Energy Futures Podcast

Can AI be both powerful and sustainable? Or are we trading the planet for progress? 

Topics discussed

Host 

Guest  

In February of 2025, the Climate Change Committee released the 7th Carbon Budget, advising Government on new pathways to decarbonizing the UK by 2050.  

Topics Discussed; 

In this episode we dive into the budget as outlined and discuss topics;  

Host 

In 2025, the UK generated over 14 billion kilowatt-hours of solar electricity, enough to power more than 5 million homes. With solar technology evolving faster than ever, could the next leap in solar power come from labs pushing the boundaries of energy science? 

Host - Prof. Christos Markides - Clean energy technologies in the department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial 

Guest  - Dr Flurin Eisner - Lecturer and researcher in Green Energy and Sustainable Engineering at Queen Mary University 

Topics Discussed  

In this episode, we invited the co-authors of our latest briefing paper to come discuss the lessons learned and opportunities gained from the world’s largest off-shore wind farm.

Host

Dr. Aidan Rhodes, Research Fellow at imperial and policy briefing paper fellow at Energy Futures Lab

Guest 

Dr. Kaylen Camacho-McCluskey, an MSc Environmental Technology graduate from Imperial

Topics covered;

- Challenges: Technical & logistical, macroeconomics and global events like Covid and the war in Ukraine.

- Lessons Learned - Standardised approach and collaboration between developers

...

What are the key challenges in manufacturing wind turbines, and is the lifespan of wind turbines impacting the sustainable nature of wind farming? 

Host 

Guest  

Topics Discussed  

Financing Decarbonisation Ep 31: Dr Nadine Moustafa & Paul Davies 

Is Carbon capture an investable industry, and can it be financeable? 

Host 

Guest  

Topics Discussed  

Timecode & Chapters;  

00:02:21 – Introduction & Guest Background  

00:02:47 – What Makes Financing Decarb...

To reach net zero, we need to electrify transport—from personal vehicles to heavy goods trucks. 

In this episode, Edoardo Taricco, a mechanical engineer and recent graduate of the MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures programme at Imperial College London, explores the future of electric vehicles and sustainable travel. 

Guests 

In this episode, Dr. Aidan Rhodes, Research Fellow at Imperial College London and Energy Policy Briefing Papers Fellow at Energy Futures Lab, is joined by Tom Luff, Practice Manager at Energy Systems Catapult. Together, they explore the crucial role of consumers in shaping the transition to a net-zero energy system. 

Topics covered: 

Chapters & Timestamps 

00:00 - Introd...

Guest: Adam Hearne, CEO & Co-founder of CarbonChain

Host: Dr. Gbemi Oluleye, Lecturer at Imperial College London

In this episode, we explore the complexities of industrial decarbonisation and how energy-intensive sectors can transition to a net-zero economy.

Key Topics Discussed:

- The technical challenges in industrial decarbonisation

- The role of innovative technologies in reducing carbon footprints

- How carbon accounting software enables businesses to track and manage emissions

The impact of smart policies and financial incentives on industry transitions

<...

Given the challenges the aviation industry faces in rapidly decarbonising, how are innovative solutions and collaborative efforts shaping the path toward sustainable air travel?

In this episode, Dr. Nadine Moustafa, a Research Associate at Imperial College London specialising in carbon management and decarbonisation technologies, is joined by:

Dr. Rhea Liem – Reader in Sustainable Aviation Technologies at Imperial College London, specialising in computational science, hybrid modelling, and complex system optimisation for sustainable aviation.

Kerri Moss – Head of Partnerships at Impetus Carbon, a member of the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading, and an expert in s...

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, Dr. Aidan Rhodes discusses the critical importance of resilience in the energy sector with Bronwyn Bullen, Organisational Resilience Manager at UK Power Networks. Together, they explore the evolving definition of resilience, strategies to adapt energy infrastructure, and how organisational resilience contributes to maintaining a reliable energy grid.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Energy Futures Podcast

00:31 - Episode overview: Resilience in energy

01:39 - Welcome and introduction of Bronwyn Bullen

02:13 - Bronwyn's role and the importance of organisational resilience

03:33 - Lessons from...

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, hosts Dr. Paola Sáenz and Dr. Nadine Moustafa explore the evolving landscape of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs) and their role in achieving climate goals. From engineered solutions like Direct Air Capture (DAC) to nature-based methods such as afforestation, the discussion dives deep into the technical, economic, and policy challenges of carbon dioxide removal (CDR). 

Featuring: 

What role does energy storage play in shaping our energy systems? This episode delves into the transformative potential of energy storage technologies in achieving net-zero goals and supporting a sustainable energy future. 

Host: 

Dr. Nadine Moustafa, Research Associate at Imperial College London specialising in carbon management and decarbonisation technologies. 

Guests: 

What role can artificial intelligence play in shaping the future of energy systems? In this episode, Dr. Aidan Rhodes, Research Fellow at Imperial College London and Energy Policy Briefing Papers Fellow at Energy Futures Lab, explores the intersection of AI and energy with two expert guests:

Francesco Leofante, Imperial College Research Fellow, affiliated with the Centre for Explainable Artificial Intelligence. Francesco’s work focuses on safe and explainable AI, particularly counterfactual explanations and their robustness.

Daniel Lewis, Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology Fellow and author of the Energy Security and AI policy briefing paper. Da...

Host: Cait Hewitt, Policy and Engagement Officer, Grantham Institute, Imperial College London 

Guests: 

In This Episode: 

Guest Bios: 

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, Imperial PhD student Fater Akuhwa sits down with Professor Tim Green to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of energy systems, with a focus on grid co-design and the integration of renewable energy.  

Professor Green, an expert in electrical and electronic engineering, shares his insights on the concept of grid forming and grid following, two key approaches in the regulation of frequency, voltage, and system stability without the traditional synchronous generators that have long been essential for grid stability.  

Professor Green also discusses his pivotal role in leading Im...

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, we sit down with Richard Black, Director of Policy and Strategy at Ember, to explore the future of energy, the zero-carbon transition, and his career in climate journalism and policy. Richard shares insights from his newly released book, The Future of Energy, offering an optimistic view of the clean energy revolution and the challenges ahead.

Highlights include:

In this episode, we’re taking you to the London Climate Technology Show 2024—an inspiring hub of innovation and collaboration for a sustainable future.

We’ll be sharing highlights from two expert panel discussions, followed by insights from the exhibition floor, where industry leaders showcased groundbreaking solutions.

Panel 1: Innovation for Sustainability: Technology's Role in Achieving Net Zero

Our first panel, 'Innovation for Sustainability: Technology's Role in Achieving Net Zero,' brought together leading voices in the field of clean energy and innovation:

Today’s episode takes us to the Resilient Renewable Society Summit 2024—a remarkable gathering of experts from government, infrastructure, and academia.  

In this episode, we bring you insights from two exceptional panel discussions. From exploring the energy sector's preparedness for catastrophic events to envisioning the investments needed for a green and resilient future, we’ll hear from thought leaders on the frontlines of resilience and sustainability. And to cap it off, I had the privilege of catching up with Professor Yoav Yair, Dean of the School of Sustainability at Reichman University in Israel, for a fascinating one-on-one convers...

In this special episode, recorded live at the Sustainable Energy Futures Annual Conference 2024, we feature Sir David King, Head of the Climate Crisis Advisory Group. Sir David shares his expert insights during his closing remarks and a follow-up interview, discussing critical climate challenges, innovative interventions, and the urgent need for a global shift toward an "ecological civilisation."

Highlights include:

Links<...

In this episode, we’re joined by Rayan Kassis Co-Founder and CEO of Aed Energy and decades of experience in CleanTech development and over 9GW of operational projects spanning 24 countries. Rayan shares insights into the UK’s key energy challenges, the critical role of long-duration storage in grid stability and the future of renewable energy integration. He also introduces Aed Energy’s innovative thermal battery technology, which delivers both electricity and heat, with the potential to transform global energy systems. 

Links: 

Chapters and Timecod...

In this episode of The Energy Futures Podcast, titled Positive Energy, we shine a spotlight on three incredible social and tech entrepreneurs making waves in the climate and energy space. Through their community-driven projects, innovative apps, and empowering educational programs, they’re proving that purpose, creativity, and collaboration can drive real progress toward a net zero future.

Guests:

1. Yujia Du – Founder of The Climate Circle

Yujia shares how her passion for decarbonisation and empowering women in climate led to the creation of The Climate Circle, a community fostering meaningful connections among women in the...

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, host Jonny Prest speaks with Dr. Lior Suchoy, a Geoscientist, Scientific Consultant, and Postdoctoral Research Associate at Imperial College London. Together, they delve into the fascinating world of geothermal energy, exploring its potential as a sustainable energy source and its role in achieving a Net Zero future.

Dr. Suchoy explains the fundamentals of geothermal energy, enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), and the challenges and opportunities in utilising this largely untapped resource. They discuss the similarities between geothermal and traditional oil and gas exploration, the use of mine water for heating...

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, we sit down with Cathy McClay an energy industry trailblazer with over 25 years of experience across Europe and the Middle East. From transforming ancillary service markets at National Grid System Operator to her groundbreaking work at ENOWA—the energy company of NEOM—Cathy has been at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution. 

Topics Covered: 

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, Jonny Prest sits down with Guy Nicholson Head of Zero Carbon Grid Solutions at Statkraft in the UK. With over 40 years of experience in renewable energy, Guy shares his expertise on the critical challenges and opportunities in the UK’s energy transition, focusing on innovations for grid stability and Statkraft's pioneering Greener Grid Parks. The discussion covers Guy's journey in renewable energy, the role of synchronous compensators in supporting the grid, and the collaborative efforts needed to reach a zero-carbon electricity grid by 2025. Guy also sheds light on Statkraft's community-focused approach an...

In this episode of the Energy Futures Podcast, Jonny Prest speaks with Dr. Malte Jansen Lecturer in Energy and Sustainability at the University of Sussex Specialising in the intersection of energy markets, finance, and policy, Dr. Jansen offers valuable insights into achieving net-zero with high shares of renewables. They discuss the UK’s evolving renewable financing landscape, including the impact of the new UK energy bill, economic factors affecting offshore wind farms, and financing models for renewable energy projects, from large-scale developments to community energy initiatives. 

Dr. Jansen shares his perspective on the challenges of financing renewables in...

Show Notes: Episode 7 - Navigating Global Energy Shifts 

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

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

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

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

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

Tune in to learn about the power of communication in dr...

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

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

...

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

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

If you’re curio...

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

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

If...

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

Key Topics Discussed: 

Introduction and Guest Introductions 

00:00:00 - 00:02:30 

The Role of AI i...

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

Guests: 

Dr. Aidan Rhodes 

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