Transmission

As electricity systems decarbonise, the nature of flexibility is fundamentally shifting. Where grid operators once relied on fossil fuel generation to follow demand, today's energy systems are increasingly turning to the demand side for flexibility. With more electric vehicles, heat pumps, and behind-the-meter batteries connecting to the grid every day, the potential for distributed assets to support reliability and earn revenue, is rapidly growing.But tapping into that flexibility at scale is no small task. It requires coordination, intelligent optimisation, and a clear route into energy markets. In this episode of Transmission, we explore how software platforms are making it possible to turn thousands of individual devices into aggregated resources that respond dynamically to grid needs. From flexibility markets and revenue stacking to the evolving role of energy suppliers and the economics of decentralised participation, this conversation breaks down how the grid is being rebalanced from the bottom up.Quentin is Joined by Co-Founder & CEO of Axle Energy - Karl Bach. Over the conversation they cover:From load to resource: How electrification of heating, cooling, and transport is transforming grid demand into flexible capacity.Virtual power plants in action: What it takes to orchestrate hundreds of thousands of distributed devices across diverse asset classes.Consumer value meets system need: Why aligning grid requirements with consumer benefit is critical to unlocking participation.The platform model: How software intermediaries are enabling hardware providers and energy retailers to enter flexibility markets.Distributed flexibility as capex-light infrastructure: Why aggregating existing assets may offer faster returns than building new ones.About our guest:Karl Bach is the co-founder and CEO of Axle Energy, a platform that enables distributed energy assets - from EVs and heat pumps to residential batteries, to participate in electricity and flexibility markets. With over a gigawatt of connected capacity, Axle works behind the scenes to optimise assets and unlock value for hardware providers, energy suppliers, and the grid. Karl brings a systems-level perspective to the conversation, shaped by experience at the intersection of energy markets, technology, and scalable software infrastructure. For more information, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As electricity systems decarbonise, the nature of flexibility is fundamentally shifting. Where grid operators once relied on fossil fuel generation to follow demand, today's energy systems are increasingly turning to the demand side for flexibility. With more electric vehicles, heat pumps, and behind-the-meter batteries connecting to the grid every day, the potential for distributed assets to support reliability and earn revenue, is rapidly growing.But tapping into that flexibility at scale is no small task. It requires coordination, intelligent optimisation, and a clear route into energy markets. In this episode of Transmission, we explore how software platforms are making it possible to turn thousands of individual devices into aggregated resources that respond dynamically to grid needs. From flexibility markets and revenue stacking to the evolving role of energy suppliers and the economics of decentralised participation, this conversation breaks down how the grid is being rebalanced from the bottom up.Quentin is Joined by Co-Founder & CEO of Axle Energy - Karl Bach. Over the conversation they cover:From load to resource: How electrification of heating, cooling, and transport is transforming grid demand into flexible capacity.Virtual power plants in action: What it takes to orchestrate hundreds of thousands of distributed devices across diverse asset classes.Consumer value meets system need: Why aligning grid requirements with consumer benefit is critical to unlocking participation.The platform model: How software intermediaries are enabling hardware providers and energy retailers to enter flexibility markets.Distributed flexibility as capex-light infrastructure: Why aggregating existing assets may offer faster returns than building new ones.About our guest:Karl Bach is the co-founder and CEO of Axle Energy, a platform that enables distributed energy assets - from EVs and heat pumps to residential batteries, to participate in electricity and flexibility markets. With over a gigawatt of connected capacity, Axle works behind the scenes to optimise assets and unlock value for hardware providers, energy suppliers, and the grid. Karl brings a systems-level perspective to the conversation, shaped by experience at the intersection of energy markets, technology, and scalable software infrastructure. For more information, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As Europe's energy markets become more volatile and complex, the role of trading and optimisation is evolving fast. Real-time weather data, cross-border constraints, and fluctuating renewable output have made flexibility more valuable than ever, but also harder to manage. In this new environment, the line between asset optimisation and active trading is blurring, and originators are increasingly expected to deliver not just access to market, but strategy, risk management, and scale.In this episode of Transmission, we explore how the worlds of origination, power trading, and asset management are converging. From route-to-market agreements and co-located batteries to the rise of algorithmic trading platforms and 24/7 market operations, this conversation offers a window into the growing sophistication of Europe's energy traders and what it takes to stay ahead in a data-driven, weather-dependent system.In this episode, we cover:What energy origination really looks like today: How the role has shifted from pure offtake to strategic optimisation and deep market involvement.The growing complexity of trading: Why algorithmic strategies, intraday market moves, and volatility are changing the way energy companies operate.Battery storage and co-location models: How different asset types are managed across multiple markets, and how to adapt trading strategies.Scaling up software and teams: From startup environments to major trading desks.What makes a good offtake partner in 2025: Why trust, systems integration, and risk-sharing now matter more than ever.About our guestRimshah Javed is part of the origination team at Danske Commodities, one of Europe's largest energy trading houses. With a background in software, route-to-market strategy, and storage commercialisation, Rimshah brings experience from both startup and institutional energy environments. Before joining Danske Commodities, she helped build and scale optimisation offerings for standalone and co-located battery assets, giving her a unique perspective on how flexibility is monetised in today's dynamic energy markets.Danske Commodities is a leading European energy trading company, active in power and gas markets across more than 40 countries. Founded in Denmark, the company specialises in short-term trading, asset optimisation, and balancing services, helping integrate renewables and manage market volatility across the energy system. For more information on What they do, head to the website. https://danskecommodities.com/About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work. https://modoenergy.com/

As Europe's energy markets become more volatile and complex, the role of trading and optimisation is evolving fast. Real-time weather data, cross-border constraints, and fluctuating renewable output have made flexibility more valuable than ever, but also harder to manage. In this new environment, the line between asset optimisation and active trading is blurring, and originators are increasingly expected to deliver not just access to market, but strategy, risk management, and scale.In this episode of Transmission, we explore how the worlds of origination, power trading, and asset management are converging. From route-to-market agreements and co-located batteries to the rise of algorithmic trading platforms and 24/7 market operations, this conversation offers a window into the growing sophistication of Europe's energy traders and what it takes to stay ahead in a data-driven, weather-dependent system.In this episode, we cover:What energy origination really looks like today: How the role has shifted from pure offtake to strategic optimisation and deep market involvement.The growing complexity of trading: Why algorithmic strategies, intraday market moves, and volatility are changing the way energy companies operate.Battery storage and co-location models: How different asset types are managed across multiple markets, and how to adapt trading strategies.Scaling up software and teams: From startup environments to major trading desks.What makes a good offtake partner in 2025: Why trust, systems integration, and risk-sharing now matter more than ever.About our guestRimshah Javed is part of the origination team at Danske Commodities, one of Europe's largest energy trading houses. With a background in software, route-to-market strategy, and storage commercialisation, Rimshah brings experience from both startup and institutional energy environments. Before joining Danske Commodities, she helped build and scale optimisation offerings for standalone and co-located battery assets, giving her a unique perspective on how flexibility is monetised in today's dynamic energy markets.Danske Commodities is a leading European energy trading company, active in power and gas markets across more than 40 countries. Founded in Denmark, the company specialises in short-term trading, asset optimisation, and balancing services, helping integrate renewables and manage market volatility across the energy system. For more information on What they do, head to the website.

When it comes to battery storage deployment in Europe, most of the attention has been focused on familiar markets like the UK, Germany, and southern Europe. But in the background, a quieter shift has been taking place in the Nordics - one that's now starting to accelerate.Long seen as too stable, too hydro-dominated, or simply too slow, the Nordic markets were largely overlooked by early battery investors. Yet growing volatility, falling capex, and the evolving needs of a decarbonising grid have started to change the picture.In this episode of Transmission, we explore what's driving battery investment in Sweden, Finland, and beyond. From market signals and dispatch dynamics to cross-border optimisation and grid readiness, this conversation offers a window into a part of the European market that's now waking up and scaling fast. Quentin speaks with Nicklas Bäcker, Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer at Ingrid Capacity. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Why the Nordics were initially overlooked: How the prevalence of dispatchable hydro capacity led many investors to undervalue the incremental role of batteries in grid flexibility.Shifting storage economics: How declining capex, increased price volatility, and evolving ancillary service markets have improved the commercial viability of BESS in the region.Scaling rapidly in a new market: Insights into how more than €250 million was raised to deliver more than 200 MW of battery capacity within a compressed timeframe.Complementing hydro with fast-response assets: Why batteries offer unique value even in hydro-heavy systems. From frequency control to short-duration balancing and market arbitrage.A cross-border approach to Nordic flexibility: How project developers are expanding into Finland and other markets, and what differentiates the Nordic power system in a European context.About our guest:Nicklas Bäcker is Chief Strategy Officer at Ingrid Capacity, one of the fastest-growing battery storage platforms in Northern Europe. With a background in energy markets and infrastructure strategy, Nicklas plays a key role in shaping the company's growth across Sweden, Finland, and other European markets. Ingrid Capacity currently operates over 200 MW/MWh of battery storage, with an additional 200 MW/MWh under construction—positioning it as a first mover in delivering large-scale flexibility to the Nordic grid. Nicklas brings strategic insight into project development, market entry, and the role of storage in accelerating electrification across Europe. For more information on Ingrid Capacity, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

When it comes to battery storage deployment in Europe, most of the attention has been focused on familiar markets like the UK, Germany, and southern Europe. But in the background, a quieter shift has been taking place in the Nordics - one that's now starting to accelerate.Long seen as too stable, too hydro-dominated, or simply too slow, the Nordic markets were largely overlooked by early battery investors. Yet growing volatility, falling capex, and the evolving needs of a decarbonising grid have started to change the picture.In this episode of Transmission, we explore what's driving battery investment in Sweden, Finland, and beyond. From market signals and dispatch dynamics to cross-border optimisation and grid readiness, this conversation offers a window into a part of the European market that's now waking up and scaling fast. Quentin speaks with Nicklas Bäcker, Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer at Ingrid Capacity. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Why the Nordics were initially overlooked: How the prevalence of dispatchable hydro capacity led many investors to undervalue the incremental role of batteries in grid flexibility.Shifting storage economics: How declining capex, increased price volatility, and evolving ancillary service markets have improved the commercial viability of BESS in the region.Scaling rapidly in a new market: Insights into how more than €250 million was raised to deliver more than 200 MW of battery capacity within a compressed timeframe.Complementing hydro with fast-response assets: Why batteries offer unique value even in hydro-heavy systems. From frequency control to short-duration balancing and market arbitrage.A cross-border approach to Nordic flexibility: How project developers are expanding into Finland and other markets, and what differentiates the Nordic power system in a European context.About our guest:Nicklas Bäcker is Chief Strategy Officer at Ingrid Capacity, one of the fastest-growing battery storage platforms in Northern Europe. With a background in energy markets and infrastructure strategy, Nicklas plays a key role in shaping the company's growth across Sweden, Finland, and other European markets. Ingrid Capacity currently operates over 200 MW/MWh of battery storage, with an additional 200 MW/MWh under construction—positioning it as a first mover in delivering large-scale flexibility to the Nordic grid. Nicklas brings strategic insight into project development, market entry, and the role of storage in accelerating electrification across Europe. For more information on Ingrid Capacity, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As battery storage continues to scale, the commercial and legal frameworks behind each project are becoming more sophisticated and more critical to long-term success. From merchant risk and revenue sharing to tolling agreements and long-term partnerships, the legal foundations of battery projects are becoming just as important as the technical ones.

What are tolling models and how are they being used to share risk? How are contracts adapting to new market realities, and what should developers and investors look for when structuring battery deals in volatile or policy-driven markets?

In this episode of Transmission, we're joined by Louise Dalton, a partner in the Energy & Infrastructure team at CMS, and one of the UK's leading legal experts on battery storage.In this episode, we cover:Tolling agreements in battery storage: What they are, how they're used, and why they're gaining traction across merchant-heavy markets.Managing risk through contracts: How legal structures are being used to distribute volatility between developers, operators, and offtakers.Market change and contract flexibility: How deals are being designed to respond to evolving market conditions without breaking down.Revenue certainty vs. upside potential: Balancing risk and return in a maturing but still fast-moving storage landscape.The evolution of the legal landscape: How storage contracts have changed over the past decade and what's still missing from many standard structures.About our guest:Louise Dalton is a partner at CMS, an international law firm, where she specialises in energy and infrastructure transactions. She has worked on some of the UK's most high-profile battery storage deals and plays an active role in industry development through initiatives like WiNES (Women in New Energy Storage). For more information on CMS, head to their website.

As battery storage continues to scale, the commercial and legal frameworks behind each project are becoming more sophisticated and more critical to long-term success. From merchant risk and revenue sharing to tolling agreements and long-term partnerships, the legal foundations of battery projects are becoming just as important as the technical ones.

What are tolling models and how are they being used to share risk? How are contracts adapting to new market realities, and what should developers and investors look for when structuring battery deals in volatile or policy-driven markets?

In this episode of Transmission, we're joined by Louise Dalton, a partner in the Energy & Infrastructure team at CMS, and one of the UK's leading legal experts on battery storage.In this episode, we cover:Tolling agreements in battery storage: What they are, how they're used, and why they're gaining traction across merchant-heavy markets.Managing risk through contracts: How legal structures are being used to distribute volatility between developers, operators, and offtakers.Market change and contract flexibility: How deals are being designed to respond to evolving market conditions without breaking down.Revenue certainty vs. upside potential: Balancing risk and return in a maturing but still fast-moving storage landscape.The evolution of the legal landscape: How storage contracts have changed over the past decade and what's still missing from many standard structures.About our guest:

Louise Dalton is a partner at CMS, an international law firm, where she specialises in energy and infrastructure transactions. She has worked on some of the UK's most high-profile battery storage deals and plays an active role in industry development through initiatives like WiNES (Women in New Energy Storage). For more information on CMS, head to their website.

As electricity demand rises and more renewables connect to the grid, transmission infrastructure is under pressure like never before. Building new lines takes time, but what if we could unlock more capacity from the ones we already have?Dynamic line ratings (DLR) are offering a smarter, faster path to grid optimisation. Harnessing AI-powered software enables transmission system operators to monitor real-time environmental conditions and safely increase the capacity of overhead lines. By replacing conservative static ratings with live data, DLR allows grid operators to unlock headroom, defer capital expenditure, and accelerate the integration of clean energy, all without adding new steel to the ground.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with Georg Rute, CEO and co-founder of Gridraven, to explore how dynamic line ratings. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about: What dynamic line ratings are: How real-time monitoring of ambient conditions can safely increase the power-carrying capacity of existing transmission lines.-Why traditional ratings fall short: The limitations of static line ratings and the inefficiencies they introduce to grid operations.How Gridraven's platform works: From weather modelling to digital twins and software-defined infrastructure.Scaling and system integration: How DLR fits into the broader landscape of grid optimisation and where it's already delivering value.Why this matters now: As electrification and renewables drive transmission bottlenecks globally, DLR offers a rare chance to gain capacity quickly without breaking ground.About our guest:Georg Rute is CEO and co-founder of Gridraven, a startup using AI-powered tools to optimise power transmission infrastructure. With a background in grid planning and digital innovation, Georg leads Gridraven's mission to deliver smarter, data-driven solutions to transmission system operators across Europe and beyond. For more information on what Gridraven do - head to their website. https://www.gridraven.com/

As electricity demand rises and more renewables connect to the grid, transmission infrastructure is under pressure like never before. Building new lines takes time, but what if we could unlock more capacity from the ones we already have?Dynamic line ratings (DLR) are offering a smarter, faster path to grid optimisation. Harnessing AI-powered software enables transmission system operators to monitor real-time environmental conditions and safely increase the capacity of overhead lines. By replacing conservative static ratings with live data, DLR allows grid operators to unlock headroom, defer capital expenditure, and accelerate the integration of clean energy, all without adding new steel to the ground.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with Georg Rute, CEO and co-founder of Gridraven, to explore how dynamic line ratings. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about: What dynamic line ratings are: How real-time monitoring of ambient conditions can safely increase the power-carrying capacity of existing transmission lines.-Why traditional ratings fall short: The limitations of static line ratings and the inefficiencies they introduce to grid operations.How Gridraven's platform works: From weather modelling to digital twins and software-defined infrastructure.Scaling and system integration: How DLR fits into the broader landscape of grid optimisation and where it's already delivering value.Why this matters now: As electrification and renewables drive transmission bottlenecks globally, DLR offers a rare chance to gain capacity quickly without breaking ground.About our guest:Georg Rute is CEO and co-founder of Gridraven, a startup using AI-powered tools to optimise power transmission infrastructure. With a background in grid planning and digital innovation, Georg leads Gridraven's mission to deliver smarter, data-driven solutions to transmission system operators across Europe and beyond. For more information on what Gridraven do - head to their website. https://www.gridraven.com/

Australia has long been a global leader in residential solar adoption, with more than three million households now generating electricity from rooftop panels. This remarkable uptake has transformed how energy is produced and consumed at the household level, positioning Australia at the forefront of distributed energy.But while rooftop solar has become mainstream, the next frontier of the energy transition. Widespread adoption of home battery storage is still in its early stages. As energy markets evolve, the value of grid exports is changing and resilience is becoming increasingly important and home batteries play a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of distributed energy systems. To truly scale domestic storage, new models for ownership and financing are emerging. Shifting the conversation from technology to access. In this episode, we explore what's driving demand for household batteries, what's holding it back, and how smart coordination of home energy systems could transform both household economics and grid outcomes.In this episode of Transmission, Wendel is joined by Jess Padman, Director of Energy Products at the National Renewable Network (NRN). Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:What's behind the rise in household batteries? From feed-in tariff reductions to energy independence and resilience, what's driving demand.The barriers to widespread adoption: Upfront cost, policy lag, and a fragmented supplier landscape.New ownership and financing models for batteries: Why access, not just technology, is key to scaling domestic storage.The role of smart coordination in the home: Coordinating solar, batteries, and appliances to maximise value for households and the grid.Australia as a testbed for residential energy innovation: How policy, culture, and infrastructure have created one of the world's most dynamic residential energy markets.About our guestJess Padman is Director of Energy Products at the National Renewable Network (NRN). With a background in distributed energy, solar programs, and product development, Jess focuses on bringing smart, scalable solutions to the residential energy market, helping more Australians access the benefits of rooftop solar and battery storage.

Australia has long been a global leader in residential solar adoption, with more than three million households now generating electricity from rooftop panels. This remarkable uptake has transformed how energy is produced and consumed at the household level, positioning Australia at the forefront of distributed energy.But while rooftop solar has become mainstream, the next frontier of the energy transition. Widespread adoption of home battery storage is still in its early stages. As energy markets evolve, the value of grid exports is changing and resilience is becoming increasingly important and home batteries play a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of distributed energy systems. To truly scale domestic storage, new models for ownership and financing are emerging. Shifting the conversation from technology to access. In this episode, we explore what's driving demand for household batteries, what's holding it back, and how smart coordination of home energy systems could transform both household economics and grid outcomes.In this episode of Transmission, Wendel is joined by Jess Padman, Director of Energy Products at the National Renewable Network (NRN). Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:What's behind the rise in household batteries? From feed-in tariff reductions to energy independence and resilience, what's driving demand.The barriers to widespread adoption: Upfront cost, policy lag, and a fragmented supplier landscape.New ownership and financing models for batteries: Why access, not just technology, is key to scaling domestic storage.The role of smart coordination in the home: Coordinating solar, batteries, and appliances to maximise value for households and the grid.Australia as a testbed for residential energy innovation: How policy, culture, and infrastructure have created one of the world's most dynamic residential energy markets.About our guestJess Padman is Director of Energy Products at the National Renewable Network (NRN). With a background in distributed energy, solar programs, and product development, Jess focuses on bringing smart, scalable solutions to the residential energy market—helping more Australians access the benefits of rooftop solar and battery storage.

Behind every battery system that comes online is a hidden world of engineering, integration, and performance management. Getting a site up and running is only the beginning - keeping it safe, efficient, and profitable over time is where the real challenge begins. As investment in storage accelerates, the process from a blueprint to bankable asset remains a demanding process, especially at utility scale.What does it take to deploy and operate large-scale battery projects successfully? In this episode, we unpack the overlooked realities of BESS integration, from hidden operational risks to the processes that keep these systems running at full performance.Quentin is joined by Zach Vosburg, Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Flexgen. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Integration 101: Why battery projects involve more than just stacking containers and switching them on.Commissioning bottlenecks and technical handovers: What tends to go wrong and how teams resolve it.Lifecycle support in storage: The difference between getting a site to COD and keeping it profitable five years later.Control software and data layers: How visibility, automation, and preventative diagnostics are shaping BESS operations.Lessons learned: The most common mistakes made during battery deployment and how the sector is learning to avoid them.About our guestZach Vosburg is Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Flexgen, where he works across engineering, analytics, and software implementation to support the long-term performance of battery assets across multiple U.S. markets.FlexGen specializes in integrating battery systems with traditional and renewable power sources, offering advanced energy management solutions, including its HybridOS platform. The company focuses on optimizing energy storage performance, ensuring grid reliability, and supporting the transition to sustainable energy. for more information on what FlexGen do, head to their website.

Behind every battery system that comes online is a hidden world of engineering, integration, and performance management. Getting a site up and running is only the beginning - keeping it safe, efficient, and profitable over time is where the real challenge begins. As investment in storage accelerates, the process from a blueprint to bankable asset remains a demanding process, especially at utility scale.What does it take to deploy and operate large-scale battery projects successfully? In this episode, we unpack the overlooked realities of BESS integration, from hidden operational risks to the processes that keep these systems running at full performance.Quentin is joined by Zach Vosburg, Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Flexgen. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Integration 101: Why battery projects involve more than just stacking containers and switching them on.Commissioning bottlenecks and technical handovers: What tends to go wrong and how teams resolve it.Lifecycle support in storage: The difference between getting a site to COD and keeping it profitable five years later.Control software and data layers: How visibility, automation, and preventative diagnostics are shaping BESS operations.Lessons learned: The most common mistakes made during battery deployment and how the sector is learning to avoid them.About our guestZach Vosburg is Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Flexgen, where he works across engineering, analytics, and software implementation to support the long-term performance of battery assets across multiple U.S. markets.FlexGen specializes in integrating battery systems with traditional and renewable power sources, offering advanced energy management solutions, including its HybridOS platform. The company focuses on optimizing energy storage performance, ensuring grid reliability, and supporting the transition to sustainable energy. for more information on what FlexGen do, head to their website.

As battery energy storage systems scale up, so do the risks. For insurers, developers, and investors, understanding how to manage those risks has never been more important. From fire events like Moss Landing to the evolving role of insurance across development, construction, and operations, the way insurers are underwriting storage is changing fast.In this episode we unpack how the insurance world is thinking about batteries, exploring how risk is priced, what underwriters look for in new technologies, and why insurability is becoming a key commercial consideration for project developers. Whether you're securing project finance, evaluating warranties, or just navigating changing industry expectations, this conversation is packed with insight from someone working at the frontier of energy infrastructure risk.In this episode of Transmission, Ed is joined by Michael Bogdon, Partner at Lockton. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Moss Landing and fire risk: What recent high-profile battery failures tell us about risk and how the industry is adapting.Insurance across the asset lifecycle: From development through to operations, how risk profiles evolve and what coverage actually looks like.Bankability and risk transfer: Why insurance is now a core part of making projects financeable and what's driving underwriter decision-making.Emerging tech and evolving standards: How insurers approach new chemistries, control systems, and unfamiliar manufacturers.The future of battery insurability: What needs to change, from data access to design practices to make large-scale storage lower risk and more cost-effective.About our guestMichael Bogdon is a Partner at Lockton, where he specialises in insurance and risk advisory for renewable energy and energy storage projects. With a background in structuring coverage for complex infrastructure assets, Michael works closely with developers, investors, and insurers to ensure that clean energy projects are bankable, resilient, and ready to scale.Lockton is the world's largest privately held insurance brokerage, providing tailored risk management, insurance, and employee benefits solutions. With deep expertise in energy and infrastructure, Lockton advises developers, investors, and operators on how to structure coverage for complex assets—including renewable energy and battery storage projects. For more information, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As battery energy storage systems scale up, so do the risks. For insurers, developers, and investors, understanding how to manage those risks has never been more important. From fire events like Moss Landing to the evolving role of insurance across development, construction, and operations, the way insurers are underwriting storage is changing fast.In this episode we unpack how the insurance world is thinking about batteries, exploring how risk is priced, what underwriters look for in new technologies, and why insurability is becoming a key commercial consideration for project developers. Whether you're securing project finance, evaluating warranties, or just navigating changing industry expectations, this conversation is packed with insight from someone working at the frontier of energy infrastructure risk.In this episode of Transmission, Ed is joined by Michael Bogdon, Partner at Lockton. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Moss Landing and fire risk: What recent high-profile battery failures tell us about risk and how the industry is adapting.Insurance across the asset lifecycle: From development through to operations, how risk profiles evolve and what coverage actually looks like.Bankability and risk transfer: Why insurance is now a core part of making projects financeable and what's driving underwriter decision-making.Emerging tech and evolving standards: How insurers approach new chemistries, control systems, and unfamiliar manufacturers.The future of battery insurability: What needs to change, from data access to design practices to make large-scale storage lower risk and more cost-effective.About our guestMichael Bogdon is a Partner at Lockton, where he specialises in insurance and risk advisory for renewable energy and energy storage projects. With a background in structuring coverage for complex infrastructure assets, Michael works closely with developers, investors, and insurers to ensure that clean energy projects are bankable, resilient, and ready to scale.Lockton is the world's largest privately held insurance brokerage, providing tailored risk management, insurance, and employee benefits solutions. With deep expertise in energy and infrastructure, Lockton advises developers, investors, and operators on how to structure coverage for complex assets—including renewable energy and battery storage projects. For more information, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

From arbitraging volatility and unlocking grid stability, battery energy storage is playing an increasingly central role in power markets. But even the most well optimized units can fall short of their potential if one key metric is off: state of charge (SOC). Get it wrong, even slightly, and the revenue losses can be staggering.State of charge is hard to measure accurately - errors can compound over time, and what operators do to improve performance can make huge differences in profitability. Whether you're an asset owner, optimiser, or just want to understand the real-world constraints behind battery revenue models, this conversation is packed with detail and lessons that could change how you think about storage strategy.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with Blake Rector, Director of Markets and Optimization at Powin explore the nuances of SOC. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Why state of charge matters: How even a 1% error in SOC estimation can significantly reduce revenue from energy trading and grid services.Operational vs. theoretical capacity: The difference between nameplate and usable capacity, and why operators often leave value on the table.Forecasting and dispatch constraints: Why better SOC management means more flexibility and higher earnings in volatile markets.Hardware vs. software approaches to SOC: What Powin has learned about algorithmic improvements, calibration strategies, and real-time feedback loops.Powin's scale and strategy: With 17 GWh online or under construction, what's next for one of America's fastest-growing battery OEMs?About our guestBlake Rector is Director of Markets and Optimization at Powin, where he leads the company's efforts to maximise the performance and revenue of battery energy storage systems across multiple markets. With a background in energy markets, analytics, and operational strategy, Blake focuses on the interface between algorithmic control, asset health, and market opportunity.Powin is a U.S. based global energy storage platform provider specializing in fully integrated, utility-scale battery energy storage systems. With over 17 GWh of systems deployed or under construction worldwide, Powin delivers scalable solutions that enable the transition to clean, reliable, and affordable energy. For more information, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

From arbitraging volatility and unlocking grid stability, battery energy storage is playing an increasingly central role in power markets. But even the most well optimized units can fall short of their potential if one key metric is off: state of charge (SOC). Get it wrong, even slightly, and the revenue losses can be staggering.State of charge is hard to measure accurately - errors can compound over time, and what operators do to improve performance can make huge differences in profitability. Whether you're an asset owner, optimiser, or just want to understand the real-world constraints behind battery revenue models, this conversation is packed with detail and lessons that could change how you think about storage strategy.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with Blake Rector, Director of Markets and Optimization at Powin explore the nuances of SOC. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Why state of charge matters: How even a 1% error in SOC estimation can significantly reduce revenue from energy trading and grid services.Operational vs. theoretical capacity: The difference between nameplate and usable capacity, and why operators often leave value on the table.Forecasting and dispatch constraints: Why better SOC management means more flexibility and higher earnings in volatile markets.Hardware vs. software approaches to SOC: What Powin has learned about algorithmic improvements, calibration strategies, and real-time feedback loops.Powin's scale and strategy: With 17 GWh online or under construction, what's next for one of America's fastest-growing battery OEMs?About our guestBlake Rector is Director of Markets and Optimization at Powin, where he leads the company's efforts to maximise the performance and revenue of battery energy storage systems across multiple markets. With a background in energy markets, analytics, and operational strategy, Blake focuses on the interface between algorithmic control, asset health, and market opportunity.Powin is a U.S. based global energy storage platform provider specializing in fully integrated, utility-scale battery energy storage systems. With over 17 GWh of systems deployed or under construction worldwide, Powin delivers scalable solutions that enable the transition to clean, reliable, and affordable energy. For more information, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the energy transition in Australia and New Zealand accelerates, the ability to develop, finance, and operate renewable energy projects is becoming increasingly complex. Success now demands more than technical delivery, it requires a deep understanding of market risk, community engagement, and long-term asset management.From battery storage financing to the growing importance of social license, this episode explores navigating risk, engaging communities, and why having a long-term view matters more than ever, as Australia navigates away from the traditional model of centralised coal and gas toward a more renewables centred generation stack.In this episode of Transmission, Wendel joined by Dennis Freedman, Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand at Aquila Clean Energy. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Aquila Clean Energy's approach to battery storage: Why being comfortable with merchant risk is vital and how the debt market's view on batteries is changing.The challenge of modelling batteries vs. wind and solar: Why volatility and spread are what matter for storage revenues.Australia vs. New Zealand: Comparing two very different energy systems, from hydro dominance to nodal pricing structures.Social license and misinformation: Why community engagement is becoming the biggest challenge for new projects and how developers can get it right.The future of the grid: Why replacing coal requires not just generation, but massive investment in transmission and why politics is increasingly slowing the transition.Mentioned in the episodeDennis is a member of the Clean Energy Council, if you would like to learn more about the CEC, head over to their website. About our guestDennis Freedman is Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand at Aquila Clean Energy, where he oversees the development, construction, and operation of renewable and storage projects across the region. With nearly 20 years of experience in the energy industry, Dennis brings a long-term perspective to market risk, community engagement, and what it really takes to scale clean energy infrastructure.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the energy transition in Australia and New Zealand accelerates, the ability to develop, finance, and operate renewable energy projects is becoming increasingly complex. Success now demands more than technical delivery, it requires a deep understanding of market risk, community engagement, and long-term asset management.From battery storage financing to the growing importance of social license, this episode explores navigating risk, engaging communities, and why having a long-term view matters more than ever, as Australia navigates away from the traditional model of centralised coal and gas toward a more renewables centred generation stack.In this episode of Transmission, Wendel joined by Dennis Freedman, Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand at Aquila Clean Energy. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:Aquila Clean Energy's approach to battery storage: Why being comfortable with merchant risk is vital and how the debt market's view on batteries is changing.The challenge of modelling batteries vs. wind and solar: Why volatility and spread are what matter for storage revenues.Australia vs. New Zealand: Comparing two very different energy systems, from hydro dominance to nodal pricing structures.Social license and misinformation: Why community engagement is becoming the biggest challenge for new projects and how developers can get it right.The future of the grid: Why replacing coal requires not just generation, but massive investment in transmission and why politics is increasingly slowing the transition.Mentioned in the episodeDennis is a member of the Clean Energy Council, if you would like to learn more about the CEC, head over to their website. About our guestDennis Freedman is Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand at Aquila Clean Energy, where he oversees the development, construction, and operation of renewable and storage projects across the region. With nearly 20 years of experience in the energy industry, Dennis brings a long-term perspective to market risk, community engagement, and what it really takes to scale clean energy infrastructure.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Battery storage has quickly moved from a niche technology to a core pillar of the energy transition. But one big question has remained: when will the world's largest banks fully get behind it? And what will it take for battery projects to attract long-term, large-scale financial backing?How are market structures, price signals, and contract innovations shaping the future of battery investment? And what do developers, asset owners, and market participants need to understand as the sector matures?In this episode of Transmission, Quentin is joined by Bryan Long, Executive Director at JP Morgan, to explore how major banks are approaching battery storage. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:The evolution of the US power markets: How market structures have enabled huge investment in renewables and what's changing as load growth accelerates.The tipping point for batteries: Why banks like JP Morgan are now engaging in battery storage and what portfolio scale means for financing.Battery portfolios vs. single assets: How portfolio effects smooth returns, de-risk projects, and open new hedging strategies.Forward hedging for batteries: Why linking short-term battery operations with long-term forward markets is the next step for financial maturity.The rise of new trading products: How market participants are pricing volatility, risk, and revenue certainty across high and low-demand periods.US vs. European market dynamics: How the US remains the global leader in sending investable price signals and what Europe can learn as it faces its own transition challenges.About our guestBryan Long is Executive Director at JP Morgan, specialising in power markets, commodity risk management, and structured energy products. With a background spanning real-time trading, renewables origination, and large-scale hedging strategies, Bryan helps clients navigate the evolving landscape of US energy markets—and build resilience as the grid transitions toward more flexible, renewable systems.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Battery storage has quickly moved from a niche technology to a core pillar of the energy transition. But one big question has remained: when will the world's largest banks fully get behind it? And what will it take for battery projects to attract long-term, large-scale financial backing?How are market structures, price signals, and contract innovations shaping the future of battery investment? And what do developers, asset owners, and market participants need to understand as the sector matures?In this episode of Transmission, Quentin is joined by Bryan Long, Executive Director at JP Morgan, to explore how major banks are approaching battery storage. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:The evolution of the US power markets: How market structures have enabled huge investment in renewables and what's changing as load growth accelerates.The tipping point for batteries: Why banks like JP Morgan are now engaging in battery storage and what portfolio scale means for financing.Battery portfolios vs. single assets: How portfolio effects smooth returns, de-risk projects, and open new hedging strategies.Forward hedging for batteries: Why linking short-term battery operations with long-term forward markets is the next step for financial maturity.The rise of new trading products: How market participants are pricing volatility, risk, and revenue certainty across high and low-demand periods.US vs. European market dynamics: How the US remains the global leader in sending investable price signals and what Europe can learn as it faces its own transition challenges.About our guestBryan Long is Executive Director at JP Morgan, specialising in power markets, commodity risk management, and structured energy products. With a background spanning real-time trading, renewables origination, and large-scale hedging strategies, Bryan helps clients navigate the evolving landscape of US energy markets—and build resilience as the grid transitions toward more flexible, renewable systems.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Retail energy may seem like a simple business on the surface. Sell electricity, serve customers - but behind the scenes, it's anything but. Every household bill is backed by a series of decisions: how to hedge supply, when to lock in prices, and how to manage risk across millions of customers. As volatility increases and decarbonisation accelerates, the pressure on energy retailers to get those decisions right is only growing.In this episode of Transmission, Ed speaks with Gethin Musk, Head of Trading at OVO, one of the UK's leading energy suppliers. Gethin gives a behind-the-scenes look at how retail portfolios are managed, why hedging is such a delicate balancing act, and how flexibility assets like batteries might reshape the future of consumer energy costs. Throughout the conversation, you'll hear about: The fundamentals of retail hedging: What does it actually take to hedge a retail book and why is it more complicated than it looks?Managing customer risk: How retailers like OVO protect their customers from price shocks, and what happens when volatility spikes.The role of batteries in supply portfolios: Are flexible assets like storage a viable tool for smoothing retail exposure?Innovation vs. margin pressure: How retailers are navigating the tension between net zero ambitions and competitive pricing.Working in trading: Gethin shares what skills matter most, how his team is structured, and advice for those looking to enter energy trading from non-traditional backgrounds.About our GuestGethin Musk is Head of Trading at OVO, where he oversees the company's wholesale energy procurement and risk management strategies. With a background spanning utilities, trading, and market operations, he plays a key role in ensuring OVO's retail portfolio stays resilient, cost-effective, and aligned with the broader energy transition. For more information, head to the OVO website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Retail energy may seem like a simple business on the surface. Sell electricity, serve customers - but behind the scenes, it's anything but. Every household bill is backed by a series of decisions: how to hedge supply, when to lock in prices, and how to manage risk across millions of customers. As volatility increases and decarbonisation accelerates, the pressure on energy retailers to get those decisions right is only growing.In this episode of Transmission, Ed speaks with Gethin Musk, Head of Trading at OVO, one of the UK's leading energy suppliers. Gethin gives a behind-the-scenes look at how retail portfolios are managed, why hedging is such a delicate balancing act, and how flexibility assets like batteries might reshape the future of consumer energy costs. Throughout the conversation, you'll hear about: The fundamentals of retail hedging: What does it actually take to hedge a retail book and why is it more complicated than it looks?Managing customer risk: How retailers like OVO protect their customers from price shocks, and what happens when volatility spikes.The role of batteries in supply portfolios: Are flexible assets like storage a viable tool for smoothing retail exposure?Innovation vs. margin pressure: How retailers are navigating the tension between net zero ambitions and competitive pricing.Working in trading: Gethin shares what skills matter most, how his team is structured, and advice for those looking to enter energy trading from non-traditional backgrounds.About our GuestGethin Musk is Head of Trading at OVO, where he oversees the company's wholesale energy procurement and risk management strategies. With a background spanning utilities, trading, and market operations, he plays a key role in ensuring OVO's retail portfolio stays resilient, cost-effective, and aligned with the broader energy transition. For more information, head to the OVO website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As artificial intelligence reshapes every sector, its impact on energy markets is only just beginning to unfold. From smarter forecasts to autonomous trading, AI is opening new doors for market access, optimisation, and commercial participation.What does it take to go from hype to real-world performance? How can AI lower barriers for new entrants, and how are platforms like Gridmatic helping to automate the complexity of trading in volatile markets? Whether you're an asset owner, trader, or just curious about how automation is changing the energy landscape, today we're unpacking where AI is heading and what that means for the future of power market participation.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with David Miller, VP of Business Development at Gridmatic, to unpack what AI really means in a power market context. Over the conversation you'll hear about:• What AI actually does in power markets: Beyond the buzzwords, David walks through the core functions of Gridmatic's AI - from forecasting to bidding to real-time optimisation.• Access vs. optimisation: Why some market participants struggle just to get in the door and how AI can streamline onboarding, participation, and profitability.• Volatility and opportunity: As market spreads become more dynamic, AI-driven strategies are proving especially valuable for batteries and flexible assets.• Trusting the black box: What does it take for asset owners to feel confident letting an algorithm take the wheel?• AI vs. traditional strategies: Why Gridmatic sees its advantage in consistently adapting to changing price signals and operational constraints faster than human traders can.About our guestDavid Miller is Vice President of Business Development at Gridmatic, a US-based AI-powered energy trading firm. With a background spanning renewable energy, commercial strategy, and digital innovation, David works closely with asset owners, developers, and market operators to unlock the full potential of autonomous trading in electricity markets. For more information on what Gridmatic do, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy terminal. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As artificial intelligence reshapes every sector, its impact on energy markets is only just beginning to unfold. From smarter forecasts to autonomous trading, AI is opening new doors for market access, optimisation, and commercial participation.What does it take to go from hype to real-world performance? How can AI lower barriers for new entrants, and how are platforms like Gridmatic helping to automate the complexity of trading in volatile markets? Whether you're an asset owner, trader, or just curious about how automation is changing the energy landscape, today we're unpacking where AI is heading and what that means for the future of power market participation.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with David Miller, VP of Business Development at Gridmatic, to unpack what AI really means in a power market context. Over the conversation you'll hear about:• What AI actually does in power markets: Beyond the buzzwords, David walks through the core functions of Gridmatic's AI - from forecasting to bidding to real-time optimisation.• Access vs. optimisation: Why some market participants struggle just to get in the door and how AI can streamline onboarding, participation, and profitability.• Volatility and opportunity: As market spreads become more dynamic, AI-driven strategies are proving especially valuable for batteries and flexible assets.• Trusting the black box: What does it take for asset owners to feel confident letting an algorithm take the wheel?• AI vs. traditional strategies: Why Gridmatic sees its advantage in consistently adapting to changing price signals and operational constraints faster than human traders can.About our guestDavid Miller is Vice President of Business Development at Gridmatic, a US-based AI-powered energy trading firm. With a background spanning renewable energy, commercial strategy, and digital innovation, David works closely with asset owners, developers, and market operators to unlock the full potential of autonomous trading in electricity markets. For more information on what Gridmatic do, head to their website.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy terminal. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As Europe's energy markets evolve, the Nordic region provides a fascinating case study. High hydro penetration, cross-border interconnections, and shifting regulatory frameworks are shaping a unique electricity market with lessons for the rest of the continent. From Sweden's shift to zonal pricing to growing debates around consumer fairness and the future role of storage, the region continues to test the boundaries of what a flexible, renewable-heavy market can look like and what it means for the rest of Europe.In this episode of Transmission, Ed is joined by Riku Merikoski, Senior Power Analyst at Axpo Group, to explore the distinct challenges and opportunities in the Nordics. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:The role of batteries in the Nordics – in a system already dominated by flexible hydro, where exactly do batteries fit in?Swedens move away from a national market in 2011 and adoption of a zonal market structure.Interconnection and integration in the region.Rethinking fairness in energy policy – who really needs support, and should subsidies extend to second homes?What the Nordics can teach the rest of Europe (and the world) about balancing renewable integration, price signals, and consumer outcomes.About our guestAxpo Group is Switzerland's largest producer of renewable energy and a leading international player in energy trading and the marketing of solar and wind power. Headquartered in Baden, the company operates across more than 30 countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, offering innovative energy solutions to industrial and commercial customers. With a diverse portfolio that includes hydropower, nuclear, biomass, and gas-fired plants, Axpo is committed to enabling a sustainable future through technological innovation and strategic investments in clean energy. For more info, head to their website.Riku Merikoski is a Senior Power Analyst at Axpo Group, specializing in Nordic and UK power market analysis within the company's fundamental analysis team. With over a decade of experience in the North European power markets, his insights have supported significant investments across major low-carbon power production technologies.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As Europe's energy markets evolve, the Nordic region provides a fascinating case study. High hydro penetration, cross-border interconnections, and shifting regulatory frameworks are shaping a unique electricity market with lessons for the rest of the continent. From Sweden's shift to zonal pricing to growing debates around consumer fairness and the future role of storage, the region continues to test the boundaries of what a flexible, renewable-heavy market can look like and what it means for the rest of Europe.In this episode of Transmission, Ed is joined by Riku Merikoski, Senior Power Analyst at Axpo Group, to explore the distinct challenges and opportunities in the Nordics. Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:The role of batteries in the Nordics – in a system already dominated by flexible hydro, where exactly do batteries fit in?Swedens move away from a national market in 2011 and adoption of a zonal market structure.Interconnection and integration in the region.Rethinking fairness in energy policy – who really needs support, and should subsidies extend to second homes?What the Nordics can teach the rest of Europe (and the world) about balancing renewable integration, price signals, and consumer outcomes.About our guestAxpo Group is Switzerland's largest producer of renewable energy and a leading international player in energy trading and the marketing of solar and wind power. Headquartered in Baden, the company operates across more than 30 countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, offering innovative energy solutions to industrial and commercial customers. With a diverse portfolio that includes hydropower, nuclear, biomass, and gas-fired plants, Axpo is committed to enabling a sustainable future through technological innovation and strategic investments in clean energy. For more info, head to their website.Riku Merikoski is a Senior Power Analyst at Axpo Group, specializing in Nordic and UK power market analysis within the company's fundamental analysis team. With over a decade of experience in the North European power markets, his insights have supported significant investments across major low-carbon power production technologies.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the energy transition accelerates, batteries are no longer just utility-scale infrastructure - they're moving into homes, neighbourhoods, and communities. Residential storage is emerging as a powerful tool for improving grid reliability, reducing electricity costs, and giving consumers more control over their energy use. This shift is being driven by falling technology costs, growing demand for backup power, and the need for faster, more flexible ways to support an increasingly electrified grid.While most attention in the battery world focuses on utility-scale systems, Base Power is scaling something different: a distributed, behind-the-meter fleet of residential batteries installed across Texas homes.Zach walks us through the business model, the reasons residential deployment is faster and more scalable than many assume, and how Base's vertically integrated strategy is unlocking both customer trust and capital efficiency. From billing and software to partnerships with utilities, the conversation unpacks what it takes to bring batteries to the grid at speed and at scale.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin is joined by Zach Dell, CEO and founder of Base Power, a fast-growing startup redefining how residential batteries are deployed and monetised in the U.S.Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:The story of Base Power and why it is focusing on distributed, behind the meter residential deployment.How Base participates in ERCOT markets and plans for ancillary services.Zach's take on cost curves, solar + storage vs nuclear, and the future of distributed energy.The role of vertical integration in reducing cost and increasing speed at every step of the process.Why more granular price signals in Texas could supercharge DER investmentAbout our guestBase Power is a Texas-based energy company pioneering a new model of home energy service by combining residential battery storage with retail electricity provision. Founded in 2023, the company aims to enhance grid reliability and affordability through a network of distributed, software-connected batteries across Texas homes. For more information on Base Power, head to their website.Zach Dell is the founder and CEO of Base Power. A Texas native with a background in finance, Zach started Base after working in New York and seeing the opportunity to accelerate battery deployment through a distributed, vertically integrated model.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the energy transition accelerates, batteries are no longer just utility-scale infrastructure - they're moving into homes, neighbourhoods, and communities. Residential storage is emerging as a powerful tool for improving grid reliability, reducing electricity costs, and giving consumers more control over their energy use. This shift is being driven by falling technology costs, growing demand for backup power, and the need for faster, more flexible ways to support an increasingly electrified grid.While most attention in the battery world focuses on utility-scale systems, Base Power is scaling something different: a distributed, behind-the-meter fleet of residential batteries installed across Texas homes.Zach walks us through the business model, the reasons residential deployment is faster and more scalable than many assume, and how Base's vertically integrated strategy is unlocking both customer trust and capital efficiency. From billing and software to partnerships with utilities, the conversation unpacks what it takes to bring batteries to the grid at speed and at scale.In this episode of Transmission, Quentin is joined by Zach Dell, CEO and founder of Base Power, a fast-growing startup redefining how residential batteries are deployed and monetised in the U.S.Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:The story of Base Power and why it is focusing on distributed, behind the meter residential deployment.How Base participates in ERCOT markets and plans for ancillary services.Zach's take on cost curves, solar + storage vs nuclear, and the future of distributed energy.The role of vertical integration in reducing cost and increasing speed at every step of the process.Why more granular price signals in Texas could supercharge DER investmentAbout our guestBase Power is a Texas-based energy company pioneering a new model of home energy service by combining residential battery storage with retail electricity provision. Founded in 2023, the company aims to enhance grid reliability and affordability through a network of distributed, software-connected batteries across Texas homes. For more information on Base Power, head to their website.Zach Dell is the founder and CEO of Base Power. A Texas native with a background in finance, Zach started Base after working in New York and seeing the opportunity to accelerate battery deployment through a distributed, vertically integrated model.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Operating a battery in Australia's National Electricity Market (NEM) is no simple task. With a five-minute dispatch interval, nodal pricing, and an energy-only market structure, success hinges on the ability to process and respond to massive amounts of data in real time. These unique market dynamics demand sophisticated strategies for battery optimization, underpinned by algorithmic bidding and advanced forecasting.As renewable penetration grows and the grid becomes more volatile, batteries are playing a pivotal role in providing fast, flexible support. But unlocking their full value requires a deep understanding of the NEM's fast-paced, data-driven environment—where every five minutes counts.In this episode, Matt Grover, Director of Sales Engineering and Energy Markets for Fluence in APAC - joins Wendel Hortop to discuss what optimization looks like in the NEM.Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:How algorithmic bidding continues to evolve in the NEM, demanding adaptability to successfully optimize batteries.Challenges faced by asset owners in managing state of charge in real time.Local dispatch prices vs. regional settlement prices in Australia.The emergence of virtual toll agreements in the NEM.The growth of battery portfolios and the challenge of co-optimization.About our guestFluence is on a mission to create a more sustainable future by transforming the way we power our world. Fluence brings proven energy storage products and services, and digital applications for renewables and storage to support the modernization of our energy networks. For more information on the services Fluence provides, check out their website.Matt leads the Energy Markets team and the Sales Engineering function within Fluence's Digital division in APAC, looking after Fluence's Mosaic software product offering and helping dozens of renewable generators and BESS assets trade in Australia's National Electricity Market.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Operating a battery in Australia's National Electricity Market (NEM) is no simple task. With a five-minute dispatch interval, nodal pricing, and an energy-only market structure, success hinges on the ability to process and respond to massive amounts of data in real time. These unique market dynamics demand sophisticated strategies for battery optimization, underpinned by algorithmic bidding and advanced forecasting.As renewable penetration grows and the grid becomes more volatile, batteries are playing a pivotal role in providing fast, flexible support. But unlocking their full value requires a deep understanding of the NEM's fast-paced, data-driven environment—where every five minutes counts.In this episode, Matt Grover, Director of Sales Engineering and Energy Markets for Fluence in APAC - joins Wendel Hortop to discuss what optimization looks like in the NEM.Over the course of the conversation, you'll hear about:How algorithmic bidding continues to evolve in the NEM, demanding adaptability to successfully optimize batteries.Challenges faced by asset owners in managing state of charge in real time.Local dispatch prices vs. regional settlement prices in Australia.The emergence of virtual toll agreements in the NEM.The growth of battery portfolios and the challenge of co-optimization.About our guestFluence is on a mission to create a more sustainable future by transforming the way we power our world. Fluence brings proven energy storage products and services, and digital applications for renewables and storage to support the modernization of our energy networks. For more information on the services Fluence provides, check out their website.Matt leads the Energy Markets team and the Sales Engineering function within Fluence's Digital division in APAC, looking after Fluence's Mosaic software product offering and helping dozens of renewable generators and BESS assets trade in Australia's National Electricity Market.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the energy transition accelerates, the landscape of start-up funding is evolving, particularly in the energy storage sector. The impact of the recent downturns and the growing complexity of the capital stack means energy start-ups need to be ahead of the curve to secure funding in an ever-changing environment.From scaling energy technologies across diverse regulatory environments to the opportunities facing climate tech entrepreneurs today, the world of venture capital is changing and so must the strategies to ensure success. In todays's episode, Philipp Emig, Senior Vice President at Picus Capital, joins Quentin to discuss how start-up get funded in the energy transition. Throughout the conversation, you'll hear about:The role of venture capital and early stage investing in climate tech and Picas Capital's focus in this.Trends in climate tech funding - from the decline in funding levels to the successes of battery and home energy control technologies.Differences between energy markets and comparisons of energy market development stages across regions.The importance of different types of investors at various stages of company growth.Grid-scale energy storage solutions and the potential for software-driven asset management in the energy sectorAbout our guestPicus Capital invest in early-stage technology ventures with a focus on energy & climate, fintech, enterprise infrastructure, generative ai, cybersecurity, healthcare, and enterprise application, specializing in Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A ventures. For more information on what Picus Capital do, check out their website.Philipp joined Picus Capital in 2021, where he focuses on energy & climate investments, as well as on pre-seed stage efforts. Prior to this, Philipp worked for McKinsey & Company in Munich and advised clients across Europe in the energy, mobility and process industry mainly on innovation, strategy and sustainability topics.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the energy transition accelerates, the landscape of start-up funding is evolving, particularly in the energy storage sector. The impact of the recent downturns and the growing complexity of the capital stack means energy start-ups need to be ahead of the curve to secure funding in an ever-changing environment.From scaling energy technologies across diverse regulatory environments to the opportunities facing climate tech entrepreneurs today, the world of venture capital is changing and so must the strategies to ensure success. In todays's episode, Philipp Emig, Senior Vice President at Picus Capital, joins Quentin to discuss how start-up get funded in the energy transition. Throughout the conversation, you'll hear about:The role of venture capital and early stage investing in climate tech and Picas Capital's focus in this.Trends in climate tech funding - from the decline in funding levels to the successes of battery and home energy control technologies.Differences between energy markets and comparisons of energy market development stages across regions.The importance of different types of investors at various stages of company growth.Grid-scale energy storage solutions and the potential for software-driven asset management in the energy sectorAbout our guestPicus Capital invest in early-stage technology ventures with a focus on energy & climate, fintech, enterprise infrastructure, generative ai, cybersecurity, healthcare, and enterprise application, specializing in Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A ventures. For more information on what Picus Capital do, check out their website.Philipp joined Picus Capital in 2021, where he focuses on energy & climate investments, as well as on pre-seed stage efforts. Prior to this, Philipp worked for McKinsey & Company in Munich and advised clients across Europe in the energy, mobility and process industry mainly on innovation, strategy and sustainability topics.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Battery storage and renewable energy assets are only as effective as the systems that optimize them, and to do this, there needs to be clear and effective rules on how this is determined. Elexon is responsible for the Balancing & Settlement Code, or BSC, a document outlining the rules of the balancing mechanism and imbalance pricing in Great Britain. With the rise of smaller, aggregated assets and the push towards net zero, the energy landscape is changing fast, and things like the BSC need to adapt too. In this episode of Transmission, we're joined by Peter Stanley, CEO of Elexon, to explore the critical role of optimisation and trading in energy markets. From day-to-day operations to long-term strategy, Peter shares insights on how Elexon supports grid flexibility, maximizes asset value, and navigates a rapidly evolving energy landscape. Over the conversation you'll hear about:The role of Elexon, how the company operates and the key processes it manages.Detailed breakdown of what the settlement process looks like in Great Britain.The impact of changing grid dynamics on Elexon's operations.Elexon's emerging role in facilitating local distributed flexibility markets.Peter's outlook on where optimization is headed in a changing energy landscape.Mentioned in the episodePeter highlights the fundraising efforts of Nyah & Danielle Lock who are taking part in the South West Coast 50 Ultra Challenge 2025, raising money for the Mardon Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre in Exeter. You can find more information and they're just giving page here.About our guestWorking at the heart of the GB energy industry, Elexon oversee The Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC),a legal contract all electricity participants must enter into in order to participate in the electricity market. For more information on what Elexon do, head to their website.Peter Stanley is Chief Executive Officer of Elexon, joining Elexon's Executive team in 2016 and serving as Chief Operating Officer before assuming the role of CEO in 2023.With over 35 years of experience in the electricity industry, Peter has a strong background in driving technology and data-focused transformations within the energy sector. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Battery storage and renewable energy assets are only as effective as the systems that optimize them, and to do this, there needs to be clear and effective rules on how this is determined. Elexon is responsible for the Balancing & Settlement Code, or BSC, a document outlining the rules of the balancing mechanism and imbalance pricing in Great Britain. With the rise of smaller, aggregated assets and the push towards net zero, the energy landscape is changing fast, and things like the BSC need to adapt too. In this episode of Transmission, we're joined by Peter Stanley, CEO of Elexon, to explore the critical role of optimisation and trading in energy markets. From day-to-day operations to long-term strategy, Peter shares insights on how Elexon supports grid flexibility, maximizes asset value, and navigates a rapidly evolving energy landscape. Over the conversation you'll hear about:The role of Elexon, how the company operates and the key processes it manages.Detailed breakdown of what the settlement process looks like in Great Britain.The impact of changing grid dynamics on Elexon's operations.Elexon's emerging role in facilitating local distributed flexibility markets.Peter's outlook on where optimization is headed in a changing energy landscape.Mentioned in the episodePeter highlights the fundraising efforts of Nyah & Danielle Lock who are taking part in the South West Coast 50 Ultra Challenge 2025, raising money for the Mardon Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre in Exeter. You can find more information and they're just giving page here.About our guestWorking at the heart of the GB energy industry, Elexon oversee The Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC),a legal contract all electricity participants must enter into in order to participate in the electricity market. For more information on what Elexon do, head to their website.Peter Stanley is Chief Executive Officer of Elexon, joining Elexon's Executive team in 2016 and serving as Chief Operating Officer before assuming the role of CEO in 2023.With over 35 years of experience in the electricity industry, Peter has a strong background in driving technology and data-focused transformations within the energy sector. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

The strategy for developing battery storage sites is unique to each individual project. From securing suitable land to obtaining a grid connection, every step plays a crucial role in creating the right conditions for a viable site. A developer's expertise is essential in navigating these complexities, ensuring a project's success long before it becomes operational.In this episode, Ravi Sharma, Director of Development - Energy Storage at Deriva Energy joins Quentin to explore the development process of battery energy storage systems in key markets in the US. Over the course of the conversation, you'll learn about:What each stage of the development process entails, from site acquisition to connecting to the grid.The developer's role in managing risk and uncertainty throughout project lifecycle.Complexity of estimating interconnection costs and upgrades.Insight into the competitive landscape for desirable sites and substations.The need for long-duration storage valuation and procurement.About our guest Deriva is an established leader in clean energy, with 5,900 megawatts of operating and under construction wind, utility scale solar and storage assets across the U.S. Formerly known as Duke Energy Renewables, Deriva is a portfolio company of Brookfield, one of the world's largest owners and operators of renewable power and climate transition assets.Ravi Sharma is Director of Development for Energy Storage at Deriva Energy where he leads energy storage project development and manages interdisciplinary teams across various U.S. energy markets.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

The strategy for developing battery storage sites is unique to each individual project. From securing suitable land to obtaining a grid connection, every step plays a crucial role in creating the right conditions for a viable site. A developer's expertise is essential in navigating these complexities, ensuring a project's success long before it becomes operational.In this episode, Ravi Sharma, Director of Development - Energy Storage at Deriva Energy joins Quentin to explore the development process of battery energy storage systems in key markets in the US. Over the course of the conversation, you'll learn about:What each stage of the development process entails, from site acquisition to connecting to the grid.The developer's role in managing risk and uncertainty throughout project lifecycle.Complexity of estimating interconnection costs and upgrades.Insight into the competitive landscape for desirable sites and substations.The need for long-duration storage valuation and procurement.About our guest Deriva is an established leader in clean energy, with 5,900 megawatts of operating and under construction wind, utility scale solar and storage assets across the U.S. Formerly known as Duke Energy Renewables, Deriva is a portfolio company of Brookfield, one of the world's largest owners and operators of renewable power and climate transition assets.Ravi Sharma is Director of Development for Energy Storage at Deriva Energy where he leads energy storage project development and manages interdisciplinary teams across various U.S. energy markets.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Battery storage has become a key pillar of the energy transition, driving improvements in grid stability and renewable integration. Understanding how investment and technology have evolved over the last decade is key to grasping the market's growth, the role of private equity, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for large-scale deployment.In this episode of Transmission, Jim Mills, Managing Director of Adaptogen Capital, shares his insights into the growth of the battery storage market and the role of private equity in driving change. From challenges in financing to future market trends, Jim offers a detailed look at the factors shaping the energy transition. Over the course of the conversation you'll hear about:How the battery storage market has changed over the last 10 years, from early-stage development to large-scale deployment.Why private equity has been a key driver in scaling battery infrastructure and attracting institutional capital.Insights into the financial, regulatory, and technological hurdles that have impacted market growth.Jim's take on emerging market trends, including the rise of co-located storage and grid-scale projects.How Adaptogen Capital identifies opportunities and structures deals to mitigate risk and maximize returns.About our guestJim Mills is Managing Director at Adaptogen Capital. Jim has extensive experience in private equity and has successfully raised and deployed funds in the battery storage sector. With a career spanning over two decades, Jim has worked closely with energy developers, investors, and policymakers to navigate the complexities of renewable energy financing and infrastructure development.Adaptogen Capital is an investment firm focused on energy storage projects that support grid stability and the transition to renewable energy. Investing in large-scale battery storage assets and helping to enhance grid flexibility and enable greater integration of renewable power sources. For more information, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Battery storage has become a key pillar of the energy transition, driving improvements in grid stability and renewable integration. Understanding how investment and technology have evolved over the last decade is key to grasping the market's growth, the role of private equity, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for large-scale deployment.In this episode of Transmission, Jim Mills, Managing Director of Adaptogen Capital, shares his insights into the growth of the battery storage market and the role of private equity in driving change. From challenges in financing to future market trends, Jim offers a detailed look at the factors shaping the energy transition. Over the course of the conversation you'll hear about:How the battery storage market has changed over the last 10 years, from early-stage development to large-scale deployment.Why private equity has been a key driver in scaling battery infrastructure and attracting institutional capital.Insights into the financial, regulatory, and technological hurdles that have impacted market growth.Jim's take on emerging market trends, including the rise of co-located storage and grid-scale projects.How Adaptogen Capital identifies opportunities and structures deals to mitigate risk and maximize returns.About our guestJim Mills is Managing Director at Adaptogen Capital. Jim has extensive experience in private equity and has successfully raised and deployed funds in the battery storage sector. With a career spanning over two decades, Jim has worked closely with energy developers, investors, and policymakers to navigate the complexities of renewable energy financing and infrastructure development.Adaptogen Capital is an investment firm focused on energy storage projects that support grid stability and the transition to renewable energy. Investing in large-scale battery storage assets and helping to enhance grid flexibility and enable greater integration of renewable power sources. For more information, head to their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Italy is rapidly emerging as a major market for battery energy storage - but, unlike other regions, its approach has been highly structured. Instead of relying on pure merchant risk, Italy's system operator is leading capacity auctions to accelerate deployment. So, how does this impact investment, and what does it mean for developers looking to enter the market?This week, Quentin Scrimshire is joined by Mahael Fedele, CEO & Partner at Sphera Energy, to unpack what's driving Italy's battery boom. In this conversation, they explore how the new System Operator-led auction model is shaping investment decisions, what challenges developers face in securing grid connections, and whether the trend of shifting from development to long-term asset ownership is the right move.Does Italy's approach to storage create a reliable foundation for growth, or could it ultimately slow down private investment? We dive into the risks and opportunities of this approach, what it means for the future of energy storage in Europe, and where Sphera Energy fits into all of this.In this episode, we cover:Why Italy's structured capacity auctions differ from other European markets.The key challenges developers face in securing grid connections.Whether the shift from development to asset ownership makes sense in Italy.The role of long-duration storage and alternative chemistries.How Italy's approach compares to the UK, the US, and other leading markets.About the GuestMahael Fedele is the CEO & Partner at Sphera Energy, a battery storage development company focused on large-scale projects in Italy and Germany. With over 15 years in renewables, he has worked across multiple global markets - including Europe, APAC, and the US.Before founding Sphera Energy, Mahael played key roles in delivering utility-scale projects and navigating complex regulatory environments. Today, his focus is on Italy, where Sphera Energy has become a leading player in the country's evolving energy storage landscape.

Italy is rapidly emerging as a major market for battery energy storage - but, unlike other regions, its approach has been highly structured. Instead of relying on pure merchant risk, Italy's system operator is leading capacity auctions to accelerate deployment. So, how does this impact investment, and what does it mean for developers looking to enter the market?This week, Quentin Scrimshire is joined by Mahael Fedele, CEO & Partner at Sphera Energy, to unpack what's driving Italy's battery boom. In this conversation, they explore how the new System Operator-led auction model is shaping investment decisions, what challenges developers face in securing grid connections, and whether the trend of shifting from development to long-term asset ownership is the right move.Does Italy's approach to storage create a reliable foundation for growth, or could it ultimately slow down private investment? We dive into the risks and opportunities of this approach, what it means for the future of energy storage in Europe, and where Sphera Energy fits into all of this.In this episode, we cover:Why Italy's structured capacity auctions differ from other European markets.The key challenges developers face in securing grid connections.Whether the shift from development to asset ownership makes sense in Italy.The role of long-duration storage and alternative chemistries.How Italy's approach compares to the UK, the US, and other leading markets.About the GuestMahael Fedele is the CEO & Partner at Sphera Energy, a battery storage development company focused on large-scale projects in Italy and Germany. With over 15 years in renewables, he has worked across multiple global markets - including Europe, APAC, and the US.Before founding Sphera Energy, Mahael played key roles in delivering utility-scale projects and navigating complex regulatory environments. Today, his focus is on Italy, where Sphera Energy has become a leading player in the country's evolving energy storage landscape.

Financing large-scale renewable energy projects is no small feat. Developers face complex challenges, from securing capital and managing market risk in volatile electricity markets and navigating shifting regulations. Corporate power buyers play a huge role in shaping the market, and with the surge in large load users and developments in colocation, the industry is facing a huge change. In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with John Larkey, Senior Vice President of Power Marketing at National Grid Renewables. They explore how large-scale renewable energy projects secure financing, navigate power markets, and manage risk. Over the conversation, you'll hear about:The evolution from physical to financial trading in power marketsImpact of corporate buyers on the power purchase market.Virtual Power Purchase Agreements and their role in the market.Co-location of generation with large loads and the challenges and opportunities in the US power grid.Current state and future potential of flexibility in power marketsAbout our guestNational Grid Renewables, develop, construct, own, and operate competitive, high-performance renewable energy projects nationwide to maximize value for our customers, partners and community members. for more informayion on what they do - head to their website. John Larkey is the Senior Vice President of Power Marketing at National Grid Renewables, where he leads the company's commercial strategy for large-scale renewable energy projects. With over 15 years of experience in the energy sector, he specializes in structuring power purchase agreements (PPAs), managing market risk, and securing financing for renewable projects, helping to drive the transition to a low-carbon energy future.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Financing large-scale renewable energy projects is no small feat. Developers face complex challenges, from securing capital and managing market risk in volatile electricity markets and navigating shifting regulations. Corporate power buyers play a huge role in shaping the market, and with the surge in large load users and developments in colocation, the industry is facing a huge change. In this episode of Transmission, Quentin sits down with John Larkey, Senior Vice President of Power Marketing at National Grid Renewables. They explore how large-scale renewable energy projects secure financing, navigate power markets, and manage risk. Over the conversation, you'll hear about:The evolution from physical to financial trading in power marketsImpact of corporate buyers on the power purchase market.Virtual Power Purchase Agreements and their role in the market.Co-location of generation with large loads and the challenges and opportunities in the US power grid.Current state and future potential of flexibility in power marketsAbout our guestNational Grid Renewables, develop, construct, own, and operate competitive, high-performance renewable energy projects nationwide to maximize value for our customers, partners and community members. for more informayion on what they do - head to their website. John Larkey is the Senior Vice President of Power Marketing at National Grid Renewables, where he leads the company's commercial strategy for large-scale renewable energy projects. With over 15 years of experience in the energy sector, he specializes in structuring power purchase agreements (PPAs), managing market risk, and securing financing for renewable projects, helping to drive the transition to a low-carbon energy future.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the industry evolves, the role of battery storage is expanding beyond just wholesale trading. The demand for stability services such as synthetic inertia and reactive power are increasing as more renewables enter the grid. In this episode, we take a look Zenobē's Blackhillock BESS project, the UK's first large-scale battery storage project with a stability contract from National Grid. Feautring grid-forming inverters, it aims to provide crucial reactive power and inertia to support renewable energy integration.Please note: This episode was recorded January 9th, at which point the Blackhillock project was in the final stages of commissioning. At the point of publishing, Zenobē's Blackhillock project is now operational.Tom Palmer, Head of Business Development in Network Infrastructure at Zenobē shares insights into the evolving landscape of battery storage, including the impact of grid constraints, investment outlook, and the role of stability services. Over the conversation, you'll hear about:The 200MW/400MWh Black Hillock storage project: the UK's largest battery storage facility and the first commercial deployment of grid-forming inverters.New stability contracts providing reactive power, inertia, and short circuit level.Evolution of battery storage market from frequency response to wholesale markets.The challenge of ‘skip rates' and the impact they have on investment outlook in energy storage.Future pathways for storage, including co-location with renewable assets and policy shifts.About our guest Zenobē design, finance, build and operate battery solutions. Capturing renewable energy, balancing supply on the grid and transporting it to electric vehicles. Zenobē also focus on end-of-life repurposing of battery storage systems. Tom Palmer leads the business development team at Zenobē's standalone storage and network infrastructure division. His team focuses on developing large-scale grid storage solutions, with a key emphasis on new revenue streams and the evolving business case for battery storage. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

As the industry evolves, the role of battery storage is expanding beyond just wholesale trading. The demand for stability services such as synthetic inertia and reactive power are increasing as more renewables enter the grid. In this episode, we take a look Zenobē's Blackhillock BESS project, the UK's first large-scale battery storage project with a stability contract from National Grid. Feautring grid-forming inverters, it aims to provide crucial reactive power and inertia to support renewable energy integration.Please note: This episode was recorded January 9th, at which point the Blackhillock project was in the final stages of commissioning. At the point of publishing, Zenobē's Blackhillock project is now operational.Tom Palmer, Head of Business Development in Network Infrastructure at Zenobē shares insights into the evolving landscape of battery storage, including the impact of grid constraints, investment outlook, and the role of stability services. Over the conversation, you'll hear about:The 200MW/400MWh Black Hillock storage project: the UK's largest battery storage facility and the first commercial deployment of grid-forming inverters.New stability contracts providing reactive power, inertia, and short circuit level.Evolution of battery storage market from frequency response to wholesale markets.The challenge of ‘skip rates' and the impact they have on investment outlook in energy storage.Future pathways for storage, including co-location with renewable assets and policy shifts.About our guest Zenobē design, finance, build and operate battery solutions. Capturing renewable energy, balancing supply on the grid and transporting it to electric vehicles. Zenobē also focus on end-of-life repurposing of battery storage systems. Tom Palmer leads the business development team at Zenobē's standalone storage and network infrastructure division. His team focuses on developing large-scale grid storage solutions, with a key emphasis on new revenue streams and the evolving business case for battery storage. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Raising capital is one of the biggest challenges in the energy storage industry today. While banks and institutional investors are providing more financing than ever, securing debt for battery projects still comes with complexities - especially when dealing with merchant risk. So, how are lenders evaluating storage projects, and what does it take to get a deal across the line?This week on Transmission, Quentin is joined by Brandon Faber (Director at NORD/LB) - to discuss the evolving landscape of battery energy storage financing. With experience structuring large-scale energy deals, including the Goleta and Papago Storage Projects, Brandon provides a deep dive into how banks assess risk, the role of tolling agreements, and the future of debt financing for grid-scale storage.In this episode, you'll learn about:How banks evaluate and structure financing for energy storage projects.The role of tolling agreements and why they matter for securing debt.Why some projects secure financing while others struggle.How merchant risk is priced into energy storage lending.The future of institutional investment in battery storage.About our guestBrandon Faber serves as a Director at NORD/LB, a German bank known for its active role in financing renewable energy projects, particularly battery energy storage systems (BESS). Brandon's expertise lies in structuring and managing financing for large-scale energy projects, including the Goleta Energy Storage Project in California and the Papago Storage Project in Arizona. These projects exemplify NORD/LB's commitment to supporting grid stability and the energy transition through innovative financing solutions. With a strong presence in the North American market, Brandon has also contributed to discussions on risk investment management in energy storage, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of renewable energy financing.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Raising capital is one of the biggest challenges in the energy storage industry today. While banks and institutional investors are providing more financing than ever, securing debt for battery projects still comes with complexities - especially when dealing with merchant risk. So, how are lenders evaluating storage projects, and what does it take to get a deal across the line?This week on Transmission, Quentin is joined by Brandon Faber (Director at NORD/LB) - to discuss the evolving landscape of battery energy storage financing. With experience structuring large-scale energy deals, including the Goleta and Papago Storage Projects, Brandon provides a deep dive into how banks assess risk, the role of tolling agreements, and the future of debt financing for grid-scale storage.In this episode, you'll learn about:How banks evaluate and structure financing for energy storage projects.The role of tolling agreements and why they matter for securing debt.Why some projects secure financing while others struggle.How merchant risk is priced into energy storage lending.The future of institutional investment in battery storage.About our guestBrandon Faber serves as a Director at NORD/LB, a German bank known for its active role in financing renewable energy projects, particularly battery energy storage systems (BESS). Brandon's expertise lies in structuring and managing financing for large-scale energy projects, including the Goleta Energy Storage Project in California and the Papago Storage Project in Arizona. These projects exemplify NORD/LB's commitment to supporting grid stability and the energy transition through innovative financing solutions. With a strong presence in the North American market, Brandon has also contributed to discussions on risk investment management in energy storage, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of renewable energy financing.About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Sodium-ion batteries are at a critical moment of commercialization. With challenges in the lithium-ion supply chains, alternative battery chemistries are gaining attention. Could sodium-based solid-state batteries provide a safer, more sustainable path for large-scale grid storage? With low cost and readily available materials, sodium-ion technology could be a huge competitor. This week, Quentin Scrimshire is joined by Dr. Neil Kidner, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Adena Power, to discuss why sodium-based solid-state batteries could be a game-changer for energy storage. With a background in materials science and decades of experience in advanced battery technologies, Neil explains how Adena Power is pioneering sodium-based solutions, the key differences from lithium-ion, and what the future holds for alternative battery chemistries.In this episode, we'll cover:Why sodium-based solid-state batteries could be a safer and more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion.The challenges of lithium-ion supply chains and the potential for domestic alternatives.How Adena Power is developing high-temperature sodium-based battery technology.The role of alternative battery chemistries in long-duration energy storage.What investors and policymakers should consider when looking beyond lithium-ion.About our GuestDr. Neil Kidner leads the scientific and technological development at Adena Power, focusing on innovative sodium-based solid-state batteries designed for safer and more efficient grid energy storage. With a Ph.D. in Materials Science and over 15 years of experience in product development, Neil has been instrumental in advancing alternative battery technologies that utilize abundant materials like sodium and aluminum. His work at Adena Power builds on years of research in solid-state electrochemistry, with a focus on commercializing next-generation battery storage solutions.For more information on Adena Power, check out their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Sodium-ion batteries are at a critical moment of commercialization. With challenges in the lithium-ion supply chains, alternative battery chemistries are gaining attention. Could sodium-based solid-state batteries provide a safer, more sustainable path for large-scale grid storage? With low cost and readily available materials, sodium-ion technology could be a huge competitor. This week, Quentin Scrimshire is joined by Dr. Neil Kidner, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Adena Power, to discuss why sodium-based solid-state batteries could be a game-changer for energy storage. With a background in materials science and decades of experience in advanced battery technologies, Neil explains how Adena Power is pioneering sodium-based solutions, the key differences from lithium-ion, and what the future holds for alternative battery chemistries.In this episode, we'll cover:Why sodium-based solid-state batteries could be a safer and more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion.The challenges of lithium-ion supply chains and the potential for domestic alternatives.How Adena Power is developing high-temperature sodium-based battery technology.The role of alternative battery chemistries in long-duration energy storage.What investors and policymakers should consider when looking beyond lithium-ion.About our GuestDr. Neil Kidner leads the scientific and technological development at Adena Power, focusing on innovative sodium-based solid-state batteries designed for safer and more efficient grid energy storage. With a Ph.D. in Materials Science and over 15 years of experience in product development, Neil has been instrumental in advancing alternative battery technologies that utilize abundant materials like sodium and aluminum. His work at Adena Power builds on years of research in solid-state electrochemistry, with a focus on commercializing next-generation battery storage solutions.For more information on Adena Power, check out their website. About Modo EnergyModo Energy helps the owners, operators, builders, and financiers of battery energy storage solutions understand the market - and make the most out of their assets.All of our podcasts are available to watch or listen to on the Modo Energy site. To keep up with all of our latest updates, research, analysis, videos, podcasts, data visualizations, live events, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. Check out The Energy Academy, our bite-sized video series breaking down how power markets work.

Accurately measuring a battery's state of charge might seem like a simple task, but small errors can have huge financial consequences.From base point deviations to inaccurate market bids, asset owners are leaving money on the table due to imprecise battery management systems. Could better software and real-time analytics unlock greater returns?This week, Quentin is joined by Shyam Srinivasan, CEO and Co-Founder of Zitara Technologies, to discuss how advanced battery analytics can improve accuracy, longevity, and revenue certainty for energy storage owners.With a background in cutting-edge hardware and software solutions—including time at Nest—Shyam explains why state-of-charge miscalculations are so common, how the shift to LFP chemistry has created new challenges, and why the industry needs a fundamental rethink of battery monitoring and control.In this episode, you'll hear about:Why OEM battery management systems can be off by 20-30% during discharge.How inaccurate state-of-charge readings impact market participation and revenues.The challenges of managing LFP batteries compared to previous chemistries.Why Zitara focuses on real-time edge computing instead of cloud analytics.What asset owners should demand in their procurement contracts to ensure better data access.About Shyam SrinivasanShyam Srinivasan is the CEO and Co-Founder of Zitara Technologies, a company specializing in advanced battery analytics and real-time edge monitoring for grid-scale storage. With a background in both hardware and software engineering, he previously worked at Nest, helping develop intelligent home automation solutions before pivoting to energy storage. At Zitara, Shyam and his team focus on optimizing battery performance, ensuring greater accuracy in state-of-charge measurements, and helping asset owners maximize profitability through smarter energy management.