Show Notes: Episode 7 - Navigating Global Energy Shifts 

Host: Lukas Schirren, MSc student, Sustainable Energy Futures, Imperial College London 

Guest: Dr. Yousef Alshammari, CEO of CMarkits, Energy Strategist 

In this episode, Lukas Schirren speaks with Dr. Yousef Alshammari about the global shifts affecting energy markets, from COVID-19’s impact to geopolitical changes. They delve into the interplay between fossil fuels and renewables and discuss how to navigate these complexities toward a sustainable future. 

Dr. Alshammari shares insights from his career as an award-winning energy analyst and offers guidance on addressing the challenges facing the energy sector today. 

Chapters: 

• 00:00:00 – Introduction & Episode Overview 
• 00:00:30 – Guest Introduction: Dr. Yousef Alshammari 
• 00:01:14 – Background and Journey in the Energy Sector 
• 00:02:27 – Founding CMarkits and Key Industry Insights 
• 00:04:06 – Influence of PhD on Career and Perspective Shift on Energy 
• 00:06:17 – Expanding Beyond Oil: Renewables and EVs 
• 00:09:07 – Working with OPEC and UNECE for Decarbonisation 
• 00:11:23 – OPEC’s Role in the Global Energy Transition 
• 00:13:19 – Geopolitical Influence on Oil and Gas 
• 00:19:02 – The Gas Crisis and Its Impact on Energy Markets 
• 00:22:27 – Renewable Systems and Limitations 
• 00:27:11 – The Importance of Natural Gas as a Transition Fuel 
• 00:30:23 – Challenges in Achieving 100% Renewable Energy 
• 00:33:32 – AI and Digitalisation in Energy Systems 
• 00:36:18 – COVID-19 and Its Lasting Effects on Energy Markets 
• 00:40:22 – Oil Price Volatility Post-COVID and Geopolitical Events 
• 00:46:55 – COP28, COP29, and Future Technologies 
• 00:52:20 – Sustainability, Energy Security, and Climate Justice 
• 00:54:08 – Closing Remarks & How to Connect with Dr. Alshammari 

Additional Links: 

• Additional Links: 
• CMarkits: https://www.cmarkits.com/ 
• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): https://www.iaea.org/ 
• United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE): https://unece.org/ 
• University of Vienna: https://www.univie.ac.at/ 
• OPEC: https://www.opec.org/ 
• International Energy Agency (IEA): https://www.iea.org/ 
• Energy Institute: https://www.energyinst.org/ 
• Sustainable Energy Futures Programme - Imperial College London: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/sustainable-energy-futures/ 

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In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, host Jonny Prest, Communications Manager at Energy Futures Lab, engages in a conversation with Juliette Sanders, Chief Communications Officer at Energy UK. Juliette shares her insights into the UK’s energy sector, her role in shaping industry communication, and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion through the TIDE initiative. With a background in engineering and experience across several international energy companies, Juliette brings a unique perspective on decarbonising the UK and the importance of engaging the public creatively. 

Tune in to learn about the power of communication in driving the energy transition, how diversity initiatives are reshaping the industry, and Juliette’s creative alter ego, Killah Jules, who uses music and art to connect with broader audiences about energy. 

Chapters: 

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, host Jonny Prest, Communications Manager at Energy Futures Lab, engages in a conversation with Juliette Sanders, Chief Communications Officer at Energy UK. Juliette shares her insights into the UK’s energy sector, her role in shaping industry communication, and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion through the TIDE initiative. With a background in engineering and experience across several international energy companies, Juliette brings a unique perspective on decarbonising the UK and the importance of engaging the public creatively.

Tune in to learn about the power of communication in driving the energy transition, how diversity initiatives are reshaping the industry, and Juliette’s creative alter ego, Killah Jules, who uses music and art to connect with broader audiences about energy.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Introduction & Podcast Overview

00:00:30 - Guest Introduction: Juliette Sanders

00:01:07 - Recent Developments in the UK Energy Sector

00:01:54 - Challenges Facing a Net-Zero Future

00:02:27 - Key Infrastructure and Policy Needs

00:03:57 - The Role of Private Sector Investment

00:05:10 - The Importance of Public Engagement

00:06:02 - Energy UK Overview

00:09:02 - Strategic Focus for the Next Five Years

00:10:25 - Economic Cost of Inaction on Net-Zero

00:11:47 - Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Energy

00:15:04 - Career Opportunities Across the Energy Sector

00:19:23 - Supporting Diversity with the Tide Initiative

00:22:07 - Public Engagement: Introducing Killah Jules

00:25:06 - Music and Creative Engagement in Energy

00:28:08 - Engaging Youth in the Energy Sector

00:31:48 - Conclusion and Resources 

Additional Links: 

Energy UK

https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/

  Killah Jules Website 

https://www.killahjules.com/ 

Young Energy Professionals Programme 

https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/careers/young-energy-professionals/ 

Mission Possible Report 

https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/insights/govt-priorities/ 

Energy Networks Association 

https://www.energynetworks.org/ 

Energy Institute 

https://www.energyinst.org/ 

Destination Nuclear 

https://www.destinationnuclear.com/ 

TIDE 

https://www.energyedihub.uk/ 

Energy and Utility Skills 

https://www.euskills.co.uk/ 

Equal Group 

https://www.theequalgroup.com/ 

Stay Connected  

Energy Futures Podcast YouTube Channel: Watch more episodes of the Energy Futures Podcast.  

Spotify: Listen to more episodes of the Energy Futures Podcast.  

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In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, host Dr. Nadine Moustafa, Research Associate in the Chemical Engineering Department and the Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London, leads a conversation with Dr. Pete Bryant, Director of ESG and Radiation Strategy at Sizewell C. With over 15 years of experience in the nuclear power and contaminated land sectors, Pete discusses his work on environmental sustainability, governance, and radiation protection at Sizewell C. 

Tune in to explore the future of nuclear energy, ESG strategies, and the vital role of policy and regulation in shaping the nuclear sector. 

Chapters 

0:02:44 - Overcoming Challenges with New Technologies

0:04:42 - Achieving Net Zero: The Road Ahead

0:06:53 - Why Energy Innovation Matters More Than Ever

0:09:07 - Tweaking the System for a Sustainable Future

0:11:45 - The Power of Nuclear: What Makes It Unique

0:14:03 - Lessons from Energy Pioneers: What’s Next?

0:16:09 - Electricity Bills and the Path to Affordability

0:18:15 - Impartiality in the Energy Debate: Fact or Fiction?

0:20:27 - Britain’s Bold Vision for a Clean Energy Future

0:22:39 - The Hidden Challenges in Energy Transitions

0:25:07 - Why Nuclear Welding is a Critical Skill for Net Zero

0:27:15 - How We’re Building a More Resilient Supply Chain

0:29:32 - Redundancy in Energy Systems: Preparing for Failures

0:31:57 - The Complexities of Building Large-Scale Energy Projects

0:34:13 - Solving Big Energy Questions: A Fresh Approach

0:36:44 - Collaboration vs. Isolation: What Works Best?

0:39:03 - From Finance to Energy: A Personal Journey

0:41:00 - The Unexpected Challenges of Leading in Energy

0:43:19 - Going In-House: A Career Shift with Purpose

Additional Links 

• Pete Bryant on LinkedIn 
• Sizewell C Project: Discover more about Sizewell C’s role in the UK’s nuclear energy future. 
• Society for Radiological Protection: Learn about Pete Bryant’s former role as President and the organisation’s work in radiation protection. 
• University of Liverpool: Discover Pete’s academic contributionsto radiation protection science. 
• Society for Radiological Protection: Explore Pete Bryant’s former role as President and the organisation’s initiatives in radiation protection and safety standards. 
• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): Stay updated on global efforts led by the IAEA in promoting safe, secure, and peaceful uses of nuclear technology. 

Stay Connected 

• Energy Futures Podcast YouTube Channel: Watch more episodes of the Energy Futures Podcast. 
• Spotify: Listen to more episodes of the Energy Futures Podcast. 
• Apple Podcasts: Subscribe to the Energy Futures Podcast. 

Episode 4: Navigating Ireland’s Energy Transition with Caitríona Sheridan 

In this episode, host Jonny Prest is joined by Caitríona Sheridan, Senior Engineer at Bord na Móna and an alumna of Imperial College London. Caitríona shares her journey through the energy sector, offering insights into Ireland’s renewable energy goals and her work at the forefront of the country’s transition to clean energy. They discuss Bord na Móna’s innovative projects, including flexible technology initiatives and the co-location of large energy users with renewable power generation, driving sustainability and efficiency. 

If you’re curious about Ireland’s renewable energy landscape or how industries are innovating for a sustainable future, this episode is a must-listen! 

Key chapters 

Guest Introduction: Caitríona Sheridan [00:00:30]  

Caitríona Sheridan, Senior Engineer at Bord na Móna, discusses her role and Ireland's renewable energy goals.  

Caitríona’s career path [00:01:03]  

Caitríona shares how her passion for sustainability evolved during her academic journey and the influence of her engineering background.  

The importance of power systems [00:04:03]  

Caitríona discusses the critical role of power systems in decarbonisation and the transition to renewable energy.  

Ireland's ambitious renewable energy goals [00:07:17]  

Ireland aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, and Caitríona explores the challenges and opportunities.  

Bord na Móna's role in renewable energy [00:12:26]  

Caitríona explains Bord na Móna's transition from peat harvesting to becoming a climate solutions business and its renewable energy projects.  

Offshore wind as a key opportunity [00:09:08]  

Offshore wind presents Ireland's biggest opportunity for renewable energy development, with a potential of 37GW.  

Eco Energy Parks and co-location [00:17:17]  

Caitríona introduces Bord na Móna's eco energy parks, which co-locate renewable energy infrastructure with data centers to optimise resources.  

Energy storage innovations [00:19:35]  

Caitríona dives into exciting developments in energy storage, including lithium-ion projects and the future of long-duration storage.  

Collaboration between industry and academia [00:22:00]  

Caitríona highlights the importance of collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers for advancing renewable energy.  

Advice for students pursuing industry connections [00:23:48]  

Caitríona offers practical advice for students looking to connect with industry and develop research applicable to real-world challenges.  

Ireland as Europe's energy lab [00:25:18]  

Ireland's unique position as a leader in wind energy and its role as the "Lab of Europe" for renewable energy integration.  

Engaging communities in renewable energy projects [00:29:11]  

Bord na Móna's community engagement strategies, including benefit schemes and scholarships, to involve local communities in energy projects.  

Decarbonisation and a just transition [00:32:10]  

Caitríona emphasises the urgency of decarbonising the energy sector and ensuring a just transition for all stakeholders.  

Closing remarks and future vision [00:33:53]  

Caitríona shares her vision for the future of energy, focusing on rapid decarbonization, electrification, and smarter energy use. 

Key Topics Covered 

• Caitríona Sheridan’s Career Journey: From research roles to flexible technology projects at Bord na Móna. 
• Ireland’s Renewable Energy Goals: How Ireland is making strides in becoming a global leader in clean energy. 
• Flexible Technology for Renewable Energy: The role of innovative technologies in integrating more green electrons into the grid. 
• Co-locating Large Energy Users with Renewable Energy: Reducing carbon footprints and optimizing efficiency. 
• Innovation at Bord na Móna: Projects and strategies driving sustainability in Ireland. 
• Challenges in Ireland’s Energy Transition: Overcoming grid constraints and regulatory hurdles. 

Additional Links 

• Caitríona Sheridan LinkedIn 
• Bord na Móna: Learn more about Ireland’s leading renewable energy supplier 

Stay Connected 

• Follow Bord na Móna on LinkedIn 
• Energy Futures Podcast YouTube Channel: Watch more episodes 
• Spotify: Listen to more episodes 
• Apple Podcasts: Energy Futures Podcast 

In this episode, host Dr. Aidan Rhodes is joined by Dr. Nadine Moustafa, a Research Associate at Imperial College London’s Chemical Engineering Department and the Centre for Environmental Policy. Nadine specializes in systems modelling for carbon management, decarbonisation technologies, and developing net-zero strategies. She also serves as Program and Policy Officer at the Coalition for Negative Emissions, advancing policies around negative emissions technologies. 

Together, they discuss the role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in the global energy transition, its critical role in helping industries achieve zero carbon goals, and research breakthroughs driving CCS innovation. 

If you're looking for a comprehensive and accessible guide to understanding CCS and its future impact, this episode is a must-listen! 

00:00 Introduction and Overview   

00:31 What is Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)?   

01:06 Simplified Explanation of CCS   

03:00 Role of CCS in the Energy Transition   

05:15 Achieving Zero Carbon with CCS   

08:45 How CO2 is Captured in the CCS Process   

12:00 Transporting CO2: The Transport Phase   

15:30 CO2 Storage: Geological Formations   

18:20 Aqueous-Amine Solvents and CCS Efficiency   

21:50 The Future and Challenges for CCS   

Topics Covered: 

1. Introduction to CCS 

• What is CCS? 
• Nadine breaks down the fundamentals of carbon capture and storage (CCS) and explains why it's a crucial technology for reducing carbon emissions. 
• Simplifying CCS 

A clear and simple explanation of the CCS process for those who may be unfamiliar with the technology. 

1. The Role of CCS in the Energy Transition and Zero Carbon Goals 

• CCS in the Energy Transition 

How CCS technology integrates into the broader global energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. 

• Achieving Zero Carbon 

The critical role CCS plays in helping industries and countries achieve ambitious zero carbon targets. 

1. Deep Dive into the CCS Process 

• Capture Phase 

Nadine outlines how CO2 is captured from industrial processes and power generation facilities. 

• Transport Phase 

An overview of the methods used to transport captured CO2 to storage sites. 

• Storage Phase 

A detailed look at how CO2 is stored underground and the types of geological formations suitable for long-term storage. 

1. Research and Innovation 

• Aqueous-Amine Solvents 

Nadine discusses her research on aqueous-amine solvents and their significance in enhancing the carbon capture process. 

• Impact of Research 

How advancements in solvent technology can improve CCS efficiency and reduce costs. 

1. Future Outlook and Challenges for CCS 

• Challenges to Adoption 

The biggest obstacles facing the widespread adoption of CCS technology. 

• Future Advancements 

Nadine shares insights into the promising advancements expected in the CCS field over the next few years. 

Additional Links  

• Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Overview: 
• Learn more about the basics of CCS from Imperial College London's resources: Imperial College CCS Research 
• Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs): 
• Discover more about negative emissions technologies (NETs) and their role in carbon removal: Coalition for Negative Emissions 
• Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London: 
• Explore the work at the Centre for Environmental Policy where Nadine contributes to research: Centre for Environmental PolicyCarbon Accounting and Policy: 
• Understand carbon accounting and its significance in reaching net-zero targets: The Carbon Trust 
• Nuclear Power and Carbon Capture Integration: 
• Learn about how nuclear energy integrates with carbon capture technology to support decarbonization: World Nuclear Association - CCS 
• Transporting CO2 for Storage: 
• Learn more about the process of transporting CO2 and the methods used in the CCS supply chain: Global CCS Institute - CO2 Transport 
• Aqueous-Amine Solvents Research: 
• Find out about the role of aqueous-amine solvents in improving carbon capture efficiency: Amines and Carbon Capture - Imperial College Research 

Learn more about Nadine's work: 

• Imperial College London:  
• Coalition for Negative Emissions: Paper 

Listen to more episodes: 

• YouTube: Energy Futures Podcast YouTube Channel 
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Stay tuned for the next episode of the Energy Futures Podcast! Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Amazon to stay up-to-date with the latest insights in clean energy and sustainability. 

In this episode, Jonny Prest speaks with Dr. Sam Cooper, a leading figure in the intersection of artificial intelligence and materials science. Dr. Cooper is at the forefront of applying machine learning to address challenges in material design, particularly in the development of sustainable battery technologies. He leads the Tools for Learning, Design, and Research (TLDR) group and is a co-founder of Polaron, a spinout from Imperial College London that is transforming material design through generative AI. 

Key Topics Discussed: 

Introduction and Guest Introductions 

00:00:00 - 00:02:30 

The Role of AI in Sustainable Design 

00:02:30 - 00:06:45 

Importance of Collaboration Between Industry and Academia 

00:06:45 - 00:11:10 

Challenges in Scaling AI for Industry Use 

00:11:10 - 00:14:30 

How AI Can Help Decarbonize Manufacturing 

00:14:30 - 00:18:55 

Overcoming Barriers to AI Adoption in Key Sectors 

00:18:55 - 00:22:20 

The Future of AI in Reducing Carbon Footprints 

00:22:20 - 00:25:45 

Public Perception of AI and Climate Solutions 

00:25:45 - 00:28:50 

How Polaron’s Technology Works in Practice 

00:28:50 - 00:31:30 

Personal Responsibility vs. Systemic Change in Climate Action 

00:31:30 - 00:35:20 

The Impact of UK Policy on Renewable Energy (Onshore Wind and North Sea Oil) 

00:35:20 - 00:38:45 

Government Investment in Clean Energy and Economic Benefits 

00:38:45 - 00:41:38 

Polaron’s Future Goals: Pilot Studies and Scaling Up 

00:41:38 - 00:42:34 

Advice for Those Interested in Polaron and AI in Sustainability 

00:42:34 - 00:43:19 

Final Thoughts and Optimism for the Future of Sustainable Innovation 

00:43:19 - End 

Dr. Sam Cooper, Reader in AI for Materials Design at the Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London 

Sam Cooper Links 

• Polaron’s Website 
• Imperial College London 
• Imperial College News on Polaron 
• Dr. Sam Cooper on X 
• TLDR Group on X 
• Dr. Sam Cooper on LinkedIn 
• Samuel Cooper - Imperial College London Faculty Page 

Additional Links: 

William MacAskill - Author of "Doing Good Better - William MacAskill on Effective Altruism. The Centre for Effective Altruism - The Centre for Effective Altruism 

Referenced at 00:34:10:03 – 00:34:34:01 

Tesla Master Plans - Tesla Master Plans 

Referenced at 00:37:01:05 – 00:37:24:10 

Breathe Battery - Breathe Battery Overview 

Referenced at 00:37:24:10 – 00:37:51:23 

Britishvolt – Article: The Guardian - Britishvolt Article 

Referenced at 00:39:01:17 – 00:39:34:18 

Watch, Listen & Subscribe:

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In this debut episode, we explore the UK's energy future with two of Imperial College London’s leading researchers. Our discussion covers the ambitious government targets for grid decarbonisation and whether the incoming government will meet their 2030 goal for a zero-carbon grid five years ahead of the current 2035 target. 

Guests: 

Dr. Aidan Rhodes 

Research Fellow at Imperial College London and Energy Policy Briefing Papers Fellow at Energy Futures Lab. Aidan’s work focuses on energy policy, including digitalisation, smart energy, and national energy innovation systems. He’s currently preparing accessible briefing papers for policymakers and stakeholders in the energy sector. 

Links 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidan-rhodes-06b16030/ 

https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/aidan.rhodes 

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/energy-futures-lab/reports/ 

Dr. Nadine Moustafa 

Research Associate in the Chemical Engineering Department and the Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London Nadine specialises in systems modelling for carbon management and decarbonisation technologies, focusing on net-zero strategies, carbon accounting and policy. She is also a Program and Policy Officer at the Coalition for Negative Emissions, advancing negative emission technologies and related policies. 

Links 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-moustafa-ph-d-5831a1a7/ 

https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/n.moustafa18 

Host: 

Jonny Prest, Communications Manager at Energy Futures Lab, Imperial College London. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnyprest/ 

Key topics touched on: 

• Current UK energy mix: 
• Are we on track for 2050?  
• 2035 vs. 2030 grid targets:  
• Electrification of homes:  
• Nuclear energy and green jobs: 

Related Links: 

For more in-depth information and data, explore and download our comprehensive Energy Futures white papers and briefing papers, offering expert insights to further your understanding of the clean energy transition. 

• The Future of Nuclear Power in the UK: Challenges and Opportunities 
• Delivering Our Future Power System 
• Accelerating the transition to heat pumps 
• Sustainable aviation fuels

Energy Futures Lab, Imperial College London 

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/energy-futures-lab/ 

Committee on Climate change 

2024 Forecasting- https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/progress-in-reducing-emissions-2024-report-to-parliament/ 

https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Progress-in-reducing-emissions-2024-Report-to-Parliament-Web.pdf 

Coalition for Negative Emissions 

https://coalitionfornegativeemissions.org/ 

 UK Government 2050 Net Zero Target 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/net-zero-strategy 

Green Energy Bill 

https://energyfutureslab.blog/2024/07/31/government-announces-a-60bn-investment-in-the-great-british-energy-bill/ 

National Grid live data feed 

https://www.nationalgrid.co.uk/our-network/live-data-feed-application-map 

Closing of UK’s last coal plant 

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2024/apr/21/end-times-for-the-uks-final-coal-fired-power-station 

Watch, Listen & Subscribe: 

YouTube: Energy Futures Podcast  

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcULpNJrbYiH1raQ59JecFw 

Stay Connected: 

Follow Energy Futures Lab: 

Twitter: @EnergyFuturesIC 

LinkedIn: Energy Futures Lab on LinkedIn 

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