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 times of inflation and higher interest rates and reflects on the need for innovative policy mechanisms, like Contracts for Difference, to support renewable investments. The conversation also extends to financing in the Global South, exploring unique challenges faced by developing regions and ways to facilitate a fair energy transition.

Chapters:

00:00:00 – Introduction & Episode Overview

00:00:30 – Guest Introduction: Dr. Malte Jansen

00:01:03 – The UK Energy Bill and Renewable Financing

00:03:07 – Offshore Wind Farms: Economic Viability and Policy Support

00:06:17 – Financing Renewables vs. Fossil Fuels: Interest Rates & Capital Costs

00:11:23 – Challenges in Renewable Energy Grid Integration

00:15:03 – Financing Models: Debt, Equity, and SPVs

00:20:20 – Community Energy Projects: Opportunities and Models

00:27:01 – Changes in Onshore Wind Policy and Future Prospects

00:30:38 – Financing the Just Transition in the Global South

00:36:23 – Dr. Jansen’s Journey in Energy Finance

00:39:17 – Closing Remarks & Where to Connect with Dr. Jansen

Additional Links:

• Dr. Malte Jansen LinkedIn
• University of Sussex, Science Policy Research Unit
• Contracts for Difference - UK Government

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