Future Energy Insights

As the global shift towards a circular economy accelerates, the waste management industry faces a defining challenge: how does it eliminate landfill reliance while ensuring sustainable, efficient solutions? Governments and major private-sector players are pushing for repair, recycle, and reuse - but when end of its life is unavoidable, how should waste be handled?

Waste-to-energy is a viable alternative, becoming an important pillar for managing municipal waste sustainably. By converting discarded materials into usable power and minimising the volume that ends up in landfills, this approach helps reduce environmental impact, supports energy diversification, and contributes to a...

This episode will explore human-centric design in smart buildings. As technology reshapes the spaces we use, the focus is shifting towards ensuring that our built spaces enhance human well-being, productivity, and connectivity. During this podcast, we will discuss how smart buildings will be increasingly expected to adapt to human needs. 

We’ll explore how technology is changing the occupant experience, integrating AI and other advanced technologies into our environments, the role of biophilic design on wellbeing in urban settings, and ethical considerations in our data-driven built environments, offering insights into creating smart buildings with people at their cor...

Despite growing commitments from both the public and private sectors, the flow of capital into green projects continues to lag behind demand. High investment risks, regulatory hurdles, and structural inefficiencies are slowing progress—particularly in emerging markets.

So, how can we bridge this gap? How do we unlock greater investment, direct funds where they are needed most, and build financial mechanisms that drive long-term, sustainable growth?

In this episode, we explore the barriers to scaling green finance, examine how funding is being allocated, and discuss the strategies needed to ensure equitable access—particularly for the Glob...

As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the challenges we face are becoming increasingly complex.

Climate change, population growth, and rapid urbanisation are pushing cities to their limits, necessitating smarter, more adaptive solutions. This is where technology comes into play.

From advanced AI and big data integration to resilient infrastructure and forward-thinking mobility solutions, the potential for transformative change is immense.

In this episode, our team explores the cutting-edge intersection of AI, data systems and urban infrastructure – a convergence that is not only transforming cities but also fundamentally reshaping our approach to sustainable living.

Water security is one of the most pressing challenges in arid regions, where the combination of limited natural water resources and increasing demand places immense pressure on existing systems.

The impacts of climate change, such as prolonged droughts, higher temperatures, and shifting precipitation patterns, exacerbate these challenges, reducing the reliability of traditional water sources. At the same time, rapid urbanisation further strains the infrastructure, as growing populations and expanding cities drive up water consumption, often beyond sustainable levels. 

These compounded factors highlight the urgent need for innovative, adaptive, and integrated approaches to water management that a...

The demand for renewable energy is surging, and startups are stepping up as key players in driving innovation for energy efficiency and storage.

But what exactly are they doing, and how are they overcoming the challenges of a rapidly evolving clean energy sector?

In this episode of Future Energy Insights, we’re spotlighting the incredible work of startups across the MENA region, from cutting-edge technologies to creative strategies that are helping to integrate renewables, ensure grid stability, and pave the way for a reliable, decarbonised energy future.

Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of...

As green hydrogen takes centre stage in global decarbonisation efforts, the race to make it cost-competitive is intensifying. In 2023 alone, more than $570 billion was invested globally, positioning green hydrogen as a game-changer for clean energy. However, challenges in production costs, securing demand, and scaling infrastructure remain barriers to its broader adoption.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has a unique advantage, with abundant renewable energy resources, industrial heritage, and proximity to key demand centres. Yet, to realise its potential, the region must address bottlenecks such as the complexity of the supply chain...

What lessons can the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and regional businesses draw from COP29’s outcomes to accelerate its sustainability journey?

Hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan, COP29 marked a turning point with commitments to scale climate finance, operationalise carbon markets, and enhance adaptation frameworks. These global developments have significant implications for MENA, particularly as the region strives to balance economic growth with ambitious sustainability goals.

Key outcomes include a pledge to triple climate finance to developing nations, reaching $300 billion annually by 2035, and advancements in Article 6 carbon market mechanisms, opening opportunities for carbon tr...

Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a game-changer in the energy sector, with the potential to bring new levels of optimisation and efficiency. On episode 20, we delve into how AI could help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by up to 10% by 2030, examining the innovations that could transform energy management worldwide.

From predicting building energy use to improving manufacturing processes and even boosting agricultural yields, AI offers powerful tools for energy efficiency. But, like any powerful tool, AI comes with its own energy needs. The computing power required for AI is growing rapidly, doubling every 100 days, according to some...

With the current financing gap for climate tech estimated to be as high as US$2 trillion, innovators and entrepreneurs in the space often struggle to secure funding. On episode 19 we discuss exactly what makes a climate tech project attractive to the investment community with key insights that every startup needs to know.

For entrepreneurs and startups in the climate tech space, securing funding can be a major barrier to opportunity and growth.

According to research by Deloitte, the current financing gap for climate tech could be as much as US$2 trillion. Recently released data from...

From privately owned vehicles to company fleets and mass transit, eMobility investment and strategies are shaping our transportation future. On episode 18 we look at how global cities are adopting and scaling their electric networks and discuss potential economic opportunity in establishing local manufacturing capabilities.

Urban planners, municipalities and policy makers are increasingly shifting focus towards low-carbon mobility solutions as federal governments continue to action net-zero 2050 strategies.

The role of eMobility in supporting sustainable urban development under the scope of the United Nations SDG 11 reflects a global push for electric vehicle adoption by individuals, for company...

Sustainable, resilient, and climate-positive urban environments are not a pipe dream, and regenerative design is a game-changer in transforming the built environment. On episode 17, we discuss how governments, urban planners, and communities can come together to reverse climate change.

By 2050, two out of every three people will be living in cities or major urban centres. With cities generating around 75 percent of global CO2 emissions, the race is on to create sustainable, resilient, and climate-restorative cities.

Regenerative urban design will play a pivotal role in helping transform the built environment to enhance potential for net-positive impact...

Imagine a world where treated wastewater not only protects our environment but also drives innovation and creates jobs. This vision remains largely untapped, yet it's within our reach!

According to current UN Environment Programme data, only 11% of the world’s treated wastewater is reused. Shockingly, around 50% of untreated wastewater pollutes our rivers, lakes, and oceans.

In Episode 16, recorded at the 2024 World Future Energy Summit, we explore the future of wastewater treatment with two leading experts in the field.

Beyond irrigation and industrial cooling, treated wastewater can recharge groundwater aquifers, be used as...

Anticipated rampant growth in global demand for green hydrogen presents a major economic opportunity for many countries and is also a progressive zero-carbon journey solution for heavy industry high emitters. On episode 15, we examine both opportunities, looking at which countries are already keen on clean hydrogen and what’s driving strategic decision-making.

Green hydrogen, a clean and scalable energy storage solution, is more than just a zero-emission industrial feedstock. It's a transformative energy source with incredible potential, positioning itself as a beacon of sustainability. 

The clean hydrogen market is expected to see exponential fut...

Women are playing an increasingly prominent role in addressing climate change mitigation and stand at the forefront of efforts to conserve, advocate and innovate. On episode 14 we talk to two high-profile women representing different aspects of the future energy industry to learn more about their inspiration and focus.

Climate change is a global issue that impacts – and involves - all of us, however there is a distinct disparity when it comes to the impact on gender with women especially vulnerable, due to historical roles, responsibilities and cultural norms. 

 The UN estimates that women repr...

Considering the diverse challenges cities face, what innovative strategies can they implement to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the near future? 

Future Energy Insights seeks to address the most significant challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world.

Responsible for generating 70% of global emissions, António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called the world’s cities ‘critical climate battlegrounds’. 

This issue was formally recognised at COP28 with the final agreement highlighting the role of cities and relevant subnational players as partners for action. <...

What significant role do small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in the global journey towards achieving net-zero emissions, particularly in the MENA region?

Globally, small and medium-sized enterprises – SMEs - make up 90% of all businesses and represent more than 50% of employment worldwide. Yet, according to  2023 research by the World Economic Forum and Bain & Company, here, in the MENA region, just 12% of SMEs have set net zero targets with even fewer -  7% - mapping out a transition strategy.

The tide is turning, however.

Through COP28, a new SME Climate Hub MENA initiative has been esta...

What role can renewable energy solutions and agri-tech play in feeding the world and supporting net-zero goals? 

The world’s food production systems are responsible for over 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions with agri-food systems consuming around 30% of the world’s energy. The United Nations has said that farming must become more sustainable to address the climate crisis and feed a rapidly rising global population, which is set to grow by a further two billion people by 2050.

From the implementation of renewable energy solutions such as solar arrays for agri-voltaic farming and geothermal greenhouses to the c...

Transport and mobility currently account for 19 per cent of global carbon emissions, according to McKinsey research.

In the air, on the ground, and at sea, the dual challenge in developing and adopting carbon-neutral transport systems is how to keep people and goods moving while accelerating net-zero commitment.

The International Air Transport Association estimates that sustainable aviation fuel could contribute to around 65 per cent of the required emissions reductions needed for the aviation industry to reach net-zero by 2050. In the rail sector, governments are looking at the potential to convert electric-powered stock to use low-carbon traction...

COP28, which is due to start in a matter of days, represents the most significant accountability moment for climate action, to date. Eight years on from the Paris Agreement, the September-released United Nations Global Stocktake report is the first official assessment of climate action since 2015.

The report has reaffirmed that the world is falling significantly short of the reduction in greenhouse gases required to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius. As representatives of the 198 official parties gather in Dubai to hopefully set out a collective and credible pathway to accelerate global action for the planet, will...

Our planet is currently facing the largest wave of urban growth in history.

According to the United Nations, by 2050 more than two-thirds of the world’s population will live in urban areas. This potentially places huge strain on city services, infrastructure and transportation networks.

From Singapore, which was the first international city to create a country-scale digital twin, to Expo2020 Dubai, the first world fair to use digital twin technology, a growing number of global cities and governments are looking to next-generation virtual model technology to strategise future urban solutions, map out infrastructure upgrades, and fa...

Population growth, rapid urbanisation, unsustainable consumer habits, and public indifference have all played their part in what is becoming a major problem for public health and the environment around the world.

In the GCC alone, member nations currently generate up to 130 million tons of waste every year. Population growth, ongoing urbanisation, shifting consumption habits, a lack of stringent regulation and public indifference have cumulatively amplified the region’s waste management problem over the decades.

In recent years, however, the development of long-term national strategies aligned with significant government investment and the advent of consumer awareness ca...

Can floating solar achieve price parity with onshore installations? Will evolving technology support sea-based arrays as a solution for desert nations? And what needs to be done to accelerate global adoption?

In this episode of Future Energy Insights, we'll take a deep dive into the potential of floating photovoltaics (FPVs) as a sustainable alternative to land-based arrays, and what it means for the MENA region.

Growing land scarcity and the rising cost of ground-mounted solar projects are driving demand in global markets from Asia-Pacific to the US. Recently released research from Wood Mackenzie...

One of the greatest challenges of our time, water scarcity is a global issue. What is being done to tackle water scarcity? How are funds being raised? What is and isn’t working?

In this episode of Future Energy Insights we explore the compelling environmental, economic and humanitarian case for financing water projects.

By 2040, worldwide demand is expected to outstrip freshwater supplies, with climate change, over-consumption, conflict, population growth and infrastructure issues all playing a part.

According to UN data, the number of people facing this issue could more than double fr...

AI-generated data has the potential to drive energy efficiency and reduce costs, but what about its environmental footprint? And will it lead to the loss of millions of jobs in the sector?

In this episode of Future Energy Insights, we examine the role for AI in the future energy space and discuss how we might future proof technology to ensure it is used to the advantage of all.

AI-generated data is helping to optimise energy efficiency, improve supply and demand predictions, and increase grid flexibility.

Indeed, some believe AI might be...

Which countries are leading the field in attracting green hydrogen investment? What lessons can other nations learn from them and why?

According to the International Energy Agency, to help reach net zero emissions globally by 2050, the clean hydrogen market needs $1.2 trillion of investment this decade – a goal we are nowhere close to achieving.

In this, our final episode recorded live at the World Future Energy Summit, we discuss ways to attract public and private-sector funding into the sector.

Join host Jeffrey Beyer in conversation with Justo Alejandro Algaba, Director - Infrastructure Finance, MENAT at...

Building a local hydrogen market is a hot topic, both globally and in the Middle East. Here, we explore what GCC countries must do to position themselves at the forefront of the hydrogen market and export to the many nations eyeing up this clean energy form.

What infrastructure should be built, partnerships formed and government initiatives introduced to lay robust foundations on which the industry can grow? How important is the need for cross-sector collaboration and why? What role will startups play in building a local hydrogen market?

Jeffrey Beyer, Founder of Zest Associates, is...

The trend towards green hydrogen is gathering pace, both globally and in the Middle East, where the potential for large-scale production and worldwide exportation is huge. 

But is the region innovating quickly enough to meet future demand? Which market segments present the biggest opportunities for innovation? How can the industry nurture innovative startups? And what role will photovoltaics, electrolysers and other technologies play in accelerating the market?

Jeffrey Beyer, Founder of Zest Associates, is joined by: Dan Feldman, a partner in the Corporate, Finance and Investments practice at King & Spalding law firm in Abu Dhabi; A...

Future Energy Insights brings a mix of passionate debate on the future of energy and sustainability.

Starting with a focus on green hydrogen, each bite-sized episode tackles BIG subjects, from accelerating innovation to unlocking investment, and positioning the MENA region at the forefront of the hydrogen market.

Future Energy Insights features business leaders, policy makers, startups and intellectuals.  It is brought to you by the World Future Energy Summit and hosted by Jeffrey Beyer, Founder of Zest Associates. 

Join the debate and subscribe now.

Powered by World Future En...