We recently completed our seventh investors roundtable working with our friends at CTLR (Cleantech Leaders Roundtable). We had a great roster that included:
We covered a wide range of topics. But no matter the question asked or answer given, these folks always impress.
I will be posting video shorts of this roundtable over the coming weeks, but below are three highlights of the conversation from each investor.
Paul Browning - 11:01: The Trump Administration saw attempts to repeal Obamacare that fell short, and a similar scenario could unfold with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) if Trump wins again. Many IRA benefits are going to conservative “red” states, and reversing the IRA would require approval from the President, House, and Senate. However, an anti-renewables administration could redirect funding away from clean energy projects.
Jennifer Von Bismarck - 27:15: The success of the energy transition relies on reliable, low-cost technology, much of which is sourced internationally. However, a lot of production and manufacturing happens inside the U.S. To develop sustainable infrastructure, it's essential to use the best equipment, establish local factories, and supply locally produced goods. Components need to be as inexpensive and reliable as they can be, so cleaner products are superior and cost-effective relative to the alternatives..
Chris Varrone - 34:33: We foresaw less transmission needs because boosts in energy efficiency and leveling of population growth. The opposite has happened. We are seeing large increases in energy demand from electrification and AI. Innovations in grid-enhancing technologies have become one of the most important trends.
Thank you, Paul, Jennifer, and Chris for our insightful conversation.