In this engaging episode of the Energy Insiders Podcast, host Chris Sass joins forces with industry experts Jeff McAulay and Jess Melanson for a deep dive into the transformative role of AI in the energy sector. Jess Melanson, President and COO of Utilidata, outlines how their AI solutions are accelerating the evolution of utilities, enhancing grid operations, and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources. Jeff McAulay, from Energetic Capital, discusses the financing side of technology deployment in energy, emphasizing the critical advances in distributed generation. Together, they explore the future of energy technology, the impact of federal funding on innovation, and the security implications of AI in utility management. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how AI is reshaping the landscape of energy utilities, promising a smarter, more efficient future. 

172 - AI Transformation in the Utilities : Deepdive with Jess Melanson of Utilidata

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In this episode of the Insider's Guide to Energy EV series, hosts Chris Sass and Niall Riddell dive deep into the world of commercial fleet electrification with expert guest Lorna McAtear, Fleet Manager for National Grid in the UK. Lorna brings her extensive knowledge to the table, discussing the complexities and unique challenges associated with transitioning commercial fleets to electric vehicles (EVs). She sheds light on the various types of fleets, from company cars to heavy-duty vehicles, and how each requires distinct approaches for successful electrification. Lorna emphasizes the importance of understanding fleet utilization patterns, operational needs, and the diverse range of vehicle types involved in commercial operations.  Throughout the conversation, Lorna addresses common misconceptions and practical hurdles fleet managers face. She highlights the need for clear definitions of what constitutes a fleet and the importance of considering different fuel types, including electric, biofuels, and hydrogen, based on specific operational requirements. The discussion covers crucial topics such as the impact of range anxiety on commercial EV adoption, the evolving technology in battery and charging infrastructure, and the significance of driver and executive buy-in for a smooth transition. Lorna also shares her insights on how fleet managers can effectively plan for the future, leveraging advancements in EV technology to meet sustainability targets and operational efficiency.  As the episode progresses, Lorna provides valuable advice on managing the human aspect of fleet electrification. She explains how to engage drivers, line managers, and executives to ensure a cohesive and informed approach to adopting EVs. Her experience in working with manufacturers to design and implement suitable EV solutions for various commercial needs offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the steps involved in decarbonizing fleets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of commercial fleet management and the pivotal role of electrification in achieving net-zero emissions. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion with one of the industry's leading voices on fleet electrification.

Meet our Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-mcatear-0b3a1153/

28. Decarbonizing Commercial Fleets: Lorna McAtear on Challenges and Innovations in Fleet Electrification

In this electrifying episode of "The Insiders' Guide to Energy," we're joined by Scott Case, the visionary founder of Zetawatts, a pioneering company driving transformative change in the clean energy sector. Scott, who brings an entrepreneurial spirit from his days at Priceline.com to tackling global public health challenges, now focuses his formidable expertise on addressing one of today's most pressing issues: climate change and the urgent need to expand clean energy supplies rapidly. Zetawatts stands at the forefront of revolutionizing how electricity is procured and consumed, aiming to triple the United States' energy supply through carbon-free solutions. Scott discusses the major hurdles in achieving these ambitious goals, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to overcome systemic bottlenecks that hinder progress in clean energy deployment. The conversation dives deep into the intersection of technology and energy. Scott outlines how Zetawatts leverages software to streamline the complex market dynamics between energy project developers and corporate energy consumers. This innovative approach facilitates long-term agreements essential for financing new clean energy projects, thereby accelerating the transition to sustainable energy sources. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving landscape of environmental regulations, the pivotal role of corporate responsibility in achieving net-zero emissions, and the potential of software solutions to reduce Scope 2 emissions dramatically. Scott also sheds light on the challenges and opportunities presented by the current energy market, offering a glimpse into the future of energy procurement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the nexus of technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainable energy. Whether you're a professional in the energy sector, a technology enthusiast, or a concerned citizen, you'll find invaluable perspectives on driving meaningful change in the energy landscape. Tune in to discover how Zetawatts is powering up a cleaner, greener future.

177 - Empowering Clean Energy Futures with Scott Case, Founder of Zetawatts

Join us on a captivating episode of the "Insiders' Guide to Energy" podcast, where we dive deep into the realms of energy sustainability and management with none other than Andy Anderson, the EVP of Energy and Sustainability Solutions and Chief Sustainability Officer at Tango. Andy, an established expert in the field, brings a wealth of knowledge from his extensive career focused on driving sustainability through innovative energy solutions. This episode takes you behind the scenes at Tango, a company at the forefront of the energy management industry, known for its cutting-edge approach to integrating energy and sustainability. Discover how Tango's software solutions are transforming the way businesses manage and report energy usage to enhance their sustainability efforts, paving the way for a greener future. Andy sheds light on the pressing issues in the energy sector, particularly the challenges buildings face in reducing carbon emissions. He emphasizes the importance of measurement and management, explaining Tango's unique methodology that combines energy management with sustainability practices to tackle these challenges effectively. Get ready for an enlightening discussion on a variety of topics, including the evolving landscape of environmental regulations, the critical role of data accuracy in energy management, and the impact of new technologies like AI in streamlining sustainability practices. Andy also touches on the future of energy management, highlighting the significant shift towards operational sustainability and the increasing importance of compliance with evolving global standards. This episode is not just an interview; it's an educational journey that offers insights into the future of energy and sustainability. Whether you're a professional in the field, a student of environmental science, or simply a curious listener, there's something in this conversation for everyone. Tune in to explore how we can collectively contribute to a sustainable future through thoughtful energy management and innovative practices. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes!

176 - Shaping the Future: Andy Anderson on Sustainability and Energy Management

Check and Follow our EV Channel: https://igteev.buzzsprout.com/

 In this episode of "Insider's Guide To Energy EV", Blake Jessen dives into the critical need for open standards in the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry. Jessen emphasizes that the current landscape, often referred to as the "wild west," demands a shift towards universally accepted protocols to foster innovation and reliability. By adopting open standards, the industry can improve uptime, support best-in-class solutions, and enhance the overall driver experience, thus accelerating EV adoption across North America. Jessen's insights provide a clear roadmap for overcoming the challenges posed by proprietary systems and fragmented infrastructure.  Hosts Chris Sass and Niall Riddell join Jessen in discussing the state of EV adoption in North America compared to other regions. The conversation highlights the significant lag in EV adoption in the U.S., where the current rate is about 7% compared to California's closer-to-35% benchmark. They explore the impact of Tesla's recent struggles with demand and the broader issues related to charging infrastructure reliability. The trio delves into the complexities of building a robust charging network, from addressing outdated equipment in Europe to leveraging new technologies and best practices from around the globe.  The episode also covers the importance of grid capacity and power availability in expanding EV charging infrastructure. Jessen discusses innovative solutions, such as integrating onsite batteries and renewable energy, to manage power constraints effectively. The conversation wraps up with a forward-looking perspective on the EV market's next 12 to 24 months, predicting further consolidation and the adoption of advanced standards like OCPP 2.0.1 to support functionalities such as plug and charge. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the future of electric vehicles and the critical role of standardized, reliable charging infrastructure in driving widespread adoption.

Meet our Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-jessen-9285366a/

27. Advancing EV Adoption: The Push for Open Standards and Reliable Charging Infrastructure

Join us on this episode of Insiders Guide to Energy as we sit down with Aiden Lee, the CEO and Co-Founder of Graphjet Technology. Discover how Aiden's innovative approach is transforming the graphite industry, vital for battery technology and nanotechnology. Aiden shares his journey from conceptualizing a unique business model to listing his company on NASDAQ.

Graphjet Technology is not just a company; it's a revolution in the graphite industry. With a unique process that converts palm kernel shells—a waste product in Malaysia—into high-quality graphite, Graphjet is redefining supply chain solutions for the energy sector. Learn about their pioneering techniques that promise to make a substantial impact on the electric vehicle market.

Aiden elaborates on the challenges of sourcing materials for battery technology and how Graphjet is navigating these hurdles. From supply chain logistics to innovative recycling methods, find out how Graphjet is striving to create a more sustainable and efficient production process.

We also cover a range of fascinating topics, including the technical process of transforming palm kernel shells into graphite, the environmental impact compared to traditional mining, and Graphjet's strategic expansion plans in North America. Aiden also touches on the future of the graphite market and Graphjet's role in supporting sustainable practices within the industry.

This conversation is more than just a discussion on graphite production; it's about the vision and strategy behind one of the most promising innovations in the energy sector today. Whether you're an industry professional, an investor, or simply curious about the future of energy and technology, this episode provides valuable insights into a critical component of our clean energy future.

172 - AI Transformation in the Utilities : Deepdive with Jess Melanson of Utilidata

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