a car nobody had seen. AI agents ordered 10 million bubble teas in nine hours. Driverless cars with blue light indicators are on the streets right now. And a $70,000 phone-brand EV just demolished a $1 million Ferrari at the drag strip.
The quartz crisis is coming for every industry. The question is which side of it you're on.
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Originally published as Episode 230 — this conversation has only become more relevant since. Michael Barnard is a climate futurist who builds decade-by-decade projections of the energy transition through 2100. He doesn't claim to be right. He claims to be less wrong than most.
In this episode: why hydrogen demand will fall, not rise — and why the narrative that sustained it for a decade is now collapsing. We also cover Pakistan's 22 gigawatt rooftop solar surprise, battery swapping for two and three-wheelers, containerized batteries sailing fully charged from China to Rotterdam, and why V2G is a rounding error for 90% of the world.
The 2035 hydrogen study from Sweden's RISE Institute says it all: hydrogen won't pencil out for road transport — anywhere. Denial is also a river in Egypt.
Watch the original: https://youtu.be/m0pXZsTjGqg?si=2h2fbLv8VRo_wH63
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Hamish McKenzie is Deputy Director of the Energy and Climate Program at the Grattan Institute. His team just published a landmark report on Australia's gas transition — and the findings are stark.
Gas use has peaked across every sector. In the National Electricity Market, gas generation is down 61% since 2014 and now just 4% of the grid. More households are leaving the gas network than joining it for the first time ever.
The bigger problem isn't that gas is declining. It's that nobody is managing the decline — no legal definition of decommissioning, no coordinated phase-out plan, and networks shutting down with six months notice.
We also cover V2G, the home battery boom, hydrogen's real use case, and why Australia is the most advanced country in the world on household energy transition.
Cooking with gas used to mean everything was fine. Times have changed.
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Jess Hunt has spent 25 years redesigning electricity markets. She was involved in the Hornsdale Big Battery — the world's first grid-scale battery — and now consults for governments and regulators across Australia.
In this conversation: the duck curve is dying, eight-hour battery storage is making gas redundant, and South Australia's latest firming tender went entirely to batteries. Gas companies weren't successful.
We also get into free electricity, $23 per kilowatt-hour price spikes, and why your EV could pay for dinner on a peak demand night.
South Australia is the world's renewable energy laboratory. Here's what they've learned.
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Why is the energy transition inevitable? Not just desirable, but inevitable.
In this first module of the Energypreneurs Masterclass, I curated five conversations from 300+ episodes to answer that question.
You'll hear from a trucking entrepreneur, a clean energy analyst, a physicist, and an InsurTech founder, each telling the same story from a completely different angle.
This masterclass is free for 3 months. 8 modules total.
Hosted by Sohail Hasnie, 40 years in the power sector, former Asian Development Bank energy specialist.
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The Philippines imports $15 billion worth of oil every year. 4 million tricycles burn a significant share of it.
Paul Johnston is the CEO of Pure EV, 350 electric tricycles operating across the Philippines, 92% utilisation, drivers taking home 30% more income. The technology works. The numbers work.
We go into the unit economics, the financing barriers, the charging infrastructure, and why converting Jeepneys is a maths problem and not a technology problem.
The question is want.
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The Philippines has one of the best renewable energy laws in the world, one of the highest electricity tariffs relative to income, and 278 island communities still running on diesel. Something doesn't add up. Ruth Yu Owen — CEO of UpGrade Energy Philippines, chair of two national energy committees, and one of the most connected people in Philippine clean energy — joins Sohail to explain why political will is the only variable that matters, and why this crisis might finally supply it. Solar. Batteries. EVs. The technology is ready. The question is whether the Philippines moves in months or decades.
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In this episode, our guests are Sayeed and Zahir, two experienced engineers and infrastructure specialists who discuss Bangladesh's development journey across water, transport, urban planning, and renewable energy.
The conversation explores lessons from large infrastructure projects, the importance of bottom-up development, the future of solar energy in Bangladesh, and how small entrepreneurs and informal businesses continue to drive economic growth and social impact.
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South Australia is producing 150% of its electricity demand from solar. Australia installed 10% of global battery capacity in a single month — for a country that represents 1% of the world's population. Something extraordinary is happening down under, and Daniel Perotti is in the middle of it.
Daniel leads future mobility and electrification projects at RAA, South Australia's automobile club. In this conversation we explore why energy is heading toward free and abundant, how electric vehicles and rooftop solar are becoming one system, and what it means when your car becomes your power plant. We also get into autonomous driving, the death of range anxiety, and why the petrol car may be unsellable within a decade.
If you think the energy transition is still decades away, this episode will change your mind.
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In this episode of the Energypreneurs Podcast, Raju Mandhyan discusses authentic influence, leadership, and staying true to your values in a rapidly changing world.
Raju shares powerful personal stories and practical insights on what it means to influence others ethically, make difficult decisions, and draw clear boundaries in life and work. The conversation also explores the role of storytelling, the impact of artificial intelligence, and why authenticity matters more than ever.
If you're interested in leadership, personal growth, and meaningful influence, this episode offers timeless lessons you can apply immediately.
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Jeff Wolfe, a pioneer of rooftop solar in the U.S., joins Energypreneurs to discuss the rapid evolution of solar, EVs, and battery storage, and what it means for the future of the grid.
From $20 per watt solar to near-zero marginal cost electricity, this episode explores how energy is becoming decentralized — and why even a small shift could disrupt the entire utility model.
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In this episode, our guest is Jyoti Bisbey, a climate finance expert and former World Bank professional, discussing climate finance, adaptation vs mitigation, sustainable infrastructure, clean mobility, and the future of global development. She also shares career insights, leadership lessons, and perspectives on AI and sustainability.
Please join to find more.
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In this episode, I reflect on the growing energy security crisis in net energy-importing developing countries like Bangladesh and the Philippines. Drawing from a recent visit to Dhaka, I share the powerful image of a mile-long fuel queue and paints the contrasting Picture of using electric vehicles powered by rooftop solar as a practical solution for many.
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In this episode, our guest is Penny Estrada, Chief Growth Officer in a global freight forwarding business. She shares how constant disruptions, rising fuel costs, and supply chain bottlenecks are reshaping logistics.
Penny highlights the hidden operational strain behind these challenges, the shift toward sustainability and electrification, and the growing need for risk-aware decision-making. She also explores nearshoring, the Philippines' reliance on imports, and opportunities for building more resilient, locally driven economies.
Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Jasteanne "Jazzy" Benito, a survivor of Typhoon Haiyan who shares her firsthand experience of one of the most devastating storms in history. She reflects on how living through the disaster at just 16 shaped her views on climate change, resilience, and personal responsibility. From losing her home and rebuilding her life to becoming a successful entrepreneur in real estate, Jazzy's journey is a powerful story of transformation. She also shares her message to young people—to create, not just consume—and to take an active role in shaping a better future.
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In this episode, our guest is Pratish Halady, Regional Head for Private Sector Development (Southeast Asia) at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). He shares how ADB is bringing together green finance and private sector investment to accelerate the region's energy transition.
We dive into real-world examples—from EV charging infrastructure and geothermal development to blended finance and policy reform—showing how markets are created and scaled. The conversation also explores energy security, electrification, and the role of regional initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid in building a more resilient, low-carbon future.
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In this episode, our guest is Monalisa Dimalanta, former Chairperson of the Energy Regulatory Commission, who shares insights into the Philippines' evolving energy sector.
We discuss the gap between strong renewable energy policies and execution, high power costs driven by fossil fuel dependence, and the challenges in off-grid island systems. Monalisa highlights opportunities to scale solar, storage, and hybrid solutions, alongside the need for regulatory reform.
Looking ahead, she explores a future where electricity shifts from per-kilowatt-hour pricing to a service-based model.
Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is David Beeton, CEO of Urban Foresight and a pioneer in electric mobility. He shares insights on the evolution of electric vehicles, the shift toward autonomous transport, and how cities can build smarter, more sustainable mobility systems.
We explore key drivers of EV adoption—cost, convenience, and culture—alongside emerging trends like mobility-as-a-service, AI integration, and new financing models for infrastructure. David also highlights the critical role of policy, business models, and urban design in shaping the future of transportation.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in EVs, smart cities, and the future of mobility.
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David Osmond breaks down how wind energy works, why turbines are getting bigger, and how wind complements solar power. He also explains how batteries, EVs, and smart grids can enable up to 98% renewable energy while debunking common myths about wind power.
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In this episode, our guest is Guillaume Rémy, who explains how carbon credits can accelerate electric mobility adoption and unlock new revenue streams. We explore Article 6 carbon markets, EV monetization strategies, and how climate finance can support scalable, low-carbon transport solutions in emerging markets.
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In this episode, our guest is Jay Gordon, discussing Australia's shift from gas to electricity, driven by rising costs, energy security, and net zero goals. He explores electrification, rooftop solar, batteries, and EVs, and how households are becoming key players in the clean energy transition.
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In this episode, our host Sohail Hasnie delivers a powerful monologue on how today's energy crisis can be turned into a policy opportunity. Drawing on his experience across Asia, he outlines ten urgent actions—from smart fuel rationing and efficient mobility to rapid solar deployment and transport electrification.
Sohail highlights the risks of heavy dependence on imported oil and makes the case for bold, immediate policy decisions to accelerate electrification, renewable energy adoption, and long-term energy security.
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What does it really take to deliver a cross-border energy project?
In this episode of Energypreneurs, I share the untold story behind the Asian Development Bank–financed West Kalimantan–Sarawak transmission line — a project that took seven years, dozens of stakeholders, and relentless persistence to bring to life.
This is not a technical discussion. It's a human story.
From early skepticism and missing documentation to pricing negotiations, stakeholder alignment, and on-the-ground challenges in Borneo, this episode reveals what actually happens behind large infrastructure projects — far beyond what you see in headlines.
In the second part, I distill key lessons from the journey:
Why you must start before you're ready Why people — not technology — determine success How pricing unlocks progress The importance of champions and alignment Why public sector financing is critical for cross-border projects
Finally, I connect these lessons to today's energy transition — where regional grids, renewable energy, and cross-border collaboration are more important than ever.
If you are working on infrastructure, energy, or large-scale projects — this episode is for you.
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In this episode, our guest is Nicole Mao, Co-Founder and CEO of a fast-growing EV battery swapping company.
She shares how battery-as-a-service is transforming electric mobility in Bangladesh and beyond—reducing costs, eliminating charging downtime, and enabling scalable EV adoption in emerging markets. Nicole also discusses global expansion into the Middle East and Pakistan, the shift from climate-driven EV adoption to energy security, and how EV batteries can power the future through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and distributed energy networks.
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In this episode, our guest is Syed Haseeb Hassan, an EV charging expert and automotive industry analyst based in Germany. We explore how electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is evolving—from home EV chargers and AC wall boxes to ultra-fast DC charging stations and megawatt charging technology.
Haseeb explains the different EV charging levels, public charging networks in Europe, charging costs compared to gasoline vehicles, and the role of battery storage in fast-charging stations. The discussion also covers emerging innovations such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), battery swapping, and inductive charging, along with global EV market trends and the growing influence of Chinese EV manufacturers.
If you're interested in electric vehicles, EV charging technology, energy transition, and the future of mobility, this episode provides practical insights into how the EV ecosystem is rapidly transforming.
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"The era of the power station is ending."
In this episode, John Noonan explains how rooftop solar, batteries, and distributed energy are reshaping the grid, and why South Australia is already proving it can work.
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In this episode, our guest is Manav (CEO), Alpna and Adwitya—the co-founding team—of Driven, who are tackling one of the biggest barriers to electrifying heavy transport: financing.
They explain how Driven enables fleet operators to adopt electric buses and trucks through a leasing model, bundling vehicles, charging infrastructure, and service guarantees. The conversation explores why heavy vehicles are difficult to finance, how data from EV fleets helps manage risk and improve operations, and why large commercial fleets represent a major opportunity for decarbonizing transport.
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In this episode, our guest is Neal Moore, a communication coach, writer, and actor who helps professionals and organisations tell better stories for business impact. Neal shares insights on personal branding, explaining why job titles are less important than clearly communicating the value you bring to others.
We discuss how storytelling, thoughtful use of LinkedIn, and consistent value-sharing can help build a strong professional presence. Neal also reflects on the importance of real-world connections and introduces his "Pro Human" philosophy—encouraging more human creativity, collaboration, and meaningful relationships in an increasingly AI-driven world.
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In this episode, our guest is Frank Haugwitz, a long-time China energy expert who has witnessed firsthand the country's transformation into the world's clean energy powerhouse.
Frank explains how early rural solar programs, strong industrial policy, global demand, and relentless competition helped China dominate solar manufacturing and deployment. He shares insights into China's risk-taking culture, rapid innovation cycles, grid challenges, and what the rest of the world can learn from its clean tech journey.
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In this episode, our guest is Robert Stewart, founder of Collective Power Boroondara, Melbourne, Australia, who explores how the energy transition must go beyond technology to focus on people and relationships.
As solar, batteries, and EVs transform households into both producers and consumers, Robert argues the grid is becoming a shared community asset. He explains why many households are on the wrong tariffs, why VPP uptake remains low, and how a non-distributing cooperative model can help build trust, improve equity, and unlock better outcomes for everyone.
This conversation highlights why the future of energy depends not just on smarter technology — but on stronger communities.
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In this episode, our guest is Bruce Mountain, Director of the Victoria Energy Policy Centre at Victoria University in Melbourne. With over three decades in energy economics and policy, Bruce shares sharp insights into how distributed solar, batteries, and EVs are reshaping the electricity market.
We discuss the rapid fall in battery costs, the growing possibility of grid defection, and whether traditional distribution monopolies face stranded assets. Bruce also gives a candid critique of Australia's proposed "free electricity" policy, questioning whether it promotes fairness — or distorts the market.
From vehicle-to-grid to regulatory reform, this conversation challenges the role of government in the energy transition. Bruce argues that the economics of clean energy now stand on their own — and that policymakers should focus less on subsidies and more on removing barriers.
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In this 300th episode of Energypreneurs, I do a solo monologue reflecting on why I started the podcast during COVID and what I have learned over five years and 300 conversations.
I share how podcasting has helped me clarify my thinking on climate, electric vehicles, batteries, and clean energy policy, while building a strong global network of founders, engineers, and investors. I also explain why podcasting is even more relevant in the age of AI — as a tool for authenticity, credibility, and long-term intellectual asset creation.
Finally, I walk through the practical side of starting a podcast today — from format choices and simple recording setups to using AI tools for editing and content creation — and why you should consider starting one yourself.
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In this episode, our guest is Karl Nolles, an energy economist and former system control operator with experience spanning academia, banking, and government. Karl shares lessons from early carbon markets, integrating solar and batteries into isolated grids, and the technical realities of synthetic inertia and system stability. We discuss policy intervention, regulatory risk, behind-the-meter optimisation, and the growing energy demands of AI and data centers. The conversation concludes with a deep dive into biodiversity credit markets and the land-use impacts of large-scale solar, including why renewable expansion is creating significant demand for conservation offsets. Please join to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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In this episode, our guest is Megan Fisher, CEO and Director of Energy Lab, a startup support organisation helping climate tech founders build and scale solutions for decarbonisation. Megan explains how Energy Lab backs entrepreneurs from idea stage to international growth through accelerator programs, mentors and investors, with examples ranging from grid software and virtual power plants to solar and storage innovations. She also reflects on mid-career founders, the importance of diversity—especially more women in climate tech—and why climate entrepreneurship can become a major economic engine in the energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Omar Riahi, an EV influencer, author, and customer experience lead at Percepta. Omar shares his personal journey from skeptic to passionate advocate, revealing how EVs are transforming not just transportation, but the entire energy landscape. We discuss the evolution of customer adoption, the economics of vehicle-to-grid systems, and the global momentum toward electric mobility. From charging myths to the rise of EVs in Asia and Europe, Omar brings frontline insight into how seamless customer experience is the key to mass adoption. This episode is a deep dive into how EVs are becoming energy assets and what the frictionless, electrified future looks like.
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In this episode, our guest is Bill Shevlin, CEO of Clearbook Energy Solutions and a returning voice to the show. Bill shares remarkable insights from the frontlines of the energy transition, highlighting how microgrids, battery manufacturing, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, and virtual power plants (VPPs) are redefining the way we generate, store, and distribute electricity. He reflects on Australia's pioneering approach to free midday electricity, discusses the future role of AI in energy systems, and explores how electrification—combined with intelligent grid solutions—can revolutionize industries, communities, and daily life. A must-listen conversation on how abundance, resilience, and decentralization are shaping our energy future.
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This is an end-of-year monologue from me, Sohail Hasnie, your host at Energypreneurs. In this solo episode, I reflect on the most powerful trends, insights, and conversations from the past year. From the rooftop solar revolution and vehicle-to-grid breakthroughs to the electrification of mining, hydrogen's reality check, and AI's growing impact—I cover it all. I also share why I believe the next big leap isn't more invention, but smarter integration. It's a personal wrap-up of 2025's clean energy journey and where we're heading next.
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In this episode, Sohail Hasnie shares a powerful monologue unpacking why internal combustion engine vehicles are on the brink of obsolescence — and why electric vehicles (EVs) are the smarter choice today and into the future. Drawing comparisons to outdated technologies like film cameras and Blackberries, Sohail explores the economic, technological, and policy shifts that are transforming the transport and energy sectors.
He discusses how falling battery costs, bidirectional charging, and rising fuel prices are making EVs cheaper to operate — and soon, cheaper to own. He also warns of the risk of stranded assets for those buying new petrol vehicles today, and outlines how EVs could become income-generating and home energy assets.
This solo episode is a compelling call to action for consumers, policymakers, and industry leaders navigating the energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Stanley Choi, a dynamic leader at SANY Group Australia, a global OEM driving electrification in heavy industry and infrastructure. Stanley shares insights into how SANY is delivering complete energy and transport solutions—from electric mining trucks to autonomous factories producing EVs in under 10 minutes.
He discusses how SANY's off-grid power systems are helping decarbonize mining operations in Australia and South Africa, leveraging in-house solar, battery, and wind technologies. Stanley also highlights the challenges and opportunities for commercial EV adoption, including Australia's infrastructure gaps and the promise of autonomous and AI-driven logistics. A compelling look at innovation in energy, transport, and industrial automation.
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In this episode, our guest is Stephanie Bashir, Founder and CEO of Nexa Advisory. With over two decades of experience in Australia's energy sector, Stephanie shares a compelling vision for a consumer-driven clean energy future. From rooftop solar and home batteries to commercial-scale renewables and regulatory reform, she unpacks the big shifts reshaping Australia's energy market. Stephanie discusses the phasing out of coal, barriers to transmission upgrades, the equity implications of fixed network charges, and how electric vehicles and household storage are redefining the role of utilities. She also calls for open, honest conversations on modernizing the grid and ensuring energy affordability for all. This is a dynamic conversation on policy, innovation, and people-powered change.
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In this episode, our returning guest is Tim Buckley, Director of Climate Energy Finance, and a leading voice in Australia's clean energy transition. Tim shares a passionate and data-driven overview of how rooftop solar, home batteries, and EVs are transforming Australia's energy landscape. He discusses record-breaking renewable penetration, the game-changing impact of battery subsidies, and the economics of solar that now defy fossil-fuel logic. Tim also emphasizes energy equity—highlighting policies aimed at helping renters and low-income households access clean energy, including a novel proposal offering 3 hours of free midday electricity. With insights spanning from China's global clean tech exports to Pakistan's rooftop solar surge, this episode is a masterclass in how distributed energy, electrification, and smart regulation can deliver a more affordable, secure, and sustainable future.
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In this episode, our guest is Curtis S. Chin, former U.S. Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank and current Asia Fellow at the Milken Institute. With deep experience spanning diplomacy, finance, and sustainable development, Curtis shares insights on Asia's energy future, the balance of access and innovation, and why responsible development must focus on "People, Planet, and Partnership."
He reflects on his days at the ADB, the need for localized energy solutions like micro-hydro and solar, and why maintenance—not just installation—is critical for long-term success. The conversation also dives into AI's growing role, the risks of misinformation, the widening digital divide, and how social and AI literacy are becoming vital skills.
Curtis also touches on entrepreneurship, sharing case studies from clean tech to creative economies, while encouraging a broader, more inclusive definition of prosperity—one that includes investing in children, health, education, and community-level impact.
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In this episode, our guest is Massimiliano Cervo, who shares clear and practical insights on how the Middle East is approaching the energy transition. He discusses the growing role of renewables, the importance of balancing the energy trilemma, and why diversification—not a single technology—is key. Massimiliano also breaks down where hydrogen truly makes economic sense and how policy, carbon pricing, and mandates will shape future energy systems.
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In this episode, our guest is Hans-Henning Judek, a German-born, Japan-based lawyer, economist, and energy innovator who has spent over two decades pioneering renewable energy solutions. From early work in maritime wind propulsion and biofuels to his recent ventures in microwave-assisted biofuel production and floating solar technology, Hans-Henning shares a remarkable journey across continents and disciplines.
He explains how lignocellulosic biomass—such as rice straw and sugarcane bagasse—can be converted into carbon-neutral marine gas oil, offering a sustainable alternative to heavy fuel oils currently dominating the shipping industry. We also dive into the challenges and breakthroughs of floating solar systems, including a dive-capable design resilient to typhoons.
Hans-Henning passionately highlights how his innovations can uplift smallholder farmers, reduce stubble burning in places like India, and tackle invasive plants like water hyacinth through thermal carbonization. This episode is a deep dive into practical climate action, energy justice, and engineering ingenuity.
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In this episode, our guest is Michael Sura, a passionate engineer and energy expert with decades of experience in gas transit and hydrogen research. Drawing from his time managing large-scale natural gas operations and early hydrogen experiments, Michael offers an honest, technically grounded reality check on the hydrogen hype dominating today's energy discourse.
He challenges the feasibility of hydrogen as a transport fuel, breaks down the economic and safety pitfalls of converting hydrogen into ammonia, and critiques misguided green shipping solutions. Michael also shares sharp insights into the role of geography in green hydrogen production, the ethics of ammonia diversion from fertilizer to fuel, and the limitations of battery-powered ships.
With clarity and conviction, he calls for smarter decarbonization strategies—prioritizing low-hanging fruit, being conscious of energy efficiency, and focusing investments where they matter most. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about real-world climate solutions, not just headlines.
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In this episode, our guest is Dr. Jose Bienvenido Manuel M. Biona, Executive Director of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) and the Enrique Razon Logistics Institute at De La Salle University. Dr. Biona dives deep into the current state and future of electric mobility in the Philippines—from key policy breakthroughs like the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act to the practical challenges of financing and retrofitting. He shares valuable insights on incentive strategies for EV manufacturers, the growing market for electric public transport, and the role of regional collaboration in accelerating adoption across ASEAN. Manny also reflects on EVAP's remarkable growth since its grassroots beginnings and the importance of public education in debunking EV myths. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the energy transition in Southeast Asia.
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In this episode, our guest is Jaap Burger, a leading voice on EV smart charging and consumer energy flexibility. Based in Brussels and focused on EU policy on EVs, Jaap unpacks how electric vehicles, bi-directional charging, and automation are transforming consumers from passive users into active participants in the energy transition.
We discussed: Why Norway's EV policy is more about smart taxation than subsidies; how Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is moving from theory to large-scale deployment; the impact of thermal waste from ICE vehicles on urban heat; and the role of automation in unlocking flexible demand at scale; and how energy communities and equitable access can democratize electrification
Jaap also touches on energy-efficient cooking, smart home innovations, and why well-insulated homes matter more than ever in the age of renewables. With passion and clarity, he paints a compelling picture of a user-centric, decentralized energy system—and how we all have a role to play.
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In this episode, our guest is Daisy Vardy, co-founder of ForeseEnergy, a 100% minority women-owned cleantech EPC company based in British Columbia. Daisy shares her company's inspiring journey and mission to decarbonize transportation by retrofitting diesel fleets—from mining trucks and postal vans to tugboats and cranes—with state-of-the-art electric drive systems and battery swapping technologies. She discusses how their end-to-end solutions extend the life of vehicles, reduce emissions, and lower operational costs by up to 90%.
Daisy also explains how ForeseEnergy is leading initiatives in second-life battery repurposing, autonomous vehicle retrofits, microgrids for rural communities, and collaborations with Indigenous Nations. Her story is a compelling testament to female-led innovation, sustainable development, and the power of strategic partnerships in accelerating the energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Dr. Ancha Srinivasan, a veteran climate change expert and agripreneurship advocate. With decades of international experience in climate policy, precision agriculture, and energy access, Ancha dives deep into how democratizing clean energy technologies can revolutionize farming—especially for smallholders. He reflects on his journey from rural India to global institutions, highlighting how AI, solar irrigation, agri-voltaics, and innovative financing models can empower the next generation of farmers.
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In this episode, our guest is Candace Miller, a seasoned global development and public health expert who has spent decades leading impactful programs across Africa, with organizations like the Millennium Challenge Corporation and USAID's Power Africa. Candace shares how her hands-on experience in energy access—particularly through solar mini-grids for health facilities—sparked her shift into clean energy advocacy in the U.S.
Now focused on accelerating the energy transition in the Northeast, she discusses policy barriers, affordability concerns, and the critical role of combating misinformation. From electrifying health clinics in Africa to navigating permitting hurdles in Massachusetts, Candace brings deep insight and optimism to the evolving clean energy landscape. She also weighs in on the future of EVs, the role of citizen movements, and the emerging potential of fusion energy.
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In this episode, our guest is Angus McDonald, Co-founder and Chair of the Maritime Emission Reduction Coalition (MERC). Angus shares how battery-powered boats are reshaping marine transport, from electric ferries to outboard conversions for island fishermen.
He explores the economic, safety, and regulatory challenges of maritime electrification—and why this sector may soon follow the EV boom. From solar charging to floating battery swaps, it's a deep dive into the future of clean, quiet seas.
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In this episode, our guest is Robert Schoellhammer, recently retired from a 25-year career at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Robert shares reflections from his time working across Asia and Europe, highlighting how MDBs can and should lead with bold, transformative investments. From climate finance and energy access in Mongolia to electric vehicle policy in Manila, he unpacks why trust, innovation, and ambition matter more than ever. This episode is a deep dive into the "big bets" MDBs need to take to stay relevant in a fast-changing development landscape.
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In this episode, our guest is Jan Tore Gjøby, a seasoned electrical engineer and independent consultant from Norway. Jan takes us through his inspiring journey from setting up one of Norway's first DC fast chargers to shaping national EV and charging strategies with the Norwegian Automobile Federation.
He shares insider insights into how Norway rapidly transitioned to 95% electric car sales, the pivotal role of government policy in discouraging polluting vehicles (rather than subsidizing EVs), and how EVs are now evolving from energy consumers to active players in grid stabilization through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration.
Jan also discusses Norway's pioneering work in electrifying ferries, trucks, and autonomous freight systems, as well as challenges around home batteries, solar adoption, and the next wave of innovation needed for a fully flexible and resilient energy system. His perspectives offer valuable lessons for countries on similar energy transition paths.
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In this episode, our guest is Tim Ryan, a seasoned voice in Australia's energy and digital technology landscape. Tim unpacks the evolving dynamics of energy supply in rural Australia — from community perspectives on wind farms to the transformative potential of batteries, EVs, and smart grids. He explores curbside charging, Distribution Network Service Provider's (DNSP) as enablers rather than gatekeepers, and why flexibility and digitization are essential for consumer empowerment and system efficiency. With rich anecdotes and technical insights, Tim makes a compelling case for rethinking how energy is delivered and managed — especially outside the big cities.
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In this episode, our guest is Samy Sriram, Head of Marketing and Operations at Clearbot, a pioneering startup building electric, solar-powered boats designed to clean polluted waterways. Samy shares the inspiring journey of scaling Clearbot from a humble prototype into a fleet of smart, autonomous vessels now operating across five countries.
She breaks down their service, rental, and sales models, details the capabilities of their three boat classes—including AI integration, remote operation, and solar charging—and discusses Clearbot's commitment to working alongside local communities to recover waste without replacing livelihoods.
From tackling water hyacinths and plastic debris to collecting real-time environmental data, this conversation offers a fascinating look into how electric marine tech is addressing water pollution and climate challenges at scale. Samyuktha also reflects on her favorite project in Northeast India, the risks operators face, and her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: start small, stay passionate, and iterate. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Sidhant Gupta, the co-founder of Clearbot—a startup transforming how we clean polluted waterways. From a student project sparked by a trip to Bali, Sidhant and his team have built a fleet of unmanned, solar-powered electric boats that remove waste from water bodies in India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines.
Clearbot's boats, equipped with AI and autonomous navigation systems, are redefining how dirty, dangerous marine tasks are handled. Sidhant shares how their technology is already expanding beyond pollution control to include maritime inspection, surveillance, and even flood rescue applications.
We explore how the team aims to scale from 25 to 10,000 boats with their "electric boat in a box" model and how local partnerships enable global impact. Plus, Sidhant reflects on what it takes to grow a purpose-driven tech company from the ground up and the broader potential of electrifying and automating maritime infrastructure. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Vladimir Abdelnour, an electrical engineer and founder who transformed crisis into opportunity. He shares how Lebanon's chronic electricity shortages led to a surge in rooftop solar adoption and his creation of a smart microgrid startup that integrated diesel, solar, and grid energy. Vladimir also discusses his transition to the U.S. for a PhD in grid-edge technologies, where he explores advanced energy systems, AI for energy, and decentralized smart grid models.
From peer-to-peer energy trading and virtual power plants to AI-powered interconnection studies and the future of grid digital twins, Vladimir's journey showcases the power of innovation, resilience, and practical solutions in the global energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Dr. Enebish Namjil, a veteran solar energy expert and pioneer of Mongolia's renewable energy transition. Dr. Namjil shares his journey from launching early solar research in the 1970s to developing large-scale PV systems, solar thermal heating, and even implementing innovative heat battery technologies in his own home.
We explore Mongolia's immense potential in solar energy, including gigawatt-scale proposals for the Gobi Desert, the shift toward distributed power supply, and how Dr. Namjil's work is helping combat severe winter pollution. His personal solar-powered home is a model of energy autonomy — generating over 200 kWh/day, storing power with both lithium and heat batteries, and inspiring future generations through education and policy advocacy.
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In this episode, our guest is Steven Letendre, an economist and regulatory strategist specializing in distributed energy and vehicle-grid integration. Steven shares his deep insights into the emerging world of bidirectional EV charging, or V2G, a concept he has helped shape for over two decades. From the regulatory frameworks needed to support innovation, to real-world use cases like electric school buses and bundled EV-leasing models in Europe, Steven unpacks the transformative potential of "batteries on wheels."
We explore how EVs can not only consume but also supply energy to the grid, enabling flexible energy management, reducing peak demand, and even providing power to underserved communities. With vivid analogies and global case studies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of mobility, clean energy, and entrepreneurship.
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In this episode, our guest is Sohail Hasnie, host of Energypreneurs, who shares his personal reflections on the game-changing potential of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. Driving through Metro Manila, Sohail explores the "10 things V2G can do for us"—a practical and visionary list that shows how electric vehicles can go far beyond transportation to become mobile power stations.
He explains how V2G could:
- Reduce electricity bills
- Provide backup power during emergencies
- Enable income streams through bi-directional charging
- Optimize solar energy use
- Support grid stability during peak demand
- Boost property values
- Encourage energy independence
- Create community-level resilience
- Allow participation in energy markets
- And ultimately, reshape how we generate, store, and use electricity
Drawing from real-world scenarios and analogies to the mobile phone revolution, Sohail makes a compelling case that V2G could transform both the energy and transport sectors in ways we’re only beginning to imagine.
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In this episode, our guest is Laura Jones, an electrical engineer, social scientist, and co-founder of the Circular PV Alliance. Laura walks us through the pioneering work behind Australia's first certification scheme for circular solar farms, CPVA Certified. From integrating circular economy principles into planning and operation, to practical reuse and repair strategies for PV components, Laura’s insights are both grounded and forward-looking.
We also explore her research on virtual power plants (VPPs), the real-world challenges householders face when participating in energy markets, and how human behavior intersects with energy tech design. Laura shares valuable lessons from her projects on battery storage, vehicle-to-grid trials, and how equitable and thoughtful systems design can lead to more resilient and inclusive energy futures.
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In this episode, our guest is Danny Kennedy, a serial energy entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for distributed renewables. Danny shares his bold vision for a world powered entirely by solar energy and battery storage — a transformation he calls "Solar for Universal Need." Drawing on his experience leading startups and initiatives like the California Clean Energy Fund and New Energy Nexus, Danny explores the dramatic cost declines in solar and storage technologies and their role in reshaping how we electrify everything — from homes to transportation, boats, agriculture, and even cooking.
He highlights how developing countries like Pakistan and the Philippines are leapfrogging centralized grid models by deploying decentralized, low-cost energy solutions that empower citizens and communities. Danny also discusses the overlooked potential of maritime electrification, the role of AI and social media in accelerating learning and deployment, and the coming disruption of fossil-fueled infrastructure.
This is a wide-ranging, energizing conversation on how innovation, entrepreneurship, and bold action can help us navigate — and accelerate — the global energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Glenne Drover, a passionate energy professional and currently the Company Secretary at Yarra Energy Foundation. Though semi-retired, Glenne remains deeply active in shaping Australia's energy landscape through consulting, advocacy, and public engagement.
We discuss the evolving battery storage landscape, with Glenne providing rich insights into vanadium redox flow batteries, salt-based alternatives, and iron-air innovations. He shares his experience helping commercialize long-duration energy storage in Australia and beyond.
A major focus is on community battery projects, including Yarra Energy Foundation’s pioneering work that inspired both state and federal programs supporting hundreds of installations across the country. Glenne also explores the role of electric vehicles in grid support (V2G), Australia's world-leading rooftop solar economics, and the emerging challenges of energy resilience in response to extreme weather and grid reliability.
This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for anyone interested in energy transition, grid innovation, or how local communities can take charge of their energy future.
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In this episode, our guest is Yongping Zhai, former ADB energy leader and now Senior Advisor at Tencent, leading their carbon neutrality strategy.
He shares his journey from early solar projects to driving green innovation in big tech—covering dramatic cost drops in renewables, the rise of AI in grid management, and why mindsets must shift for the energy transition to succeed.
Yongping also discusses Tencent’s role in supporting frontier technologies like direct air capture, long-duration storage, and carbon-to-product solutions, all aiming for net zero by 2030.
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In this episode, our guest is Gavin Dufty, National Director of Energy Policy and Research at St Vincent de Paul Australia. Gavin brings decades of experience advocating for consumer equity in Australia's energy transition. He shares valuable insights on evolving from kilowatt-based billing to energy-as-a-service models, rethinking subsidy frameworks, and the importance of involving everyday consumers in shaping regulatory policy. From hot water as a battery to intergenerational equity in solar incentives, Gavin outlines the foundational frameworks needed to enable inclusive and effective decarbonization. His clear-eyed perspective and consumer-first approach make this a vital listen for anyone engaged in the future of energy.
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In this episode, our guest is Daan Boom, former Knowledge Management Specialist at ADB, who shares how knowledge systems have evolved—from early platforms like K-Map and E-Star to today's AI-driven environments.
He reflects on building a culture of learning within development institutions, his current work on climate resilience in Bangladesh, and how to stay intellectually and physically active in retirement.
A thoughtful conversation on knowledge, AI, and lifelong engagement.
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In this episode, our guest is Daniel Bleakley, co-founder of New Energy Transport, who shares how his team is building a vertically integrated, zero-emission road-freight company that can compete at diesel price parity by pairing electric trucks with on-site generation and smart participation in Australia’s wholesale electricity market. He explains why heavy line-haul routes are the best first movers (diesel can be ~40% of operating cost), outlines initial operations between Sydney and the Illawarra before extending down the Hume to Melbourne, and describes early trials with customers starting in September. Daniel also highlights the system-level upside—using large truck batteries (≈600 kWh each) for vehicle-to-grid flexibility—and updates us on funding (a first raise just under A$1M in Nov, with grants and a follow-on round underway).
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In this episode, our guest is Bruce Nordman, a long-time researcher from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Bruce brings four decades of experience in energy efficiency and introduces his revolutionary vision for transforming how buildings use electricity, drawing strong parallels with the evolution of internet technology.
We explore the concept of "nanogrids," price-responsive appliances, and how a decentralized approach to energy, using price signals instead of commands, can reshape both on- and off-grid systems. Bruce highlights the untapped potential of DC power, the role of embedded intelligence in devices, and how smart automation can lead to a more resilient, efficient, and affordable energy future for everyone from California to remote villages in Asia and Africa.
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In this episode, our guest is Cheree Bonnici, a startup founder based in South Australia, and the driving force behind Topicks, a global content platform focused on community, education, and sustainability. Cheree shares the story behind creating a curated digital space where users choose what they learn—free from algorithms and noise. From solving content quality challenges with AI moderation to building safe spaces for user-generated insights on climate change, nutrition, and EVs, she dives deep into what makes Topicks unique. She also reflects on the entrepreneurial journey, balancing personal passion with persistence, and her aspirations for growing an inclusive, expert-led platform that fosters real connection.
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In this episode, our guest is Amie Vuyong. She works on AI-powered identity verification, AML, and fraud prevention, areas she frames as “compliance AI agents.” She also shares how she used modern AI coding companions to turn a manual spreadsheet into a sleek personal finance web app, with expense tracking, budgets, and net‑worth views, built through iterative MVPs using Cursor/Windsor and GPT. Beyond tools, Amie and Sohail compare real‑world AI workflows (from content editing to prioritization systems), swap notes on NotebookLM for multi‑PDF research and auto‑generated explainers, and discuss autonomy, from AGI timelines to everyday safety moments in driver‑assist and robotaxis.
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In this episode, our guest is Clinton O’Neil, a distributed energy veteran whose journey began in Hawaii’s rooftop solar boom and evolved into driving innovation in grid modernisation and virtual power plants (VPPs). Clinton shares deep insights into the transition from net metering to non-export solar, the pivotal role of energy storage, and how DERs are transforming utility-scale grid operations.
He discusses the emergence of electric vehicles as mobile batteries, the potential of bi-directional charging, and the exciting future of AI-driven grid orchestration. With real-world examples from Hawaii, Colorado, and global markets, Clinton paints a compelling vision for how homes, cars, and the grid are converging into a smarter, more resilient energy ecosystem. Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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In this episode, our guest is Ned Funnell, a test engineer at Lincoln Electric and long-time electric vehicle (EV) enthusiast. Ned shares a decade of personal and professional insights from the EV world—discussing high-power chargers, grid resiliency, home batteries, and the evolving role of electrification in achieving net-zero goals. From transit buses and ferries in the Nordics to solar-powered homes in Australia, Ned offers a global view on the electric transition. He talks candidly about his early scepticism regarding home batteries, how autonomy is changing driving experiences, and why he now believes the EV ecosystem, encompassing charging infrastructure, solar, batteries, and software, can truly transform lives. This engaging conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the fast-changing energy landscape.
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In this episode, our guest is Gregory McGarvie, founder of Ace Electric Vehicles—Australia’s pioneering homegrown EV startup. Gregory shares his eight-year journey building locally assembled EVs, from trolley collectors for Woolworths to advanced, grid-integrated vans.
We explore the challenges of local manufacturing, the innovation behind Ace’s energy management system, and the growing role of microgrids in energy resilience. Gregory also reflects on Australia’s lost auto industry and how EVs could spark a new era of smart, sustainable manufacturing.
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In this episode, our guest is Marc Sheldon, CEO of Red Earth Energy Storage. Marc shares his journey from solar thermal to leading innovations in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery systems. He explains how Red Earth’s Australian-made, plug-and-play solutions are transforming energy access — from rural off-grid sheds to large-scale commercial installations — and enabling grid stability through storage. Marc also reveals their “microgrid in a box” concept, which integrates generation, storage, and key household systems on a DC backbone, offering huge potential for remote communities, island nations, and disaster recovery. We discuss the shift toward a distributed grid, the role of vehicle-to-grid technology, and how regulatory changes, market design, and community-driven adoption will shape the energy landscape toward 2030.
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In this episode, our guest is Alma Roxas-Aguila, a seasoned renewable energy expert with over two decades of experience in the Philippine wind sector. Alma shares her journey from early project development at Alternergy, including involvement in Southeast Asia's first onshore wind farm, to her current focus on scaling up offshore wind. She provides deep insights into the evolution of renewable energy policy in the Philippines, the complexities of the Green Energy Auction Program, and infrastructure gaps in ports and grid that still need resolution. Alma also discusses the environmental considerations, permitting challenges, and emerging workforce needs to support the country's 92 awarded offshore wind service contracts.
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In this episode, our guest is Cameron Quin, a serial energy entrepreneur who reconnects with Sohail after years of impactful work across the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia. Cameron shares his journey from launching off-grid solar ventures to exploring the deeper aspects of human energy and spiritual well-being.
He offers unique insights into the economics of solar and battery deployment in remote islands, where short payback periods are making energy independence a reality. The discussion expands to the future of decentralised grids, virtual power plants, and how the cost of electricity is shifting towards near-zero.
Cameron also opens up about his parallel exploration into mental health, energy psychology, and shadow work—connecting the material energy transition to a spiritual one. He challenges us to rethink energy, not just as electricity, but as how we spend our life force.
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In this episode, our guest is Xiaochen Zhang, a global innovation leader and the driving force behind AI 2030 and FinTech for Good. Xiaochen shares his journey from the World Bank to founding organisations that champion responsible technology. He dives into the six-pillar framework of responsible AI—transparency, accountability, fairness, safety, security, sustainability, and privacy—and discusses the risks of digital divide, ethical AI design, and the future of collaborative intelligence. He also highlights the transformative potential of AI across climate, financial inclusion, and renewable energy, underscoring the urgency of responsible leadership and inclusive innovation. A fascinating conversation bridging technology, ethics, and global impact. Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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In this episode, our guest is Mike Westerman, who leads the hydropower team at GHD, a global consultancy with deep expertise in water, dams, and geotech. Mike shares fascinating insights on the evolution of hydropower—from its origins at Niagara Falls to today’s high-efficiency, computer-modeled turbines. He explains why pumped hydro remains the dominant form of energy storage globally and how it's now essential for supporting low-cost solar. Mike also explores the challenges of large hydro development in modern times and the increasing appeal of off-stream and mine-repurposed pumped hydro. From micro-hydro in remote villages to pumped storage in decommissioned mine pits, he paints a picture of a diverse and sustainable future for hydroelectric energy. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on climate change, catchment management, and the crucial role of young engineers in this energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is part of a dynamic roundtable exploring the global trends, economic drivers, and regulatory challenges shaping the future of home battery storage. Building on Part 1, this continuation dives deep into the falling costs of battery production, market implications of subsidies, and the technical and policy complexities of orchestrating distributed energy resources (DERs) at scale. The discussion highlights Australia's position as a global innovation leader, the debate between centralized versus distributed coordination, and the potential of peer-to-peer energy trading. The conversation also considers the convergence of EVs, home batteries, and future regulatory frameworks that empower consumers and ensure grid stability.
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In this episode, our guest is a diverse panel of Australia’s energy experts unpacking the rapid rise of home battery adoption. From manufacturing and policy to regulation and consumer behavior, they explore what’s driving the boom, including generous government subsidies, rising energy independence, and grid trading opportunities. The discussion dives into how average system sizes have doubled, the evolving economics of battery storage, and the growing divide between early adopters and everyday consumers. The episode also highlights the role of smart tariffs, resilience in off-grid areas, and what’s needed to make batteries “iPhone easy” for the mainstream. Whether you’re a policy nerd, a techie, or just battery-curious—this conversation is packed with energy insights you won’t want to miss.
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In this episode, our guest is Andrea La Nauze, an energy and environmental economist at Deakin University. Andrea discusses her research on Australia’s Virtual Energy Network, which allows households to trade excess rooftop solar energy.
She explains how pricing can shift energy use patterns and reduce reliance on batteries, and explores the role of behavior, peer influence, and incentives in clean energy adoption.
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In this episode, Sohail Hasnie shares a personal monologue, offering an on-the-road reflection from behind the wheel of his Tesla in Metro Manila. He unpacks how electric vehicles—whether high-end Teslas or modest electric tricycles—can drive profound social, economic, and environmental change. From reducing fuel poverty in Bangladesh to transforming urban transport in the Philippines, Sohail explains why EVs should be seen not as luxury items but as essential tools for national energy security and individual empowerment. This engaging solo narrative connects lived experiences with global energy policy, battery innovation, and second-life uses for EV technology. Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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In this episode, our guest is Diana E. Páez, Senior Director of Energy and Mobility, William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan. Diana dives into the dynamic role that electric vehicles can play in decarbonizing transportation across emerging markets. She discusses how EVs—when supported by the right policies, financing tools, and local capacity—can serve as catalysts for energy access, gender inclusion, and economic resilience. Drawing on her extensive global experience, and using WDI's work in the Philippines as an example, Diana explores innovative business models and the need for an inclusive ecosystem approach to support e-mobility transitions in low- and middle-income countries.
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In this episode, our guest is Jim Salter-Duke, founder of Spark Horizon, a talent solutions company working between Australia and the Philippines. Jim shares how the global clean energy transition is being hindered not by technology but by a chronic shortage of skilled labour. With 100,000 engineering graduates a year, the Philippines is a rich but underutilised source of technical talent. Jim explains how Spark Horizon connects this untapped workforce with renewable energy projects across the developed world.
The conversation covers themes of global workforce distribution, equity in opportunity, the role of AI in accelerating technical learning, and the persistent biases in hiring. Jim also reflects on how real expertise and credibility must go beyond polished résumés, highlighting the importance of authenticity in the AI era.
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In this episode, our guest is Sonya Song, a seasoned private banking professional with 17 years of experience spanning Zurich, Beijing, and Singapore. Sonya shares unique insights into China's booming electric vehicle (EV) market, highlighting her views on leading players like BYD and Tesla. She discusses how private banks support ultra-high-net-worth clients with structured investment products and the growing influence of AI and automation on wealth management and everyday life. The conversation also explores ESG investments, China's progress in EV infrastructure, and the social implications of rapid tech adoption.
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In this episode, our guest is Grant McDowell, a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for democratizing access to clean energy. Grant shares his 18-year journey—from dreaming of remote solar matching in Marrickville to launching “Adopt a Panel” in Italy, enabling urban households to access cheaper renewable energy. He discusses the technical and regulatory challenges of integrating solar, batteries, and V2G technologies, the looming transformation from centralised to distributed grids, and the vital need to simplify energy access for consumers. Grant also highlights the rise of the "electro-state" and the urgency of moving from transition to transformation in energy systems. His perspective is both pragmatic and inspiring, rooted in real-world projects and future-ready ideas.
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In this episode, our guests are Sahil Nair and Pauline Smout, both sustainability consultants based in the Netherlands. They delve into the complexities of sustainable agriculture, highlighting how responsible sourcing, water use, and land conversion are critical to long-term ecological health. Pauline discusses her work bringing together banks, supermarkets, and farmer organisations to align on sustainability KPIs, while Sahil explains the challenges in traceability and impact measurement in global agricultural supply chains like coffee, cacao, and soy. Together, they explore the interplay between food, energy, and water systems and advocate for a return to first principles thinking to drive meaningful change.
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In this episode, our guest panel explores the opportunities and barriers to Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology in Australia. We dive into policy frameworks, utility business models, customer behavior, and the technical potential of V2G to help stabilize the grid, lower energy costs, and accelerate EV adoption. The discussion brings together experts from across the energy and transport sectors to unpack what’s working, what’s not, and what must change to unlock V2G at scale.
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In this episode, our guest is Emily Morris, Founder and CEO of Emrgy, a company pioneering modular hydropower systems that bring clean, continuous electricity to remote and underserved communities. Emily explains how her technology integrates water stewardship, floating solar, and energy storage to build decentralized microgrids that don't require new transmission infrastructure. From projects in New Zealand and the US to ambitious global expansion, we explore how Emrgy's plug-and-play turbines are changing the way power is delivered — and how this model empowers rural economies, women entrepreneurs, and the next generation of clean energy leaders.
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In this episode, our guest is Sonia Dunlop, CEO of the Global Solar Council. Sonia shares an energising update on the rapid rise of solar PV and battery storage, outlining how the world is racing toward 700 GW of annual solar installations and aiming for 8 TW by 2030. She highlights rooftop solar as a game changer for resilience, the role of micro-entrepreneurs in Africa and Asia, and why the cost of solar plus storage opens new doors for climate adaptation, economic productivity, and social equity. From portable lanterns to 5 GW solar farms, Sonia explains how modular solar solutions are transforming lives, especially in underserved and conflict-affected areas.
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In this episode, our guest is Riccardo Pagliarrella, a dynamic force in the world of electric mobility and distributed energy. With a background in motorsports and nearly two decades of experience in vehicle electrification, Riccardo offers deep insights into the future of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. He discusses Australia's unique position as a market ripe for V2G adoption, while also shedding light on the regulatory, technical, and social hurdles that must be addressed. Riccardo also explores the role of standards like ISO 15118, the challenges in consumer adoption, and the evolving role of EVs as part of the energy grid. With clarity and candour, he helps demystify the real-world potential and limitations of V2G—and what it will take to turn this potential into value for all consumers.
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In this episode, Anthony Vippond shares his journey from installing off-grid solar systems in the early '90s to pioneering large-scale solar panel recycling. Seeing a major gap in the industry, his company developed an advanced process to recover 98% of materials from discarded panels. He discusses the global need for sustainable recycling, government interest in his technology, and the financial challenges of scaling the operation.
Anthony also dived into the potential of nano-silicon, a high-value byproduct from recycled panels, which could revolutionise battery storage. With backing from governments and industry leaders, he is set to expand operations worldwide, addressing the growing issue of solar waste in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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In this episode, our guest is Dr. Taher Saif, Professor at the University of Illinois and a pioneering researcher whose unconventional path took him from civil engineering to biomedical breakthroughs. Dr. Saif shares a fascinating journey through academia and research—from nanotech in electrical engineering to fertility diagnostics, and ultimately to cutting-edge cancer and longevity research. He discusses how mechanical forces in tumours impact cancer treatment, how lab-grown patient tumours could personalise therapies, and how simple lifestyle habits like brisk walking can regenerate brain cells even late in life. This is an inspiring and deeply insightful conversation on resilience, interdisciplinary science, and hope for the future of medicine. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Ross De Rango, former Head of Energy and Infrastructure at the Electric Vehicle Council and a leading voice in Australia’s EV transition. Ross breaks down the policies driving EV adoption, the pivotal role of home charging, and the emerging power of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration. He shares sharp insights on the challenges and opportunities of electrifying transport, and how the changing grid can shape the energy future. The discussion also touches on fairness in energy access, potential for EV manufacturing in Australia, and the importance of supporting second-hand EV markets. Ross offers advice for young professionals entering the sector and suggests how governments can accelerate innovation with strategic funding. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Jonalyn and John Ang, a dynamic couple leading the charge for electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the Philippines. Jonalyn, a seasoned accountant and COO of Dynamic Minds Business Solutions, and John, a cybersecurity expert and CEO of Graybox Security, share how their transition to EVs has not only slashed fuel and maintenance costs but also aligned with their passion for environmental stewardship. The Angs discuss overcoming range anxiety, the impact of solar power integration, real-life savings, and the broader economic and lifestyle benefits of EV ownership. Their firsthand insights offer a compelling case for EVs in Southeast Asia, especially amid policy changes and growing infrastructure support. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Casper Rasmussen, CEO of Monta, a software platform revolutionising electric vehicle (EV) charging. Casper shares his journey from electrical engineer to tech entrepreneur and dives deep into the real-world challenges of EV infrastructure—from battery preconditioning and user experience issues to the complexity of dynamic load management and energy distribution. He explains how Monta is tackling fragmented protocols, enabling smarter energy use, and helping utilities and charge point operators better manage demand. We also explore the evolving EV market, grid flexibility, and the future of technologies like induction charging and vehicle-to-grid services. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Dr. Yanxi Yu, a PhD graduate from University of Sydney, whose pioneering research focuses on green lithium extraction from seawater and brine using electrochemical methods. With a background in environmental and chemical engineering, Yanxi explains the environmental benefits and technical challenges of sustainable lithium extraction, offering insight into the future of battery technology, including zinc-ion batteries. She also shares thoughts on Australia’s evolving EV market, the role of AI in research, and the broader global landscape of energy innovation. This conversation shines a light on how science, policy, and market readiness are shaping the energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Luis Buenaventura, a FinTech executive and devoted EV enthusiast based in the Philippines. Luis shares his firsthand journey into electric vehicles, offering practical insights on everything from vehicle comparisons to charging infrastructure, and debunks major EV myths around range anxiety, fire risk, and flood safety. He explains why Teslas are surprisingly affordable in the Philippines, what sets the local EV market apart, and how the nation’s EV ecosystem is rapidly evolving. Luis paints a compelling picture of why now is the time to go electric, from efficiency and cost-savings to smart driving tech and even the emotional value of vehicle ownership.
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In this episode, our guest is Blair Palese, a long-standing climate advocate, ethical investment strategist and Director of Philanthropy at Ethinvest. Blair shares her journey from leading fossil fuel divestment campaigns to founding the Climate Capital Forum, where she now works to unlock climate finance and accelerate clean tech solutions in Australia and beyond. She discusses the remarkable growth of rooftop solar, the transformative role of home battery systems, and the urgent need for Australia to coordinate and deploy its climate funding with speed and strategy. Blair offers critical insights into exportable innovation, the role of young entrepreneurs, and how blended finance, from philanthropy to patient capital, is reshaping the global energy transition. She also underscores the importance of Australia’s potential COP31 leadership and the transformative power of diversity in investment and governance.
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In this episode, our guest is Shazia Khan, a seasoned energy entrepreneur, advisor, and investor. Shazia shares her journey from founding Pakistan’s first pay-as-you-go solar company to becoming a strategic force in energy access across Africa and Latin America. She discusses her ventures in peer-to-peer energy sharing, her board roles in e-mobility and tech-focused VC funds, and the critical importance of sustainable business models in the clean energy sector. Shazia also opens up about her personal projects powered by AI, including documenting family history and creating educational tools for youth. Her passion for impactful innovation, coupled with hands-on experience across continents, makes this a must-listen episode for anyone passionate about energy access, startup resilience, or the evolving role of technology.
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In this episode, our guest is Syed Saqib Alam, a seasoned Bitcoin mining expert who shares his journey from hobbyist miner to industry leader. He explains the fundamentals of Bitcoin mining, the vital role miners play in maintaining the blockchain, and the critical importance of energy efficiency in mining operations. Saqib offers a deep dive into the future of Bitcoin mining, discussing topics like ASIC machines, the impact of halving events, the transition to renewable energy sources, and the significance of self-custody in Bitcoin ownership. This insightful conversation uncovers both the technological and economic aspects of the Bitcoin mining ecosystem.
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In this episode, our guest is Michael Barnard, a climate futurist, systems thinker, and clean tech strategist. Michael dives deep into the myths and realities around hydrogen, offering compelling arguments backed by decades of technical analysis and scenario modelling. He explains why hydrogen's role in the future energy mix is likely overstated and explores the economic and technological factors that favour batteries and electrification instead. From maritime shipping to steelmaking, and from Pakistan’s rooftop solar boom to battery swapping in Asia, Michael’s insights illuminate the macro trends transforming energy, transport, and policy. A must-listen for anyone serious about the global energy transition.
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In this episode, our guest is Lynnaire Johnston, a New Zealand-based LinkedIn strategist, author, and founder of LinkAbility. Lynnaire shares practical and powerful insights on how professionals—especially in the sustainability and clean energy sectors—can elevate their personal and company brands using LinkedIn. She emphasizes the platform's evolution from a digital CV to a rich networking and publishing tool that can open doors to media, speaking, and business opportunities. Lynnaire walks us through effective profile optimization, how to use visuals and video, the importance of consistent engagement, and why authenticity matters more than ever in the age of AI. She also introduces us to the LinkAbility community, which connects professionals across diverse fields and fosters continuous learning. Whether you're a LinkedIn novice or a long-time user, Lynnaire offers clear and actionable tips to boost your presence and reach the right audience—with integrity, consistency, and purpose. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Grant Mitchell, an entrepreneur and electric vehicle expert with deep roots in the transport and logistics sector. Grant shares decades of experience and offers a rich perspective on the evolution of electric trucks—from early forklift applications to cutting-edge battery-swapping technology and autonomous freight solutions. We explore how Australia compares with global leaders like China in EV truck adoption, why battery chemistry (especially LFP) matters, and how companies like Janus Electric and Windrose are innovating retrofit and design strategies. Grant also dives into the economics of EV trucks, the role of local manufacturing, and the shift away from hydrogen in heavy transport. Whether you're a policymaker, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the electrification of logistics, this conversation delivers sharp insights into the future of sustainable freight. Please join us to find out more.
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In this episode, our guest is Cherrie Atilano, the dynamic founder and CEO of AGREA Agricultural Systems and the AGREA Foundation. Cherrie shares her powerful journey of building sustainable agricultural models in the Philippines, particularly by empowering women in rural and island communities. From transforming typhoon-hit buildings into solar-powered women's centers to promoting regenerative farming and financial inclusion for smallholder farmers, Cherrie’s mission is deeply rooted in social justice, environmental resilience, and inclusive development. She discusses her partnerships with UN agencies, grassroots projects and her involvement in electric vehicle and solar initiatives. Cherrie also highlights the importance of mindset-building for women, teaching vision boarding, gratitude, and entrepreneurship alongside technical training. The episode wraps with her reflections on AI, journaling, leadership discipline, and how to balance ambition with wellness. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Woochong Um, Chief Executive Officer of the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). With a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years in international development, Woochong shares his journey from senior leadership at the Asian Development Bank to now spearheading one of the world’s most ambitious efforts to end energy poverty and combat climate change.
He discusses GEAPP’s mission to bring clean, affordable energy to 1 billion people by 2030, reduce carbon emissions, and generate millions of green jobs across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Woochong also reflects on the role of public-private-philanthropic partnerships, flexible capital, and local innovation in scaling climate solutions—highlighting transformative projects in Rajasthan, Haiti, Indonesia, and beyond.
From off-grid solar and battery storage to digital grid management and electric mobility, this conversation offers insight into what it takes to deliver a just, inclusive energy transition in emerging markets.
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In this episode, our guest is Janine Teo, CEO of Solve Education! She shares her inspiring journey from a computer engineer in Singapore to a global changemaker leading scalable education programs for marginalized communities. With over 30 million lessons delivered, Janine breaks down how her organisation uses the “GAIN” framework—Gamification, AI coaching, Incentives, and Network—to tackle the root challenges of low literacy, self-confidence, and motivation.
We discuss the power of mindset, the limits of traditional education, and how emerging technologies like AI can either bridge or widen the divide—depending on how we design them. Janine also highlights the importance of behavioural science, foundational skills and why education is the key to climate resilience and entrepreneurship in underserved communities.
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In this episode of Energypreneurs, our guest is Jaimes Kolantharaj, Principal Energy Specialist at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Jaimes shares insights on renewable energy projects in South Asia, highlighting ADB’s role in shifting investments from government funding to private sector-driven initiatives. He discusses solar and battery storage deployment in the Maldives, electric ferries for sustainable transport, and policy trends in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan.
The conversation also explores the impact of AI, digitalisation, and energy-efficient solutions, particularly in agriculture and electric mobility. Jaimes offers valuable advice to young entrepreneurs entering the renewable energy, emphasising the need for innovation and digital solutions in an evolving energy landscape.
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Joe Lowry, a 35-year lithium industry veteran, joins Sohail Hasnie to break down lithium’s rise from obscurity to a global necessity. He shares insights on China’s battery dominance, EV market shifts, and the next frontier—home and grid storage. Joe also teases his upcoming book Lithium Confidential and offers sharp advice for newcomers in the industry. He discusses investment trends, the role of trust in business, and how lithium will continue shaping the future of energy storage worldwide. Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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In this episode, our guest is Cherie Gregoire, a clean energy expert with a unique journey from defense engineering to renewable energy. Cherie shares her insights on energy efficiency, solar development, and climate resilience, reflecting on key projects she has led in the UK and Australia. She discusses the impact of climate change on infrastructure, policy shifts in the energy sector, and innovative solutions for decentralized energy systems.
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In this episode, Alfredo Baño Leal, an energy expert with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), discusses Uzbekistan’s evolving energy sector. The conversation highlights the country’s transition from gas dependency to renewable energy, with recent policy reforms driving energy efficiency and reducing waste. With over 1-2 GW of rooftop solar already installed and a target of 40% renewable capacity by 2030, Uzbekistan is rapidly reshaping its power grid.
Alfredo shares insights into the challenges of modernising the grid, the growing adoption of electric vehicles, and how distributed generation is becoming a cost-effective alternative for rural electrification. He also discusses Uzbekistan’s push toward clean energy investments, including the development of local solar manufacturing and a new BYD electric vehicle assembly plant. The episode closes with a look at Uzbekistan’s cultural richness, its emerging role as an energy leader in Central Asia, and why it’s a fascinating place to visit.
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In this episode, Sohail Hasnie speaks with Gabriel Laera, an economist with extensive experience in energy transitions, investment banking, and utility sectors. Gabriel discusses the complexities of new energy strategies, emphasizing the importance of filtering through hype to determine what’s truly viable. He highlights the challenge of managing legacy assets in the energy sector, particularly in oil, gas, and utility companies, which must balance reinvestment with shareholder returns. Key topics include the risks of stranded assets, the impact of electrification on traditional industries, and the critical role of capital allocation in ensuring long-term business sustainability. Gabriel also explores emerging energy solutions, including hydrogen, carbon capture, and direct air capture, evaluating their feasibility and long-term implications. He underscores the need for a realistic, well-planned approach to energy investments, considering regulatory frameworks, technological shifts, and economic viability.
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In this episode, our host, Sohail Hasnie, delivers an interesting insight on the transformative power of batteries in reshaping the energy landscape. He explores how advancements in battery technology are revolutionising everything from solar power storage to electric vehicles, making renewable energy more reliable and accessible. Sohail breaks down why batteries are the key to energy independence and climate action, highlighting the latest trends that will shape the future of sustainable power.
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In this episode, our guest is Sonia Chand Sandhu, with extensive experience in project development, and knowledge work on livable cities, environment, and climate adaptation. Sonia shares her journey in sustainable development, highlighting innovative environment management, urban planning, evaluation, and capacity-building approaches. She discusses the importance of knowledge management in development projects, the role of AI in evaluation, and how strategic investments in climate adaptation can shape future cities. All opinions and views expressed are solely her own and do not reflect those of her organization. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Dani Alexander, CEO of the Energy Institute at the University of New South Wales. Dani shares insights on Australia's rapid transition to renewable energy, the rise of rooftop solar, and how decentralized energy is transforming the grid. She discusses consumer-led energy solutions, energy equity, and the critical role of the demand-side of the energy system in promoting the rollout of renewables. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is David Wenger, a hydrogen and energy transition expert with over 20 years of experience. David shares his unique perspective as both a developer and customer of hydrogen and electric vehicles, offering insights into their real-world performance, infrastructure challenges, and future potential. He also discusses the evolving energy landscape, the role of hydrogen in heavy industries, and why battery-electric vehicles may be the more practical solution for personal transport. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Virginia Klausmeier, CEO and founder of Sylvatex, a company revolutionizing battery cathode materials production. Virginia shares insights into optimizing battery manufacturing, reducing costs, and creating scalable and energy-efficient cathode materials. She discusses the importance of supply chain innovation, sustainability in battery production, and how new processes can drive the future of energy storage and EV adoption. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Chloë Payne, a climate-focused venture investor specializing in food, agriculture, and ocean technologies. Chloë shares insights into innovative solutions for climate adaptation and emissions reduction, the importance of resilient teams in early-stage ventures, and the challenges and opportunities in scaling sustainable technologies. She also discusses the evolving role of AI, venture capital, and strategic partnerships in driving impactful innovation across global markets. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Michael Taylor, a renewable energy expert and former leader at IRENA. Michael shares his insights into the global trends shaping the renewable energy landscape, including cost reductions in solar PV and battery storage, the role of innovation, and the challenges in scaling technologies like wind and hydropower. He also discusses the tripling goal for renewables, the evolving competitiveness of clean energy, and the critical steps needed to accelerate the energy transition globally.
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In this episode, our host, Sohail Hasnie, sets the scene for 2025 by exploring the latest trends, breakthroughs, and challenges in solar power. He discusses solar energy's evolving role in the global energy transition, the impact of policy shifts, and emerging technologies that will define the sector’s future.
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In this episode, our guest is Tom Gan, an EV enthusiast and content creator from Australia. Tom shares his journey from being an early adopter of electric vehicles to becoming a prominent voice in the EV community. We discuss key challenges in EV adoption, such as range anxiety and affordability, and the role of incentives in shaping consumer behavior. Tom also highlights exciting trends, from vehicle-to-grid technology to the evolution of charging infrastructure, offering valuable insights for anyone passionate about EVs. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is MM Montelibano, a Tesla advisor from the Philippines. MM shares the exciting journey of Tesla’s entry into the Philippine market and how the brand is revolutionizing EV adoption in the country. He discusses the unique features of Tesla vehicles, the challenges of introducing EV infrastructure, and the strategies to promote sustainable transportation in a rapidly urbanizing nation. MM also highlights Tesla's initiatives to build a supportive community for EV enthusiasts and ensure seamless user experiences. Contact MM on +63 917 164 7145
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In this episode, our guest is Terje Hauan, a renewable energy expert and entrepreneur from Norway. Terje shares insights on how Norway leads the world in electric vehicle adoption, driven by hydropower, robust infrastructure, and innovative policies. He also discusses the challenges of global energy transition, the importance of balancing sustainability with practicality, and his groundbreaking work in methane capture and renewable energy technologies. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Jiri Rasanen, an innovator from Finland with a passion for electric vehicle conversions and sustainable energy solutions. Jiri shares his journey of pioneering EV conversion projects and discusses the potential of retrofitting internal combustion engine vehicles to reduce waste and promote circular economies. He also explores modular technology, open-source research, and innovative ideas for renewable energy in transportation. Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is James Tauchnitz, Managing Director of Novus Fuels. James shares how his company is helping coal mining companies transform methane emissions into valuable energy sources. He discusses the importance of reducing methane's environmental impact, innovative solutions for coal mine methane capture, and how these projects support sustainability in the steelmaking and mining industries. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Waseem Alim, founder of Chaldal, a leading grocery delivery platform in Dhaka. Waseem shares his journey of creating one of Bangladesh's top e-commerce platforms, overcoming logistical challenges in a densely populated city, and driving efficiency in the grocery supply chain. He also discusses the role of technology, potential for energy-efficient solutions, and how e-commerce can impact sustainability and community development.
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In this episode, our guests are Charmaine Cu-Unjieng and Daniel Dinizo, co-founders of NaturLoop, a pioneering company turning coconut waste into sustainable building materials. Charmaine and Daniel share their inspiring journey, from developing coconut-based panels as an alternative to MDF to creating opportunities for farmers and reducing environmental pollution. They discuss the challenges of scaling innovation, building a circular economy, and the broader social and environmental impact of their work. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Stefan Wolf, a thought leader in battery innovation from VDI/VDE Innovation + Technik. Stefan discusses the evolving landscape of battery technology, Europe's ambitions, regulatory framework, and the push for sustainable and secure supply chains. He also sheds light on the interface between policy, industry, and innovation and how these dynamics drive the development of gigafactories and energy storage solutions across Europe. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Nilofar Ghazanfar, a leading entrepreneur from Afghanistan working in renewable energy. Nilofar discusses her journey in creating energy access for communities, particularly focusing on empowering Afghan women through sustainable energy solutions. She highlights the challenges and opportunities of building a clean energy future in Afghanistan and how renewable energy is key to driving economic growth and social progress. Please join to find more:
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In this episode, our guest is David Ellis, Founder of Azura Associates and an expert in anaerobic digestion and waste-to-energy solutions. David discusses how anaerobic digestion transforms food waste and other organic material into energy, reducing landfill waste and creating valuable by-products. He shares insights on bioenergy projects for communities and businesses, the technology’s role in carbon reduction, and the economic opportunities for sustainable waste management.
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In this episode, our guest is Satish Hrit, Founder of SparkCraft, a startup focused on transforming energy storage. Satish discusses Sparkcraft’s innovative plug-and-play battery solution designed to make energy storage accessible and practical for residential use. He shares insights into overcoming technical and regulatory challenges, and how battery innovation is key to achieving sustainable energy goals. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Robert Guild, Team Leader of the Pacific Region Infrastructure Facility. Robert discusses the incredible opportunities in renewable energy, solar power, battery storage, and electric vehicles across the Pacific. He shares insights into the region's infrastructure development pipeline, which includes a $9 billion investment over the next five years, and highlights how technology and local participation are transforming the Pacific’s energy landscape. Link to ADB’s PRIF website: https://www.theprif.org/ Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is David Sirieix, a visionary entrepreneur who is revolutionizing electric vehicle charging with his innovative flat cable technology. David shares his journey in solving practical problems with EV charging, (making some sensible remarks that u will not want to miss ?) from addressing public safety concerns to making EV charging more accessible. He also discusses the challenges of legislation, public acceptance, and the potential global market for this breakthrough product. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Jamie Leather, Director of the Transport Group at the Asian Development Bank. Jamie shares insights on the progress and challenges in accelerating electric vehicle adoption across Asia. He discusses the role of strong government policies, financing, and partnerships in driving the transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles, with a focus on public transport and infrastructure development. He also highlights some of ADB's interesting projects and explains the sources of grants and concessional funding for which such projects can qualify.
Link to ADB’s Transport site.
Please join to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is Nicole Mao, co-founder and CEO of Tiger New Energy. Nicole discusses how her company transforms mobility in Bangladesh by introducing affordable lithium battery swapping services for electric tricycles. She shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in the EV market in emerging economies. She explains how battery swapping is a key driver for EV adoption in regions like Bangladesh.
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In this episode, our guest is Carlos Santamaria, a senior editor at Horizon Engage, a political risk consultancy for energy companies. Carlos, a former geopolitical journalist, shares his insights into the rapid shift towards electric vehicles and the future of energy storage. He discusses typical consumer perspectives, including the challenges of integrating EVs into the grid, the role of battery technology in balancing energy supply, and the global push toward cleaner transport solutions. Carlos also highlights the importance of policies and innovation in shaping the future of sustainable energy systems. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Jess Hunt, an energy transition guru from South Australia. We learn how South Australia has dramatically changed the renewable energy and battery landscape, focusing on integrating rooftop solar, battery storage, and the potential for energy independence. Jess shares insights on dynamic pricing and the role of distributed energy in shaping the future of sustainable energy systems.
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In this episode, our guest is Ping Manongdo, a climate champion and the country director for Eco-Business in the Philippines. Ping discusses the role of the private sector in driving climate action and the importance of sustainable business practices. She highlights recent climate legislation in the Philippines, the challenges of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, and the urgent need for public and private sectors to collaborate. The conversation also touches on the role of media in raising awareness about climate change and engaging the public in meaningful action. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Dr. Marek Kubik, a leader in the energy storage sector with deep experience in battery technology and renewable energy. Marek shares insights into the evolving role of battery storage in supporting the grid, balancing energy demands, and integrating renewable energy sources. He discusses the critical importance of long-duration energy storage, the future of electric vehicles as a form of distributed energy storage, and the potential of new battery technologies to accelerate the energy transition.
He can be reached at: Website | LinkedIn
Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Kina Pascua, a strategic communications expert at ADB. Kina discusses the critical role of effective communication in addressing climate change, emphasising the importance of starting early by educating children. The conversation explores how messaging around sustainability and climate action can be made more accessible and impactful, primarily through integrating these topics into school curriculums. Kina also shares insights on the challenges of driving behavioural change and how the younger generation can play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Guillaume Rémy, co-founder of Zeroca, a company focused on carbon credit programs for electric mobility in emerging markets. Guillaume discusses the opportunities that carbon credits provide for financing electric vehicle (EV) transitions, especially in the context of the Paris Agreement. He explains how governments and private entities can leverage carbon credits to bridge the cost gap between traditional internal combustion vehicles and EVs. The conversation highlights the future of carbon credit markets and their potential to accelerate the adoption of sustainable transport solutions worldwide. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Today, our guest is Dave Smith, a veteran energy consultant with decades of experience across the UK, New Zealand, and Australia. We discuss the profound changes in the energy sector, from deregulation in the 80s and 90s to the current challenges of integrating renewable energy into the grid. Dave shares his insights on the evolving energy market, the rise of distributed energy resources like solar and batteries, and the potential of electric vehicles (EVs) to revolutionise energy storage and grid stability. The conversation also explores how market designs and tariffs must adapt to support this transition, ensuring consumers can fully leverage new technologies while maintaining grid reliability. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Rheine Guerra, an expert in talent acquisition and startup culture, which is the human resources challenge in tackling climate change. Rheine shares insights into the evolving dynamics of the modern workforce, emphasising the importance of aligning company culture with the motivations of younger employees. The conversation explores how startups can attract and retain top talent, the impact of social media on recruitment, and the role of leadership in fostering a productive and engaged workforce. Rheine also highlights the challenges of managing remote teams and the shift towards more flexible, part-time work arrangements in today’s job market.
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Today, we explore how insurance can unlock financing with Stephen Brittain, co-founder of Insurtech Gateway. We discuss the intersection of risk, insurance, and the energy sector. Stephen delves into how insurance can be leveraged to de-risk innovative energy solutions, especially in renewable energy and electric vehicles. The conversation covers the role of insurance in accelerating the adoption of new technologies, the challenges of insuring high-risk areas like battery storage and electric vehicle infrastructure, and the importance of creating agile, adaptable insurance models to support the evolving energy landscape.
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In today's episode, we meet Ping Mendoza, an entrepreneurs in renewable energy and grid infrastructure in the Philippines. Ping discusses the significant potential for solar power in the country, emphasising the need to scale up both rooftop and utility-scale solar projects. The conversation also covers the challenges of integrating solar into the national grid, energy efficiency's importance, and battery storage's growing role in stabilising the grid. Ping shares insights on how decentralised solar systems could transform energy access in remote areas, reducing dependency on the traditional grid and promoting sustainable development.
Please join in to find more.
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In this episode, our guest is John Pojlak, an expert in energy economics, explains the critical role of numbers in understanding and driving the energy transition. John highlights the importance of simplifying complex data to make informed decisions, especially in the context of solar energy, electric vehicles, and hydrogen. We delve into how key numbers can help evaluate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of different energy sources, the future of energy storage, and the impact of renewable energy on traditional energy markets. The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives and the economic implications for countries reliant on oil revenues. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, we explore the energy transition with Jeff Forrest, a partner at L.E.K. Consulting, who co-leads their energy practice in Australia. The discussion delves into the critical role of batteries in supporting the decarbonisation of the electricity grid, the future of electric vehicles (EVs) as integral components, and the potential of community batteries to enhance local energy resilience. Jeff highlights the rapid advancements in battery technology and the significant economic changes driving the adoption of batteries and EVs. We also explore how distributed energy resources and flexible demand-side technologies can reshape the energy landscape, emphasising the importance of strategic investments and policy decisions for a sustainable future. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, my guest is Mark Lister, a champion of energy efficiency with a rich history in sustainability and energy policy. Mark shares insights from his extensive experience in government and the private sector, highlighting the critical role of Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) in promoting energy efficiency. We explore the performance-based contracting, risk-sharing models, and the significant impact of energy efficiency on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The conversation also explores the potential of electric vehicles as an energy-efficient transport solution, contributing to energy savings and grid stability. Please join us to find out more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, our guest is Shafiqul Alam, Lead Energy Analyst for Bangladesh at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA). Shafiqul shares insights into Bangladesh's renewable energy landscape, discussing the country's installed capacity, the challenges and opportunities in the solar sector, and the government's increasing interest in renewable energy. The conversation highlights the potential for rooftop solar in industrial areas, the impact of import duties on solar equipment, and the role of financial schemes in supporting renewable projects. They also touch on the adoption of electric vehicles, the implementation of charging infrastructure, and the future of sustainable energy in Bangladesh.
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Climate change and our food choices are closely linked. In this episode, my guest, Zabin Mehmood, a seasoned health food entrepreneur from Sydney, shares her journey in the health food ecosystem for over 22 years, emphasising the importance of sustainable, ethical, and environmentally friendly products. She explains the evolution in the health food industry with the rising consumer awareness of sustainable choices, especially among the younger generation. Zabin also highlights the impact of social media and the internet in spreading awareness and educating consumers about healthy eating habits and sustainable choices. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, we talk with Bagus Mudiantoro, an energy and climate change specialist from Indonesia. Bagus shares insights into Indonesia's transition to renewable energy, focusing on the innovative projects by PLN, the state-owned utility. We explore PLN’s ambition to shift from coal to solar, the integration of battery storage, and the country's efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption. The conversation also highlights the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, particularly in public transport, and the government's supportive policies, including subsidies for electric motorcycles. Bagus emphasizes the challenges and opportunities in Indonesia's energy landscape, from off-grid solar projects to the development of hydrogen refueling stations. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this conversation, Nidhi Gupta, an expert in energy efficiency and sustainable urbanization, shares her insights on developing efficient cooling solutions in rapidly urbanizing regions. Nidhi, with a background in environmental design, advocates for a holistic approach to energy efficiency, emphasizing the need for policies that phase out inefficient appliances. She discussed the option of demand aggregation and public procurement strategies that make super-efficient appliances more affordable.
She has worked on decarbonization roadmaps for cities in Maharashtra, India, focusing on energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and adaptive comfort.
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In this episode, we talk with Ndia Magadagela, CEO and co-founder of Everlectric in South Africa. Ndia shares Everlectric's innovative approach to providing electric vehicles as a service, focusing on fleet managers in the logistics industry. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to electric vehicles, the impact of South Africa's power crisis on EV adoption, and the company's efforts to integrate solar energy into their charging infrastructure. The conversation also highlights the future of electric mobility in South Africa and beyond, emphasizing the potential for growth and sustainability in the industry. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this podcast, Mathieu Geze, Director for Asia Pacific at HDF Energy, shares his insights on deploying hydrogen technologies in Southeast Asia. With extensive experience in the industry, Geze provides an in-depth understanding of the region's challenges and opportunities, highlighting HDF Energy's approach to integrating hydrogen into local energy grids. We discuss one specific project with details of cost and competitiveness. Please join in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, Uzbek entrepreneur Ilkhom Sadikov shares his experiences in promoting solar energy, highlighting challenges in investment due to low auction prices, potential for energy storage, agrivoltaics, and electric vehicles. He showcases his innovative solutions, including solar thermal solutions for agriculture, connecting LED street lights to solar power, and invites listeners to contact him for business opportunities.
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Kerbo Charge is revolutionizing EV charging for homes without private garages. In this episode, co-founder Michael Goulden discusses the innovative cable gully system that extends from the house, through the pavement, to the roadside. Michael delves into Kerbo Charge's success in the UK, future expansion plans, the potential for V2H and V2G technology, and the challenges faced in gaining council adoption. Discover why this solution could be essential for your country or locality.
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In this episode, our guest is Penny Estrada, Chief Commercial Officer, Catalyst Logistics (an ICTSI company). Our conversation touches upon the evolving logistics industry, focusing on sustainability and the integration of green practices. Penny highlights the increasing importance of carbon footprint considerations, driven by European regulations, and shares insights on managing logistics for large-scale energy projects. The conversation also explores the impact of digitalization and AI on logistics, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary skills, empathy, and cultural awareness in the industry. Please join in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this podcast episode, Robin Hughes, an entrepreneur dedicated to introducing electric tricycles (e-trikes) in the Philippines, shares his experiences and insights. Robin, a business veteran with expertise in clean energy technology, has a vision to revolutionize the transport sector in the Philippines through innovation and rethinking the status quo.
He is developing business models for his pink (Women driver and Women passenger) and White (dedicated to persons with disabilities) e-trikes.
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Today, we hear from Hugh Gleeson, the former CEO of United Energy, a Director of several utilities since then, and senior leader in Australia’s power sector, about how cheap renewable energy has transformed the energy future from the grasp of coal in Victoria and Australia. Hugh shares his insights on the decade ahead and why our energy grid will need to mimic the internet and the telecommunication network and support bi-directional flows—distributed solar on rooftops as a significant power source for the grid. We learn about Australia's shift to renewables, managing a grid dominated by solar, the complexities of balancing energy supply and demand, the evolving role of EVs, and AI's impact on the sector.
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In this podcast episode, David Hurlbut, a retired Senior Analyst and Economist at the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, discusses his various roles at the lab and previously at the Texas Public Utilities Commission as an ERCOT market monitor. The ERCOT, or the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, operates Texas's electrical grid, the Texas Interconnection, which supplies power to more than 25 million Texas customers and represents 90 percent of the state's electric load.
Our discussion covered many aspects of the market, including the influence of AI on today’s power market and self-driving cars.
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In this podcast episode, Mona Katigbak, General Counsel at GE Renewable Energy's Hydro and Hybrids division, shares her insights on the renewable energy landscape. She discusses hydropower's evolving role, investment challenges, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation also delves into electric vehicle technology, its impact on the energy sector, and the global shift towards sustainable transportation. Mona's optimistic outlook highlights the significance of innovation, sustainability, and corporate responsibility in transforming the energy industry.
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Anouj Mehta, the Country Director of Thailand for ADB and the Head of the $2 billion Green Finance for ASEAN shared his passion for green finance and bonds. Today’s conversation focuses on the principles of Green finance in the ASEAN and how it is helping scale up large investments in the ASEA and India. He explained with passion how green finance, packaged with targeted concessional components can accelerate the transition to a net zero world. Anouz also shared many ideas and resources that would be beneficial to anyone working in climate finance.
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In this podcast episode, Australian energy transition specialist Bridget McIntosh discusses the complexities of a cleaner energy future in Southeast Asia, a region she has dedicated 20 years of her career to support. With a background in driving change, she highlights ASEAN challenges arising from market dynamics, state utility monopolies and the role of governments in a region heavily reliant on coal power. The discussion further explores the obstacles in fulfilling corporate renewable energy demand, rooftop solar, and navigating early closure of coal plants across Southeast Asia. Please join in to find more. Bridget noted some corrections:
- Australia's target is 82% renewable energy by 2030 rather than 2035!
- ACT reached 100% renewable energy by 2020 rather than 2017
- Rio Tinto signed a Australia's largest agreement to supply its smelting and refining operations in Gladstone from wind power (1.4GW Bungapan wind project by WindLab) not solar power.
- In Southeast Asia, solar power is between US3-6c/kWh and wind is around US6-9c/kWh (rather than stated 4-6c/kWh for solar and wind).
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Rajeev Mahajan, Manager (Head) - Climate Resilient Infrastructure, Green Climate Fund, shares his journey from electrical engineering to utility reform to financing small infrastructure projects to multi-billion transactions. We discuss the need for financiers to understand the economic cycle and blended finance's critical role in scaling infrastructure projects.
Rajeev also shares his passion for recruiting and building the right team for efficiently designing projects with appropriate technology and resiliency.
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In today's episode, Aden Barker, Director of Network Regulation and Customer Participation at Energy Policy Western Australia (WA), shares valuable insights into the regulation of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) in his state. Discover how WA's vast landmass influences its energy landscape and the unique approach to micro-grids as a sustainable solution. Uncover the importance of electric vehicle infrastructure development, especially in remote areas, and the impact of EVs on the overall energy network. Get an inside look at WA's renewable energy goals and the essential role of regulatory support in achieving them. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the future of energy in Western Australia.
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Bangladesh’s garment industry employs more than 4 million people and is a 40+ billion dollar industry. Today, Mohammad Abdul Qaium, an industry veteran, discusses the challenges and opportunities for sustainability in his sector. Qaium emphasizes the need for collective action and policy initiatives to address greenhouse gas emissions, particularly focusing on tier-two facilities responsible for processing raw materials. Fund access remains a challenge, and the potential is huge, but we need more collaboration between industry stakeholders and policymakers. He highlights the importance of renewable energy certification and accessible technology to drive meaningful change towards a more sustainable future. Please join in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Henry Cornwell is a lawyer with the Asian Development Bank and a passionate environmentalist who explores the role of the rule of law in preserving natural capital for the next generation. We touch upon the evolution of today’s car from the early invention of the bicycle and its impact on society. Henry literally “talks the talk” and runs to his work at least three days a week and avoids all forms of machine-driven transport. He also explored his views on autonomous vehicles and the overall adoption of electric vehicles. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Daniel Bleakley has written extensively on the EV industry with The Driven and he is famous for his EV advocacy YouTube series "Coal Miners Driving Teslas”. In this high-energy episode, we cover all aspects of the EV industry and how it is impacting the Australian landscape. He highlighted the importance of communication in promoting electric vehicles, and the financial motivation for the fossil fuel industries to promote disinformation around electric vehicles.
We explored the future of distribution businesses in light of a battery- and EV-everywhere scenario and widespread V2G capability.
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In this episode, Gautam Midha, Commercial Leader ASEAN at Signify, will take us on a captivating journey through the ever-evolving world of lighting technology.
We discover the fascinating intersection of lighting and IoT, as light becomes an intelligent language that connects and conveys meaning, and explore how this redefines the impact of light on energy efficiency, sustainability, and our overall health and well-being.
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Mitch Tan brings energy into every conversation, from electric vehicles to sustainability into hotel management. In this episode, Mitch Tan, representing the owner of a large tourist resort in Boracay, Philippines, explains the importance of sustainability in today’s hospitality industry.
We understand her views on the intersection of technology and sustainability--the potential impact of AI on mental health, the integration of robotics in daily life, and the role of AI in decision-making. She explains the operational issues in adopting solar power and electric vehicles in the hotel industry, and highlights the hotel's efforts in reducing waste through recycling, upcycling, and composting.
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Kyle Bolto, CEO of Ohmie Go, shares his vision of mobility as a service. We explore Kyle’s version of the future, where big building dwellers can receive all the benefits of an electric vehicle without owning one. Kyle outlines their vision for a car ownership-free urban lifestyle and the potential integration of electric vehicles with the grid system.
Explore how Ohmie Go's services may transform the complex dynamics of urban development and mobility, reduce capital expenditure for developers, and influence city planning discussions. In this conversation about the future of urban mobility and energy, you will also gain valuable perspectives on challenges, opportunities, and Ohmie Go's scaling plans.
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Ami Valdemoro, co-founder of Liter of Light, unfolds an inspiring tale of battling energy poverty using locally available, easily repairable materials. Launched in 2013, Liter of Light has empowered one million people a year across over 30 countries. Amid the 2020 lockdown, they initiated the Light It Forward Challenge, rallying thousands worldwide to craft Liter of Light’s simple, hand-built solar lights from home. The movement evolved into large-scale solar art installations, symbolizing collective impact. Beyond solar power, Ami emphasizes the essence of human power. As a leadership coach, she urges women entrepreneurs to embrace imperfection and take bold action. Follow Ami and Liter of Light's impactful journey on their vibrant social media platforms.
Connect with Ami on: Linkedin: Ami Valdemoro Instagram: @the_moxygal
Follow Liter of Light's journey at: Instagram: @literoflight Facebook: A Liter of Light
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Ingrid Michel, Assistant Director, Australian Energy Regulator, shares her past work exploring the environmental costs of energy production. Passionate about sustainability, Ingrid discusses her personal views on the changing energy landscape, emphasizing the potential for innovation, community engagement, and the future impact of autonomous vehicles.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, Ingrid explains the need for confidence, risk-taking and a proactive approach to meet the needs of the dynamic energy transition space.
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Mike Costello, Corporate Affairs Manager for Cox Automotive Australia and former automotive journalist, discusses the need for a balanced view on EV adoption and explains ways EV adoption can be expanded beyond the early adopters.
We delve into topics like second-hand EVs, the impending rollout of more options and lower prices, wireless charging, battery sizes, and the future of EV technology. Emphasizing rationalizing battery sizes and the role of solar panels, he also expresses skepticism about fully autonomous driving.
Mike sees Australia's potential in EV development but remains cautious about becoming a manufacturing hub.
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Samia Tariq, an expert in project financing, shares her insights on the importance of scaling up investment in technology and discusses the role of blended finance and grant financing in supporting projects in areas such as Agri-tech, energy, environment, electric vehicles, and hydrogen.
Samia emphasizes the financial viability of projects and highlights the need for a strong track record, ring-fenced projects, and due diligence on contracts and technology. Samia provides tips on preparing a project proposal and discusses the role of lenders in arranging financing.
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Jeslyn and Julia Jerota, represent a generation who will be managing the world’s affairs in decades to come. In this episode, these two young sisters from the Philippines, with their combined age below 40, share their passions for making a difference in many aspects of sustainability.
We discuss the importance of individual responsibility and their experiences working with children, highlighting the impact of environmental education. Our conversation also delves into the role of AI in education and answers the big question of "whether children should have access to AI today" The sisters provide thoughtful perspectives on the intersection of technology, education, and environmental awareness.
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David Morgado, a Senior Energy Specialist at the Asian Development Bank, discusses clean energy initiatives across Asia and the Pacific. David highlights the drivers, challenges, and opportunities for investment in energy efficiency and clean energy solutions.
He emphasizes the urgent need for regional collaboration and invites all listeners to participate in ADB’s Asia Clean Energy Forum from June 3-7, 2024.
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Melissa Benn, a climate finance specialist, discusses her role in helping climate tech companies secure funding. She highlights the importance of external reviewers, challenges in document limitations, and nuances in domestic versus international projects. Melissa also shares insights into her startup's business model, emphasizing the role of AI tools like OpenAI, perplexity.ai, and Zapier. She explores the potential impact of personal AI assistants on communication and offers valuable perspectives for those interested in a career in climate finance.
Please join in to find more.
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Johannes Paul Lehmann, a futurist who is literally driving innovation in automotive tech, shares his passion for the future of autonomous driving and urban mobility. We explored a future with the global adoption of dedicated lanes for autonomous vehicles, induction charging for electric cars, and the rapid evolution of AI. Johannes also shares insights from his work at Porshe Shanghai, his German Accelerator, his mentoring work, and the shaping of the interconnected global landscape. Please join in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Siri to Pi: AI is transforming our lives quicker than expected. In this episode, I “discuss” with Pi, the Inflection AI’s language model. My “conversation” with Pi touches on a range of subjects. We explored a thought experiment of “free” electricity; Pi was able to portray the potential effects on society, boosting electric vehicles, and transforming agriculture and transport, especially with drones in reforestation. Can we continue living without Pi, or her friends; please tune in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this experimental episode, I recorded while driving a Tesla Model Y with its built-in microphone and camera. I recorded this episode using its built-in Zoom application, reflected on how electric vehicles are taking over Australia, and shared insights from the last few 2023 episodes. I ponder why people still worry about the range of an electric vehicle, the recent price trajectory for solar panels, and the prospect of free electricity. I explained the impact of the democratisation of AI and how we can all use it to plan and brainstorm our future projects. Bottom line? Embrace tech, stay engaged, tackle climate change. Driving into the future—no time to be bored! Please join in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Viktoria Locson knows the solar power scene in the Philippines and the region. Today, she explained the challenges of wind energy delivery. Drawing from her background as an electrical engineer, Victoria emphasises logistical hurdles, physical demands, and offshore complexities in wind projects. She underscores the significance of a balanced lifestyle and encourages aspiring professionals to join the renewable energy sector, highlighting the importance of sincerity and clear intentions. Please join in to find more. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Meet Vaibhav Agarwal, the driving force behind Lifetime Renewable Energy.
He's here to bring insight to the rooftop solar business and the incredible opportunities it holds.
Also to unravel the story behind his groundbreaking City of Melbourne retrofit project, unveiling the challenges faced by towering structures in embracing solar solutions.
An advocate for sustainability, Vaibhav passionately stands up for local businesses, emphasizing the vital need to understand the historical shifts in construction practices.
Join him on a journey into the landscape of innovation and a greener, more sustainable future.
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Ankit Patel, an innovator and entrepreneur, shares many of his innovative innovations today. He explains new thinking in carbon capture with rock weathering in existing Indian quarries. We discuss the potential impact, innovative approaches like burying fast-growing plants, and challenges in implementing renewables in the Pacific.
Emphasizing simple designs and local involvement, we conclude with an invitation for future discussions on enhanced rock weathering.
Please join in to find more.
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Dr. Sam Samdani, a Yale graduate and Senior Industry Knowledge Expert at McKinsey, discussed the profound influence of AI, especially chatbots, on personal growth. We delved into how current AI technologies eliminate social and economic obstacles to knowledge access and the lasting societal shifts this may bring. We examined the possibility of obtaining multiple degrees without traditional college attendance and how AI could shape our 2024 learning strategies. As a Chemical Engineering guru, Samdani also explained the future of battery technologies and renewable energy.
Join us to discover how AI may transform our lives in 2024.
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Nia Warouw and I explored the need to collaborate creatively for new solutions in today’s dynamic world. We also look at how AI changes things and stress the need for careful control of this technology. The conversation wraps up by underlining the value of personal choices, the need to prevent discrimination, and the importance of ongoing learning in communities.
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Engage with Didar Islam, a renowned electrical engineer and entrepreneur, as he explores Bangladesh's solar power sector. Didar addresses the challenges of solar projects, including his vision for a 250 MW rooftop solar initiative, and highlights financial and market challenges. He outlines ambitious goals and delves into creative solutions such as battery-swappable electric three-wheelers.
The conversation ends with Didar giving practical advice for new entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of being flexible and persistent in the fast-changing world of business.
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Nick Wright, Senior Vice President for Business Development at Sarawak Energy, explains Sarawak's energy vision and its recent projects aimed at exporting its vast hydropower in the region, including the proposed undersea interconnection project with Singapore. We discuss the impact of climate change in Sarawak and the role that Sarawak’s hydropower has played in decarbonising large industries. Nick concludes with insights into his personal life and encourages young engineers to explore dynamic careers in hydropower.
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Join us in this podcast episode, where energy expert Anthony Seipolt talks about big changes in the energy grid and how electric cars may shake things up even more. We dive into how people's energy use changes and the critical task of adding renewable energy sources. Anthony highlights electric cars as powerful energy storage tools and discusses rules, tech, and why keeping up with all these fast-paced changes in the energy world is crucial. Please tune in to get a clear view of the exciting, ever-changing energy landscape and what's driving its future.
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Some say gas is the transition fuel; for some, it is another fossil fuel. In this episode, Jay Gordon explains the journey of an Australian state (Victoria) to shift its residential customers from gas to electric appliances. We explore the risks of stranded assets and the need for updated regulations. The conversation highlights the significance of consumer awareness, workforce transitions, and the pivotal role of grassroots education in embracing distinctive electric solutions in the modern era.
Please join in to find more.
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In this conversation, Canadian entrepreneur Kitty Chachra delves into the role of AI in optimizing clean energy assets. She emphasizes the need for training in the evolving field, discusses her company's focus on streamlining renewable energy operations, and explores potential expansions into electric vehicles and drones. The conversation also touches on opportunities in the booming Asian markets, highlighting the dynamic and impactful nature of the work in this field.
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India has a sizeable Middle-class population, and it is growing. Shashi Vyas, cofounder of SNEV, discusses his plans to build electric vehicles for a niche market—the super-rich in India. He also explores the prospect of retrofitting conventional cars into electric vehicles, emphasising the use of Tesla Motors in these conversions. Shashi explains the alternative storage technologies to lithium batteries and sodium batteries and the new world of supercapacitors.
Shashi is excited about the future choices of personal mobility and greener energy future.
Please join in to find more.
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Stephen Voller, the visionary Executive Chairman and Founder of Hydrogen Refinery delves into their ground-breaking waste-to-hydrogen technology, originating from the UK military. This adaptable process mitigates methane emissions, converting various wastes into hydrogen and customized fertilizers. Voller underscores the importance of hydrogen solutions being both green and cheaper, questioning the feasibility of large-scale projects we see everywhere using water electrolysis. We navigate the hydrogen vs. electric vehicle debate, and the simplicity of the infrastructure for electric charging. Please join in to find more.
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Mark Tieng, President and CEO of Solar Transport and Automotive Resources, Authorized Dealer of BYD Philippines, and the first EV owner in the country, shares the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in the Philippines. Mark shares his passion for EVs after driving for almost a decade, the practical needs for daily commuting and the “range anxiety”. We explore charging infrastructure, government policies, the BYD models, and the faster depreciation of ICE cars. Please join us to find more.
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Yasemin Selvi, CEO of Alchemy Charge, shares the future of smarter charging with her technology. We explore unique EV charging scenarios and discuss the challenges; and the innovative solutions by Alchemy Charge to connect anything to become a charger. We explore their expansion plans and the importance of addressing EV range anxieties.
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In this episode, Mustafa Momin, the mind behind Palki, a Bangladeshi EV start-up up shares the thrilling journey of pioneering affordable electric vehicles in Bangladesh. With resilience against initial skepticism, he emphasizes Palki's commitment to indigenous EV manufacturing and the transformative impact of sustainable mobility. Mustafa explains the bold trajectory of Bangladesh's electric vehicle landscape from navigating technical intricacies, including the strategic $5,000 pricing and collaborations with microfinance partners. He outlines his expansion plans and ongoing fundraising efforts.
Please join in to find more.
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PCMag journalist Emily Dreibelbis and I explore the complex development of EVs and batteries and the current trend in EV adoption. We had a candid discussion and explored the challenges of EV ownership in the USA, the impact of COVID-19 on battery prices, and the potential of solid-state batteries. Emily emphasises consumer incentives, societal benefits, the difficulty in charging, and reduced maintenance costs.
The conversation also explores the global outlook for EV adoption in Australia, the Philippines, and the super cold weather in Chicago.
Connect with Emily at https://www.pcmag.com/authors/emily-dreibelbis
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Tim Buckley, a finance expert with an environmental bent, delves into the challenges of climate change and the emerging solution of the electric vehicle revolution. Although the conversation went into deep thinking on the impact of the privatisation of public utilities, the conversation ended optimistically, primarily because of China's significant investments in renewables and electric vehicles.
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Xavier Lara, an expert on CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) and green ammonia, explains a groundbreaking $200 million solar project, which is part of a $1.6 billion mega-scale ammonia plant. Our conversation navigates the intricate world of ammonia, dissecting industry complexities, import-export dynamics, and the evolving green hydrogen landscape. We explore the role of legislation and market dynamics and shed light on green energy, focusing on how ammonia may reshape industries and global markets.
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In this episode, Maxine, a PhD student at the University of Melbourne and an industry expert, delves into energy efficiency and sustainability. She discusses her journey towards low-carbon residential sector research
We explore her personal experiences--aligning incentives for energy conservation with real-time energy data. What might electric vehicles contribute to household efficiency? We briefly discuss hydroponics as a form of energy-efficient agriculture.
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In this episode, Tetchi Capellan, the innovative CEO of Sun Asia Energy and I dive deep into the untapped potential of floating solar energy in the Philippines, particularly the transformative prospects in the Laguna Lake region. We also discuss the government's initiatives in promoting renewable energy and how the electrification of transportation can change the country's energy dynamics. Join me as we uncover the Philippines' forward-thinking steps in the renewable energy sector!
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Riccardo Pagliarella, a former Tesla staff and a technology strategy guru, has diverse background spans motorsports, Formula One, and the electric vehicle industry. In this dialogue, he shares insights on Australia's electric mobility journey, battery manufacturing opportunities, and the importance of equity, sustainability, and local engagement. Riccardo underscores the nation's potential for innovation and highlights complexities while advocating for Australia's resurgence as a global engineering powerhouse.
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Join our insightful conversation with industry maven James to uncover the future of energy and transportation. We're merging deep dives into electrification, the rise of autonomous vehicles, and innovative strides of new energy vehicles, with a keen focus on home battery systems. Perfect for budding entrepreneurs eager for market insights and inspiration. Don't miss this rare opportunity to connect with a visionary and propel your ideas forward! Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this podcast episode, Peter Kilby, a power system engineer and an electric vehicle (EV) enthusiast, shares his experiences and insights. He discusses his 5,000-kilometer road trip through rural Queensland, emphasizing that "range anxiety" is a myth when careful trip planning and charging infrastructure are available. He also talks about the cost of EV charging, challenges for apartment dwellers in adopting EVs, the need for better EV education, and the potential of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology and solar charging at homes and workplaces. Additionally, he touches on the progress and challenges of autonomous driving and the potential for EVs to provide energy solutions in rural areas. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this podcast, Afrina Samain, the Head of Decarbonisation and Circularity at ERI, shares her expertise in promoting sustainability in the fashion and agriculture industries. With a background in chemical engineering, she works with international fashion brands and textile manufacturers in Bangladesh to implement cleaner production and sustainability programs. She assisted agricultural farms in Australia with energy efficiency initiatives and accessing government funding for eco-friendly technologies. Afrina emphasises the importance of policy support and passion in driving sustainable practices and discusses the potential of hydroponics in energy and water-efficient farming. The conversation also covers her personal interests outside of work, including pursuing an MBA focused on the circular economy.
Please join us to find more.
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Join Lee Herbet, the friendly host of "Not a Car Guy" YouTube channel, shares his personal experiences and debunks myths about electric cars. Here he shares his experiences and views behind range anxiety, based on his long-distance trips, and other EV experiences. We discuss benefits of electric vehicles, safety and vehicle-to-grid capabilities, and the importance of a "just transition" to support those affected by the shift to electric vehicles. We explored strategies for making electric vehicles more affordable and targeting existing car buyers and shared our ideas to influence government officials to experience an EV journey.
Please join us to find more.
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In this monologue, Sohail Hasnie, the host of Energypreneurs, dispels the myth of range anxiety associated with electric vehicles (EVs). He argues that range anxiety, fueled by the fossil fuel industry, is exaggerated and unnecessary for most drivers. Sohail shares personal anecdotes and a recent road trip he took in a Tesla Model Y, covering 1,020 kilometers in a day. He highlights the convenience of destination chargers and the cost savings of driving an EV. Sohail encourages listeners to overcome their fears and consider EVs as a viable option for their next vehicle, emphasizing the readiness and joy of driving an electric car. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
In this episode, Amy, Nia, and I, three AI enthusiasts, and IT, system, and energy experts ponder on our future with the presence of AI everywhere. Amy brings her perspectives from her computer vision and identity verification work, and Nia brings her expertise in digital transformation and customer experience. We discussed the practical applications of AI, the potential impact of AI on jobs, education, and its integration with IoT and virtual reality. We discussed the need to balance human and digital interactions and the importance of maintaining creativity, personality, and context in everyday tasks. While AI tools like GPT can assist with mundane tasks, human input, and storytelling remain essential.
We shared the efficiency benefits of AI, the personalized experiences it can create, the potential impact on jobs, and the importance of reskilling.
Please join in to find more.
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In this episode, Yuri Marshall, the CEO of Mind You, shares his journey, including his own experience with mental health issues, which led to his interest in the field, and his primary motivation to establish the company during the dark days of COVID. He explains the importance of creating psychologically safe environments and discusses the impact of AI and digitization on mental health. The discussion also touches potential effects of AI on job displacement and the need for adaptation and regulation, as growing development in virtual reality will blur the lines between real and artificial. Yuri mentions his interest in obstacle racing and focuses on health-related topics outside of work, such as bio-psychosocial health and aging. The conversation concludes with reflecting on the importance of awareness and control in managing mental health, especially in developing a sustainable future.
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In this podcast, I had the pleasure of talking with Steve Peters, Senior Energy Specialist,
Asian Development Bank, shared his insights on the current state of the energy sector and the challenges we face in transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy.
Throughout the conversation, Steve's passion for the subject was evident, and he provided valuable and thought-provoking perspectives on the role of technology, policy, and individual action in addressing the urgent issue of climate change.
As someone who is personally invested in the issue, it was inspiring to hear Steve's optimistic yet realistic view on the potential for change, and his belief in the power of collective action to create a better future for ourselves and our planet.
Overall, this podcast was a reminder of the importance of staying informed and engaged on issues that matter, and the impact that each of us can have in creating a more sustainable world.
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George Williams, Amie and I discussed the algorithms that beat humans (10:00), the next big thing (15:00) and why tomorrow’s I development need to look beyond the limits of mathematics (16:00) and discuss AI ethics and morality (21:00). We also explored how the AI era children (25 min) will see the world differently. How simple things are difficult for AI, how the mighty Watson made simple mistakes (33 min), and much more.
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Farshed Mahmud, Senior Investment Specialist at Asian Development Bank, explains private equity (02:00) and the reasons for a large multinational bank like ADB is involved (5:20) in private equity. Why it is relevant, and its development objectives? He explains today, at his Climate Bank, climate change is at the forefront of any investment decisions (16:00) and development impact (30:00).
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Today, ChatGPT discussion is on every dining table, as we all are struggling to understand its impact on our lives. I met Amie and a young high-energy AI enthusiast, who explained some of the fundamental models (04:00 min) of AI and its features. Today, Amy takes us through a short journey of linking our brains to her game of Chess (4:30 min) to where is AI taking us. We touched on topics like how children learn (10:20 min ), the ethics of AI (24:00 min ), self-driving cars (27:00), virtual reality (42:00 min), and many other topics.
Please join us to find out more.
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Dr. Emran Amin, a Community Leader, Australian public servant, and a future city expert talked about smart cities, and how this connects to digital Bangladesh; how the governments are planning to make everything digital and create smarter cities and countries. We also touched upon ethics, and how the definition of ethics is changing, for the future because of AI involvement. What can an entrepreneur do in this fast-changing world, please join in find out more.
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Mariam Ispahani, a Climate Tech Entrepreneur from the San Francisco Bay Area, explained her transition (01:00) from early solar startups to turning ubiquitous plastics into a renewable form. Ms. Ispahani has been a pioneer in the off-grid solar power in Bangladesh (09:00). Today, she discussed her larger ambition and passion for tackling global plastic pollution. She explained her bioplastics startup (16:00), her team, and the status of the market (34:00).
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Cindy Malvicini, Senior Advisor at the Asian Development Bank, described her professional journey from an environmental policy and transparency expert (01:00 min) to climate adaptation initiatives in Nepal (02:00 min) to her involvement in gigawatt scale solar projects in Central Asia (06:00). Today, she rides her electric scooter (13:00 min ) and shaping ADB to become Asia’s Climate Bank (18:00). She talks about startups and venture fund (24:00 min and the importance of being part of the change and make things happen (35:00 min)
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Vincent Perez, Chairman of Alternergy, was a different kind of energy minister (0:51 min) with an entrepreneurial heart (3:00 min), which brought him to be the main torch bearer of renewable energy in the Philippines (14:00). In today's episode explained his journey, the competition within renewables (22:00 min) and his plans to bring Alternergy to IPO through democratic capitalism (30:00 min).
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Here Mohammad Tauseef Anwar, Cofounder Vision Systems & Electric Vehicles discussed the ecosystem (06:30 min) of electric vehicle conversion in Bangladesh; how his startup is developing managing the R&D and Funding side (16:00 min), encouraging women entrepreneurship (19:30 min), and setting pseudo industry standards (22:00). He also shared his insight about international expansion ambitions (26 min) and global EV retrofitting opportunities (38:00 min)
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Here Mohammad Tauseef Anwar, Cofounder Vision Systems & Electric Vehicles discussed the ecosystem (06:30 min) of electric vehicle conversion in Bangladesh; how his startup is developing managing the R&D and Funding side (16:00 min), encouraging women entrepreneurship (19:30 min), and setting pseudo industry standards (22:00). He also shared his insight about international expansion ambitions (26 min) and global EV retrofitting opportunities (38:00 min)
Please join in to find more.
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James Hamilton, John Poljak, Paul Martin, and I explored the Hydrogen debate's dark side (00:40 min) and the fundamental point of why it does not make sense to use Hydrogen as a fuel (03:00).
While we hear about Mega projects like the $21 billion Asian Renewable Energy Hub, the viable entry points (07:00) remain unclear. We explored the key numbers (10:20 min) and established why Hydrogen is a Win-Win bet for the fossil fuel industry (13:00 min). Green steel and Ammonia may be great products, but how to find consumers (30:00 min) and create a sense of urgency (55:00 min) for climate change.
Please join in to understand this complex game of Hydrogen.
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Vehicles to the grid are exciting and may create massive disruption in today’s electricity supply industry of the future. In this episode, I caught up with Claire Miller, the Director of Tech and Innovation at the Octopus Electric Company, UK. We explored the technology (2:00 min) for the different elements of the vehicle to grid and how it may support and eventually disrupt today’s electricity distribution business (8:00 min). How with induction charging (9:10) in future “demand” will be able to move (15:25), and opportunities drones (17:50 min) may bring. We also touched on innovative financing and leasing models (20:07). Claire explained the impact of autonomous vehicles (32:10), opportunities for EV retrofit (39:05), and opportunities for young people (45:10)
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Hydrogen is not only highly flammable; it’s a hot topic in the energy world today.
In this episode, Xavier Lara, James Hamilton, David Wenger, John Poljak, and I introduced (01:00 min) and engaged in a conversation with Project Examples (06:30 min), Gray, Green, Blue, and Numbers (11:30 min), the Hydrogen and Ammonia (27:45 min), the Kilos and Gigajoules (33:25 min) and new Market Opportunities (40:50)
We touched upon the need for new players (48:50) and high-level project numbers (53:40)
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Keisuke Taketani is a graphic facilitator or designer who does something magical; he turns long reports into a single page of graphics that are easy to understand. Today we discuss visualization and communication on climate Issues (01:20 min) and how to turn long boring presentations into exciting insights (06:09 min). Keisuke insists that we have to communicate better as we don’t have time (14:22 min) and why we are unable to about obvious things (24:00 min).
He also explains the resources are available (32:00) in to cope with the challenges of translating long English texts to friendly Visuals (40:00 min)
Please join us in this conversation to find more.
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Aliman Temirbek is high energy and engaging communication professional. She heads Asian Development Bank’s communication in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic. Today she tells a story (0:33 min) about her not keeping a secret to herself (09:00). We discussed electric cars (22:00 min), charging business opportunities (26:00 min), and electric vehicle retrofit (30:22 min) opportunities in the Kyrgyz Republic. While we all ponder what we can do at an individual level to take action and save our energy costs, here, in this episode, Aliman explains what she did. I was amazed by her extraordinary efforts in her neighborhood to engage everyone in climate actions.
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Johan Karlsson, co-founder of State of Charge, Melbourne, discussed the fascinating state of play in the electric vehicle space in Australia. We discuss the story behind their startup, the energy transition (07:50 min) in Australia and the re-thinking (09:46 min) of the EV charging business. Johan explained their start up (13:00 min), bi-directional charging opportunities (23:00 min) and why there needs to be mandatory solar and charging requirements (30:45 min).
I liked Johan’s one sentence advice to all entrepreneurs (35:00 min) and his excitement for the overall state of play in Australia (40:35 min).
Please join us in this conversation to find more.
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Robert Siy is a columnist and advocate for sustainable mobility in the Philippines. In today’s episode, we get to hear his view on why electric vehicles are only part of the solution for the Philippines. We discussed the main challenges in changing our policies and systems (05:00 min), the flooding by the motorcycles and financing options (12:00 min) for electric vehicles.
We explored investment opportunities (18:00 min), especially retrofit of existing vehicles (20:00) and business model for public transport (26:00 min) and policy options (34:00 min) for the government, and immediate opportunities (41:00 min)
Please join us in this conversation to find more.
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Today, Emily So, a renewable energy specialist with the Asian Development Bank, shares her professional transformation from working in a think-tank to a startup to finally a development professional today.
In this episode, we hear about her challenges in installing solar power in luxury lodges in Africa, poor off-grid locations in Bangladesh, and countries across the Pacific. She explains why and how the smaller Pacific countries are introducing solar power and batteries to tackle climate change. Emily explained why development organizations need to invest more in innovative systems and projects to tackle climate change.
To find out more, including how she got convinced of the need for the urgency of tackling climate change while stranded on a remote island, please listen in:
Please listen in to find out more.
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Today, we tap into the experiences of Darshak Mehta, a technical guru of climate change accounting and an energy efficiency veteran of the 90s. Our conversation tried to decipher the ecosystem of technical terms: Green House Gas Accounting, Clean Development Mechanism, and reference to many guidelines and International Protocols that created this ecosystem. We tried to explain these items in terms of simple numbers and examples. What is the voluntary mechanism, why does it get complicated, and how does it link back to the Paris Agreement and the countries that have made it.
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Manuela Prina explains how to anticipate the skills that may be necessary for the future. She works for the European Training Foundation, an European Union agency specializing in human capital development policies, especially education and training, vocational and technical education, and labor market policies.
Today, we talked about upskilling and reskilling, including skills that may be essential to support the energy transition. According to her, skill development is not only the concern of the public sector; private companies, especially the employers of the future, need to play a vital role.
Her message: we need to prepare young minds for the future, and investment in education is critical.
Please listen in to find more.
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Yuji Tsujiki, the CEO of "forestdigital, inc.", explains how his new startup can organize a trip to your favorite Japanese forest without leaving your living room, corporate relaxation room or a hospital bed or from anywhere.
Yuji's Tokyo-based startup specializes in Virtual Reality. With the help of their intelligent software and cloud computing, they can capture and "replay" the forest experience—the sound, smell, and high quality surround video anywhere.
In today's episode, we discussed his vision, the technology platform, and the entire process of 'capture" and "delivery". The idea of this product came from extended lockdown periods stopping everyone from visiting a real forest or any scenery. Since we can't go to the forest, why can't we put it indoors? Armed with a range of short-throw state-of-the-art laser projectors, Yuji sees opportunities at restaurants, cafes, malls, meeting rooms, houses, and even hospitals.
Although his company operates only in Japan, he expects to expand everywhere soon.
Please listen in to find out more.
https://forestdigital.org/
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Emilie Smith, the CEO of ExO Works, is in the business of transforming business with a purpose. Her motto is to accelerate technology adoption into society; exactly how a few developers started companies like Google, Airbnb, Uber, and Facebook and eventually defined today's way of life, transforming many things in their ways. In this episode, Emilie shared how her company helps clients to innovate and scale fast. Companies with all the data and the system fail to innovate because the culture of open communication may be lacking, and how companies fail to hire the right people. Changing people's minds and ideologies is very hard and dangerous for companies, especially post-pandemic when people started rethinking their careers during the pandemic. Please listen in to learn more about the exciting projects Emilie and her team are working on currently solar, batteries, and green energy. Connect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Jason Rush, ADB’s Team Leader for Communication, Knowledge and External Partnerships in Southeast Asia, started his career as a lawyer in the United States. He then moved to Asia, focused on communication work in UNICEF, others before joining the Asian Development Bank.
In this episode, Jason explained the impact of analog to digital transformation in large organizations. While communication has changed from one to one community meetings handling out brochures to talking thousands of people over Zoom across the globe, large organizations had to re-think communication strategy and their views about social media.
Our need to communicate better is ever more important now, especially for climate change and any successful initiatives. He explained why making communication easier to internalize, digest, and make it interesting is also essential. His message: climate change is real, and due to the pandemic, a lot has opened their eyes to what is happening, and with the proper communication, we might make a real change.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Emily Morris returned as a guest and updated me on Emrgy’s latest projects and their expansion in New Zealand, South Africa, and Asia. She explained why she is convinced that the future of electricity is distributed. We discuss why the levelized cost of micro-hydropower could be between 2 to 6 cents a kWh, while the capital cost is relatively high ($1500 to $4000 per kW). We analyzed situations where micro-hydro hybrid systems can replace many small diesel generators.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Dr. Vinod Nair is currently the Chief Technical Officer and co-founder at FaradPower, Inc., developing advanced battery materials from agricultural waste.
In this episode, he explained one of his innovations to use anode made from domestic waste and replace graphite, the hard carbon material.
Vinod also touched on the idea of DC vs AC electricity, and in his view it was a “historical mistake” to opt for AC electricity. We touched on many other fun ideas.
Please join to find more.
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A long-term renewable energy and storage veteran, James Hamilton, shared his industry insight today. He leads the technology innovation and hydrogen team in BayWa Renewable Energy.
In today's episode, James shared his renewable energy journey, especially his views on our path to net zero. He argues, solar, wind and batteries are great, but they won't be able to deliver a 100% decarbonized economy so hydrogen definitely will have a role. Then we got into the mixed feelings about the hydrogen boom we are seeing today, what are the technical limitations and where we need to focus and much more.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Daniel Hersson and innovation go hand in hand. His early work on innovation is now switched to support climate-friendly venture capital investments.
ADB Ventures provides capital and support to early-stage, climate-focus tech start-ups from all around the world. They are helping entrepreneurs build long-term relationships faster and create value.
In this episode, we also discussed how ADB Ventures are different from other venture capitals. We also talked about case studies and start-ups ADB Ventures helped through the years.
In this episode, Daniel shared what they do at ADB Ventures, and what specific elements he and his team look for in an investment proposal.
Please join in to find out more.
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Leandro Leviste, the CEO of Solar Philippines, started his solar venture in 2013 when the Philippines had less than 10 MW of installed solar power. Today his ambitions are big: he wants to build solar plants on his 10,000-hectare land through partnerships and enable the transition from coal and gas. Although Leandro started from a mindset of distributed generation, today he believes in large centralized battery and solar installation because of economies of scale and other factors.
From the proceeds of his early investments in Solar City and Tesla, Leandro went to big plants —not rooftop solar but large centralized systems, and he explains why in our discussion. We touched on the prospects of electric vehicles and batteries in the Philippines and the 10,000 MW of solar that the country’s system will need by 2025, which will be only 100 Watt per capita solar installation. Please join in to find more from this interesting insightful conversation with Leandro.
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Sebastian Groh, the Managing Director at SOLshare, shares his journey from an investment banker in Europe to the CEO of an off-grid solar company in Bangladesh and its evolution over the past years. His interests are in distributed energy, e-mobility and energy storage.
He explains how he became an “entrepreneur” by accident. Sebastian's business is focused on peer-to-peer grid trading excess electricity to the neighbours. His business has also evolved to smart battery networks for the 1.5+ local “Teslas” of Bangladesh. We also talked about his future expansion plans to different countries, given the success in Bangladesh.
Please listen in to find out more.
Connect with Sebastian Groh on LinkedIn
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Janice Baird is currently the Principal at Earth & Every, an environmental advocacy start-up. Her passion: seeking regulatory best practice for major projects, with a focus on energy and fossil fuels. Her team works with communities across the board—from affected areas to concerned citizens.
Today we heard from Janice about her exciting work with conservation organizations and some of the projects they are currently working on--mostly on gas projects in regional Australia. We explored how changes in land use can contribute to the extinction of different species.
We talked about the situation in Australia, how energy infrastructure can affect wildlife and their habitat and the importance of community consultation. Janice also discusses biodiversity offsets and how they are commonly used in Australia.
Please listen in to find out more
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Dr. Priyantha Wijayatunga, Chief of the Energy Sector Group, of the Asian Development Bank and I discuss the behind the scenes activities and thinking, which became the recently approved Energy Policy of ADB. We analyze the impact of this new energy policy on the generation, transmission, distribution segments of the power sector and the importance of climate change.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Dr. Cindy Tiangco’s 25-year work experience includes 10 years in ADB leading clean energy projects—solar PV, mini-grids and battery energy storage systems in the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, and Tuvalu. In some countries in Central Asia she is the “Mother” or “Queen” of Solar.
In this episode, Cindy explains the transformation she has seen in the clean energy journey from landlocked and fossil fuel-rich Centra Asia to small pacific island economies surrounded by vast oceans. How a simple solar roadmap paved the transformative paths in larger economies like Uzbekistan. How we can bring scale by adding demand in these small countries and their ambitions for a hydrogen economy.
(Note from Cindy: around 38:02, 1992 was Rio not Kyoto)
Please listen in to find out more.
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Dr. Cindy Tiangco’s 25-year work experience includes 10 years in ADB leading clean energy projects—solar PV, mini-grids and battery energy storage systems in the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, and Tuvalu. In some countries in Central Asia she is the “Mother” or “Queen” of Solar.
In this episode, Cindy explains he is seeing the transformation in the clean energy journey from landlocked and fossil fuel-rich Centra Asia to small pacific island economies surrounded by vast oceans. How a simple solar roadmap paved the transformative paths in larger economies like Uzbekistan. How we can bring scale by adding demand in these small countries and their ambitions for a hydrogen economy.
(Note from Cindy: around 38:02, 1992 was Rio not Kyoto)
Please listen in to find out more.
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What a high-energy discussion on innovation? How to choreograph elephants to dance and create a trend. How to amplify the benefit of innovation by aligning them with megatrends. In this episode, Dan brought his perspectives from his 40+ years of system automation and transformational change in different industries. Jen brought her perspectives from the humanitarian sector, working globally.
We slowly converged into electric vehicles—the battery on wheels—and their contribution to tackling climate change, and global transformation. Dan discussed how the rules of the game changed over the years. We collectively touched upon the technical innovation and the permanent changes brought about by the pandemic.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Dr. Michael Friedman is a medical doctor and medical epidemiologist. As the Country Director, CDC Bangladesh, as his last posting, he was at forefront of Bangladesh’s battle with Covid-19.
After 25 years, with the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), he is exploring the next chapter of his life—contemplating what to do next, specifically initiatives on global warming.
As an epidemiologist, he looks at health and health issues from a broader standpoint, taking into account the whole society or community. In this episode, we discussed our changed attitude towards climate change because of Covid and the pondering we all did. We discussed air pollution, education, mental health, lessons, and innovations that he saw.
Join in to find more.
References:
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/193572)
- https://vimeo.com/560689556)
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In this episode, I was able to hear two scientists' views on the future of electric batteries, their safety, and racing.
Dr. Xu’s research group focuses on Lithium-ion battery safety, design, and development of multifunctional energy storage systems among others. Dr. Mesbah Uddin, Professor, and Director of NC Motorsports and Automotive Research Center at the University of Charlotte.
We discussed internal and external stress on batteries, and how short circuits can lead to thermal runaway—or very fast temperature increases—that can eventually lead to a fire in a battery even when the car may be just parked and not even running. What are the probabilities and what are the battery safety options that protect us from those risks. How the industry is operating without a single overall safety standard and why it is important to stick to large brand batteries.
He explains why the cycle life of the solid-state batteries will be much lower than today’s Lithium battery. Dr. Mesbah Uddin explains how the racing industry is slowly taking an interest in electric vehicles and much more…
If you want to get a thorough understanding of battery safety and racing, please listen in.
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Elaine Chen co-founded BillionWatts Technologies, a subsidiary under Billion Electric Corp, with a focus on solar PV and energy storage-related products and solutions.
Today, we discussed with this high-energy young entrepreneur the details of today’s energy transformation in Taiwan and its key drivers.
Elaine shared the future of Taiwan’s energy sector and their capacity expansion plans—a huge target of 20,000 MW of solar and 7,000MW of wind by 2025. We learned how the sector is moving from its imported coal and oil-based energy sector to indigenous renewable energy. We also talked about how the transformation will affect the demand for rooftop solar and on-grid battery storage.
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Mara Villegas has been in the banking sector since 2008 and is currently the Director for Compliance of a financial investment company.
In this episode, we discuss how COVID-19 has accelerated the world of the digital finance industry today and the expected market growth.
In the Philippines alone, almost 70% of the population are now using digital banking in almost all of their transaction. Before the pandemic happened, services like GCash were available but hardly anyone used them. The pandemic has forced people to accept reality. Covid-19 has also accelerated e-commerce services. We talked about how effective and relevant such services have become over the course of two years.
Maybe the awareness of electric vehicles and surge in renewable energy investment will be next.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Mary Hendriks, an advocate of electric transport and battery storage, discussed her views on the future of electric vehicles in Australia. We talked about the recent uptakes of electric vehicles in Australia and the incentives on the table. Most of the vehicles in the country are imported from other countries as there is minimal car manufacturing in Australia, but there are some niche opportunities for local manufacture and innovation as well as expansion of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
If you want to get a thorough understanding of the electric vehicle scene in Australia, please listen in.
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Lloyd develops and implements sustainable urban transport initiatives for ADB’s Central and West Asia region. He is particularly supporting the development of quality public transport systems and non-motorized transport integration.
In this episode, Lloyd Wright sheds light on some of his recent projects and the fast-changing landscape of urban transport. He explains the advantages of new technology micro-mobility options and their impact. We discuss the high-profile project electric three-wheeler with lithium-ion battery project in Pakistan. He explained the incentives and the provisions of the new electric vehicle incentives in Pakistan, which could be a template for other countries in the region. We also talked about the grid-connected battery hubs that could also be solar-powered. How the pink taxis--with woman drivers for woman passengers only-could be replicated elsewhere.
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Greg MacGarvie, CEO of ACE Electric Vehicles, the flag bearer of a new and innovative future in Australia explains how he is aligning his company to this once in a lifetime transition. In 2021 ACE EV Group is launching a range of Australian-made light commercial electric vans and cars.
In this episode, he shared his Australian EV vision, and why he is expecting a "tsunami" of electric vehicles. His cars would eventually support some of the power distribution networks in the coming days.
Please listen in to find out more.
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Giovanni Capannelli, a long-term development professional and the true face of today's multiculturalism shares his exciting professional journey of about two decades across many countries--from islands in the Pacific to landlocked Central Asia-- at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Today he also shared his insight from the mysterious countries along the Great Silk Road, especially Kazakhstan, where he was the Country Director for ADB.
In this episode of Energypreneurs, we talked about Giovanni's journey, his life after ADB, and his current ventures- building his own consulting company. Originally from Italy, moving to Japan, and now working in Kazakhstan, Giovanni shared the cultural difference in working in Central Asia. With the help of the United Nations, they were able to introduce 2018 a new framework for Kazakhstan’s sustainable development goals and introducing clean energy resource technology. We also talked about how the government and people changed their attitudes toward climate change and how private sectors privilege change due to recent events, especially the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Silverio Navarro, a veteran of Solar Power in the Philippines, shared his insights on the progresses made in the solar market in Philippines. Silver has been part of many solar projects in the country since 1990s and recently working on hybrid systems and financing solar projects.
We discuss the regulatory framework, pricing and the size of the market.
If you want to understand the Philippine market including the off-grid solar market, please listen in; Silver will take you through the nuts and bolts of the solar power sector in less than an hour.
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Dr. Farhad Tagdizadeh, Associate Professor of Economics, Tokai University, Japan shares his insight from his own research work on reasons for the continuous decline of solar power prices. He explains the transition from fossil fuel. His research focus is energy economics, energy policy, and the financial side of green energy.
Farhad also explained his findings in the green finance field, including the green credit guarantee scheme that is designed to facilitate private investments in green projects. He discussed the factors affecting the supply and the demand of green technologies including solar modules. We also talked about how and why the prices of Solar Power in Japan are much higher than that of other countries and actions manufacturers have taken in the country to lower the cost.
We also touched on the innovative Home Town Investment Trust Fund in Japan that facilitates the development of small and medium-sized solar energy projects.
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Chih-Ting Lo, a mining industry veteran, entrepreneur, and energy expert shared her insight in this high-energy conversation. Her storytelling style conversation touched upon the hydrogen and mining industry de-carbonization
Apart from taking me through the “Mining Industry 101”, she touched upon the current trend on hydrogen and how hydrogen-powered vehicles for mining applications may lead to eventually electrifying current fleets of diesel machinery.
If you want to find you more about these exciting opportunities, please join in.
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Michael Taylor, a senior energy analyst is pushing today’s evidence-based good news about the energy transition. As a data analyst, he likes to dig deep into the numbers and try to understand the impact of cost and performance improvements for renewables will have on the energy transition. Today, this International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) veteran talks about IRENA’s analysis of renewable technologies' cost and performance.
In this episode, Michael shared about his journey which started in 1993 where he started as an energy modeler and economist in New Zealand. We talked about the transition of solar PVs and how “today’s record price for solar PV will be tomorrow’s average price”
In this episode, we also touched on hydrogen, solar power, batteries, and how the electricity industry of the future can be the vehicle delivering economy-wide decarbonizing tomorrow.
Please join, to find more.
onnect with Sohail Hasnie: * Facebook @sohailhasnie * Twitter @shasnie * LinkedIn @shasnie * ADB Blog Sohail Hasnie
Richard Bolt, with his background in electrical engineering, was the secretary of Victoria’s Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources. Richard spent some time in political activism as a researcher for the Australian Democrats, before assuming a variety of leadership roles in the Victorian Public Service.
In this episode, we were able to discuss his vision for the Australian energy landscape, the changes in the environmental and social values of Australia, and his passion for tackling climate change. We find out what keeps Richard awake at night, and the incentives that are driving changes in Australia, and how Australia as a "technology taker” is slowly moving into electric vehicles.
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ADB is revising its energy policy and Dr. Yongping Zhai, Chief of Energy, is leading the Energy Policy update for ADB.
In this episode, Dr. Zhai and I discussed the energy policy and its challenges: how to get the right policy mix that will be practical enough to deliver ADB’s planned climate outcome.
No new coal. Yes. But what is the best option for all ADB members?
What about gas? Stranded asset risks? Please join in to explore more.
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In this episode, I go through the ADB’s draft Energy Policy for public consultation. If you are interested to understand the proposed policy and want to engage in this consultation process, this may be a good start. I discuss the changing energy landscape, ADB’s support for climate change, and activities and investments that the energy policy will prioritize to align ADB operations with the Paris agreement.
In this policy document you will find, how ADB pans to move away from investing in fossil fuels, promote energy efficiency, electric vehicles, improve cities and people’s lives, using renewable energy, battery storage and new technologies
Here is a link to the policy document for public consultation:
- Timeline and background for the review https://www.adb.org/who-we-are/about/energy-policy-review
- Draft Policy: https://www.adb.org/documents/draft-energy-policy-supporting-low-carbon-transition-asia-and-pacific
Please join in to explore more.
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Today we hear from Alexander Ablaza, the man behind many energy efficiency initiatives across Asia, for more than two decades in development agencies and the private sector. His new passion how to scale up markets through ESCOs and help countries meet their Paris Commitment
In this episode, Alex shared his journey on the energy efficiency sector and building non-profit organizations like the Asia Pacific ESCO Industry Alliance- with 10 countries as its member including China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. Moreover, he explained what ESCO is and how they are helping the energy sector.
We also talked about the energy efficiency law in the Philippines, how it may finally jump-start an entirely new revolution.
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Jerin Hossain is a mother, entrepreneur, and CEO of a textile company in Bangladesh. Her casual use of social media and engagement with others by sharing her passion to give voice to animals and plants has made her the person with the highest LinkedIn followers in Bangladesh.
In today’s episode, she shares her insights into her success with another social media guru, Reah Sy, who manages some of the corporate social media accounts for the Asian Development Bank.
In this conversation, we could glean some of Jerin’s strategies and key to this success that may be useful for many wannabe social media influencers on Linkedin
To find out the key to Jerin’s success and her daily routine for social media, please listen in.
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Doreen Cooper is an award-winning speaker, international trainer, book author, and content creator.
In this episode, we explore more about personal branding and leveraging social media.
According to Doreen, personal branding is the identity that you highlight base on your personality, experiences, skills, and values. She also shared some steps on how to start building your personal brand and understanding the gap between "where you are now" and "what you want to be".
We also talked about the importance of social media presence especially during this pandemic, being mindful of what you post, and why you should find the right platform for you, not just for the sake of using it.
Please join in to explore more.
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Varun Kumar Duggal is working on performance modeling and the techno-economic assessment of lithium-ion battery systems.
In this episode, we discuss the importance of stationary energy storage systems in the grid and the complexity of battery degradation.
We explore the impact of electric vehicles on the grid, the vehicle-to-grid opportunities, options to maximize battery lives, and the timing for solid-state batteries.
Please join in to explore more.
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Monalisa Dimalanta is the former Chairman of the National Renewable Energy Board of the Philippines.
In this episode, we talked about the history of renewable energy and energy efficiency in the Philippines. We also explored the Philippines' renewable act, which can be argued as one of the best renewable acts there is, and reviewing the regulatory framework.
Monalisa also shared the country's RE development both on-grid and off-grid. She gave clarity as well as to why rooftop solar was not included in the feed-in tariff of the country.
Please join in to explore more.
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Yuki Yu, Researcher & Founder of Energy Iceberg, an information and intelligence in English about the Chinese renewable, and new energy market. Her company focuses specifically on wind or solar, and some of the emerging technology areas like hydrogen and battery energy storage.
We discuss China's renewable energy vision, and why China's battery storage capacity will need to increase multifold from 2,500 MWh now.
We engage in hydrogen and the future of feed-in tariff, and tariff and much more.
Please join in to find more
Yuki YuFounder & Independent Researcher
Chinese Clean Power Policy & Market Insights
https://energyiceberg.com/
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ADB Ventures is investing in bold technology startups solving today’s biggest unsolved problems.
Sherwin Pu, the head of ADB’s new impact-technology investment platform, talks about its business model to deploy venture capital investments and technical assistance to support early-stage technology businesses.
We learn today the intent behind ADB Ventures, what it aims to do to become $1 billion in funds in years to come. We discuss the Ventures Labs that ADB has been working on with other partners in the region.
If you are ready for applying for technical support from ADB for your high tech startup ideas, please listen to this conversation and then apply to ADB Ventures
ADB Ventures: https://ventures.adb.org
https://www.adb.org/documents/establishment-adb-ventures-financing-partnership-facility
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Tim Washington, the co-founder of, JET Charge and Chargefox, two successful EV charging start-ups in Australia, speaks candidly about the private sector-led electric vehicle future of Australia.
Tim is also the Chair of the Australian EV Council, and as an early adopter of EV, has been driving a model Tesla Model S with free lifetime charging from Tesla in Melbourne.
We come with an innovative concept of subscription for a range of anxiety insurance and discuss why EV manufacturing in Australia needs immediate government support. Automotive today is not about just building vehicles but the entire software and hardware ecosystem around including autonomous driving.
Please join us if you want to find out more.
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Jacqueline van den Ende, a serial entrepreneur, and investor talks about her passion for building high-impact ventures.
Born in Australia, growing up in Syria and Europe with ex-pat parents, and even living in Asia she brings an excellent perspective on entrepreneurship in multiple industries and countries—a non-profit consulting firm in Europe, a real estate start-up in the Philippines, and an alternative investing platform to promote climate investment in Europe.
I am amazed by the energy Jacquie brought into our conversation — please join in to find more.
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Jukka Jarvinen, a matrix entrepreneur of batteries, talks about the dawn of a new era, where energy storage brings the biggest paradigm shift in the energy sector. His passion for electric cars started when he drove his first EV in 1992, his love of EV eventually led him to become one of the top battery technology experts. In this episode, he explains the battery value chain, its recycling, demand for batteries, pricing, and how coal can be a raw material for batteries.
We discuss the opportunity for battery and EV manufacturing in Australia and why the global pandemic has accelerated the battery-led transformations.
He also invited everyone to join the “Battery Chat” in Clubhouse at 7 pm Eastern European time every Thursday.
Join here. https://www.joinclubhouse.com/event/mavod91W
Please join in to find more.
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Freddie Tinga, President at Global Electric Transportation, is building new electric vehicles for Asia and Europe. Freddie’s team brings technical design from California and manufacturing in Spain.
Freddie’s vision is to create an entire ecosystem with his 54 kWh 6.5meter four-wheeler electric vehicles. He wants to import fully made electric cars in the Philippines and then eventually establish electric vehicle industry units.
Please join in this exciting discussion.
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Rajat Sarawat is an experienced energy sector professional with more than 25 years of experience in the Industry. Rajat’s core experience derives from developing and implementing the regulatory frameworks in the energy industry in Australia.
As a practicing regulator, he shares his thoughts on the challenges of future regulation as rooftop solar power and batteries are fundamentally changing the energy landscape. Rajat explains the changing nature of Ancillary services, which he says, is now been renamed more aptly as Essential System Services in Australia as the market dynamics is changing.
How will the market perform with zero marginal cost renewable energy where the fundamental market design and system marginal price is based on marginal cost of power at a given time remains the key challenge.
How utility-scale batteries are slowly removing the same arbitrage opportunities between peak and off-peak prices, that batteries are receiving the maximum benefit from?
Please join in to find more.
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Jonathan Fievez, the CEO of Carnegie Clean Energy, explains why we may have waves all around us but it is hard to commercially extract energy from them. Sitting by the Indian Ocean in Perth, Australia, Jonathan explained how Carnegie as a technology developer in partnership with the project developers finding niche opportunities between the expensive remote gensets and solar and wind inland constrained island situation.
He argues unlike other renewable energy, wave energy is consistent and predictable. He shares a fascinating insight into how these structures can attract a full spectrum of new fish populations and can help develop new tourism opportunities. How ocean energy can use desalination operation as a battery and many more.
Please join in to find more.
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Xuefei Liu is now in Paris completing her EMBA. This is her third continent in search of a solution to development challenges. Having spent close to a decade in Sinohydro, one of the largest hydropower companies in China, and then in West and North Africa, and to Europe.
She brought an extraordinary aura of energy into our conversation while talking about solving problems of others who can’t help themselves. Her advice to young people: life is short, please find something you like and not too huge, preferably in your own country.
Xuefei also asked me many questions making this conversation a high-energy two-way exchange of ideas.
Please join in to find more.
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Bart Édes, the author of Learning from Tomorrow to prepare for the Next Big Disruption, shares his thoughts on how organizations and entrepreneurs can prepare for the future. How to guard ourselves against obsolescence of our skills and investments. We both shared optimism about climate change and discussed the lessons from the Covid-19 experience—how that has fundamentally changed many businesses and why companies must avoid their "Kodak moment" of ignoring early warning signs and many more. Please join in. Connect with Bert Édes: * LinkedIn * Website
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You need to have a purpose as an entrepreneur and the purpose can't be making money. My today's guest Mr. Christie Fernandez, CEO of SOOORYA EV, Singapore shares his ambition for the purpose build a 4-wheel electric car for ride-sharing. His target to keep the costs low and develop a modular 4-wheeler for the mass market reaching a production capacity of about 100,000 units per year.
To find out more about these serial entrepreneurs, please join in.
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Yvonne Power is one of three Co-Founders and the COO at Village Energy, and an advocate for microgrids and renewables, moved from a large state-government-owned power utility in Western Australia to a start to change people’s lives. Village Energy operates in developing Asia —Indonesia and India. Yvonne shares her technology passion and her entrepreneurial journey, which is definitely not for the faint-hearted.
Village Energy with its IoT-enabled devices and smart app work with utilities and consumers to make electricity cheaper and efficient for all without any additional resources.
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Yes, there is a positive momentum today. Let’s listen to what Michael Grimm, Chief Executive Officer, of Carbon Negative Energy, has to say as he shares his passion for renewable energy and battery projects.
In Michael’s world, our addiction has reached its tipping point and we have many reasons to be excited about the post covid world. We discuss green hydrogen, seasonal storage, and large-scale solar and wind projects —their specific challenges and the solutions. We bring a unique startup idea for today’s petrol stations and many more.
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Cameron Quin and Yuri Marshall are the co-founders of Mind You, who are committed to protecting the mental well-being of people for more fulfilled lives.
We talk about Cameron’s entrepreneurial journey from a rooftop solar startup in Australia to a startup for mental health in the Philippines. Their collective journey in lifting the stigma, lowering counseling costs, and many more. Please join in.
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In this episode, we get a chance to the world through the eyes of Dr. Priyantha Wijayatunga, Director, South Asia Energy of the Asian Development Bank. We get to hear about his own transformation from the Director-General of a multi-sector regulator, to an academic to today, managing a multi-billion dollar energy portfolio covering all of South Asia.
We talk about the challenges the South Asia region facing with its rooftop solar, off-grid solar, and energy efficiency. The ambitious program of the Indian government to convert all public vehicles, Bangladesh’s floating solar project, and the potential of on-grid batteries in the future. And many more, please join in:
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While we all have moved our dinner table discussions gradually from Virus to Vaccine in 2021, I had the opportunity to tap into the thinking of a renowned serial entrepreneur, Norman Crowley, owner of Crowley Carbon on tackling climate change. In this episode, we get a chance to see the world through Norman’s optimistic eyes, where cheap solar, EV everywhere and revolutions in modern agriculture will take us to 1.5 C degrees. Norman’s view of the future, even few notches stronger than my view or that of Tony Seba. Please join in to find out more. **Connect with Sohail Hasnie:**
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Today I had a lively discussion with Mr. Rabindra Kumar Satpathy, a Professional in Solar Energy, who has experience of 30+ years and is the author of the book- ‘ Solar PV Power - Design, Manufacturing, and Applications- Sands to Systems’. He has a long journey since 1984 starting small projects of solar-powered electric fences for elephant sanctuary to GWP on-grid solar.
We touched upon the future of Off-Grid DC Solar and its impact on power systems and many more.
Please listen in.
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Nilofar Ghazanfar, the Head of Project Coordination Unit of the Ghazanfar Group in Afghanistan, shares her enthusiasm about the future of Afghanistan, especially its path to decarbonizing using solar power.
We explore her passion and vision for women entrepreneurship and solar power, electric vehicles, and batteries in Afghanistan. Born in Afghanistan, raised in Dubai, studied in London, now working in her own office in Kabul and in Dubai she is an amazing source of inspiration for all of us.
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Gayam Raja, the founder and CEO of Gayam Motor Works (GMW), from India, traces back his successful transition from manufacturing gasoline power 3-wheeler to manufacturing the complete ecosystem of electric 3-wheelers or e-trikes.
We explore his inspiration and vision to reach a 1500 unit per unit production capacity exporting to about countries. He believes in a future where most of the last-mile delivery all over the world will do by e-trikes —the GMW version can carry 400 kgs and price below $5,000.
Please join me to explore more.
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- Page
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Congratulating myself to have competed this 50th episode of Energypreneurs on 31 December 2020.
In this episode, I summarize episodes 4-49: what they are about and how they fit together. If you are new to my channel this will be a very good start and if you have been listening regularly, this will be a good recap.
Please keep a pen and paper handy while listening, as I do refer to the episodes by their episode number in the audio
Happy New Year!
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If you are planning to start a podcast this will be useful for you. This episode is a recording of my presentation to an internal audience at the Asian Development Bank, on the software, hardware, and strategy behind my podcast.
Some found it technical, but if you are interested to understand the various equipment, software, and system choices, this will save a lot of time. Please connect with me for the PowerPoint file and the video record.
Happy New Year!
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Jayantha Perera, an author of 12 books, talks about his lifestyle in the first decade of retirement. He and his wife Shyamala sheds light on how longevity and technology are impacting retirement planning.
We explore the importance of technology adaptation on top of remaining healthy and stay connected.
While “retirement” or rather "not 9 to 5” as Jayantha defines it, could be fun and enjoyable planning is key to avoid getting trapped into a box.
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Carlos Santamaria and Reah Sy are good friends and social media gurus. They both managed multiple facets of the Asian Development Bank’s social media content and the strategy behind the activities.
Together, they are not only fun to be with — they bring an infectious enthusiasm to the table. Since I met them in 2015, my perspectives about social media have changed dramatically, and a lot of my ideas have been shaped by these two friends.
In this episode, we look at where to go from here and the global context. Get many insights into this fun conversation. Please join.
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Carmela (Candy) and Arnel Sevilla explain how they turned their dream and love for diving into a boutique hotel—“Portulano”—with its extensive diving facilities. They explain how they morphed into this lifestyle business from their high-pressure corporate jobs. Today Arnel plans to go 100% solar with batteries one day, and I think hydroponics and electric boats will also be an amazing addition to that plan.
Please join in to find out more.
Portulano:
- San Pablo, Bauan, Batangas,
Northside of Anilao,
Philippines - Tel: +639175404257
- (https://www.portulano.com)
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Dan Milison, takes us through the journey of his professional life —innovative projects, the climate leadership he has seen in three countries, and the BIG ideas he has. We get into the hot topic of today —Hydrogen; although I may not agree with some of the positive lights he sees in the hydrogen way, he does have a clear vision.
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Werner Liepach, Director-General, Asian Development Bank, discusses his fascinating, 28 year-long journey through different levels of ADB, and how the roles for a development bank have changed in the face of technological changes, the threat of climate change, and finally, Covid-19.
With a Ph.D. in financial engineering and a love for seeing places around the world, Werner shares the ideas and changes that he introduced as a senior development professional. Why just an idea for innovation is not enough - innovation needs communication, alliances, and long-lasting stamina.
We hear the mindset changes in the fossil fuel rich Central Asia because of cheap renewable energy, the opportunities for electrification of transport and some of the big ideas he was able to implement, especially in Pakistan.
To find more, please listen in.
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Durreh Tabassum, from the Infrastructure Investment team of the International Finance Corporation, shares her inspiration to work in the climate space and discusses the various technologies that are available today to achieve SDG 7. Starting from her family-owned power company, to one of the largest wind power generators, to World Bank, and now to IFC, Durreh carries the professional experience of hands on entrepreneurship to development financing in addressing the global energy transition.
We discuss many aspects of technology and development: digitization, regional cooperation, energy efficiency, hydrogen, and women in engineering.
Please listen in to find more.
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Agostinho Miguel Garcia from SunBD - Sun Business Development, analyzes the disruptions that low priced #solarpower is causing as the perception and attitude about solar power has changed over the years—30+ cents per kWh feed-in tariff in 2006 to 1.1 cents per kWh in the Portuguese auction of August 2020.
Today, even the underlying math for rehabilitation of old hydropower is challenging as building a new ground-mount or floating solar power may be quicker and cheaper.
Hear about CSP plants and hydrogen as seasonal storage and many more
Today to get a glimpse of this exciting future, please join in.
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Sunniya Durrani-Jamal, Country Direction, Cambodia of ADB, shares her passion for development work in this inspiring discussion today. We hear journey at the Asian Development from Afghanistan to Indonesia to Cambodia.
We discuss our passion for development work and what keeps us motivated despite the hoops and red tapes that we face in our client countries and in our own organisation.
Please join us in this inspiring chat.
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How does one discuss climate change in a country, where almost all of its installed power generation capacity is from fossil fuels. This week, Seung Duck Kim, Energy Specialist, of Asian Development Bank explains the ongoing power sector restructuring in Uzbekistan and how its government is slowly moving away from fossil fuel in the face of its depleting gas reserve.
We also discuss the fate of regional cooperation as solar power becomes cheaper and cheaper destroying the concept of “energy-rich” and the “energy poor”. We discuss electric vehicles, solar power, and energy efficiency Opportunities in Uzbekistan.
Please join us in this exciting conversation
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Today, I talked with Monroe Zhang, a fan of Tesla and an EV enthusiast, who is also building batteries. I learned many of her ideas in her easy to understand language. Monroe brought a supplier's perspective to the EV industry, vehicle to grid technology, consumer choices, and consumer security.
Today she works and spends most of her time on all aspects of battery manufacturing from cell design, to BMS and battery packs. She shares the smart choices made by the car manufacturers by vertically integrating from sourcing minerals to building cars. We explore various ideas behind battery safety and related issues.
Please join us in this inspiring chat.
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Sarin Abado, Energy Specialist of Asian Development Bank shares her thoughts on the transition from fossil gas to green and renewable gas; why we need to discuss a scenario where gas may no longer be the gas as we know today. Sarin argues, if electricity can be renewable, why can't we look at renewable or green gas today technology allows to cross the strong barrier between a renewable energy asset and a fossil fuel asset.
We discuss contracts for difference and other instruments to augment today’s approach to carbon pricing, and the benefits of renewable gas a seasonal energy storage, and many more.
Please join us in this exciting conversation.
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Victor, the co-founder of the GenixGreen, a battery design and manufacturing company, talks about his 12.5 kg. 1 kWh battery pack with BMS, which is about $250-$300. Victor believes, this plug and play system, that can directly connect DC and AC products, the future of off-grid solar. His company moved out of E-bike Batteries, as competition is huge but sees huge potential in-home storage segment. He explains why his company left the e-bike market and shares his insight on quality aspects of e-bikes.
Please join us in this inspiring chat.
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Dr. Shannon Arvizu, a long term advocate and researcher of electric vehicles, shares her journey in the industry and explains how the policy scene has changed and where it's headed. Shannon also shares what it's like to be a Chevy Volt owner for over 10 years. Shannon and I discuss the waning influence of the fossil fuel industry on the transportation and energy sector and promising directions for the decade ahead. They conclude with a conversation about a recent Norwegian "climate thriller" series on Netflix called "Occupy.
Follow Dr. Shannon Arvizu:
- EPIC TEAMS
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Is there a future for hydrogen in the Pacific? Maybe yes, maybe no, what about the electric vehicles? I discuss all these exciting transformational technologies and many more with Rafael Abbasov a seasoned Energy Specialist of the Asian Development Bank.
Rafael started his career as a CFO of a state-owned power utility in the Caucus and then developed an energy project in the former Soviet countries in Central Asia. Today his challenges and ambitions are big: how do we bring new technologies and business models in the Pacific beyond just supplying solar power, batteries, or electric vehicles.
Let’s listen to this exciting episode.
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Speaking from the "Salad Bowl” of sunny California, Bill Shelvin, a seasoned CEO of multiple renewable energy and tech companies shares his vision about zero to negative carbon growth.
Bill is a-passionate about efficiency and moved from the real estate industry to sustainability and he sheds light on renewable energy, methane capture, hydroponics, and community vertical agriculture. His passion is about capturing CO2 from agricultural sources and add that back to growing more plants.
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Nigel Savidge, and international development professional, now living sustainability in their 5000 m² property in rural Victoria, Australia, growing vegetables and everything else.
He shares his view about sustainability and climate change—we talk about working from home, growing green tomatoes and gardening but at the same time the realities of climate he can now see.
Please join us in this inspiring chat.
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Jeff Wolfe, a serial entrepreneur, CEO of Veloce Energy, explains how he scaled up his small mom and pop solar company of 1998 to become the first nationwide residential solar company in the US. His today’s passion is modular energy storage and charging that will eliminate the design for custom design and installation to minimize the use of space.
Please listen in.
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Andrew Chakhoyan is an alumnus of the global leadership program at the World Economic Forum and is a regular contributor to the Forum Agenda blog.
His latest piece was titled: "What has COVID-19 taught us about flattening the climate curve?" We discuss parallels between the Covid-19 crisis and climate change looking at both through the lens of global affairs and diplomacy Neither virus nor climate cares for national borders, and there is no better remedy than global cooperation to address such “tragedies of the commons.”
Please listen in.
If there is a place to insert a link to the article here it is:
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/we-need-to-flatten-the-curve-on-climate-too/
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Are we seeing the beginning of the end of coal, oil, and gas financing?
Sonia Dunlop, a real third-generation environmentalist, brings optimism to our climate change discussion and explains why the Paris Agreement was a game-changer in the global climate landscape. We discuss financial instruments that are available to retire high carbon infrastructure because of the savings on energy bills. We discuss the role of energy efficiency, solar PV, batteries, and electric vehicles: the dramatic price reductions in all of these and their unimaginable impacts ahead.
Why should countries be more ambitious in updating their national climate action plans to transform their economies? The new set of NDCs as part of the Paris Agreement could form part of the “blueprint” for COVID-19 recovery. We hope the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow in November 2021 will see more ambitious targets for 1.5 degrees and 2 degrees, finance, and global cooperation on a greener recovery.
Please listen in
Connect with Sonia Dunlop:
Senior Policy Advisor on International Financial Institutions at think tank E3G (Third Generation Environmentalism).
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Everty enables a charging station to talk to its client, an electric vehicle. Carola Jonas, the young CEO joins me to explain her startup company, its strategies, and how smart charging infrastructure will impact the energy sector.
We discuss pricing options and trends leading us towards 2030. We try to imagine the future where millions of autonomous EVs with large batteries connect to the grid and is able to send electricity to the grid (v2G) or another vehicle (v2V).
As you know, the future is electric, and charging infrastructure will be an essential element in that transformation
Please listen in
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Globally investors are moving investments away from financing coal projects. Today, we discuss with Mr. Alfredo Bano, the main author of the report, which made the bold recommendation that ADB formally withdraws from financing new coal projects. We discuss the future of the power sector and the changes that have happened and going to happen.
If you want to find more, please join us and find out the reasons behind this recommendation. Do you agree to the argument: “if not now when?”
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How urgent is Climate Change in the post COVID world?
How our climate discussion has changed over the years even within the Asian Development Bank.
What can we expect at the next big climate discussion and what opportunities will it bring.
Let’s find out from Preety Bhandari, the Chief of ADB’s Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management
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Today we meet Sean Luangrath, the CEO of Inergy, a US startup focusing on off-grid solar power. We get a wide angle view of the emerging world of "mail order home solar power”.
From remote health clinics in Haiti to middle of the Amazon Jungle, Sean’s team is displacing diesel generation and bringing lights to many for the first time. Sean invites new entrepreneurs in this nascent industry with: “if a refugee boy who came to this country with nothing can do it, anyone can”
Company Website:
- Inergy Technologies - Power For Life
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Australia is leading the world in rooftop solar and home batteries. My today’s guest Simon Franklin, Managing Director, of ITP Renewables in Australia, shares his insights on the home battery segment in Australia—price, performance, government incentives, and what to look for while buying a battery.
Simon talks about the huge uptake on utility-scale batteries in Australia and the reasons behind it, especially now that data shows how a big battery can respond faster than a gas generator to meet system needs. Simon explains the price trend on the solar modules, where prices have fallen from $8 a Watt to 19.5 cents a Watt in a couple of decades –today solar allowed consumers to generate power, and tomorrow with lower battery prices, the majority of the houses will be able to run on island mode. This will hugely impact the energy industry especially with the anticipated explosive growth of electric vehicle numbers.
If you want to find for on these topics, and more, please listen in.
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After transforming Sarawak Power as the CEO, Torstein went back to Norway to retire. Retirement was too boring, so he decided to build a Giga factory on a 500,000 square meter of land with 32 million KWh of battery cells a year. We discuss the future battery price and how his Norwegian battery plans to supply all of Europe.
Torstein Dale Sjøtveit is currently the Executive Chairman of Freyr AS. We discussed how batteries are competing with gas power generation head-on. He explains the cha lenses in building a new company and how the world is changing.
About Torstein Dale Sjøtveit:
- Wikipedia Page
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In this episode, my guest was Hang Yin, who is part of the Corporate Strategy team of NIO (https://www.nio.com), who really believes the future is in smart, electric and autonomous vehicles.
This was an exciting discussion, we discussed Nio and it’s new cars: all the stats of their different models, range, price etc. I finally found someone, who like me, believes that electricity could be free or have a near zero price in near future. If you want to see the future through our eyes where every home has batteries, solar panels and all cars are autonomous, please join us.
Hang Yin was oozing with energy and fully believed her company’s motto: in the past, cars gave people the freedom of mobility. In the future, cars will go one step further and free people from driving, giving them the freedom of time.
Please come and join us on a fascinating journey.
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When we convert our first physics experiment in life—create fire with sun and a magnifying glass—on a Giga scale, we get something close to concentrate solar power. This technology simply uses mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight from a large area on a single receiver, and covert that concentrated light into heat than to steam and then to electricity.
Concentrated solar power projects are big — The Ivanpah Solar Power Facility, located in the Mojave Desert, is the largest CSP in the world, and uses three power towers and generates about 377 MW.
My today’s guest will discuss details of this technology, the price trend, and some specific projects
Let’s welcome Xavier Lara
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Pierre Langlois, the President and Chairman of the Board at Econoler, and I discuss energy efficiency. What is Energy Effciency? A service or an investment? Why it is so difficult to understand and convince clients on energy efficiency projects? How many people does it really take to change a light bulb?
Pierre and I worked on an energy efficiency project many years back, and today we discuss success and failure in many energy efficiency projects.
We delve into the electric vehicle industry and explore how the "benefit sharing" approach from the energy efficiency industry can be used to sell electric car as a service package
Please join us to explore more:
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We hear a lot about battery prices going down but mostly from researchers and reporters. My today’s guest is Fancy Lu of Liyuan Battery Company, a battery manufacturer, who will share details of their products and some pricing. I learned lot about batteries on the market from her and was surprised that batteries with about 5,000-6,000 cycles are becoming so common. We discuss the large MWh scale batteries with system cost of about $300 per kWh or the plug and play home batteries from $5,000 to $20,000. To find out more, please join in: Connect with Sohail Hasnie:
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Discussing electric vehicle with a man from the future
James and I explore predictions and possibilities about the future of EV and how that might impact the energy sector.
Putting my future of energy glass, I tried to view the EV world of futurist James’s. We discuss stranded assets for the power sector and the possibility of distribution companies breaking up into micro-grid and eventually to off-grid for many.
The impact of autonomous cars—a slow retreat from downtown centers but offset that reduction by the increased flurry of delivery activities.
Join us in our journey to the future where on some issues and contradict on many riding an electric vehicle charged by rooftop solar.
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In this episode, Anthony Jude, an ex-ADB staff, explains the transition to renewable energy and explains the floating solar technology, its limitations, and challenges, especially the associated environmental concerns in Bangladesh where floating solar is proposed in fish farms and shrimp farms.
He explains how Bangladesh has dramatically increased energy access to about 90% of households with increased nationwide generation capacity from 5,500 MW in 2009 to about 21,700 MW in 2019. Bangladesh still relies on about 95% fossil fuels, importing about $1-$1.2 billion of fuel, and with declining domestic reserve government has resorted to importing LNG.
While 5,000-7,000 MW may be possible from rooftop solar in Dhaka alone, the government has not looked into this segment seriously yet. Anthony explains that 1.3 million diesel pumps operating in the country and solar irrigation pump is growing fast.
We discuss drones, aeroponics, and other high technology use in Bangladesh. Overall, I got the impression that many solar power-related opportunities, in this country of 160 million people, is yet to be explored.
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What is an electric vehicle for the poor? Is it a repurposed old Toyota or a cheap new small electric car? Listen to this episode where Paul takes me through the entire conversion process, the necessary steps, equipment, suppliers, and the component prices. However, Paul may convince you that car conversion is not a good idea as battery prices are still high, but I am not convinced.
What’s your take? Car conversion or brand new?
We discuss the future of hydrogen, the need for a carbon tax, and why we need the right perspectives about fossil fuel —petroleum and natural gas has many uses other than burning fossil fuels.
Our views also contradict the timing of the magic price point of $100 a KWh for battery pack—a decade or couple of years? What’s you take?
Please listen to this exciting episode on the future of our energy world
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Any of today’s challenges multiply in the Pacific countries because of the vast distances between countries. As these countries are highly dispersed, the cost of fossil fuel multiplies because of the cost of transportation and storage.
In today’s episode, Olly Norojono, Director, Energy Division, Pacific Department of the Asian Development Bank explains this region and ADB’s work in the region.
Olly highlights ADB’s focus on the future of renewable energy, off-grid solar, and energy efficiency. He explains the countries and the huge opportunities it brings for all. He explains how today’s electrification of transport is bringing the transport and energy sectors closer as the transport sector diversified from just building roads to a more comprehensive approach to infrastructure.
We discuss climate change and the use of renewable energy technology for mobility. We also talk about the need for private investors in the Pacific and ADB's guarantee fund to reduce the cost of borrowing.
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Emily Morris is the Founder & CEO of Emrgy Inc., an energy technology company that is reimagining ways to extract energy from nature’s immense reserves, which Emily calls the nature’s own battery.
She shares her entrepreneurial journey in building her startup with this innovative modular, standalone hydropower systems that can be installed in a day.
In her world, a hydropower comes with nature’s own battery, and it's a 24/7 source of supply. We can feel in this episode her energy that will accelerate the transformation of today's power sector from a boring outdated centralized system to a new agile local system.
We will hear her story about growing up in a family of entrepreneurs and her passion for growing and building new businesses. I was able to capture her inspirational words for women entrepreneurs. To find out more, please listen to today’s episode.
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Wow! So many things are happening in India’s electric vehicle market. I did not know. To find out more, please listen to this episode.
Mr. Tiwari starts painting this landscape with the current demand growth despite the lockdown. He explains all incentives for consumers and manufacturers of electric cars in India, their pricing and marketing strategies, and why it is a buyer’s market.
His confidence never swayed by the range anxiety questions as hardly anyone drives close to 100 km in a day.
He explains the extraordinary boom in the last mile of EV—about half a million each of 3-wheeler and 2-wheelers running in the market.
He discusses electric vehicle conversions he worked on a project with Hydro Tasmania, Australia in the late 90s and how today a local entrepreneur is converting gasoline cars to electric for about $4000.
We discuss growing competition among new EVs with about 15 new models, the leasing options, electric boats, swappable batteries, the 10,000 buses, and the 1400 km Delhi-Mumbai dedicated electric vehicle corridors, and much more.
Contact Mr. KC Tiwari
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Based in Netherland, Roland operates a boutique EV consultancy. Today he shares the many policy intents behind e-mobility strategies for infrastructure development all around the world.
Please join us today to find out why counties must start a staged approach to develop a new EV industry, opportunities a new EV industry will create, and why new Giga factories are essential—Central Asia definitely needs one such Giga factory.
There is no going back, EVs are going to stay and grow. Roland explains why the introduction of electric buses by city governments makes more sense right now.
He explains the Charge Point Operator or CPO, and the charge point manufacturing—a new business, which is the backbone platform managing the charging ecosystem.
We discuss concession structures and “regulation by contract” and options for charging infrastructure—we contradicted on some points, especially should charging be a regulated monopoly or a competitive business. We discussed leasing fees and residual value maintenance of EVs and more.
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Ashok Bhargava, Director, Energy Division, Central and West Asia Department of the Asian Development Bank discusses the significant changes in the mindset in the central Asian countries.
Ashok explains why the next decade belongs to the Central Asian region as the countries transition and open up the energy sector for new investments.
From a distance the countries appear part of a scattered region with the smaller population but collectively bring tremendous opportunities when they are looked as a block.
Ashok is bullish on the opportunities in this mysterious region. His advice to all “stay tuned to the region and you will find significant opportunities”, to find out more about the region and the countries in the region listen to today’s episode.
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Greg is the Elon Musk of Australia? In today’s episode we explore his passion for electric vehicles (EV) and the entire ecosystem around them. His mid-size Australian startup, with $1 million of his own money, and the readiness to expand in other countries. His company, ACE EV Group, has the technology and systems in place to Jumpstart electric vehicle manufacturing anywhere in a very short period.
In this episode, Greg openly discuses the initial set up costs and production volumes for a minimum viable product for the new EV industry. The solution of separating out the cost of battery with his “iPhone Plan” for the electric vehicles.
If you are keen on EVs and want to learn some more about Australian manufacturing and simple plug and play assembly, listen on… you will find many answers in today’s episode.
You may connect directly with Greg on:
- Websites:
- getgreen.net.au (Company Website)
- ACE-EV.com.au (Company Website)
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In this episode, Dr. Yongping Zhai, the Chief of Asian Development Bank’s Energy Sector Group, shares his insights into China’s pro-renewable energy and pro-climate change policy shift.
Today, China leads the global renewable energy revolution. Yongping explains, how the pollution level during the Beijing Olympic triggered a shift in the mindset of people, enabling them to see the clear link between use of fossil fuels and high level of PMT2.5 in the air. People understood the role coal had played in delivering economic growth but at the same time understood the need for alternative options to make economic growth sustainable.
Yongping discusses the adoption of electric vehicles and electric buses in China: he explains how in his lifetime, China shifted from a kingdom of bicycles to a car country like others. He argues with examples that a change of mindset is a pre-requisite before adopting a technology based solution.
The COVIT-19 pandemic has shown that things can change if we are willingness to change, and the pandemic will leave us with a message that our society of today has to change and we have to treat climate crisis with the same sense of urgency as we all did for the pandemic.
Yongping also explains his reasoning behind the record low solar prices in the Middle East, which may be difficult to achieve in other parts of the world.
To listen to many other insights to today’s energy challenges, please join me in this episode of Energypreneurs
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Anna Francesca Ramirez or Chesca is my guest for today. She will help you track the path of your household waste to its final resting place and this is a profitable business.
We discuss many opportunities in this path, in the case of the Philippines. Chesca explains some of the problems in today’s waste industry and wastes energy technologies and her interest to improve the current local waste management value chain and introduce electric vehicles in the waste collection fleets and the ranges and specifications that she needs.
Despite all our challenges, she’s very positive about zero waste and will convince you that it is possible.
Connect with Francesca:
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Uzbekistan's power sector is changing--the sector was recently unbundled and government achieved record low prices from its large solar power auction. I met Ms. Aziza Umarova, the CEO of SmartGov Consulting, in Tashkent Uzbekistan and had a long chat over coffee on broad range of energy sector issues. We touched upon the power sector unbundling, future of solar power, and energy efficiency: why do we unbundle our power sector? what’s the point of wholesale electricity market and energy sector regulation? and what's the future of off-grid solar power, batteries and electric vehicles? If you want to find more, please join this conversation: You may connect directly with us on: Aziza Umarova * http://smartgov.consulting/eng * Twitter @AzizaUmarova
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Solar power in India developed fast and current capacity is about 37,000 MW – a staggering 230 times growth in the last 10 years.
In this episode, Dr. Pradeep Perera Energy Head (India) / Principal Energy Specialist ADB and Jiwan Acharya, Principal Energy Specialist of the Asian Development Bank share their insight into the Indian energy sector.
We get their insight, why rooftop solar took longer to develop, and how India invested in billions of LEDs by aggregating demand and reduced prices dramatically. The expert duo also explains the Indian government’s mega plan to establish an EV and battery industry in India.
Our speakers
Dr. Pradeep Perera
Energy Head (India) / Principal Energy Specialist, Asian Development Bank
- ADB Blog site: https://www.adb.org/contact/perera-pradeep
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pradeep-perera-b526a69/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pradeep.perera.773
Jiwan Acharya,
Principal Energy Specialist, Asian Development Bank
- ADB Blog site: https://blogs.adb.org/author/jiwan-acharya
- Twitter: @JiwanAcharya15
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Dr. Yongping Zhai, the Chief of Asian Development Bank’s Energy Sector Group explains his journey from the African Development bank to Asian Development Bank just after the Asian Financial Crisis. He shares his observations on the changing priorities for the energy sector as countries have developed, and explains how his team prioritizes environmental sustainability and climate change, which is at the forefront of today’s priorities.
He discusses the trilemma—access to energy, availability, and cheap or free supply, and shares his view on the role technology might play in solving tomorrow’s challenges. He is passionate about three technologies, clean heating or clean cooking with solar, microgrid, and digital solutions, and is looking for solutions even with a $500,000 prize for the right technology. In the end, in explaining ADB’s Strategy 2030 and how it may change the energy sector, he shares his controversial view about the future of the ADB’s energy sector beyond 2025.
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Batteries are changing the world. And today our guest is battery guru from South Korea, who has been in the industry for about 20 years. Andrew discussed the 5 key suppliers that produce 90% of today’s Lithium-Ion battery and how battery prices changed over the years and continuing. We explored his views on the shortage of raw materials, the future of pricing, and second-life batteries. Although I don’t agree fully with his views about second-life batteries and the prospect of using first-generation Nissan Leaf batteries for on-grid operations, it was an exciting discussion and lot to learn from his candid views. We touched on many topics from safety issues especially concerns on fire hazards, and the importance of a good battery management system (BMS) and recycling of batteries. We found out about Andrew’s dream to become an energy service provider, by developing many high-tech services to optimize the impact of batteries on the power system, especially distribution systems. To find more about new opportunities involving batteries, understand its support chain, the duck-curve, off-grid power, and whether it is a good idea to go into battery manufacturing or not especially for countries like India. Please listen to our podcast You may connect with Andrew Kwon (權五均) on:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.o.kwon
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-ohkyun-kwon/n
- Company website: Under Construction [Energy & Environment Solutions (EES) Co.]
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Today we discuss solar power with Glenn Tong, a leading solar entrepreneur in the Philippines. I met Glenn more than 10 years back when as a young entrepreneur, his company installed the largest rooftop solar installation (570 kW) in the Southeast Asian region. Since that project in June 2012, Glenn and his team have been involved in about 30,000 small and large solar projects.
In this episode, we discussed the current status of solar in the country, how it was different before, and what it would look like in the future. Glenn does mention about his observation on people’s behavior and attitude about solar when we are all under a strict quarantine regime. How solar has become much more affordable and practical choice today side by side with the grid-supplied electricity.
The future of solar seems very bright for the Philippines. Want to find more, please listen to today’s episode and get his insights.
Please connect with Glenn Tong:
- https://www.greenheat.com.ph
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Batteries are no longer just AAA batteries for your flashlights or remote controls. Batteries are BIG today. They are even replacing and disrupting power generation. Batteries are also making electric cars possible.
Today’s Lithium-ion batteries with its long life are giving new life to solar power, and creating amazing new project possibilities. The 100-year-old technology, electric cars are also getting a new lease of life with Lithium-ion batteries. Here we talk about battery size, weight, and ranges. I will discuss more on electric vehicles in a separate series of episodes.
Photography and good camera used to be an exclusive tool for professionals but today cameras are everywhere, tomorrow it will be batteries in all our appliances.
Today, we are even talking about batteries in homes as the new whitegoods. In South Australia, the government even subsidizes 10,000 homes to install batteries. Finally, I discuss the transformative power of batteries in 3 fundamental parameter—prices, lighter, long life many more cycles.
I think the battery price will eventually hit $50 a kWh—unimaginable yesterday but soon a possibility. Just don’t be ready for tomorrow, just stay ready.
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Sun is the ultimate source of energy. Humanity has looked for energy and fossil fuels under the ground for way too long, but now the time has come that we look up. We all have the sun, and the ability to generate electricity from it, which is also getting cheaper every day. If we all use solar power, today’s energy divide—the energy-poor and the energy-rich—among countries will come to an end.
Now is the time to think big and develop ideas for large and small scale opportunities. Following today’s trend, soon solar power will bring us almost free electricity and transportation.
In this episode, we discuss leapfrogging opportunities for all of us. The opportunities for DC power and electric vehicles that run on free solar power—this will eventually allow us to move far away places and islands without concerns of access to grid power. I also discuss how the price trends for solar power and batteries.
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