The IJGlobal Podcast

Infrafintech – Infrastructure finance reimagined is an innovative financial journalism podcast. It's a serial podcast, meaning each episode builds from the last.Most podcasts about infrastructure finance and finance, in general, are episodic. Podcasters interview a personality or a panel covers a topic for a given episode. They have a conversation and the audience is like a fly on the wall, gaining insights into how those ideas and trends might apply to their own work.So why is IJGlobal covering infrafintech? Our primary focus is covering infrastructure finance at the project level, perhaps uncovering the debt pricing on an 18-year non-recourse loan for a Taiwan offshore wind farm. Or maybe disclosing the short-listed bidders on an M&A transaction concerning the equity interest of a road project company in India.This first podcast season doesn't share any project-level details nor does it offer particular insights for sector specialists. Rather, it tells a story about an industry-wide issue – the nexus between infrastructure, finance, and technology.The word infrafintech, which we coined in a feature in 2021, only appears on the IJGlobal website 4 times. Out of nearly 150,000 news articles and features, infrafintech really doesn't appear on anyone's radar.Talking about the why not to cover infrafintech reveals exactly why we should cover it on our first podcast season ... because it's not on anyone's radar.Even well-known business analytics platforms and global fintech databases don't categorise infrafintech within the fintech industry. The market is undoubtedly small. But that's today. What about tomorrow? ... What about developing a future worth creating?Infrafintech – Infrastructure finance reimagined puts a stark question to the infrastructure finance industry ... Why are we practically the last area of financial services to adopt fintech solutions? Fintech has significantly enabled and disrupted nearly all aspects of financial services. Yet to date infrastructure finance is the black sheep in the fintech family.Infrafintech may have its greatest impact in developing markets including those in Asia Pacific, where the need to increase technology investment, lower impact costs, and enhance policy measures is abundantly clear.This first season targets three audiences – daily users of infrafintech, infrafintech solution providers, and financial backers of infrafintech, whether in the venture capital or corporate venture communities. This triumvirate represents the demand, supply, and financing of the inchoate infrafintech industry. Episode 1 – The almost right word – focuses on unpacking infrastructure as an asset class and the contours of infrastructure finance. It is critical that our three audiences share a common foundation of understanding. The venture capital industry, in particular, has tended not to have infrastructure finance in its opportunity set.  That's why we examine what infrastructure is and how the private sector has taken an increasingly expansive view of the asset class. Entrepreneurs and financiers of infrafintech solutions will need to pick and choose where along the financial value chain to concentrate. Therefore, we also explore infrastructure finance and ways founders can bucket their infrafintech solutions.It's easy to lose sight of what is at stake in the financing of large, complex infrastructure assets. We can become disconnected from the human element. In their pitches, founders of infrafintech solutions need to weave in what is at stake – the human element – to capture the imagination of the venture capital and corporate venture communities.In episode 2, we delve into the challenges facing infrastructure finance to lay the groundwork for what infrafintech startups may pr

In the first of a series of IJGlobal Infra Dig podcasts, nuclear power luminary Dr Tim Stone CBE sets the stall for a massive wave of investments in the UK and internationally as the tide of opinion turns in favour of base-load solutions.Tim – who was appointed chair of the UK's Nuclear Industry Association in October 2018 and has been chair of the Nuclear Risk Insurers for more than 6 years – is an internationally-renowned champion of nuclear energy as a primary solution to a low-carbon future and a well-known figure in the infrastructure finance community.In this podcast, hosted by IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville, Tim delves into the UK nuclear industry, identifying a massive requirement to build new capacity in the coming years before spotting trends across the international scene, comparing it with large-scale alternatives like offshore wind and the burgeoning hydrogen market.

Dr Tim Stone CBE joins IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville in the second in a series of 3 podcasts where he delves into the future of nuclear investment, primarily in the UK but also with an international focus.Tim – who was appointed chair of the UK's Nuclear Industry Association in October 2018 and has been chair of the Nuclear Risk Insurers for more than 6 years – is an internationally-renowned champion of nuclear energy as a primary solution to a low-carbon future and a well-known figure in the infrastructure finance community.In this podcast, Tim focuses on how the UK will finance a massive investment programme in the nuclear space which is poised – not without its issues – to deliver billions of pounds worth of investment over the coming years.

Ian Dixon – an infrastructure and energy specialist of more than 30 years' standing – joins IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville on the Infra Dig podcast series to discuss all matters energy, and the global shift to renewables.Ian retired recently and is a well-known figure in the infrastructure financing community having worked in banking, at a monoline insurer, as an investment banker, as well as having had a stint at a credit rater.This latest podcast continues the theme of energy investment, delving into international renewable energy agendas, the ambition to hit Net Zero and whether it's realistic to anticipate a world in the foreseeable future where all energy is derived from alternative sources.

For the final podcast in a series of 3, Dr Tim Stone CBE joins IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville to investigate the impact of the Ukraine invasion and energy security issues, before launching into the planned discussion on base-load technologies.There are few people in the market with as all-encompassing a view on nuclear and the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, given Tim's role as chair of the Nuclear Risk Insurers. He is also chair of the UK's Nuclear Industry Association.In the podcast Tim says that: “The 4 nuclear sites that provide 50% of Ukraine's power are still operating and they are currently… operating safely and sensibly.”The invasion of Ukraine, Tim says, has added another “bolt of lightning” to the question over energy security which now centres on the “Russian hegemony of gas and oil” which “cannot continue”.Tim says: “It has rattled cages all around the world in terms of thinking about energy security and sovereignty of energy and it has added more fire to the conversation over what should a sensible energy system in a country look like.”The conversation moves on to the deployment of Advanced Modular Reactors (AMR), role that is to be played by hydrogen and – the holy grail for nuclear – fusion.

IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville pulls up a distant chair for a fireside chat with Sydney-based Global Infrastructure Hub chief executive Marie Lam-Frendo.In this latest Infra Dig podcast where we interview infrastructure and energy specialists from around the globe, the spotlight turns on the Australia-headquartered GI Hub to learn more about its plans to increase private sector involvement in the delivery of infra investments in lower-to-middle income markets.The G20-backed organisation is a not-for-profit organisation – formed by the G20 and majority financed by it – that “advances the delivery of sustainable, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure”.In this 30-minute podcast, Marie talks listeners through the Hub's strategy and involvement in markets – as diverse as Indonesia, Mexico and Saudi Arabia – as it rolls out its mission to support transformative investment where it is needed most.

Discussion centres on risk – and indeed insurance – in this latest Infra Dig podcast as Warren Beardall pulls up a chair to the IJGlobal fireside to share views on a subject close to his heart.Staying true to the Infra Dig mission to host podcasts with infrastructure and energy experts, this one sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville share airspace with a PPP insurance specialist of considerable renown.Warren's career started in the mid-90s and he has been active in PPP insurance since the turn of the millennium at JLT and then Aon, until leaving in 2018 when he returned to studies and re-branded as a consultant.Today's discussion ranges from the fundamental product of insurance and the role it plays in the procurement of PPP projects through to projects that go wrong – Edinburgh Sick Kids and Cornwall Schools, being 2 examples – and what we can learn from these projects.

Chris Colbert – Portland, Oregon-based chief strategy officer and CFO at NuScale Power – joins IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville for today's podcast to talk about nuclear energy.The latest in the Infra Dig podcast series, sees discussion centre on small modular reactors – SMRs – a subject that NuScale Power is more than qualified to discuss given it will have its first unit operational before the end of this decade… and if you want one sooner, Chris reckons he could line you up with one before then!As things stand, the first NuScale SMR power plant will be in Idaho Falls as a front-runner for the Carbon Free Power Project (CFPP), an initiative spearheaded by the public power consortium Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS). The NuScale Power Module will start generating power in Utah in 2029, with the remaining modules coming online for full plant operation by 2030.This is an exciting company at the forefront of a revolution in baseload, low-carbon energy generation and Chris has a lot to say on the matter…

This week's Infra Dig podcast sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville welcome back regular guest Dr Tim Stone CBE to talk about last week's announcement by the UK government that nuclear is receiving a shot in the arm.Before delving into the UK's ambition to deliver 24GW of new nuclear energy by 2050, Tim gives a brief update on the 4 Ukrainian nuclear power plants and then it's all about British nuclear and cross-party support to deliver an ambitious programme.Tim – who currently serves as chair of both the Nuclear Risk Insurers and the UK's Nuclear Industry Association – talks candidly about the challenges being faced and the massive investment programme that finally looks to have the support that will catapult it off the drawing board.

Interconnectors are shooting up the news agenda as markets increasingly seek to achieve energy security and today's Infra Dig podcast turns the focus on a sector where understanding needs to ramp up significantly.In a new style of podcast – presented by IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville – the mission is to explain “how it works”… and to that end we introduce Niklas Persson, managing director of the Hitachi Energy unit grid integration business, who has deep history in the interconnector space.This style of podcast – explaining how things work before looking at the wider market – is driven by an established belief that many people who lend to projects or acquire assets often have paper-thin understanding of how the underlying asset actually works.To this end, Niklas runs through his sector, explaining what interconnectors are and how they work, before moving on to HVDC and the key role it plays in transmitting energy over long distances. Conversation then moves on to the wider market, briefly discussing some projects that Hitachi Energy is delivering.

The Infra Dig podcast this week sees Gridserve chief executive Toddington Harper tell all about electric vehicle charging, his company plans while also giving his views on the wider market.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down to chew the electrons with Toddington who runs the UK's most innovative EV charging company which has already established its Electric Forecourts in Braintree (Essex) and Norwich (Norfolk).In a longer-than-normal (about 45 minutes) podcast, Toddington speaks frankly about his own plans for the UK and partnering in other markets and gives a thorough run-through of a fascinating infrastructure sub sector.

This week's Infra Dig podcast sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down with Fiona Reilly, managing director of FiRe Energy, to discuss all things energy.Fiona is an established player in the energy sector and has a CV that includes a long spell as Norton Rose Fulbright head of nuclear services, followed by serving as PwC global lead for nuclear capital projects and infrastructure. More recently, she set up her own company – FiRe Energy Ltd – and works a heck of a lot with the UK government… among many other things.In this podcast, Fiona shares her wisdom on the UK nuclear scene as well as delving into £16 billion Xlinks project between Morocco and the UK.

The latest in the Infra Dig podcast series sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville discuss the intricacies of Project Finance with Agnes Mazurek who has a wealth of experience of lending to and advising on infrastructure and energy transactions around the globe.In a longer than normal podcast – at around 45 minutes – Agnes delves into the finance model to give a masterclass on how project finance transactions are put together.This podcast sees Infra Dig return to one of its stated missions: to explain how things in the Infrastructure and Energy world actually work, interviewing established professionals who can explain… without leaning too heavily on jargon to allow for the proliferation of understanding of this growing asset class.Far-ranging discussion runs through the procurement process, bidding, creation of Special Purpose Vehicles, the role of equity on project finance deals, and arranging debt, leading on to operations.

The latest Infra Dig podcast seen the focus turn on Xlinks – a fascinating renewable energy development in Morocco that will transmit electricity through an HVDC link to the UK.Simon Morrish, founder and chief executive of Xlinks, talks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville about his company's plans for a truly ambitious project that reaches a landmark stage this month.He runs the through Xlink's strategy for solar plants and wind farms in southern Morocco (with associated battery energy storage systems) before discussing XLCC – the company that will be creating the 15,200km of HVDC cable in the UK. And then there is the cable-laying ship which will be fuelled by hydrogen to maintain green credentials throughout and will be the biggest such vessel in the world.Then discussion moves on to plans to project finance the £18 billion transaction… and so much more.

Dublin Metro North – which has been wheeled out again under a new guise, Metrolink – is back in the news as the government pushes for the €3 billion mass-transit PPP to be delivered as a priority project.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Mike Flynn of Michael Flynn Associates about Ireland's ambitions to – finally – deliver the metro system it has long aspired to.Mike, who has been described as an “itinerant builder of railways” and led one of the teams on the first procurement process, speaks openly about the challenging project, his experience in the last process and its return at Metrolink.He swiftly refutes claims that it is a “monumental stinker of a project” defending the Metrolink as an essential piece of infrastructure that Dublin sorely needs… which is confirmed by its having made it back to the table.This week's podcast focuses primarily on Dublin's mass-transit solution, but also takes a broader look at light rail projects, with Mike giving an expert view having worked on projects across Continental Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, Australia, as well as North and South America.Mike has also been involved in almost all of the UK's tramways and metros in some way shape or form over the years… and he even went through the baptism of fire that was Edinburgh Tram.

This latest podcast turns the focus on battery energy storage systems (BESS) and microgrids as Infra Dig continues its mission to foster greater understanding of the infrastructure and energy asset class.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville is joined by Maxine Ghavi, senior vice president and head of the grid edge solutions business at Hitachi Energy, who has some 30 years' experience in the sector.Maxine has held a number of senior roles around Hitachi Energy – and ABB prior to that – and her specialist knowledge spans the breath of the power industry… including grid edge technologies, microgrids, storage, renewable energy in general, software and semiconductors.This podcast falls into the category of How It Works and is designed to increase understanding across the industry as she delves into just what “grid edge” means and how that sits alongside battery storage and microgrids.

If there's a UK transport project from yesteryear that continues to set teeth on edge, it has to be Edinburgh Tram. The only solace IJGlobal readers take from it is… that it wasn't a PPP.In this week's Infra Dig podcast, IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to return guest Mike Flynn of Michael Flynn Associates about this disastrous, directly-procured light rail project.Mike – known widely as an itinerant builder of railways – delves into his knowledge of the Scottish capital's plans to build a tram system and looks at what went wrong.Some 45 minutes later and there's a lot more to say… and Mike never even touched on the inquiry that has been running since 2008, racking up a cost (so far) of £12.5 million, with no end in sight.To put that into context, the Iraq Inquiry was announced in 2009 and published in 2016.This podcast gives a railway-builder's view of a disaster project that brought the centre of Edinburgh to a grinding halt for years, set the public side to war with the private, but now provides a valued mass transit solution… with plans afoot for an extension.

IJGlobal is fascinated by all forms of financing in the renewable energy space and today's podcast reflects this as it delves into an area that falls outside our editorial radar… but is really very interesting.Angus Leslie Melville – editorial director of IJGlobal (Infrastructure Journal) – sits down for a fireside chat with Carlos Vitoria, investment manager and early investor at Spanish crowdfunding platform Fundeen, to hear all about this European endeavour.In a far-ranging discussion, Carlos runs through the service Fundeen is providing and how it is giving people the opportunity to invest in renewable energy while also taking on projects that may otherwise struggle to attract equity and debt.Carlos talks at length about a development that he believes to be the smallest project finance transaction of all time as Fundeen leads the field with an innovative solution for developers and investors that brings Net Zero one (albeit small) step closer to being achieved.

As submissions pour in for IJGlobal ESG Awards 2022, Infra Dig turns its focus on a winner from last year's inaugural event when we celebrated organisations, transactions and individuals that truly turned the dial on the environmental, social and governance front in infrastructure and energy.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks to Nicholas Beatty, founding director of Zenobē Energy Limited, about their success as winner of the ESG Infrastructure Deal of the Year 2021.Zenobē Energy won the award for Project Blaise – a landmark £150 million equity raise from Infracapital to accelerate investment into battery storage and bus fleet electrification in the UK and international markets where it operates.Conversation evolves beyond rank self promotion for the IJGlobal ESG Awards and turns to how Zenobē is evolving its business as it builds a presence – beyond its home market of the UK – in Benelux, Australia and New Zealand.

ESG and technology in infrastructure and energy are the primary focus of this week's Infra Dig podcast as the focus turns to Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners – winner of the tech trophy in last year's inaugural IJGlobal ESG Awards.Angus Leslie Melville – editorial director of IJGlobal, Infrastructure Journal – talks to Anne Foster, global head of ESG and senior director of investments at Quinbrook about the deployment of technology across their platforms and how it improves the fund manager's standing.Without so much as a flicker of shame, IJGlobal bangs the drum for the second time to clarion the ESG Awards 2022 (submissions portal closes 17 August) as Anne is given a platform to run through the reasons her firm won the award last year.Anne, of course, is a well-known figure in ESG circles and last year won the IJGlobal ESG Outstanding Contribution Award having greatly impressed the independent panel of judges.In a far-ranging podcast – running time around 45 minutes – Anne takes the listener through how Quinbrook has deployed a range of technologies from blockchain through to artificial intelligence in a bid to improve the fund manager's ESG credentials and achieve efficiencies.

When it comes to ambitious projects, Namibia leads the field with a stunning project that will establish the southern African nation as a significant player in the fast-evolving hydrogen market.In traditional Infra Dig style, the IJGlobal podcast turns the spotlight on the Southern Corridor Development Initiative in Namibia to find out what it's all about.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks to Marco Raffinetti, chief executive of Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, the company hoping to pioneer the scale-up of hydrogen production in Namibia.This is a magnificent plan being driven by the Namibian government that aims to deliver the $9.4 billion project (roughly Namibia's entire GDP), creating 15,000 jobs , and that – at full development – targets 300,000 metric tons of green hydrogen production per annum.These hydrogen ambitions will be powered by 5GW of renewable energy generating capacity and 3GW of electrolyser capacity on land owned by the government… and the option to scale up dramatically.This latest podcast runs for around 30 minutes and delves into everything from an update on the procurement process through to its financing, multilateral support… and so much more.

When it comes to asset ownership in the infrastructure and energy space, commonly-used metrics have become synonymous with good governance… but what if one of them was flawed?This week's Infra Dig podcast sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talk to Robert Bain (UK) and Sylvain Senechal (Canada) of RBconsult about research they have conducted on toll roads that suggests the sector is sending out misleading messages about asset value and performance.In one fell swoop, RBconsult has published a fascinating piece of research that exposes “cost per mile benchmarking” – which has been favoured for decades by traffic and revenue consultants – as being “fundamentally flawed and misleading”.The toll road industry – in particular the owners of these assets – should right about now be sitting up and paying lot of attention as this metric that is regularly used to summarise (and often promote) the value of a particular toll facility, focuses on price alone… conveying nothing about consumer utility or customer satisfaction.Rob and Sylvain benchmarked 68 toll facilities in the US by price (cost per mile) and by value (cost per minute saved) and have demonstrated that the different metrics result in entirely different rankings.Tune in to the latest podcast and picture toll facility owners wiping down whiteboards as they reassess value and performance by a different set of criteria that will change the landscape dramatically.

Big bets are being put on the future of hydrogen… not many of them are quite as ambitious as Hy24's masterplan to drive investments into delivering the energy source of the future.Pierre-Etienne Franc – chief executive of Hy24 and a founding force behind the Hydrogen Council – talks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville about plans for the company and the fund it is creating.Hy24 launched its equity vehicle – Clean H2 Infrastructure Fund – last October (2021) and looks set to hit final close next month at considerably more than its €1.8 billion hard cap, having already pulled in €1.6 billion with clearly some fresh announcements on the (very short) horizon.In a far-ranging discussion that covers everything from LPs on the fund through to plans to deliver massive investments into the hydrogen space, Pierre-Etienne speaks candidly about the sector and its potential in the years to come.

When it comes to ESG in the infrastructure and energy space, most organisations waving the ESG flag would do well to scrutinise Atrato Group and take a leaf out of its book.It is refreshing to come across an organisation that “really gets” ESG and has embedded it into the organisation to the extent that Atrato has done through its alternative asset management platform.In this week's Infra Dig podcast, IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks to Atrato co-founder Steve Windsor to hear all about his organisation's innovation in forwarding increased gender diversity in the renewable energy engineering space, coupled with its impressive charitable contributions 

Gabriel Onagoruwa chair of the project development and finance practice at Nigeria-headquartered law firm Olaniwun Ajayi stars in this week's Infra Dig podcast.In a fireside chat-style interview with IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville, Gabriel – who operates out of the firm's London office that opened in 2021 – speaks openly about the reality of emerging nations driving renewable energy agendas.A key part of this podcast is the role that will be played by gas as a transition fuel to power nations around Africa... but also the dire need to invest in energy generation across the continent.Conversation ranges from the role of ESG through to COP 27 which is being hosted next month in Egypt, the role Africa plays in ensuring energy security for the rest of the world... and oil and gas... love it or hate it, as Joseph McMonigle secretary general of the International Energy Forum says, upstream O&G needs to rise to $525 billion every year to meet demand. 

Teresa Farmaki – co-founder of Astarte Capital Management – pulls up a chair for a fireside chat in the latest episode of the IJGlobal podcast series… Infra Dig.Speaking with IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville, Teresa speaks openly about the latest developments at Astarte and how it is approaching investments into the international infrastructure and energy space.Infra Dig's curiosity was piqued by the launch of a Greece-focused mid-market focused fund – Hyperion Hellenic Investment Fund (H2IF) – that will focus on the energy transition and smart infrastructure, specifically looking for sustainable investments across the nation.Of course, Astarte's focus is international – including driving investments in North America through its Texas office – and the discussion delves into how it targets investments and ensures ESG boxes are ticked to their satisfaction.

Paul Corrigan – chief financial officer for Mainstream Renewable Power – joins Infra Dig for a free-flowing discussion on the global developer of wind and solar infrastructure and the wider market.Speaking to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville, Paul speaks candidly about the Ireland-headquartered company that was established in 2008 by industry stalwarts Eddie O'Connor and Fintan Whelan.Having been there since Mainstream's inception, Paul has an unrivalled view of the company's progress over the years and the discussion tracks the renewable energy developer's international expansion and its more recent return to operations closer to home.From Mainstream's involvement in the Chilean market through to the more recent announcement of Aker Horizons and Mitsui joining as majority shareholders and ambitions in the hydrogen space… this podcast covers a lot of territory!

Gigafactories are flavour of the day for this latest Infra Dig podcast as Lars Carlstrom – founder and chief executive of Italvolt and Statevolt – pulls up a chair for a fireside chat on his favourite subject.Speaking to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville, Lars runs through plans to build 2 Gigafactories – one in north Italy and the other in California – to serve the automotive industry.In a far-ranging conversation, Lars takes the listener through his definition of Gigafactory, supply chain issues, the rationale behind the location of his 2 facilities and broader discussion on technology and the future of electric vehicles.

In the second of the Infra Dig masterclass series, the focus turns to payment mechanisms for renewable energy projects and drills down into just what underpins the vast majority of projects.Angus Leslie Melville – editorial director of IJGlobal – speaks to a lawyer who is particularly renowned in the world of renewables and, especially, is famed for the role she has played in the PPA space.Natasha Luther-Jones – DLA Piper international head of sustainability and ESG and global co-chair of the energy and natural resources practice – joins Infra Dig fresh from picking up 2 IJGlobal ESG awards to run listeners through the mechanisms in as jargon-free a manner as possible.Starting off with Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) and running through to Contracts for Difference (CfDs) and then on to a slew of other contracts, this podcast answers all the questions you were too scared to ask about how energy companies are paid.

The UK Infrastructure Bank (UKIB) was born from Brexit – the great British answer to the loss of the European Investment Bank (EIB) which had made it abundantly clear that departure from the EU came at a cost.In the latest fireside chat style Infra Dig podcast, Angus Leslie Melville – editorial director of IJGlobal – talks to UKIB chief executive John Flint about the role the bank is currently playing and the one it plans to play in years to come.Drawing parallels to the EIB, the Treasury Infrastructure Finance Unit (TIFU) that was launched in the wastelands of the Global Financial Crisis, and the Green Infrastructure Bank – which was flogged off to Macquarie – John speaks openly about UKIB plans.While not asking the questions most bankers want asked – mostly because they were rude – John speaks candidly about staffing up and how UKIB plans to “crowd in” lending capabilities in a challenging market.

The IJGlobal podcast – Infra Dig – makes a late start to 2023 with its first episode, this one focused on the digital infrastructure opportunity in Africa.Damilola Agbaje, investment director at African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM), speaks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville to talk through the potential for investment across the continent.In a far-ranging discussion, Damilola takes the listener through the investment potential across telecoms towers as Africa leapfrogs fixed line, through to fibre optic networks and data centres.

The latest IJGlobal podcast – Infra Dig – this time focuses on the world of recruitment across infrastructure and energy.One Search chief executive Dan McCarthy – a head hunter of international fame – talks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville about the changing landscape for recruitment in the swiftly evolving infra and energy sectors.Dan speaks openly about challenges being faced across the industry as the market copes with a hiring bubble alongside job title inflation and unsustainable high compensation levels.Sometimes veering towards the dreaded old-fart territory, conversation remains realistic and a must listen for those seeking to drive their careers in this sector.

Jon Salazar – founder and chief executive of Gazelle Wind Power – joins the Infra Dig podcast to run listeners through his fascinating company that is driving innovation in the floating offshore wind sector.Speaking to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville, Jon takes the listener through what his company is doing, the technology it is pushing and how he believes this will massively reduce costs and alleviate supply chain issues in the sector.If you're interested in offshore wind (particularly floating)... and if you're a regular listener to the Infra Dig podcast, you surely are... this is a must listen.Learn all about the sector and one of the most exciting innovations on the radar.

This latest Infra Dig podcast sees the focus shift to North America where there are significant moves afoot for a technology company focused on energy storage software, system supply and project development.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville (with a bit of a head cold) pulls up a chair to the trans-Atlantic fireside (east coast Scotland to Miami) to chat with Alan Cooper, founder and chief executive of On.Energy.Alan takes the listener through the transformation of On.Energy from a behind-the-meter company to a front-of-the meter player in Texas and tells all about the recent $20 million equity financing that was led by Ultra Capital.Conversation ranges from the Biden / Harris administration and its famed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), how this impacts Investment Tax Credits (ITC), plans to evolve beyond the ERCOT region and partnering with commercial and industrial (C&I) solar developers.

 A podcast with a sunny disposition… this latest Infra Dig episode sees IJGlobal editorial director pull up a chair to the fireside to talk all things renewable with a luminary (geddit?) in the solar space. Axel Thiemann – Miami-based chief executive of Sonnedix, the solar PV developer / operator with an international footprint – speaks openly about the global renewable energy market and his company's ambitions. From solar PV – the bulk of Sonnedix's exposure and the sector it is famed for having carved its niche – through to wind power and energy storage, there is something in this podcast for everyone interested in the alternative space. 

In the first of a series – LatAm Uncovered – the Infra Dig podcast set up stall in Panama for a host of fascinating interviews recorded at the Inter America Development Bank conference, PPP Americas.Here, IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down with Marcus Cavalcanti – special secretary for the investment partnerships programme for the federal government of Brazil.In a high-level interview (15 minutes, ably translated by IJ colleague Albert Negron) with Mr Cavalcanti lifts the veil on a range of infrastructure investments that are shortly coming to market in Brazil.A must-listen for all infrastructure professionals with an interest in Latin America, Mr Cavalcanti drills down into individual projects across transport, water and wastewater treatment (which has undergone some changes of late to open up the market to private and public investment), energy transition, smart cities, forestry PPPs… and so much more including the role of BNDES.

The second in a series of 12 podcasts recorded at the Inter American Development Bank conference – PPP Americas – staged last week sees the focus turn towards the fledgling PPP sector in Panama.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville is joined by Saleh Asvat, PPP national secretary for the government of Panama, to discuss the future of infrastructure investment in the Central American country.Saleh starts by taking the listener through the PPP procurement legislation and the role his department plays in bringing them to market before turning the focus on the 2 highway projects currently in procurement – the $300 million Panamericana Este (advised by the IFC) and the $310 million Panamericana Oeste (advised by the IDB).Both roads are being procured on an availability basis with Panamericana Este having (during the conference) shortlisted down to 4 bidders, while bidders are submitting their prequalification requirements for Panamericana Oeste in September.Conversation moves inevitably on to the 230km, $700 million Panama Transmission Line 4 – the other PPP project currently in procurement – the first 500kV project down the Atlantic side of the country, balancing the national grid.The rest of the podcast centres on the pipeline of projects that the market can expect to see rolled out in Panama over the short term.

As hosts of last week's splendid PPP Americas conference in Panama, it would be unseemly not to have invited the Inter American Development Bank for a podcast… and it's a good job we did as they had a lot to say about the LatAm infrastructure market.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sat down with IDB PPP team leader Gaston Astesiano and PPP senior specialist Carolina Lembo for a regional fireside that is a must-listen for anyone interested in the LatAm infrastructure sector. Conversation starts off with and overview of the challenges and opportunities for PPP across Latin America with Gaston recognising that the region has its hurdles to overcome… not least due to the Covid pandemic. This latest episode is an engaging insight into the regional market and a must-listen for all who have an interest in Latin American PPP.

This is the latest IJGlobal podcast to have been recorded at the Inter American Development Bank's excellent conference last week in Panama – PPP Americas.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Luis Felipe Elton, head of the projects division at the Chilean PPP Unit, about the national infrastructure market in a side room at the IDB event.With an established PPP sector, Chile is lauded as one of the mainstays of the Latin American infrastructure market and has long been held up as a bellwether for countries across the region looking to drive private sector involvement in the delivery and operation of national infra.In a 17-minute interview with Luis, the listener is treated to an overview of the last 30 years of infrastructure procurement which has seen more than 100 concession-based contracts awarded, 77 of which are currently under construction or operational.The Chilean PPP sector has attracted local and international investment… and it's not stopping there.Tune into the latest in the LatAm Uncovered series for an in-depth view of the market from one of the key players on the ground.

The latest podcast recorded at the Inter American Development Bank conference last week in Panama is published today… an impromptu discussion about PPP in the Dominican Republic.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down to chat all things infra with Izalia López – promotion deputy director for PPP in DR… and the results are unrehearsed and interesting.Playing an active role in promoting PPP in the country, Izalia is charged with driving international focus to the pipeline of projects… something that's always of interest to IJGlobal subscribers.Conversation covers off everything from DR's PPP legislation through to the procurement process (they plan to keep it pacey), the DBFOM port project, Amber Highway… and a lot more beyond.

The IJGlobal LatAm podcast juggernaut ploughs on with the latest episode recorded at last week's Inter American Development Bank conference – PPP Americas – in Panama.This latest recording focuses on the PPP scene in Ecuador and it sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sit down with Gustavo Camacho, under secretary of fiscal policy in the economy and finance ministry, and Israel Berrezueta who works in the IDB programme to support the ministry of finance from a legal perspective.To help with translation, the splendid David Alvarez – resident adviser on debt and infrastructure finance to the US Department of the Treasury – kindly stepped in and did the needful.With PPP legislation having been in place since 2015 and recent updates approved by government, Ecuador is in a good place to drive a pipeline of PPP transactions… which has reached an “inflection point”.To hear more about Ecuador's PPP ambitions, tune into the latest LatAm Uncovered podcast…

The first of a series of 3 podcasts on Santa Catarina with the opening episode delving into PPP opportunities in the southern state of Brazil where they have ambitious plans to deploy the procurement model.In an impromptu podcast, IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to 4 mayors from around the state… all of whom have plans to deploy PPP. Thanks once again to IJ colleague Albert Negron for his invaluable translation services.The podcast was recorded at PPP Americas – the Inter American Development Bank conference staged last week in Panama – that focuses on infrastructure investment across Latin America and the Caribbean.The 4 mayors a-speaking are:Aquilles da Costa – mayor of the city of PeňaMarcos Pedro Veber – mayor of Luiz AlvesElcio Rogério Kuhnen – mayor of CamboriúPaulo Henrique Dalago Muller – mayor of Bombinhas, also rotating president for AMFRI (Associação dos Municípios da Região da Foz do Rio Itajaí (AMFRI)To hear all about the plans, tune into the first of 3 podcasts for the state of Santa Catarina.

The state of Santa Catarina features again in the second of a series of 3 podcasts where mayors speak about the opportunity for PPP in southern Brazil.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sets up stall at the Inter American Development Bank conference – PPP Americas last month in Panama – and records (with translation support from IJ colleague Albert Negron) the latest LatAm Uncovered podcast for Infra Dig.The guests on this podcast are:Paulo Henrique Dalago Müller – mayor of Bombinhas, also rotating president for AMFRI (Associação dos Municípios da Região da Foz do Rio Itajaí)Aquilles da Costa – mayor of PenhaErico de Oliveira – major of IlhotaConversation centres on all matters PPP, giving the listener a 360 view of the municipal market.

The final episode on the 3-part focus on the state of Santa Catarina in Brazil sees the focus remain resolutely focused on PPP and yet another interesting spotlight on a region that has been re-building its relationship with the market. IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville welcomes 2 guests to this latest podcast, discussing the state PPP market with:Ana Paula da Silva (Paulinha) – representative at the Santa Catarina State House of RepresentativesRenato Lacerda – director of the PPP unit (also acting as translator)Paulinha – speaking a couple of weeks ago (19 July 2023) at the Inter American Development Bank conference PPP Americas in Panama – talked about plans for PPPs in prisons, health, education and sanitation.She outlines a pipeline that will be of a great deal of interest to the international community…

The final podcast to have been recorded in Panama at the Inter American Development Bank conference – PPP Americas – sees the focus shift towards the PPP market in Colombia.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down with Jonathan Bernal, vice president for structuring at the National Infrastructure Agency for Colombia, to hear about its ambitions to drive the PPP agenda.In an interview with Jonathan – translated by IJGlobal LatAm infrastructure reporter Adrian Ganic – Jonathan runs through priorities for the Colombian PPP sector which featured heavily in the IJ regional focus (published early June 2023) for having closed the Bogota-Girardot Highway PPP, the largest deal to make it to FC in the region this year.Conversation moves on to the procurement pipeline which – at the IDB conference – centred on the $1.3 billion Villeta-Guadas road PPP that will progress this year and be awarded next (2024). He also talks about the $1.5 billion 270km Pasto-Popayan Toll Road PPP, an essential connector to Ecuador, and the largest concession in Colombia's history.This podcast gives a 360 view of the Colombian PPP market and is a must listen for all people with an interest in LatAm infrastructure…

Having recorded 10 podcasts in person at the Inter American Development Bank's excellent conference in Panama – PPP Americas – this latest one is with a delegate from Jamaica who was not able to attend in person.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down for a chat on all matters PPP with Denise Arana, general manager of public private partnerships and privatisation at the Development Bank of Jamaica.Having been involved with the development of PPP in Jamaica since its inception, Denise is perfectly placed to talk about the national strategy for private sector involvement in the financing of national infrastructure.Tune in for a far-ranging chat about Jamaica's infrastructure ambitions…

Everything you ever wanted to know about Carbon Capture and Storage... but you were too scared to ask. This podcast has it all on the CCS front.IJglobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville plays devil's advocate with Dan Carter, president of decarbonisation at Wood.In a 23-minute interview, Dan takes the listener through this technology that is being touted as one of the silver bullets (there is no single silver bullet) to achieve Net Zero.In a podcast that sits somewhere between a masterclass and a fireside chat on a key energy transition tool, listeners are treated to a 360 assessment of the potential in this exciting, fast moving space.

Just as there's more than one way to skin a cat, there's more than one way to extract energy from wind... especially when you are operating offshore.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks to Johan Sandberg. chief executive of SeaTwirl, about his company's truly fascinating innovation in turbines for the offshore wind industry.Tune in to find out all about an innovative solution to deep water offshore wind power generation that being driven by an interesting Swedish company that is moving to the next phase with its pilot turbine.IJGlobal expects interesting things from SeaTwirl in the coming years.

The IJGlobal podcast is on its travels again, this time in New York at its REFF Wall Street conference run in partnership with Power Finance & Risk.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville collared keynote speaker Charles Donovan as he left the stage to record this latest episode of Infra Dig that focuses on the renewable energy scene in the US.Charles is professor of practice in the department of finance and business economics at the University of Washington and senior economic adviser to Impax Asset Management.He was previously professor of practice at Imperial College London, executive director at the Centre for Climate Finance and Investment at Imperial College Business School, and academic director of Imperial's MSc in Climate Change, Management and Finance.Prior to academia, he was head of structuring and valuation for global power at BP and part of the strategy team that launched BP Alternative Energy with an $8 billion funding commitment.He served in the US government as an energy policy analyst at the Environmental Protection Agency and is editor and co-author of Renewable Energy Finance: Powering the Future, which is now in its second edition.

This latest episode of Infra Dig – the IJGlobal podcast service – sees the focus return to the UK Infrastructure Bank (UKIB) for an update on progress.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville pulls up a chair for a fireside chat with UK head of banking and investments Ian Brown who is responsible for the institution's origination and execution of lending and investing activities. IJGlobal has been tracking UKIB's performance as it builds a team in the north of England – Leeds – and seeks to achieve its mandate of crowding in lending activity and stepping up where other lenders fear to tread.In this episode, Ian talks frankly about the bank's ambitions, building up the team and how it plans to drive investments into the parts of infrastructure that your average lender can't reach.

Chris Creed chief investment officer at the US Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office talks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville about the exciting plans to drive investments across The States.In a far-reaching discussion that is a must-listen for everyone who has an eye on renewable energy across the US, Chris talks openly about the role that is being played by the LPO to drive investments in support of the Inflation Reduction Act.With more than $300 billion in the kitty – a good amount of which has already been deployed – Chris shines the light on how it is deploying capital, the bridge-to-bankability model the LPO is adopting and how it is playing a pioneering role with emerging technologies.

This latest episode of the Infra Dig podcast sees IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville pull up a seat to the fireside to discuss artificial intelligence and its role in infrastructure and energy.The guest on this podcast is Henri Yoki – founder and chief executive of Exaum Ltd – an interesting organisation that recently announced the launch of its 1MW AI-optimised grid balancing pilot, the latest step in scaling its heat-generation-based power demand response technology.The pilot has been installed at Karhulan Industrial Park, 130km east of Helsinki. This first-of-its-kind system aims to help enable the green energy transition by providing near-instantaneous grid balancing of power as more wind, solar, and other green but unpredictable sources are added to the transmission system operator's supply choices.In this podcast, Henri fields question on this pilot project in Finland as well as a host of question on the impact of AI on the broader infrastructure / energy community.

The subject of today's Infra Dig podcast is the US offshore wind sector and a particularly interesting company that has already featured in an IJGlobal podcast – Gazelle Wind Power.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville takes the podcast service across The Pond once again, this time to talk to Álvaro Ortega who recently started at Gazelle as CFO.In a podcast that is rooted firmly in the Atlantic – but with ambitions to appear in deep water somewhere near you – Álvaro talks about his new role at Gazelle and its floating offshore wind design.However, given that he played a central role in the financing of Vineyard Wind I… conversation is easily led into fixed foundation territory to create a compelling listen that is ideal for everyone with an interest in utility-scale developments.

Having taken a little too long to kick start the year's podcast service, IJGlobal launches 2024 with an interesting fireside chat on an award-winning project led by CBRE Investment Management.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks with Toronto-based Robert Shaw, managing director with CBRE IM's private infrastructure business who is focused exclusively on the direct infrastructure investment programme.In a 26-minute podcast, Robert takes listeners through Forum Mobility, a project in California that won an IJGlobal ESG Award on numerous levels and an IJInvestor Award for North American transport investment.Robert takes the listener through Forum Mobility, explaining how it serves as “electrification as a service” supporting the drayage industry from Californian ports to distribution centres.Forum Mobility was founded in 2021 and is focused on electrifying trucking of freight from ports, forming a $400 million JV in January 2023 with CBRE IM and minority shareholder Homecoming Capital to develop and operate charging depots and a fleet of electric trucks to service the ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland.Tune in to hear more...

The value of long-term investment by infra funds into infrastructure and energy assets is a central theme in this latest episode of the Infra Dig podcast.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks with Hamish Lea-Wilson, a partner at Igneo Infrastructure Partners, who plays a key role in the fund manager's origination and execution of European infra investment opportunities.Conversation ranges from an insightful run-through how a long-term approach to infrastructure investments achieves value and virtue, before running through a slew of Igneo managed assets.A good bit of the podcast is dedicated to German utilities company MVV which won the excellence trophy at the IJGlobal ESG Awards 2023 for its plan to be “climate positive” by 2035. Judges described the Mannheim company as “a poster child for energy transition in a utility”.Another winner that discussed is Nordion Energi – this one picking up a trophy at the IJGlobal ESG Awards 2022 – which involved the transition a traditional, natural gas distribution operator to become what some people have described as “the go-to partner” in Sweden's energy transition.Conversation moves on to a focus on Igneo IP's Finerge renewables platform in the Iberian peninsula which, since 2015, has grown that portfolio from 642MW of attributable capacity to almost 2GW.The podcast rounds off with a closer look at Enfinium which recently announced that it was investing in CCS technology to decarbonise unrecyclable waste and generate more than 90MW of baseload, carbon-negative power.

Infra Dig – the IJGlobal podcast service – returns to its core function with this latest podcast, building understanding in infra/energy sectors where knowledge is lacking.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down for a chat with Edward Wilkinson, strategic corporate development lead at GScan, a company that wields a technology that has numerous applications across the infrastructure and energy sectors.GScan – founded in Estonia, but now headquartered in the UK – is involved in everything from artificial intelligence through to 3D reconstruction and machine learning.Edward gives a fascinating insight into GScan's Muon Flux Technology (MFT) which is has been used for everything from scanning a concrete-filled nuclear submarine through to inspecting bridges for flaws and assessing the integrity of pipes.GScan's MFT is equipped with reconstruction algorithms and advanced machine learning-based 3D modelling tools, enabling the accurate distinction of materials and defects combined with high penetration.It provides an alternative to ground penetrating radar and X-Ray that Edward believes provides an infinitely clearer view of an asset's integrity.

This latest IJGlobal podcast revives the “uncovered” series that delves into bigger picture market intelligence for infrastructure and energy.The focus of this podcast turns to Africa and sees IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville sit down for a chat with Roland Janssens – managing director of the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EIF).The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund was established as the first company within the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), a multi-donor organisation with members from 7 countries and World Bank Group.EIF is managed by Ninety One, and it provides long-term debt to deliver infrastructure projects across Africa. It operates across 10 sectors in 20 African countries and typically lends between $10 million and $65 million over tenors of up to 15 years, with an option to extend up to 20 years.Conversation with Roland spans a number of projects across Africa that the EIF has supported, as well as an insight on fundraising which, earlier this year, reached $294 million of debt facilities, more than half of its $500 million target to be achieved in 2025.

The full scope of energy transition is tackled in this latest Infra Dig episode… a longer-than-usual podcast (it's a big topic) brought to you by IJGlobal.IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Adrian Del Maestro, vice-president of global energy advisory at AECOM, in a (very) far-ranging discussion that covers all matters energy transition.This episode spans pretty much everything from climate change through to electric vehicle charging, offshore wind and the need to drive agendas, cabling constraints, the dream of nuclear fusion, the potential for small modular reactors… and so much more.For an informed view of the market and an interesting romp through energy transition on a global scale, this latest episode is a must listen.

An episode that warrants the tag line of "everything you ever wanted to ask about battery energy storage, but were too embarrassed to ask". IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Eva Zimmermann – research associate at Aurora in Berlin – about a technology that is an ever-growing asset class being targeted by infrastructure funds. To learn all about how battery energy storage systems (BESS) work and how they are integrated into the energy supply chain... tune in for a fascinating discussion on a central tenet in the security of supply conundrum. 

The thorny issue of nuclear power and its financability is the central theme for this latest Infra Dig podcast between IJGlobal and two senior bankers from Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking. IJGlobal head of content Angus Leslie Melville is joined by Natixis CIB energy transition specialists Ivan Pavlovic and Eric Benoist for an episode that drills down into nuclear energy. The key theme of the discussion is small modular reactors – SMRs – with the listener treated to an informed overview of the nuclear sector, and then drills down into the small-scale (1MW one the smallest being discussed) option that is increasingly hitting the headlines. To skill up on a sector that is growing in importance, listen in to this latest episode… and if it's on message for your interests, run through the podcast archive for an episode with NuScale and others that are centred on the big nuclear question.

Offshore wind went from nascent technology to mature in the blink of an eye… not something that will come as a surprise to anyone who has been kicking around the infrastructure community for a long time. Here IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville pulls up a chair for the latest Infra Dig episode, speaking to Dr Sherif Gebaly, investment director for renewables and decommissioning at investment advisory firm Arcadis, about this challenging sector. Primarily focusing on fixed foundation offshore wind farms (OWF) in Europe, conversation flows from a helicopter view of who does what during the financing and subsequent installation, supply chains and logistics – from harbour facilities through to support vessels. Basically, this is the episode you need to tune into… if you want a full understanding of the process of delivering an offshore wind farm… oh, and a bonus focus on floating offshore. 

One person's meat is another person's poison… a saying that has long been associated with the thorny issue of defining ESG. While this podcast does not focus on the definition of ESG in the infrastructure sector, it does shine a strong light into a dark corner.  IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville sits down for a chat with David Thomas – director for infrastructure engagement at GRESB – and conversation centres squarely on ESG in the infra arena.  A primary focus of this podcast is delving into what sustainability and ESG factors investors look for these days; and the emerging factors that are front of mind around on pre-operational assets.  

The primary thrust of this latest episode of Infra Dig – IJGlobal's podcast service – is the financing mechanism that underpins the delivery and operation of billions of dollars of infrastructure around the world… and how project finance is evolving.  IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville sits down for an enlightening interview with Ravi Suri, global head of sustainable finance and impact investing at KPMG.  In a podcast that lends itself to the “masterclass” category, Ravi takes the listener through the evolution of project finance from its early years, bringing it right up to date showcasing its evolution over the years.  

While not many people associate the UK with geothermal energy – and not without good reason – things look set to change dramatically on that front in the coming years.  IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Dr Charlotte Adams, a director at the newly established National Geothermal Centre (NGC) which is championing the proliferation of geothermal energy around the UK.  In a podcast that runs for almost 27 minutes, the listener is taken from zero to hero on ambitions to drive a geothermal agenda to support the UK's bid to achieve Net Zero.  Tune in for a compelling podcast on a clean energy technology that is just about to receive a shot in the arm in the UK.  

The latest in the Infra Dig Masterclass series – delving into why infrastructure projects go wrong and the 10 Cardinal Rules to avoid this outcome – is a must listen… especially for people launching their careers in infra.In this episode, IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville sits down to chat for a second time with old friend Ravi Suri, global head of sustainable finance and impact investing at KPMG.A far-ranging discussion that covers all the key points of how projects go wrong across (pretty much) every single sector in the infra and energy asset class takes the listener through what must not be done (citing examples) and then how to do it right.

The Nordics have long been a haven for infrastructure, attracting investors from all over globe. Now, with energy transition ramping up, the region is becoming even more popular, with local infra managers benefitting from this trend. Lisa Botter, head of content for M&A and funds at IJInvestor (an IJGlobal service), speaks with CapMan's Pia Kall, chief executive, and Ville Poukka, managing partner. The Nordic infrastructure investor in April reached final close on its second infrastructure fund. In this 29 minute podcast Pia and Ville take the listener through the success of the fund and their outlook for infrastructure investing across the region. Tune in for a compelling podcast on infrastructure fund management in an exciting region.  

An interview (from a couple of months back) with Jean-Francis Dusch, global head of infrastructure and structured finance at Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management (EDRAM).  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to JF about all things infra debt and how EDRAM has evolved its model to lend to some truly landmark transactions in the energy transition space.  JF treats the listener to a helicopter view of how EDRAM operates, its priorities in the ESG space and hints at plans to break into the North American market.  

IJGlobal returns to one of its favourite subjects for this latest Infra Dig podcast – technology – and in this case how it impacts solar panels.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville settles in for a fireside chat with David Ward, chief executive of Oxford PV, to hear how his company's product is set to transform solar panel efficiency.  In an episode that runs for almost 30 minutes, David takes the listener through the solar industry with a primary focus on how perovskite-on-silicon tandem solar cells look set to revolutionise the industry.  For anyone with an interest in renewable energy, this podcast is a must-listen.   

IJGlobal's editor, Ila Patel chats with Doseke Akporiaye, executive director of WRISE about her upbringing in Nigeria, witnessing energy poverty and the need to provide electricity as a necessity rather than a luxury. This laid the foundations for Doseke to build experience in start-ups, scaling businesses and social impact in the tech and renewables sector, culminating in being headhunted by WRISE.

The latest episode of the Infra Dig podcast focuses on telecoms infrastructure across Africa and the Middle East, interviewing an organisation that is driving the growth of communications across the region.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down for a fireside chat with 2 of Helios Towers' leading figures – group CFO Manjit Dhillon and operations and engineering director Lara Coady.  In the first Infra Dig podcast to have been published since IJGlobal was acquired by Green Street, this episode is firmly targeted at the “real assets” space.  Manjit and Lara tag team the discussion that starts off on the broader scene for the independent telecommunications infrastructure company that has established one of the most extensive tower portfolios across Africa and the Middle East.  It builds, owns and operates telecom passive infrastructure, providing services to mobile network operators… and it has interesting plans.  

When the opportunity cropped up to record a podcast on renewable natural gas – RNG – we jumped at it. This is a fascinating technology that is evolving fast and looks set to play an increasingly large role in the energy mix.  In this latest episode of Infra Dig, Angus Leslie Melville – editorial director of IJGlobal (a Green Street company) – talked to US-based Chet Benham, president and chief operating officer of Viridi Energy, to find out all about RNG.  This podcast was prompted by news earlier this summer that Viridi had signed a 20-year offtake agreement with Quebec-based Énergir for pipeline-quality RNG from its waste-to-energy facilities in Brunswick, Maine; Marathon County, Wisconsin; and Bethlehem, New Hampshire.  This is a fascinating discussion that will be of interest to anyone who has an eye on the evolving energy mix.  

Real assets are increasingly on the agenda for UK local government pension schemes, as they offer stable returns.   Social infrastructure has been a rising investment focus due to impact it has on the local community and members of the scheme.   Lisa Botter, Editor of IJInvestor (a service of IJGlobal, which is a Green Street company), speaks with Jack Burnham, head of affordable housing at Octopus Investments, which recently did a survey on the subject.  In a survey of 27 LGPS, Octopus Investments and its research partner found that schemes are familiar with and are investing in a range of social infrastructure themes, but investment returns outweigh impact.   Despite the interest from schemes, it is up to social infrastructure managers to prove their social and climate credentials to prevent greenwashing and so-called, social washing.   

Another technology-based Infra Dig podcast – designed to foster greater understanding of the underlying assets that the infrastructure community invests in and lends to.  This latest episode seen IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sit down for a fireside with Yash Tripathy – head of product at battery software company About:Energy.  Conversation centres on battery technology with a primary focus on its deployment in electric vertical take-off and landing – eVTOL – flying machines.  This is a sector that is ripe for investment and has an interesting future… and it's one that IJ is keeping a close eye on as a future transport / delivery solution.  

Here at IJGlobal we love to bring you podcasts on the most interesting developments on technology and innovation across the panoply of infrastructure assets classes – and this one's a cracker.  Well, to be fair, it's not an actual “cracker”, this is an interview with Richard Butland, co-founder and chief executive of Highview Power, where we are discussing the UK's first commercial-scale liquid air energy storage plant in Carrington, Manchester.  Having this summer concluded the financing of its demonstrator in the north of England and with plans for another one in the UK progressing nicely, Highview has big plans… on an international level.  Tune in for the latest Infra Dig podcast on an exciting energy storage innovation that's been a long time in the brewing, but is now going places.  

Returning to the Masterclass series of Infra Dig podcasts, this latest episode falls very much into the training and awareness category, delving into the impact that project finance can have on achieving peace and climate change goals.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to regular Masterclass guest Ravi Suri – global head of sustainable finance and impact investing at KPMG – for an enlightening podcast on the international impact of this financing mechanism.  This podcast will be of greatest value to people in the early stages of their infrastructure / energy careers as they build knowledge, seeking to understand the full impact of the sector they have joined.  Ravi takes the listener through the role that project finance is having across the globe in creating peaceful regimes, healing former war zones and the part it is playing on the international agenda to halt climate change.  

IJGlobal Editor Ila Patel talks to Michael Panetlogianis and Ralph Cho, the co-heads of Apterra, an infrastructure finance platform backed by New York-headquartered Apollo Asset Management. Launched in 2023, Apterra originates, structures and invests in infrastructure opportunities globally focusing on key sectors such as renewable energy, conventional power, midstream infrastructure, digital infrastructure and emerging technologies. Mike and Ralph discuss Apterra's growth strategy, global expansion and what makes them different from other infrastructure finance platforms.Tune in to this latest episode of the IJGlobal podcast as these 2 industry veterans discuss positioning Apollo direct with sponsors to originate opportunities, deploy capital and generate AUM opportunity across the infrastructure vertical as well as across a wide breadth of products.

As IJGlobal readies itself for the IJLatAm conference next March in Miami, the timing is perfect to focus on a fascinating green fertiliser project financing in Paraguay.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Olivier Mussat – chief executive of ATOME – about a pathfinder project in a Core+ infrastructure sector that's going to be Core in the blink of an eye.  ATOME, with its Villeta Project in Paraguay, has set its stall at decarbonising the agriculture and food industries at the grass-roots level (pun intended) by creating green fertiliser.  Tune in to this latest episode of Infra Dig – the IJGlobal podcast service – to learn all about a fascinating project that is sure to be replicated across the planet as the $200 billion fertiliser industry seeks to reduce its carbon impact.  

Looking beyond infra/energy for this latest episode of Infra Dig… into its second cousin (one sector removed) and investigating forestry as an investment.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville mulls the ever-stretching definition of infrastructure and talks to William Barrett – managing partner of Reach Capital – about forestry… which looks set (one day) to be included in the infra asset class.  William takes the listener through forestry as an investment sector, how it is evolving and whether one day it will feature more significantly in the pages of an established infrastructure publication like IJGlobal.  

Insurance has cropped up repeatedly in Infra Dig podcasts, to the point that we had to turn the focus this direction in the continuing quest to improve understanding across the infrastructure community.  Martin Bennet – managing director for infrastructure and energy as well as private equity and M&A at Marsh – joins IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville to talk about the role played by insurance in the financing of infrastructure.  This latest episode focuses on mitigating key infrastructure investment risks, the current state of the market, the use of insurance as an enabler of infra M&A, and much more.  

As IJGlobal builds momentum towards “The Miami Conference” – IJ LatAm 2025 – the Infra Dig podcast turns its focus on equity engagement in infrastructure and energy across Latin America.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Susana Lopez, an investment director at Climate Fund Managers (CFM), about the regional market.  Susana – who will be speaking on a panel at IJ LatAm which runs from 10-12 March (2025) and is being staged at 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami – gives her view of the market in a far-reaching conversation.

The Infra Dig podcast launches into the new year with the first episode serving as a reminder that “The Miami Conference” – IJ LatAm 2025 – is just around he corner and it's shaping up to be the best one to date.   Running from 10-12 March at 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami, IJ LatAm 2025 has been running for more than 2 decades and is IJGlobal's premier event, attracting around 700 delegates from across the region.   In preparation for this landmark event, IJGlobal has hosted a number of podcasts focused on the region and this latest one sees Nieves Polanco – project finance legal counsel at Sacyr – join IJ editorial director Angus Leslie Melville to talk about the market.   

As we put the finishing touches to preparations for our glorious “Miami Conference” – IJ LatAm 25 – the Infra Dig focus turns once again to the Latin American infrastructure market.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to Aitor Alava – managing director and LatAm head of infrastructure and energy finance at Natixis – about the regional lending environment.  Aitor talks openly about the LatAm market, identifying opportunity as this market ticks up in activity and everyone braces for the Miami Conference which is being hosted at 1 Hotel Sout Beach from 10-12 March.

One of the most interesting power projects on the radar right now – Xlinks, the Morocco-UK power project – is making great strides and this latest episode of Infra Dig delves into developments.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville talks to James Humfrey who has been chief executive of Xlinks for the last year, since taking the role from founder Simon Morrish.   This is the second time that Xlinks has featured on Infra Dig – following on from Simon Morrish taking listeners through the full scope of the project back in the summer of 2022.  This latest episode sees James bring the listener right up to date with progress on the ambition renewable energy projects – solar PV and onshore wind in Morocco – and the transmission line to the UK.   

Having spent the first half of this week in Miami at IJ LatAm 2025, it was too good an opportunity not to record a couple of podcasts with government delegates.IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down with Pablo Cevallo – Ecuador's secretary for public-private partnerships – to hear about plans to drive investments into infrastructure and energy.Pablo speaks openly about the government's intentions to drive a pipeline of investments with support from international developers and the lending community for a range of ambitious plans.Tune in to this latest episode to hear about everything from hydropower through to transport, hydrogen, geothermal and recently announced aspirations to champion nuclear energy.

The energy revolution is moving at pace, and Mitsubishi Power Europe is in the vanguard as it supports the transition of natural gas power plants to hydrogen.  In this latest episode of the Infra Dig podcast, IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville speaks to Javier Cavada – president and chief executive of Mitsubishi Power Europe – to hear how the market is shifting.  In a slightly-longer-than-normal podcast, Javier takes the listener through the evolution of methane-fuelled power plants into blended facilities with hydrogen co-firing large frame gas turbines.  The technology is now tried-and-tested and there is capacity for gas turbines to run on 100% hydrogen.  The future's electric. The future's hydrogen.  The future's coming a lot faster than many people anticipate.  

IJGlobal earlier this month hosted IJ LatAm 2025 – The Miami Conference – with a record delegate attendance, and recorded a couple of podcasts with leading figures who are driving investments into national infrastructure and energy.Izalia Lopez, promotion deputy director at the PPP unit of the Dominican Republic, speaks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville about plans to invest in national infrastructure.In an interview that runs for 7-and-a-half minutes, Lopez takes viewers through plans to invest across infrastructure and energy in the Dominican Republic.

On the back of numerous recent victories at the IJGlobal Awards in London and IJInvestor Awards prior to that, Africa Finance Corporation talks to Infra Dig about its evolution.Fola Fagbule – head of financial advisory at the AFC – speaks to IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville about the organisation's role in driving private sector involvement in the financing of infrastructure and energy across Africa.In a podcast that runs for almost 36 minutes, Fola runs the listener through the role AFC's financial advisory team plays in leveraging cross-divisional expertise to mobilise more than $14 billion for critical infrastructure projects, and through that effort creating tens of thousands of jobs across Africa.

This latest episode of the IJGlobal podcast – Infra Dig – sees the spotlight turn on infrastructure and energy investments across Africa and Asia Pacific.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down with Philippe Valahu – chief executive of Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) – for a tell-all interview on the investment environment.  Philippe takes the listener through the reality of investing across African and APAC infra/energy where there's an historically lower default rate than in many developed market regions… and a considerably lower default rate than other emerging market regions.  He explains why sponsors should have more confidence to get involved in infrastructure and energy across both Africa and Asia and not be deterred by headline risk, building understanding of the strong financial performance of infrastructure assets across these regions.  

Focus for the Infra Dig podcast turns once again to Africa – this time taking a look at the Mission 300 which has ambitious goals to electrify the continent.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville is joined by Naomi Wagura, a director at the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) and Nicole Poindexter, founder and chief executive of Energicity Corporation.  Naomi and Nicole talk about Mission 300 – a joint initiative by the World Bank, African Development Bank and GEAPP – that has set itself a goal to mobilise unprecedented financing to connect 300 million people to electricity grids across Africa by 2030.  

The Infra Dig podcast returns to its infrastructure fund interview format for this latest episode, interviewing 2 key players from UK-based clean energy investor Foresight Group.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down (in person for this latest podcast) with 2 Foresight partners – fund managers of Foresight Energy Infrastructure Partners (FEIP) – primarily to discuss MaresConnect.  The Infra Dig guests are Richard Thompson and Dan Wells and they are both deeply experienced infrastructure investors who have been building out the FEIP platforms for many years.  While conversation ranges across the fund manager's strategy, the podcast is centred on the interconnector is being developed by MaresConnect Limited – which is owned by Foresight Energy Infrastructure Partners and Etchea Energy Nominees Limited.  MaresConnect is an electricity interconnector that will run between Dublin and Bodelwyddan, Wales, and will link Irish and British electricity markets by 2030. The 750MW project will be around 245km.  

Offshore wind across Asia is building momentum to the point that it warrants the Infra Dig spotlight to bring listeners up to speed with developments on the ground… more to the point... at sea.  IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down to record a podcast with 2 Norton Rose Fulbright partners for a round-robin of the hottest markets across Asia, with a particular focus on those with greatest potential.  NRF partners Nick Merrit and Ben Carrozzi are the guests for this latest episode, bringing a wealth of experience from across the global – particularly Asian – renewable energy arena.  

Enrgy demand is on the increase globally, but in the US the seemingly endless build-out of data centres and application of power-hungry AI is forcing the market to step up activity to cater for a growing need.  IJGlobal senior editor Ila Patel talks to Richard Lum, one of the founders of Victory Hill Capital Partners, about energy demand not abating anytime soon. As he says: “It's increasing obviously, but it's increasing in a way that is also changing the behaviour of how energy is consumed.”  In a podcast that runs for 21 minutes, Richard talks about how renewable energy alone cannot enable the transition within the context of the US: “You still need the predominance of dependable energy sources that aren't constrained by intermittency.”