Plugged In: the energy news podcast

“Strange” prices rattle Europe's power markets

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0200

Across Europe, power prices are behaving in ways that are leaving even seasoned market participants questioning what they’re seeing. From negative prices to seemingly counterintuitive flows between some price zones, the electricity system is becoming harder to interpret, and certainly more complex.

On April 6, negative prices of EUR -15,000/MWh in Belgium's balancing market highlighted just how volatile and weather-driven Europe's power system has become. But are these signals a sign of dysfunction, or simply the reality of a system in transition?

So, what’s really going on beneath the surface?

In this episode, we unpack what’s driving so-called “odd” or “irrational” pricing across Europe, from the rise of renewables and battery storage to the increasing role of algorithmic trading and complex market design. We also explore whether market participants are equipped to handle this growing complexity, and what risks and opportunities lie ahead.

#EnergyMarkets #PowerMarkets #ElectricityPrices #EnergyTransition #Renewables #NegativePricing #EnergyTrading #Volatility #EuropeanEnergy #GridSystems #EnergyCrisis #ElectricityMarket #NetZero #BatteryStorage #AlgoTrading

Host:
Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:
Alina Trabattoni – Italy Correspondent, Montel
Frank Boerman-Lima – Flow-Based Capacity Calculation Expert, TenneT
Julien Jomaux – Energy & Power Consultant

Editor:
Oscar Birk

Producer:
Alexandra Carlon

Gulf Ceasefire: fragile or firm?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0200

A fragile ceasefire in the Gulf offers a moment of relief; but is it already beginning to unravel and will it have lasting implications for gas supply in the region and far beyond?

Recorded on the morning of April 9, amid fast-moving geopolitical developments, this special episode examines what the latest developments mean for global energy markets, LNG flows, and Europe’s energy security.

Is this ceasefire a genuine turning point, or simply a pause before further escalation?

Host Richard Sverrisson speaks with Montel’s Deputy Editor-in-Chief Laurence Walker, before diving deeper with leading analysts Ana Maria Jaller-Makarewicz and Arne Lohmann-Rasmussen. Together, they unpack the reality behind halted LNG tankers, the uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, and the growing risks facing global gas markets.

As tensions remain high and clarity remains low, one thing is certain: energy markets are entering a new phase of volatility.

#EnergyMarkets #LNG #Geopolitics #GulfCrisis #Ceasefire #GasMarkets #EnergyCrisis #EuropeEnergy #StraitOfHormuz #GlobalEnergy #EnergySecurity #Commodities #Podcast #EnergyTransition

Host
Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests
Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Ana Maria Jaller-Makarewicz, Lead Energy Analyst (Europe), IEEFA
Arne Anders Lohmann Rasmussen, Chief Analyst, Global Risk Management

Editor
Oscar Birk & Alexandra Carlon

Producer
Alexandra Carlon

PPA slowdown – temporary or permanent?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0200

In this episode of Plugged In, we return to Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and their role in Europe’s energy transition.

After years of rapid expansion, the PPA market hit a slowdown in 2025. Falling capture rates, rising negative prices and increasing volatility have made deals harder to structure and price, forcing both buyers and sellers to rethink how risk is shared.

At the same time, renewable capacity continues to grow, reshaping price dynamics and pushing the market into a more complex and mature phase.

So is this a temporary slowdown… or a fundamental shift in how the PPA market works?

Richard speaks to Luca Pedretti, COO and co-founder of Pexapark, and Chirag Ahuja, Implementation Director at Broadpeak Partners, to break down the data, trends and structural changes shaping the market. Setting the scene is our Italy correspondent, Alina Trabattoni.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:
Alina Trabattoni – Italy Correspondent, Montel
Luca Pedretti – COO & Co-founder, Pexapark
Chirag Ahuja – Implementation Director, Broadpeak Partners

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Alexandra Carlon

#EnergyMarkets #PPAs #Renewables #EnergyTransition #PowerMarkets #BatteryStorage #CleanEnergy #EnergyTrading #ElectricityMarkets #NetZero

Coal makes a comeback

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0200

In this episode of Plugged In, we turn to a topic we haven’t covered often; but one that’s rapidly moving back into the spotlight: coal.

As war in the Middle East disrupts LNG supply chains and drives gas prices sharply higher, European power markets are being forced to adapt. With gas-fired generation becoming increasingly expensive, coal is, at least temporarily, regaining economic relevance.

We’re now seeing early signs of increased coal imports, particularly in key markets like Germany, alongside shifting profitability dynamics between coal and gas-fired generation.

So is this just a short-term market reaction… or a more significant structural change?

Richard speaks to Toby Hassall, Lead Analyst at London Stock Exchange Group, and Firat Ergene, Lead Insight Analyst at Kpler, join the podcast to break down the data, covering fuel switching, regional demand, price dynamics, and what forward markets are signalling for winter and beyond. Setting the scene is our own Laurence Walker.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:
Laurence Walker – Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Toby Hassall – Lead Analyst, London Stock Exchange Group
Firat Ergene – Lead Insight Analyst, Kpler

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Alexandra Carlon

Another Power Squeeze?

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0100

In the third episode of our energy crisis miniseries, we turn to Europe’s power markets, where rising gas prices, renewed volatility and political uncertainty are once again putting the electricity system under pressure.

Although the current crisis is not a repeat of 2022, it is exposing fresh vulnerabilities; from low hydro levels in the Nordics and gas storage concerns in western Europe, to growing questions over market design, interconnectors and the pace of the energy transition.

So how resilient is Europe’s power system this time around? And what happens when geopolitical shocks collide with an increasingly complex power market?

Richard is joined by Montel analysts Jean-Paul Harreman, Fintan Devenney and Priyanka Shinde to unpack the impact across Europe; from battery revenues and price spikes to liquidity risks, policy shifts and the regions most exposed in the months ahead.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Jean-Paul Harreman – Director, Analytics, Montel

Fintan Devenney – Market Expert, Consultancy, Montel

Priyanka Shinde – Market Expert, Nordic, Montel

Julia Demirdag – Germany Correspondent, Montel News

A New Gas Shock?

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0100

*** This episode was recorded on Wednesday before attacks on Qatari and Iranian energy infrastructure. But the message from the guests is still highly relevant - the wholesale gas market has not fully priced in the geopolitical risk premium.

In this second episode of our special series on the war in Iran and its implications for energy markets, we focus on a potential looming gas crisis. As Europe enters the crucial storage refill season with lower-than-usual inventories and a far more complex global backdrop.

Competition for LNG is intensifying, particularly between Europe and Asia, while geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are raising the risk of supply disruption and renewed price volatility.

So how exposed is Europe this time around? And could this crisis prove even more severe than 2022?

Riichard speaks to Saul Kavonic, Head of Energy Research at MST Marquee, who warns that the current disruption could trigger a deeper global gas shock.

In addition, Ole Hvalbye, Commodities Analyst at SEB Research, joins from the trading floor to break down price scenarios, storage risks, and what comes next for LNG supply.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Saul Kavonic - Head of Energy Research, MST Marquee

Ole Hvalbye - Commodities analyst at SEB Research

Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Alexandra Carlon

#EnergyCrisis #GasMarkets #LNG #NaturalGas #EuropeanGas #EnergyMarkets #Commodities #TTF #EnergySecurity #Geopolitics #MiddleEast #OilAndGas #EnergyTransition #MarketVolatility #GlobalEnergy #Podcast #EnergyPodcast #Montel #PluggedIn

A fresh energy crisis?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0100

As wholesale markets remain nervous and volatile, there are renewed calls for policymakers to intervene to shield large energy users from spiking prices. But are markets failing? And could ill-conceived, knee-jerk interventions disrupt the EU’s internal energy market?

Rising geopolitical tensions and disruption to key global shipping routes have pushed gas, power and oil prices sharply higher in recent weeks. While Europe’s energy system is better prepared than it was during the 2022 crisis, volatility in wholesale markets has revived concerns about the impact of rising energy costs on industry.

In this episode, Richard speaks with Montel’s EU correspondent about the options being considered in Brussels ahead of a key meeting of EU leaders, before discussing with experts from the power sector and energy-intensive industry whether Europe could be facing another energy shock, why electricity prices remain structurally high for manufacturers, and whether calls for market intervention risk undermining the EU’s internal energy market.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Cillian O’Donoghue – Policy Director, Eurelectric
Adina Georgescu – Energy and Climate Director, European Metals
Fatima Sadouki – EU Correspondent, Montel News

Editor: Alexandra Carlon

Producer: Alexandra Carlon

#EnergyMarkets #EuropeanEnergy #EnergyPolicy #EnergyCrisis #ElectricityMarkets #EnergyTransition #EnergyTrading #EnergySecurity #EnergyEconomics #CleanEnergy #EnergyPodcast

Italy's carbon reform and the ETS decree

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Italy has launched one of the most controversial proposals in the European energy market in years.

In a bid to lower electricity prices and boost the competitiveness of Italian industry, the government has proposed shifting the cost of carbon emissions from gas-fired power plants to consumers. Supporters say the move could reduce wholesale power prices and ease pressure on businesses facing high energy costs.

But critics warn it could undermine the foundations of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS); the cornerstone of Europe’s climate policy.

In this episode, Richard speaks with international experts about why carbon prices have been falling, what Italy’s proposed reforms could mean for the power market, and the potential impact on renewable investment and corporate PPAs. They also discuss whether the proposal could distort electricity markets across Europe and the legal challenges the European Commission may raise.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests: Hæge Fjellheim - Head of Carbon Analysis at Veyt
Gaia Stigliani - Senior Principal at AFRY Management Consulting
Lorenzo Parola - Managing Partner at Parola Associati
Enza Tedesco - Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Alexandra Carlon

#EnergyMarkets #EUETS #EnergyTransition #CarbonMarkets #ClimatePolicy #EnergyPolicy #RenewableEnergy #EnergyTrading #EnergyEconomics #EuropeanEnergy #CleanEnergy #Decarbonisation #EnergyPodcast

Hormuz on the Brink, Energy Markets in Shock [Special episode]

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100

Middle East escalation has put the Strait of Hormuz; the world’s key energy chokepoint, under threat. We assess the impact on Brent crude, European gas (TTF), and global LNG, with a focus on Qatar’s supply and Europe’s exposure.

Joined by Hussein Ibish, Senior Resident Scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, Dan Marks, Research Fellow for Energy Security at RUSI, and Henning Gloystein, Eurasia Group, they discuss whether Iran would truly close Hormuz, the risks to shipping and infrastructure, and what comes next for global energy markets.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Hussein Ibish - Senior Resident Scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute

Dan Marks - Research Fellow for Energy Security at RUSI

Henning Gloystein - Eurasia Group

Laurence Walker - Montel News

Editor: Alex Carlon, Oscar Birk

Producer: Alex Carlon

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

#StraitOfHormuz #HormuzCrisis #OilPrices #LNG #QatarLNG #EnergyMarkets #EnergyCrisis #GasPrices #BrentCrude #TTF #EnergySecurity #MiddleEast #Geopolitics #ShippingDisruption #GlobalMarkets #RUSI

Ukraine 4 years on: Destruction, Resilience and decentralisation

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0100

This week marks the four-year anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine - a war which has unearthed new hybrid warfare tactics and the targeting of crucial gas and electricity infrastructure in the country.

What has changed this winter for the people of Ukraine, and will Putin's mission to "freeze Ukraine” and brutally destroy its energy work?

In this episode, Richard speaks to guests in Kyiv about the daily realities that the people of Ukraine have experienced this winter without access to heat and power, and the scale of the repair and recovery that energy workers are doing on the ground every day. Listen also to the broader implications of ongoing war on Europe's energy security, and why energy infrastructure has become a prominent war target.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Yuriy Onyshkiv from - Senior Gas Analyst, London Stock Exchange Group

Oleksiy Povolotskiy - Head of Recovery Office, DTEK

Kristian Ruby - Secretary General Eurelectric

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Nordic power market competition heats up

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0100

With Nord Pool set to offer electricity futures contracts from March, competition for liquidity on the Nordic power curve will heat up this year. Who will come out on top?

Also, the European Commission, along with the energy regulators, wants to create a new, centralised unit to operate day-ahead market coupling in the EU. Whilst market participants agree with the need for increased regulatory oversight, there is concern from exchange bosses that this would promote a single point of failure and hamper healthy competition.

Would this proposal fix the part of the system that isn't broken?

In this episode, Richard sits down with the CEOs of Nord Pool and EEX in Essen to discuss this, as well as the issues concerning liquidity in certain markets in Europe, and how the market needs to adapt to aggregators and the flexibility that the investment into renewables demands.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Tom Darrell - CEO, Nord Pool

Peter Reitz - CEO, EEX

Contributor: Julia Demirdag - Germany Reporter, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

A geopolitical state of emergency?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0100

As tensions between Iran and the US intensify, Russian mounts fresh attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, and President Trump softens his stance on the US grab for Greenland, France´s President Macron has warned Europe about a false sense of security, even a state of emergency.

In this episode, Richard speaks to our guests in front of a live audience at E-world in Essen, Germany, about the outlook for Europe's supply and demand under these ongoing geopolitical rumblings: Listen to a discussion on the most important threats to Europe's energy security.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Henning Gloystein - Managing Director of Energy and Resources, Eurasia Group

Hanns Koenig - Managing Director, Aurora Energy Research EMEA

Tobias Federico - Chief Analyst, Montel

Contributor: Mai Rosner - Investigative Reporter, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Norway's looming "supply squeeze"

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Norway is normally an exporter of electricity to its neighbours , but experts are sounding alarm bells. They warn that the increase in demand from electrification and data centres will eclipse the country's abundant power supply. Has Norway now reached that crucial turning point?

In this episode, Richard sits down with Nordic market experts at the Pareto Securities conference in Oslo to discuss the how government subsidies are distorting investment decisions, and why major demand drivers like data centres need faster grid reforms and connections.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Erik Strømsø - CEO and Co-Founder, BW ESS

Jørn Skaane - CEO, Lefdal Mine Datacenter

Lars Ove Skorpen - Director of Power & Renewable Energy, Pareto Securities

Contributor: Petter Udland - Norway Reporter, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Rewiring Europe - will offshore wind be a "winner"?

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Ten European countries in Europe came together in Hamburg earlier this week to sign a commitment to deliver 100GW of offshore wind in the North Sea - a move the German energy minister labelled as "a historic moment for Europe." After a year of failed auctions and cancelled wind projects across some countries in Europe, does this "pact" reveal Europe's commitment to energy independence following President Trump's abuse directed at "loser windmills"?

In this episode, Richard speaks to offshore wind developer Orsted and TSO TenneT about some of the grid integration challenges that the sector needs to overcome, and how proposed interconnectors and bidding zones could work in practice.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Ulrik Stridbæk - Head of Global Regulatory & Public Affairs, Ørsted

Joana Stirnberg - Coordinator of EU Affairs, TenneT

Hubert Put - Senior Consultant, Montel

Contributor: Andreas Lochner - Germany Editor, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

The Greenland play

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0100

This week, US President Donald Trump confirmed his plans to annex Greenland, threatening European members of NATO with higher tariffs if they try to stand in his way.

Despite European leaders expressing messages of defiance and retaliation to these threats from the US, does Europe's reliance on the US for its LNG - and the tariffs negotiated as part of the 2025 EU-US deal - leave the continent in a weak position to oppose Trump?

In this episode, Richard speaks to geopolitical and gas experts about how the markets have responded to this week's events, and the impact that global geopolitical tensions are having on LNG and oil trade.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests: Anne-Sophie Corbeau - Global Research Scholar, Center on Global Energy Policy

Claudio Galimberti - Chief Economist, Rystad Energy

Contributor: Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Iceland geothermal: Engineering calm in a volcanic storm

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0100

In this week's episode, we take a trip to the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland to visit the Svartsengi power Station. Located only several hundred metres from several active volcanoes, the 85 MW geothermal plant has withstood 12 eruptions over the past few years - only shutting down once when power lines actually melted.

Richard sits down with HS Orka's CEO to find out exactly how this resilient power station kept running when lava was flowing down the mountainside and the local residents were being evacuated. Not least how the company upgraded the plant on time and under budget.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Guest: Tómas Már Sigurðsson - CEO, HS Orka

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

The 'Donroe doctrine' and the new world order

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0100

One week into the new year, and President Trump is continuing his mission to tear up the prevailing international order, creating further incertainty for global oil and gas markets following his attack on Venezuela and the arrest of its President, Nicolás Maduro. Meanwhile, Denmark has replied to US threats to annex Greenland, and Russia continues to target Ukraine's power infrastructure, despite ongoing ceasefire talks.

In the first official episode of the new Plugged In podcast season, Richard sits down with Montel's Chief Analyst Tobias Federico to discuss the events that are already shaping the geopolitical landscape in 2026, as well as the significance of Berlin's power outage that affected 50,000 homes during the first weekend in January.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Guest: Tobias Federico - Chief Analyst, Montel

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

A new year for Europe's energy sector

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Negative power prices, geopolitical tension, energy policy, batteries and strengthening the grid - what's in store for Europe's energy markets in 2026?

In our first episode of the new year, Richard sits down with Montel's Editors from France, Spain, Germany, Italy, the Nordics, and the UK to review the key events from 2025, and discuss the headlines predicted to affect Europe's energy sector in 2026.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Christopher Eales - France Editor, Montel News

Pablo Bronte - Iberian Editor, Montel News

Andreas Lochner - Germany Editor, Montel News

Laurence Walker - UK Editor, Montel News

Enza Tedesco - Italy Editor, Montel News

Olav Vilnes - Nordics Editor, Montel News

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Drink whisky, help save the planet - fuelling the energy transition

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0100

How could our Christmas leftovers, such as rejected potatoes and 'pottail' from whisky distilleries, fuel the energy transition?

In our final episode for 2025, Richard sits down with a company in Scotland to discuss how they produce bio-based green chemicals from food and drink byproducts, and how these greener alternatives are already helping pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries wean off fossil fuel chemicals.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Contributor: Gabriel Power - UK Reporter, Montel News

Guest: Mark Simmers - CEO, Celtic Renewables

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Subscribe to the podcast on our website, via Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Russian gas? “No, never again” says EU Energy Commissioner

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0100

It's been a busy first year for the EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen. The Iberian blackout, grid congestion, curtailment of renewable energy and a record number of negative prices. How does he plan to tackle some of these issues in 2026?

In this episode, Richard sits down with the EU´s top energy official in the heart of the European Commission to discuss the details of his grids package released earlier this week, his stance on the future of Russian gas supplies, and how he is trying to work with member states who oppose the ban.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Contributor: Fatima Sadouki - Brussel's Reporter, Montel News
Guest: Dan Jorgensen - European Commissioner for Energy

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Looming LNG oversupply: what will drive gas prices in 2026?

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0100

The global LNG market has been tight since 2022, with prices remaining around USD 10/MMbtu (about EUR 30/MWh).

However, with the one-year countdown to the complete phase-out of Russian gas starting next month, and a new wave of LNG capacity from the US and Qatar expected to come online from next year - could prices drop as low as USD 7/MMbtu?

In this episode, Richard sits down with LNG analysts and geopolitical experts to discuss how Asia could see a strong demand rebound in the next few years, why Germany's declining industrial gas consumption puts downward pressure on long-term demand into Europe. But there is a note of caution as structural challenges in the US LNG construction industry are likely to cause supply delays.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Contributor: Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:

Henning Gloystein - Managing Director of Energy and Resources, Eurasia Group.

Saul Kavonic - Head of Energy Research, MST Financial.

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Good COP, bad COP

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Has the flagship climate conference of the parties (COP) lost its touch?

One week after the closing of the annual COP conference, we examine the deals - or non-deals - that came out of the two weeks of negotiations, and why the EU failed in its negotiations to deliver a plan for the global transitioning away from fossil-fuels.

Richard speaks to Lord Adair Turner about the pressure from petro-states on negotiations, the unusual alliances with developed countries, and why expectations surrounding COP's effectiveness as a mechanism for change are dwindling.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Cem Bektas - Carbon Reporter, Montel News

Guest: Lord Adair Turner - Chairman, Energy Transitions Commission

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Germany's industry power price: hit or miss?

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Germany boasts the biggest economy in Europe. Yet energy-intensive industries in the country are struggling with high energy costs versus their global competitors.

The German government has said it will aim to lower the cost of power to EUR 50/MWh - far below current wholesale prices - from 1 January 2026 with the launch of its new industry power price.

What are the implications for German companies, larger firms as well as the smaller and medium sized companies that are the engines of the country’s economy?

In this episode, Richard speaks to Dr. Claudia Kemfert about the current sentiment towards the coalition government. In addition, what doed its plans to tender 10GW of predominantly gas-fired power plants says about Germany's commitment to the green energy transition?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Christian Driessen - Germany Editor, Montel News

Guest: Dr. Claudia Kemfert - Professor of Energy Economics and Energy Policy at Leuphana University Lüneburg, and Head of the Energy, Transportation and Environment Department at the German Institute for Economic Research

Editor: Oscar Birk Hellenes
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Should we talk about cheap power?

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In recent months, political opposition towards renewable energy policies in the UK has been on a steady rise, as commitment to deliver "cheaper power" starts to overtake the ambition to have "clean power". Energy affordability is firmly back on the agenda.

In the drive to deliver green targets have politicians overhyped the implications of a move to a decarbonized power system? Is free power for all a realistic or even feasible concept? If not, how can consumers be incentivised to use electricity when it’s cheap and not when it’s expensive? What are the real consequences?

In this episode, Richard sits down with Afry Director, Stephen Woodhouse, at Montel's Energy Day in London to talk about whether the push for “clean power by 2030” can deliver cheap power, what changes are needed to deliver more private investment and how political and geopolitical shifts have reshaped costs and policy objectives.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guest: Stephen Woodhouse - Director, Afry

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Will GHG Protocol changes affect the GO market?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:00:00 +0100

In October, the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol - the world’s most widely used carbon accounting framework - launched two public consultations, inviting input from professionals across the industry to share their thoughts on proposed changes to the current guidance for scope 2 carbon emissions and market-based accounting.

But what are the changes? How do they affect big businesses on a global level? Could reformulating the methodology for temporal and locational reporting have far-reaching consequences for the GO market?

In this episode, Richard sits down with experts in Amsterdam to discuss the proposed updates to the GHG Protocol, and what these changes mean for renewable energy markets and corporate sustainability reporting.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Alina Trabattoni - Italy Reporter, Montel News

Guests:
Killian Daly - Executive Director, EnergyTag
Carolyn Addy - Head of Commercial, Renewable

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Powering ahead: Could Europe's EVs use 100 TWh by 2030?

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Anyone who has visited Norway in recent years will be struck at the advance the country has made with electric vehicles and its charging infrastructure.

Should this be rolled out across Europe, EVs could consume just over 100 TWh by 2030. What will be the impact on grids, heavy goods transport and supply chains?

Listen to a discussion on the challenges faced in the electrification of transport, especially the impact that the electrification of heavy goods vehicles will have on grids. What solutions does Europe need to deploy in order to cope with the rollout of high-speed EV charging stations?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Gert Ove Mollestad - Norway Editor, Montel News

Guests:

Wenche Teigland - CEO, Fount
Shan Tomouk - BESS and Energy Research Lead, Benchmark Minerals Intelligence

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

A "frosty" winter for gas prices?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0200

European gas storage levels are lower compared to the same time last year, but many market participants are fairly confident that there will be enough of the fossil fuel for the months ahead. However, the weather remains the uncertain factor with some experts estimating that gas prices could jump more than 30% if Europe is hit with very cold temperatures this winter.

What’s the outlook for prices as demand remains low, Europe becomes increasingly reliant on US LNG amid an unstable geopolitical situation?

In this episode, Richard sits down with the London Stock Exchange Group to discuss several potential seasonal scenarios and the key market drivers for the months ahead.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guest: Wayne Bryan - Research Principal, London Stock Exchange Group

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Will standardised PPAs revive a stagnating market?

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0200

Long-term renewable power purchase agreements (PPAs) have been in steady decline across parts of Europe, thanks to low wholesale prices and a volatile market. Yet some short-term standardised PPA products have seen encouraging uptake — could those be a blueprint to restart the broader market?

Richard speaks with German trading company FlexPower about pricing dynamics, contract structure and risk allocation. Listen to a wider discussion on the key factors behind the success of recent moves to standardise PPAs and the practical and cultural barriers that remain.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Contributor: Kelly Paul - Reporter, Montel News
Guest: Amani Joas - Managing Director, FlexPower

Editors: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Spain’s grid in "safe mode": Lessons from the blackout

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0200

April's huge blackout across the Iberian peninsula, and parts of France, triggered a storm of debate In Spain and more widely across Europe. Despite the publication of several reports, questions remain over the cause of the outage, what lessons the country’s power system has learned from it and how to strengthen grid resilience,

In this episode, Richard Sverrisson speaks to local experts to unravel the findings of a recent report into the outage, the reaction from grid operators, and how the industry is adapting in the aftermath. The discussion explores how Spain’s TSO has shifted into a ‘safe mode’, the renewed reliance on gas generation, and why distributed assets and batteries could hold the key to grid stability in the years ahead.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Pablo Bronte - Spain Editor, Montel News

Guests:
Christina Rentell - Research Lead, Aurora Energy Research
Daniel Garasa Sagardoy - Europe Solar Analyst, Wood Mackenzie

Editor: Oscar Birk Hellenes
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Complex and volatile - 15-minute power auctions start

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0200

The new 15-minute day-ahead auctions went live this week, marking one of the most significant changes in the European power market to date.

In this episode - recorded 48 hours after the first auction - Richard reviews the launch with senior commentators from power exchange Nord Pool, Energy Traders Europe, and Montel Analytics.

They discuss how market participants across Europe have fared under the switch to this new time resolution and why many expect market prices to continue to be volatile amid the complex new granularity.

What does the data on trade volumes from the first 48 hours tell us, and who is the new mechanism is likely to attract?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Gert Ove Mollestad - Norway Editor, Montel News

Guests:
Hans Randen - Executive Vice President for Public Affairs, Nord Pool
Jerome Le Page - Chair of the Electricity Committee, Energy Traders Europe
Jean-Paul Harreman - Director, Montel Analytics

Editors: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

SMRs and AI: Powering Europe's energy security?

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Last week, the UK Prime Minister was the latest leader in Europe to announce his commitment to nuclear energy production by announcing plans to build "a fleet" of small modular reactors (SMRs). The UK's announcement followed similar plans elsewhere in Europe over the last year.

Why are we seeing the focus shift from larger nuclear plants to small modular reactors?

In this episode, Richard speaks to Rolls Royce to understand the tech behind SMRs, the role they can play in reduce dependance on fossil fuels, and why they could prove to be an economically viable option for Europe's rollout of nuclear energy.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Chris Eales - France Editor, Montel News

Guest: Sophie Macfarlane-Smith - Head of Customer Engagement, Rolls Royce SMR

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Could EU carbon prices hit EUR 90/t by year-end?

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Earlier this week, Europe’s benchmark carbon price climbed by over 1 EUR to reach a seven-month high. Could it continue to rise?

As companies across the EU rush to meet the EU ETS deadline on the 30th September, investment funds’ increase their net long exposure in EU carbon allowances and lower supply could drive the price of EUAs higher.

In this episode, Richard speaks to Veyt's Carbon Analyst about why the industry expects a tight carbon market next year, and what impact the reduced allowance thresholds and the introduction of CBAM will have on prices.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Contributor: Cem Bektas - Carbon Reporter, Montel News
Guests: Ingvild Sørhus - Manager of EU Carbon Analysis, Veyt

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Is the EU failing its heavy industry?

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

The US-EU USD 750bn energy deal announced at the end of July left many observers scratching their heads, not least because of the eye watering sums involved. However, European heavy industry, steel and aluminium in particular, were left facing a 50% US import tariff.

The uncertainty for Europe's steel and aluminium companies has prompted issues of "scrap leakage" and imports of material from countries outside Europe, with producers struggling to remain competitive against Chinese overcapacity.

Why were Europe's heavy industries left out of negotiations for lower tariffs, and is this the final nail in the coffin for these industrial sectors?

In this episode, Richard speaks to the European Steel Association and European Aluminium about what their industries needs from the European Commission to ensure their survival.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Fatima Sadouki - Brussels Reporter, Montel News

Guests:
Paul Voss - Director General, European Aluminium
Axel Eggert - Director General, EUROFER

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

A Nordic balancing act

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0200

In March 2025, the balancing price in all of the Swedish price zones crashed to the technical floor of EUR -10,000/MWh - setting off a trend of volatile prices and turbulent balancing markets in the Nordics.

Six months on, small producers and certain market actors in the region are struggling to navigate a complex system and differing responses from TSOs across the region, with many market participants calling out for change.

In this episode, Richard speaks to Nordic market experts about why the changes introduced this year are proving problematic and puts important questions to the Danish TSO.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Elias Huuhtanen - Finland Reporter, Montel News

Guests:
Kia Marie Jerichau - Vice President, Energinet
Matthew Creese - Head of Market Operations for Wind and Solar, Aneo
Priyanka Shinde - Nordic Market Expert, Montel Analytics

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Nordic power market at a crossroads

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 23:00:00 +0200

Volatile prices, falling liquidity and declining profitability are some of the many headwinds the Nordic power market faces in the months ahead.

In addition, could political meddling create more damage to the highly complex and problematic market? And why are public misunderstandings about the issue fuelling political debate?

In this episode, Richard speaks to our guests at the Montel Nordic Energy Day in Oslo. They discuss why a free and competitive market is still the best solution, and they explain the changes that need to be made to the market design in order for it to function better.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Olav Vilnes - Nordic Editor, Montel News

Guests: Kolbjørn Hembre, CEO at Entelios & Fredrik Bodecker, CEO at Bodecker Partners

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles
Videographer: Oscar Birk

The real costs of curtailing renewables

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0200

According to a recent report from Montel Analytics, the UK and Ireland curtailed GBP 152m of renewable energy in the first half of 2025.

Is this counter productive to the UK’s green and clean energy goals? Who foots the bill? Is the lack of adequate infrastructure in Europe’s grid hindering the green energy transition?

In this episode, Richard speaks to the author of the report and Renewable UK about how much curtailment is costing the industry, how it’s affecting investments in wind power projects and why batteries are essential in storing excess green energy production

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Gabriel Power - UK Reporter, Montel News

Guests: Fintan Devenney - Senior Energy Analyst, Montel & Barnaby Wharton - Director of Future Electricity Systems, RenewableUK

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Heatwave raises red flags for power market

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0200

Temperatures reached 40C across Europe this week in the latest of several heatwaves which have engulfed the continent this summer.

In response, power prices soared in many regions, with countries like France curbing nuclear power production because rivers – used for cooling purposes – became too warm.

In this week’s episode, Richard discuss the impact of rising temperatures on power production, consumption and prices. How can Europe futureproof its power market from extreme weather conditions?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Julia Demirdag - News correspondent, Montel News

Guests:
Robin Girmes - Managing Director, Energy Weather
Pawel Czyzak - Europe Programme Director, Ember

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Does the EU energy transition need China?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0200

It’s been 10 years since the Paris Climate Agreement entered intro force. Yet, tariffs, trade wars, and the reversal of the US’s climate policies are putting the global energy transition at risk.

Where does this leave the relationship between the EU, the US, and other global trading partners? And should Europe’s solar and wind developers shun Chinese products?

In this week’s episode, Richard speaks to Lord Adair Turner - Chair of the Energy Transitions Commission about carbon pricing, the cost of the energy transition, and China’s influence in the future of green energy.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Cem Bektas - Carbon correspondent, Montel News
Guest: Lord Adair Turner - Chair of the Energy Transitions Commission
Editors: Bled Maliqi, Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

SUMMER SPECIAL Episode 5: President of the Council of European Energy Regulators

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 01:00:00 +0200

This is the fifth episode of Plugged In’s five-part CEO summer series, where Richard interviews prominent leaders in Europe’s energy sector.

In this final special episode, Richard speaks to Dr Annegret Groebel, President of the Council of European Energy Regulators and Director of International Relations at the German Regulatory Authority, BNetzA.

They talk about the challenges with energy regulation in 2025, and what the next move is for Germany and its bidding zones.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guest: Dr Annegret Groebel - President of the Council of European Energy Regulators & Director of International Relations at BNetzA

Editors: Bled Maliqi, Sarah Knowles

Producer: Sarah Knowles

SUMMER SPECIAL Episode 4: CEO of Rystad Energy

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 01:00:00 +0200

This is the fourth episode of Plugged In’s five-part CEO summer series, where Richard interviews prominent leaders in Europe’s energy sector.

In this episode, Richard sits down with Jarand Rystad, CEO and Founder of energy research and intelligence company, Rystad Energy.

They talk about the changes in China’s oil demand, the production - or lack - of hydrogen, and the challenges with battery and solar power in Europe.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guest: Jarand Rystad - CEO and Founder, Rystad Energy

Editors: Bled Maliqi, Sarah Knowles

Producer: Sarah Knowles

SUMMER SPECIAL Episode 3: CEO of Fingrid

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 01:00:00 +0200

This is the third episode of Plugged In’s five-part CEO summer series, where Richard interviews prominent leaders in Europe’s energy sector.

In this episode, Richard speaks to Asta Sihvonen-Punkka, CEO of Finnish TSO, Fingrid.

They discuss the ongoing issues with balancing Finland’s power market, the oversupply of renewable energy in the Nordics, and the future of Finland’s nuclear energy programme.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guest: Asta Sihvonen-Punkka - CEO, Fingrid

Editors: Bled Maliqi, Sarah Knowles

Producer: Sarah Knowles

SUMMER SPECIAL Episode 2: CEO of Eon

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0200

This is the second episode of Plugged In’s five-part CEO summer series, where Richard interviews prominent leaders in Europe’s energy sector.

In this episode, Richard interviews Leonhard Birnbaum, CEO of Eon, about Europe’s power market.

They discuss the boom in renewable energy, the issues surrounding security of supply, and the importance of investing in Europe’s grid infrastructure.

Presenter: Richard Sverisson - Editor-in-Chief

Guest: Leonhard Birnbaum - CEO of Eon

Editors: Bled Maliqi, Sarah Knowles

Producer: Sarah Knowles

SUMMER SPECIAL Episode 1: CEO of Energy UK

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0200

This is the first episode of Plugged In’s five-part CEO summer series, where Richard interviews prominent leaders in Europe’s energy sector.

In this episode, Richard speaks to Dhara Vyas, CEO of Energy UK about the state of the UK’s energy sector one year on from the Labour government coming into power.

They discuss the UK’s renewable energy targets, the UK government’s green energy policies, and the problem of rising energy prices.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief

Guest: Dhara Vyas - CEO of Energy UK

Editors: Bled Maliqi, Sarah Knowles

Producer: Sarah Knowles

The data centre boom

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 01:00:00 +0200

The US, China, and now Europe are seeing a surge in data centres as big tech firms and other businesses develop their AI models. But, will these data centres cause the dramatic rise in power consumption that many are predicting?

In this episode, Richard goes deep into the subject with data centre experts from RISE and Greenscale to understand who the tenants of these data centres are, what challenges the tech and energy industries need to overcome together, and how data centres will continue to evolve with the exponential growth in AI.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson
Contributor: Alina Trabattoni - Italy Correspondent, Montel News

Guests:
Tor Björn Minde - Head of ICE Datacenter Unit at RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden)
Liam Newcombe - Senior Vice President of Product, Energy Strategy and Innovation, Greenscale

Editors: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Will Iran close the Strait of Hormuz?

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:00:00 +0200

This week, LNG prices rose to a 10-week high in Europe in response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

With the shadow of a threat from Iran to close its vital waterway for global LNG shipments, in this episode, we discuss the likelihood of this happening, the political power dynamics at play and the implications for global energy markets.

Richard speaks to Eurasia Group’s Head of Energy and Kpler’s Principal LNG Analyst about the changes in shipping movements that we have seen around the strait in response to Israel and Iran’s attacks, and what this tells us about how the energy markets have so far reacted.

Host: Richard Sverrisson
Contributor: Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guests:
Laura Page - Principal LNG Analyst, Kpler
Henning Gloystein - Practice Head of Energy, Climate & Resources, Eurasia Group

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Sticky Nordic negative prices, will Finland retain top spot?

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Since spring 2025, power prices in the Nordics have been below zero, thanks to a myriad of factors, including low power demand and a glut of green power production.

Whilst this has been good news for some consumers in the region - who have been paid to use their electricity - the prevalence of sub-zero prices has created jitters for investors and many in öthe markets are feeling the impact of the negative downturn.

In this episode, Richard speaks to a panel of experts from Montel’s Energy Day in Helsinki about why the Nordics are experiencing the most dramatic level of negative prices vs the rest of Europe. We also look at PPAs, the impact of an increase in nuclear energy, and how renewables can coexist with other growing energy sources.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson

Guests:

Suvi Paaso - Managing Director, Power Deriva
Riku Merikoski - Senior Power Analyst, Axpo Solutions AG
Vesa Ahoniemi - Chief Commercial Officer, Winda Energy
Priyanka Shinde - Market Expert Nordic, Montel Analytics

Editors: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Offshore wind: Navigating the storm

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In May, Danish energy producer, Orsted, pulled out of the UK’s Hornsea 4 project, citing "economic reasons", and earlier this week, industry leaders in The Netherlands have expressed their serious concerns about the high costs and potential delays which threaten the delivery of key offshore wind projects.

In this episode, Richard speaks to the CEO of WindEurope about the state of Europe’s renewable energy sector. He also speaks to a panel of experts from the UK and The Netherlands - including a former Dutch MP - about how delays and rules set by governments are causing serious issues for the industry.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson
Contributor: Karolin Schaps - Dutch Reporter, Montel News

Guests:
Giles Dickson - CEO, WindEurope
Fintan Devenney - Senior Energy Analyst, Montel
Jan Vos - Chairman, NedZero
Bas Sudmeijer - MD, Boston Consulting Group

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Spanish cable, French resistance

Fri, 30 May 2025 08:00:00 +0200

Spain and Portugal will be sending joint letters to the EU energy commissioner and French energy minister, urging them to apply pressure on the current plans for interconnections, following April’s blackout in the Iberian Peninsula.

But are high costs, local resistance, and fears over the impact of cheap imports stiffening Paris’s opposition to further power links with Spain.

This week we speak to key Spanish and French market experts to unpack some of the issues that the topic of further interconnection raises for the two countries. And for the rest of Europe.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson

Contributors:

Muriel Boselli - France Correspondent, Montel News

Belen Belmonte - Spain Correspondent, Montel News

Guests:

Ana Barillas - Managing Director, Iberia and LATAM at Aurora Energy Research

Emeric de Vigan - Managing Director, 42 Advisors

Editor: Oscar Birk

Producer: Sarah Knowles

Gas power games

Thu, 22 May 2025 23:00:00 +0200

As Europe eyes an end to Russian gas imports by 2027, fresh geopolitical tensions are reshaping energy markets once again. Could Trump’s mediation efforts result in a ceasefire in the Ukraine and could Russian gas re-enter Europe—directly or via shadow routes?

In this week’s episode, Richard speaks to two policy experts about what peace versus a ceasefire could really mean for gas prices, energy security, and the green transition. How do emerging interdependencies with the US, Qatar, and Africa shift Europe’s leverage—and what happens when offshore wind, solar, and LNG become pawns in great power rivalries?

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Andrés Cala – LNG Correspondent, Montel News

Guests: Francesco Sassi – Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Oslo
Tobias Federico – Chief Product Officer, Montel

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

CBAM uncertainty hits commodity trading

Fri, 16 May 2025 08:00:00 +0200

In recent months, the European Commission has published what it describes as “simplified rules” of the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), but is the policy still unclear and too complicated for energy and metals traders?

In this episode, Richard talks to experts about the CBAM, and why some commodity trading firms are holding off - despite the official January 2026 start date. Could some be at risk of ceasing trading temporarily?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Gabriel Power - UK Power Reporter, Montel News

Guests:
Dan Maleski - Senior Environmental Markets Advisor, Redshaw Advisors
Nick Ogilvie - Product Manager, Carbon Chain

Editors: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Iberia’s blackout: a wake up call?

Fri, 09 May 2025 01:00:00 +0200

Since parts of Spain, Portugal, and France temporarily lost power on Monday 28th April, TSOs and policy makers across Europe have been quick to try and assess how much their own networks are at risk of a similar blackout.

Whilst we await conclusions from Entso-e’s investigations as to the cause of the outage, in this week’s episode Richard speaks to the Secretary General of Eurelectric and Rystad Energy about what this incident tells us about the reliability of Europe’s grid and our increasing dependency on electricity. What does the outage tell us about the need for flexibility and storage in an increasingly green power system?

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Pablo Bronte - Editor, Montel Iberia

Guests:
Kristian Ruby - Secretary General, Eurelectric
Pratheeksha Ramdas - Senior New Energies Analyst, Rystad Energy

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Germany split over bidding zone division

Fri, 02 May 2025 09:00:00 +0200

After a long delay, European TSOs finally released their bidding zone review this week. The report was met with much backlash from Germany’s government and industry leaders strongly opposed to the proposal to split its zone into five.

In this week’s podcast episode Richard speaks to commentators for and against dividing Germany’s price zone, and explores how the industry can expect TSOs in Germany and the Nordic region to respond in the next six months.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Contributor: Siobhan Hall - Brussel’s Correspondent

Guests:
Casimir Lorenz - Managing Director for Central Europe, Aurora Energy Research
Tobias Federico - Chief Product Officer, Montel
Morten Pindstrup - International Chief Engineer, Energinet

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Is Norway enabling GO double counting?

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0200

Norway is the largest exporter of guarantees of origin certificates. Yet last month, the country's government published guidance for industry and union leaders that supported a localised approach, opening up the possibility for double counting of GOs.

After Iceland was accused of a similar move last year, we explore whether this latest move is pulling the reliability of the GO market into question amid continuously falling prices.

In this week's episode, Richard speaks to Daniel Arnesson from Veyt about where the confidence is in the GO market, and when prices will start to rise again.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Contributor: Gert Ove Mollestad - Norway Editor, Montel
Guest: Daniel Arnesson - Manager of Renewable Power Certificates, Veyt

Editors: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Tariffs, trade wars and “drill, baby, drill”

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0200

Oil and gas prices plummeted in the immediate aftermath of the trade war between the US and China.

With many expecting oil and gas prices to continue to decline as a result of Trump's tariffs, the trade war raises raises fundamental questions about the profitability of oil production. Will oil producers feel inspired to "drill baby drill", as Trump famously promised, if prices continue to fall?

In this episode, Richard speaks to Saul Kavonic, Head of Energy Research at MST Marquee, about the impact on global trade flows, prices and why an expected boost in LNG in 2026 may not materialise.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Contributor: Laurence Walker - Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Guest: Saul Kavonic - Head of Energy Research, MST Marquee

Editor: Oscar Birk
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Green transition fears amid tariff turmoil

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

This week, Trump's staggering tariffs on Asia and Europe caused turmoil in global equity and energy markets - as they took effect and were paused - raising many concerns within the energy sector about prices, trade flows, and the future of renewables investments.

With the situation changing day-by-day, even hour by hour, Richard speaks to Norges Bank Investment Management - Norway's Oil Fund - about the state of the global renewables markets, and what long-term impact the events of this week will have on the energy transition.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Contributor: Olav Vilnes - Norway Editor, Montel
Guest: Harald von Heyden - Global Head of Energy and Infrastructure, Norges Bank Investment Management

Podcast Editors: Oscar Birk, Bled Maliqi
Podcast Producer: Sarah Knowles

German regulator talks gas storage, price zone split

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 01:00:00 +0200

In this week's episode, the president of the federal network agency discusses the critical issues facing Germany's energy market as the country waits for the new government to take the reins.

How will Germany - and Europe - fill gas storage ahead of the winter, given the current unattractive prices? We also talk about the pressure the country faces to split its price zone, and the outlook for power demand amid a challenging macro-economic environment for German industry.

Presenter: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Guest: Klaus Müller - President, The German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur); Nathan Witkop - Editor, Clean Energy Desk

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Heathrow's power outage - a one-off?

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Last Friday, one of the world's largest transport hubs came to a halt for 18 hours after a fire broke out at one of its substations in North Hyde.

Since the incident, National Grid's CEO responded to accusations that Heathrow bosses were forced to shut down the airport due to a lack of power, confirming that the two other substations were operational and fully capable of powering the airport.

Why, then, was the airport not able to connect the power, and why did it take so long to return to its operations?

In this week's episode, Richard speaks to Simon Gallagher, grid expert and MD of UK Network Services, a leading independent energy networks consultancy, about some of the wider concerns this outage raises about the country@s energy security. How vulnerable is some of its crucial infrastructure?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News
Guest: Simon Gallagher, Managing Director of UK Network Services

Editor: Bled Maliqi
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Nuclear’s latest comeback: is it permanent?

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Over the past year, many countries in Europe and beyond have announced plans to expand their nuclear programmes or build new reactors.

As the pressure mounts for countries to start delivering on their decarbonisation goals and have a tighter grasp on their energy security, it begs the question: has “the road to net zero” become “the road to nuclear”?

In this week’s episode, Richard speaks to the Director General of the Nuclear Energy Agency about what has triggered this latest revival in nuclear, and how the private and public sectors will need to decide who takes on the financial risk of building new atomic reactors.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Guest: William D. Magwood, IV - Director General, Nuclear Energy Agency
Christopher Eales - France Editor, Montel News

Editor: Bled Maliqi, Montel
Producer: Sarah Knowles

Navigating regulatory and geopolitical complexity

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0100

In this week’s episode we discuss how unprecedented global risks — from escalating trade tensions and hybrid warfare to rising populism — are reshaping Europe's energy markets. Statkraft's CEO Birgitte Ringstad Vartdal shares insights into the company's approach to project prioritisation, reveals why the green transition will inevitably continue despite near-term hurdles and discusses how companies can build local support for renewables amid growing opposition. Birgitte also weighs in on Norway’s controversial market intervention, the fixed-price electricity retail contract, and addresses criticism around regulatory hurdles and delays to new capacity projects.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel.
Guest: Birgitte Ringstad Vartdal – CEO, Statkraft; Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel.

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi, Montel.

EU energy security amid “seismic” global shifts

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0100

This week we explore the growing energy security challenges facing Europe amid a “seismic” shift in the global geopolitical order. In light of this, we discuss plans by the European Commission to support industry and keep energy affordable. Will these measures be enough to protect the continent from instability and price shocks? Kristian Ruby, secretary general of Eurelectric, weighs in on whether the bloc is moving fast enough to secure its energy future in an increasingly uncertain world, while pondering the role of flexibility in stabilising power markets and opines on how electric vehicles could be a game-changer for grid resilience.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel.
Guests: Kristian Ruby – Secretary General, Eurelectric; Fatima Sadouki, Energy Correspondent, Montel.

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi, Montel.

Berlin's power shift

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0100

As Germany’s Christian Democrat alliance (CDU/CSU) is in talks about forming a new government with the Social Democrats, this week’s episode discusses the country’s role in the new global order. It comes against a backdrop where US president Donald Trump is abandoning old friends in Europe and proposing a trade war instead of aiding old allies. Not only could this have implications for US-sourced LNG but the new government in Berlin must make key decisions on the future of fossil fuels, the renewables transition and on whether to embrace hydrogen. The coalition will also have to deal with pressure from domestic industry and consumers demanding cheaper and more reliable power provision, as well as a backlash against wind turbines in the east of the country.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News.

Guest: Claudia Kemfert, Professor of Energy, Economics and Energy Policy at Leuphana University. She also heads the Energy, Transport, Environment Department at the German Institute for Economic Research.

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi, Montel.

Energy, recovery & Germany’s next move

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0100

It was Europe’s biggest importer of Russian gas prior to the Ukraine invasion but Russia’s cutting of gas supplies to Europe pushed Uniper to the brink of collapse.

It was nationalised in one of the biggest corporate bailouts in German history.

Montel’s Editor-in-Chief has been speaking to Uniper’s COO, Holger Kreetz, on the firm’s recovery, Germany’s energy transition and the imminent snap election.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News.

Guests: Katharina Johannsen, Montel News Germany.

Holger Kreetz, Chief Operating Officer, Uniper.

Podcast editor: Oscar Birk, Montel.

Rising populism and energy markets

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Europe’s energy sector is caught in the crossfire of rising populism. With elections approaching in Norway and Germany, governments are under pressure to prioritize short-term price stability over long-term market efficiency. Norway’s decision to impose fixed electricity prices has sparked concerns about weakened price signals and energy market fragmentation. Meanwhile, in Germany, the far-right AfD is gaining ground, threatening the country’s renewable energy expansion and interconnectivity with neighbours.

This week, Plugged In comes to you from Essen at the E-World Energy & Water trade fair, where the future of Europe’s energy markets hangs in the balance. Montel’s Siobhan Hall sets the scene before we hear from Hanns Koenig, Managing Director for Central Europe at Aurora Energy Research, and Amund Vik, former Norwegian deputy minister for petroleum and energy.

We discuss Norway’s shift toward energy protectionism, the growing backlash against renewables, the risks of fixed electricity pricing, and whether Europe’s integrated energy market is at risk of political unravelling.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel.

Guests: Hanns Koenig, Managing Director for Central Europe at Aurora Energy Research; Amund Vik, Senior Advisor, Eurasia Group; Stephen Woodhouse, Director, Afry; Siobhan Hall, Brussels Correspondent, Montel News

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi, Montel.

Regulating the unpredictable

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0100

The UK has announced hugely ambitious plans - clean power by 2030. This will involve a massive roll-out of wind, onshore and offshore, solar as well as an expansion of grids and storage. A challenge, certainly. But not impossible, according to Jonathan Brearley, the chief executive of Ofgem, the UK's energy market regulator. The CEO also explains why the watchdog thinks zonal, rather than national pricing is the best way forward for the country.

In the first episode of Plugged In: the energy news podcast we discuss how the country can meet its targets, the obstacles that stand in the way and why the UK is not close to running out of gas. In fact, the UK will need gas in the future, albeit in a significantly less dependent way, according to Ofgem.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel News.

Guest: Jonathan Brearley, Chief Executive Officer, Ofgem; Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News.

Podcast editor: Oscar Birk

Norway’s energy crisis, AI and the looming supply squeeze

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Norway’s energy sector is at the centre of a dramatic political storm. With an election looming in September, Finance minister Trygve Slagsvold Vedum pulled his Centre Party out of the government, warning of greater dependence on what he calls Europe’s “dysfunctional” electricity market. But political uncertainty is not the only challenge — Norway faces a growing supply deficit, AI-driven demand spikes from data centres, and increasing hurdles in building new capacity.

This week, the Montel Weekly Podcast comes to you from Oslo at the Pareto Securities Power & Renewable Energy Conference. Montel’s Petter Udland sets the scene before we hear from Lars Ove Skorpen, Director Power & Renewable Energy at Pareto Securities.

We discuss the government crisis over the EU’s 4th Energy Package, the impact of AI and DeepSeek on Norway’s power demand, the challenges of expanding interconnectors, and why investment in new capacity is not keeping up with demand.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel.
Guests:
Lars Ove Skorpen - Director Power & Renewable Energy, Pareto Securities
Petter Udland, Montel journalist, Oslo

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi

Trump 2.0 pivots to gas

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0100

In his first hours back in office, US president Donald Trump issued a series of sweeping executive orders designed to prioritise fossil fuels, dismantle environmental policies and expand American energy dominance. From withdrawing from the Paris agreement to resuming LNG export permits and halting offshore wind projects, Trump’s agenda marks a dramatic pivot from the previous administration.

This week’s Montel Weekly Podcast delves into the consequences of these policy shifts on global energy markets, renewables and climate goals. Are Europe’s LNG needs creating new dependencies? How will domestic opposition shape the future of US energy?

Host Richard Sverrisson is joined by Montel’s Andres Cala and energy analyst Henning Gloystein to break down these developments. They discuss the challenges for renewables, the strategic importance of US LNG, and whether Trump’s “drill, baby, drill” strategy will deliver on its promises.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel.
Guests: Henning Gloystein - Director, Energy, Climate & Resources at Eurasia Group
Andres Cala - LNG Correspondent, Montel News

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi

Hybrid energy war in the Baltic

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0100

The recent damage to the Estlink 2 electricity cable running between Finland and Estonia has highlighted the precarious nature of power supply amid increased fears of a hybrid war with Russia.

Finnish police are investigating whether a ship with links to Russia was involved in sabotage, with the cable – set to be offline for months for repairs – thought to have been damaged by the vessel’s trailing anchor.

In response, Nato has enhanced its military presence in the Baltic Sea, while Estonia has sent a patrol ship to protect the remaining Estlink 1 power cable.

This week’s pod discusses the spate of cuts to data and power links that could point to such nefarious activities, the market impact and the volatile political situation in northern Europe which evokes memories of the Cold War.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel.
Guests: Prof Paula Kivimaa, Research Professor at the Finnish Environment Institute in Helsinki; Fredrik Bodecker, Founding Partner and CEO of Bodecker Partners in Malmo; Olav Vilnes, Nordics Editor, Montel News.

Podcast editor: Bled Maliqi

Elections and Energy – Germany's path forward

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0100

Germany’s energy sector is at a pivotal moment, with political shifts, economic challenges, and the energy transition shaping its future. This week on the Montel Weekly Podcast, Katharina Johannsen, Montel’s Berlin reporter, and Tobias Federico, senior analyst at Montel Analytics, join us to discuss key issues ahead of Germany’s February election.

We’ll explore how political changes, including Elon Musk’s favourite German party and the prospect of a Trump presidency, could impact energy policy and markets.

The episode also delves into the downturn in German industrial production, expectations for energy prices in 2025, and the critical challenges facing Germany’s energy transition.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Tobias Federico , Managing Director, Senior Analyst, Montel Analytics; Katharina Johannsen – Berlin Correspondent, Montel News

Editor: Bled Maliqi

End of year roundup, 2025 outlook

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0100

2024 was a year of seismic shifts in the energy sector, marked by challenges, breakthroughs, and critical debates. From Italy’s energy transition hurdles to Germany’s hydrogen shake-ups and the UK’s evolving gas market, we’ve seen how global events and regional policies shape the energy landscape.

In this special episode, Montel editors – Laurence Walker, Andreas Lochner, Nathan Witkop, Enza Tedesco, and Olav Vilnes – join host Richard Sverrisson to explore the biggest energy stories of 2024. We’ll also look ahead to what 2025 might bring, from key elections in Germany and Norway to the implications of geopolitical tensions and the nuclear revival.

Tune in for expert insights and thought-provoking discussions as we wrap up 2024 and peer into the year ahead for the global energy market.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Laurence Walker – Deputy Editor-In-Chief, Montel News; Andreas Lochner – Germany Editor, Montel News; Nathan Witkop – Editor, Clean Energy Desk, Montel News; Enza Tedesco – Italy Editor, Montel News; Olav Vilnes – Nordics Editor, Montel News

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Gas: Will fundamentals Trump geopolitics?

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 21:00:00 +0100

2025 is set to be a year of continuing geopolitical turmoil. Donald Trump’s return to the White House will raise the temperature further at a time of major instability in the Middle East along with Russia-Ukraine.

Questions remain over where Europe’s gas will come from and a key European power-player, Germany, faces fresh elections in February.

In this episode, we delve into the latest geopolitical developments, as well as the key fundamental drivers, and assess their likely impacts, with Wayne Bryan, Principal Associate at the London Stock Exchange Group (and formerly Director of LSEG’s European Gas Research).

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Wayne Bryan, Principal Associate (formerly Director, European Gas Research), London Stock Exchange Group; Andres Cala – Senior LNG Correspondent, Montel

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Poland’s Energy Crossroads

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 02:00:00 +0100

Poland’s energy sector is undergoing a critical, if slow, transition after the election of Donald Tusk as prime minister exactly one year ago. Coal still dominates the mix despite a greater use of gas and a growth in renewables. Grid modernisation and energy security have taken centre stage.

Significant challenges include high energy costs, particularly for industry. There’s also the matter of where government subsidies could, and should, be spent. Issues around policy cohesion, public and industry engagement and regional impacts all persist.

In this episode, we delve into the latest developments shaping Poland’s energy landscape. Montel’s experts provide a snapshot of the latest news, and Joanna Pandera, founder of the Forum Energii think-tank in Poland, discusses the milestones, challenges, and what Poland’s energy transition means for Europe and beyond.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Joanna Pandera, Founder and CEO, Forum Energii, Professor at European University in Florence; Hubert Put, Senior Energy Consultant, Montel;Marcin Czekanski,Poland Correspondent, Montel

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Atomic revival: A new age for nuclear?

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 03:00:00 +0100

This week, the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change released a report declaring, “a new nuclear age is beginning,” arguing that nuclear power is critical in meeting global climate goals. But how is this renaissance different from earlier proclamations of an atomic revival?

In this episode, Richard talks with report co-author Tone Langengen about the case for a nuclear revival and the hurdles still in its way. Joining the discussion is nuclear expert Paul Dorfman, who questions whether nuclear can truly compete with renewables.

They cover the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs), the challenges of cost overruns, and whether nuclear and renewables can work together to create a resilient, low-carbon grid.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Tone Langengen - Senior Policy Advisor, Climate & Energy Policy at the Tony Blair Institute For Global Change. Co-author of this report “A New Nuclear Age”; Dr Paul Dorfman - Visiting Fellow at the Science Policy Research Unit of the University of Sussex; Chris Eales – France Editor, Montel

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Flow-based market coupling – what's all the fuss about?

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 01:00:00 +0100

In October, the Nordic power market introduced a new calculation method for cross-zonal capacity to improve Nordic grid utilisation. However, so-called flow-based market coupling, in place for almost a decade in continental Europe, has received a rocky reception in the north. Particularly amongst policy makers and small companies.

So, what exactly is it, and why has it caused a furore in the Nordic region?

In this episode, Richard speaks to TenneT's flow-based expert Frank Boerman, to unpack exactly how the flow-based model works, and two of our Montel experts share insights on some of the challenges that the Nordic energy market has already faced under the new system.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Frank Boerman – Process Specialist at TenneT; Olav Vilnes – Nordic Editor, Montel News; Priyanka Shinde – Nordic Market Expert, Montel News

Editor: Bled Maliqi

COP, climate policy and EU carbon

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Global leaders at COP29 were under a huge amount of pressure going into talks this week following the UN Secretary General public voicing his concerns over the state of negotiations.

Criticisms of this year’s talks and the huge scale event that COP has become in recent years begs the question: is COP too big, and does it need reforming? We also discuss Europe's carbon market, current drivers and the reasons why prices may continue to rise.

In this episode, Richard speaks to Trevor Sikorski from Energy Aspects and our Carbon Correspondent reports from COP29 in Baku.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Trevor Sikorski – Head of Natural Gas and Carbon Research at Energy Aspects.

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Criticism mounts as Sweden axes 32 GW offshore wind

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0100

At the start of November, the Swedish government announced that it was vetoing plans for 13 offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea due to security concerns. The announcement was met with much criticism from developers and lobby groups who felt blindsided by the cancellations and concerned about what this decision suggests about Sweden’s future energy priorities.

In this episode, Richard speaks to WindEurope about their fears regarding Sweden’s decision and discusses the nuances of Sweden’s Ministry of Defence with Defence Consultant and former Swedish Army Lieutenant Colonel.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Giles Dickson – CEO, WindEurope; Tobhias Wikstrom – CEO, Parachute Consulting; Anton Tigerstedt – Editor Sweden, Montel News

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Trump re-elected, Berlin coalition fails: Energy impact

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 01:00:00 +0100

It has been a big week for global politics.

On the same day that the United States voted Donald Trump as their 47th President, the German coalition government broke down after a budget row over cutting energy costs to companies and financial support for Ukraine.

In this episode, Richard explores what this new US administration will mean for energy markets, and he speaks to one of our guests live from Munich about what the initial reaction to the news has been in Germany. Listen to a discussion on where this leaves the country – and the wider energy transition – as it enters a period of limbo until a new government is elected.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Nadia Martin Wiggen – Director, Svelland Capital; Tobias Federico – Managing Director of Energy Brainpool GmbH & Co. KG

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Budget boost for the UK’s energy sector?

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0100

This week, the UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her budget – the first from a Labour government in 14 years.

Whilst there were no big surprises for the energy sector, the budget still raised some interesting questions about the challenges in the UK when it comes to channeling private investment, and how effective the funding is going to be.

In this episode, Richard dissects what the announcements and fiscal decisions laid out by the Government will mean for energy businesses in the UK.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Pranav Menon – Product Manager for GB Power Renewables, Aurora Energy Research; Johnny Gowdy – Director, Regen; Paul Buckworth – Montel Analytics

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Why is oil still trading under USD 100/bbl?

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0200

It is over a year since Hamas attacked Israel, which triggered a wider conflict in the Middle East; the territory that produces around a third of the world’s oil. And much of its gas.

Yet, despite the escalating military attacks and rising geopolitical tensions, the price of oil has not increased as significantly as some experts assumed, especially when compared to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine two years ago.

Why? In this episode, Richard speaks to geopolitics expert and co-founder of global data and intelligence firm, Energy Aspects, about what this tells us about the oil market, and what it suggests about our assumptions on the impact of geopolitical events vs the reality on the ground.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Richard Bronze – Co-Founder, Energy Aspects; Luke Roshan – Correspondent, Montel News

Editor: Bled Maliqi

Nato eyes risks in EU power markets

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 22:00:00 +0200

The last two years of the conflict in Ukraine, and the rise in malicious cyberattacks, has raised concerns security risks over Europe’s plans to be more self-sustainable in energy supply.

Now, as countries across Europe roll out their plans for further decarbonisation and electrification, the security of these plans has come into question, pushing the energy sector firmly onto NATO’s radar. Is Europe’s energy market set up to deal with security threats?

In this episode, Richard speaks to two of the authors of a new report from Eurasia that puts the pressing issues of energy storage and grid compacity in Europe into a new – more urgent – context of security.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests:Amund Vik – Senior Advisor to Eurasia Group and former Deputy Energy Minister in the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy; Henning Gloystein – Head for Energy, Climate, and Natural Resources at Eurasia Group; Laurence Walker – Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News

Ramping up batteries

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 20:00:00 +0200

It's clear for many that Europe needs to ramp up battery energy storage capacity over the next decade to help decarbonise the economy. But where does this leave battery developers and manufacturers who must navigate the complex markets and battle against negative pricing?

In this episode, Richard speaks to Neoen’s MD of Sweden about the largest battery in the Nordic region that will start operating early next year. In addition, we hear from Rystad Energy’s battery expert about the market conditions and the competitive threat from China that we have already seen start to impact local European manufacturers.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Laetitia Prot – Managing Director Sweden, Neoen
Lars Lysdal – Advisory Partner and battery expert, Rystad Energy

BONUS EPISODE: The UK ends 142-years of Coal

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 01:00:00 +0200

This week marked a historic milestone for the UK as it shut down the last remaining coal-fired power station in Ratcliffe-on-Soar, Nottinghamshire. Once the backbone of the country’s energy supply, coal has been an essential part of the energy mix for over a century.

In this bonus episode, Richard speaks to Matthew Scrimshaw, CCO of Montel, who shares his memories of growing up in his childhood home which overlooked the iconic power plant. Matthew recounts stories of his grandfather going to work in another nearby coal unit, and being mesmerised as a boy by the Ratcliffe-on-Soar station.

Matthew, Richard, and Montel’s Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Laurence, reflect on coal’s role in the industrial revolution, the integral position it held in the politics of the 1970s and 80s, and how the dirty fuel will be remembered in British history.

Host: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Laurence Walker – Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News; Matthew Scrimshaw – Chief Commercial Officer, Montel

Has the hydrogen bubble burst or is it merely deflating?

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 21:00:00 +0200

In September, the growing uncertainty surrounding the hydrogen economy brought new projects from producers like Shell and Equinor to a halt. Is this the start of a wave of hydrogen project cancellations that we are about to see in Europe? Has H2 passed peak hype?

Richard speaks to Montel’s Environmental Markets Reporter and the Hydrogen Science Coalition about why we are seeing hydrogen projects collapse now, and what is next to come.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: David Cebon – Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Cambridge University and founding member of the Hydrogen Science Coalition; Rachael Burnett – Environmental Markets Reporter, Montel News

Geopolitics and pipelines – is the global gas market prepared?

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0200

Europe’s gas supplies are plentiful. Some in the industry are relaxed ahead of the coming winter, but with the rising military escalation in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, and the global market apprehensively awaiting November’s US Election, this positive sentiment might be about to change.

In this week’s episode, we speak to hedge fund Svelland Capital about the impending challenges to the gas market.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Nadia Martin Wiggen – Director, Svelland Capital; Andres Cala – Senior LNG Correspondent, Montel

Thumbs up for the new European Commission?

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0200

This week, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, unveiled her team of new commissioners and set out their priorities for the next five years.

Amongst her new team are some key, experienced players for energy and climate, whose home countries are already avid supporters of the EU’s plans to decarbonise its economy.

Does this new, energy-charged Commission combined with Draghi’s report recommendations mean that we are going to see some drastic change in the next five years?

In this week’s episode, we hear initial reactions to the announcement from our own Brussel’s Correspondent and Eurelectric’s Policy Director.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Siobhan Hall – Brussel’s Correspondent, Montel News;
Cillian O’Donoghue – Policy Director, Eurelectric

Is regulation holding GO adoption back?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0200

Harmonisation and international standardisation; those were the words that were often heard this week when analysts, traders, and energy producers came together to discuss the challenges facing the guarantees of origin market at the GO Conference in Reykjavík this week.

The GO market is a driver for investment in renewable energy production pipeline, but how does it need to change to bring in more firms, especially energy intensive industry, and help boost demand across Europe?

In this episode, Richard speaks to industry experts from the conference in Reykjavík and our reporter Enza Tedesco goes on a tour of one of Iceland’s new power plants.

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Lars Ragnar Solberg – Principal Consultant, AFRY
Halldór K. Sigurðarson – Business Director, Landsvirkjun
Merve Güngör – Policy and Networking Manager, RECS

Carbon supply squeeze

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0200

The global power system is changing. Carbon emissions are declining. The green transition is in full flow. This is good news for the planet, but what do the next few years on this journey to 2030 look like for carbon prices?

In this episode, we talk about the impact of impending EU regulations that businesses are bracing themselves for. With supply due to decrease faster than demand, and the squeeze on industries who will no longer benefit from the EU’s free emissions allowance, we ask the question: who is going to feel the brunt of decarbonisation?

Host: Richard Sverrisson - Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Alexandra Härmatis - Senior Corporate Carbon Trader, Vertis Environmental Finance

Insider trading allegations

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0200

A Montel News investigation has aired claims of insider trading in Germany’s power market. Signals received by some to help balance the grid are allegedly being used to front-run prices for same-day delivery. We’ve spoken to traders who claim this is an open secret worth millions of euros. Listen to a discussion with the reporter who broke the story.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Nathan Witkop, Editor Clean Energy Desk, Montel

Guarantees of origin: Green or greenwashing?

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0200

The guarantees of origin (GO) market is complex and opaque. Listen to a discussion that unpicks the complexity, simplifies the jargon and lays bare the controversies in the market. With big tech looking to source more and more green energy, how can the market – projected to be worth EUR 4bn by 2030 – increase its credibility and boost liquidity? And why has Norway ruled out an exit from the GO market?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Daniel Arnesson, Manager, Renewable Power Analysis, Veyt

Germany’s (over)ambitious green H2 plan

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0200

Germany plans to massively increase imports of hydrogen and its derivative products such as ammonia and methanol over the next five years but are the targets unrealistic and how green is the fuel? Listen to a discussion on what “hydrogen ready” could mean for infrastructure such as pipelines and power plants, the immense costs involved and the timescale for the decarbonisation of industry.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Henning Gloystein, Director, Eurasia Group.

Curbs to French power exports

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0200

Cuts to French electricity exports began earlier this year and will continue into the autumn. Listen to a discussion on why grid operator RTE impose the export limits and the reaction from inside France and the wider market? The TSO said the cuts are likely to continue into the autumn amid ample supply from renewables and nuclear and dwindling demand, but is the issue more structural?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Frank Boerman, Tennet; Clement Boilloux, Montel Analytics; Muriel Boselli, Montel News.

Has Keir’s time come?

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 02:00:00 +0200

As voters across the UK go to the polls, we take the pulse of the ways a potential Labour government could change the energy landscape. Kier Starmer is committed to a clean power system by 2030, rather than maxing out gas and oil output. Whilst the right-wing Reform looks set to opt for a “burn baby, burn” policy, what are Labours other plans. Listen to a discussion with Regen CEO Merlin Hyman and Montel’s Phil Hewitt on the possible future energy trading arrangements between the UK and the EU.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Merlin Hyman, CEO, Regen; Phil Hewitt, Director, Montel Analytics

Is it apple pie time today?

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0200

As Europe’s power system becomes ever more decentralised, electricity consumption patterns will need to change, and change fast. Huge daily and within-day price differences will mean ever bigger prices differences for when we choose to do our laundry, charge the car or put on the oven to make apple pie. Listen to a discussion with Michiel Lensink and Jean-Paul Harreman on the challenges of negative prices, network congestion and bringing smaller firms to the market.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Michiel Lensink, CEO of ETPA; Jean-Paul Harreman, Director, Montel Analytics

Picking winners

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Even for the best power projects, gaining electricity access from grid operators is far from straightforward. Amid an every lengthening queue of applications, how do TSOs decide what projects to approve and which to reject? Is it a choice between electricity hungry data centres generating Tik-Tok videos or AI servers? Listen to a discussion with Marius Holm Rennesund of Thema on the potential for demand growth in Norway and the wider Nordic region. And as the discussion about Norwegian nuclear power resurfaces, we talk about the viability of atomic energy in the country.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting

EU elections: Fragmentation and paralysis?

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 02:00:00 +0200

As 373m Europeans head to the polls – we ask one simple question. Will the rise of the far right across the EU endanger the energy transition? Pollsters are warning a swing right – and left – will fragment the European Parliament and could paralyse decision making. So, will the hard-fought parliamentary consensus for the green shift become fragile over the next five years?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Raphael Hanoteaux, Policy Advisor, E3G; Siobhan Hall, Brussels correspondent, Montel.

Decarbonising heavy industry

Thu, 30 May 2024 23:00:00 +0200

The green transition will not succeed unless industrial sectors also manage to decarbonise production processes. Sweden has experienced problems with long-term power purchase deals, with many companies facing a very tough financial environment amid price volatility and oversupply. Listen to a discussion on the lessons learnt for Europe and one company’s ambitious plans to massively reduce its carbon footprint.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Mia Bodin, Partner, Bodecker Partners; Arne Österlind, Energy Portfolio Director, H2 Green Steel.

Geopolitical tension rises on creeping escalation

Fri, 24 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Global geopolitical tensions are growing amid a creeping escalation of the conflicts in the Middle-East and in Ukraine. Listen to a discussion on the dangers to global security and energy supply as very few countries seek to de-escalate conflict zones. This week’s pod also touches on the upcoming EU elections and positive signs in Germany as power demand seems to have bottomed out and turned a corner.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Henning Gloystein, Director for Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group

Flexing French nuclear

Fri, 17 May 2024 06:00:00 +0200

What a difference a couple of years makes. As France returns to a position of net power exporter, it appears to have moved on from the supply woes of 2022. But booming solar generation, a plethora of negative prices in France and its neighbours have weighed on wholesale electricity prices and raised doubts about the financing of new nuclear plants and renewables. Listen to a discussion on the flexible operation of nuclear plants in combination with solar and wind generation. Could France be heading for a glut of power production?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests:

Yves Le Thieis, Vice President, Compass Lexecon
Paolo Coghe, CEO, Acousmatics

Europe leads renewables boom

Fri, 10 May 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Europe is the frontrunner in the global renewables boom, as wind and solar have become the fastest growing electricity sources in history. Listen to a discussion on why the massive growth in capacity is set to continue this year, while coal and gas generation set to fall further. However, there are headwinds. Curtailments and public acceptance are obstacles that the industry and policy makers need to address, while negative prices may be a concern to some they should provide incentives for innovation in storage and flexibility.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Dave Jones, Global Insights Director at Ember.

Choppy carbon prices

Fri, 03 May 2024 06:00:00 +0200

European carbon prices have rebounded from two-year lows in February to trade around EUR 70/t. One of the main drivers for the CO2 market has so far been gas. Listen to a discussion with Ingvild Sorhus from Veytabout the other drivers influencing prices and why a return to EUR 100/t is possible as a shortage looms from 2026.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Ingvild Sørhus, Lead Carbon Analyst, Veyt

The Trump hand grenade

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0200

The global gas market faces turmoil and increased price volatility should Donald Trump return to the white house. Listen to a discussion why a Trump victory in November will be “like dropping a hand grenade on the energy markets”, the implications of Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian gas infrastructure and Putin’s shadow fleet of LNG vessels. And will Iran close the Strait of Hormuz?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Tobias Federico, Director, Montel Analytics; Wayne Bryan, Director European Gas Research, LSEG.

Acer steps up

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0200

EU regulatory agency Acer is taking on new tasks and challenges. Listen to a discussion on the complexities of supervising increasingly automated and interconnected markets, the expansion of the Remit framework, the regulatory body’s new investigatory powers and how it handles huge amounts of data. In addition, what plans does Acer have to improve its brand recognition in parts of Europe where its role has been misunderstood?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Christian Zinglersen, Director, Acer

Carbon border tax: Europe's own goal?

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

The EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) is intended to address the issue of carbon leakage - preventing companies moving to jurisdictions with less stringent emissions rules - and to keep industrial sectors in the EU competitive by charging a carbon levy at its borders. But the inclusion of electricity could trigger several unintended consequences. Listen to a discussion on how the law could significantly affect electricity flows between non-EU and EU countries and impact investment in renewable energy. Could the border tax actually hinder moves to decarbonise Europe?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Phil Hewitt, Director Montel Analytics; Jean-Paul Harreman, Director Montel Analytics.

France’s ample supply

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

After record low nuclear output in 2022, France has again become a powerhouse of atomic generation. So much so, that it is again Europe’s largest electricity exporter. Wholesale market prices in the country have tumbled amid ample supply, weak demand and high renewables, primarily solar, generation. Listen to a discussion on the outlook ahead of the summer, and the potential for surprises amid probes into possible corrosion at some reactors.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel News; Tasmin Chowdhary, Market Analyst, Volue.

Italy’s gas outlook

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Europe may have weathered the worst of the storms of the covid pandemic and the energy crisis, but the continent’s gas market remains fragile. In this episode, we talk to the CEO of gas transit operator Snam and one of Italy’s most respected energy experts about the role gas will play for the country as it looks to wean itself off Russian gas. Italy looks set to become more dependent on the vagaries of global markets as it commits to an LNG future. And what is the outlook for gas demand among Italy’s industry?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Stefano Venier, CEO of Snam, Massimo Nicolazzi, University of Turin.

Picasso turbulence

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 23:00:00 +0100

The pan-EU balancing mechanism Picasso has caused price turbulence after its introduction in some markets, notably Italy. The country has since exited the platform and other countries have delayed implementation to the mandatory system. Listen to a discussion on the problems experienced by Italy and proposals put forward to change the platform and to increase data transparency.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Simon Remppis, Engineer at TransnetBW; Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel News.

Virtual hubs and deep markets

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 23:00:00 +0100

EU regulatory body Acer has proposed several changes to the framework of forward markets and cross-border trading, aimed at boosting power market liquidity. Listen to a discussion on virtual hubs, financial transmission rights or “spread futures” and why the Nordic model may not be the best example to follow. And, would dividing the German power zone attract more investment into green energy and increase liquidity?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Lion Hirth, Professor at Hertie School and Director at Neon Energy.

The “ketchup effect”

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0100

Norway installed the least amount of renewables in the Nordic region last year. Ahead of the country’s first ever offshore wind auction, we talk to former energy minister Åslaug Haga about the outlook for new green energy in terms of meeting growing demand. Listen to a discussion on the ways in which country should speed up capacity build and why it is important to avoid the “ketchup effect”.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Åslaug Haga, Director, Renewables Norway.

Another bumper year for PPAs

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0100

European power purchase agreements (PPAs) look set for another bumper year with potential volume of 20 GW. However, there is some market hesitancy amid economic headwinds and flagging wholesale electricity prices. There is also a good chance for Germany to knock Spain off the top spot for PPA growth. Listen in!

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Luca Pedretti, Pexapark

Epic problems, epic solutions

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 04:00:00 +0100

Over the past decade, Germany has experienced serious energy shocks – many of which were of its own making. For instance, the over-reliance on Russian gas and exiting coal and nuclear power at the same time. However, it has also provided solutions on a remarkable scale. Listen to a discussion - recorded live at the E-World trade fair in Germany - on how the country dealt with its energy crisis, and the positive progress made since 2022. But how can it speed up investments into the grid as well as into renewables?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool, a Montel Group company;
Hanns Koenig, Managing Director, Central Europe, Aurora Energy Research;
Henning Gloystein, Director for Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group

Why GO prices are crashing

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 22:00:00 +0100

European Guarantee of Origin prices have slumped to near 15-month lows amid oversupply and faltering auctions. Listen to a discussion on the measures policy makers need to adopt to boost both transparency and liquidity in this opaque market. Will prices ever reach the highs of 2022 again?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Daniel Arnesson, Manager, Renewable Power Analysis

Trump looms as geopolitics hots up

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0100

The prospect of Trump returning to the White House could shake up the global gas market already on edge from rising tensions in the Middle East. Listen to a discussion about how Trump could reverse President Biden’s pause to LNG projects. Also, the pod highlights why Chinese and German gas demand is returning close to pre-pandemic levels and what this means for imports to Europe as it continues to shun Russian supply.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Nadia Martin Wiggen, Director, Svelland Capital.

Geopolitical risk fatigue?

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:00:00 +0100

Are oil and gas markets too complacent about the current geopolitical risks in the Middle East, which accounts for around one third of global seaborne oil trade? Saul Kavonic, senior research analyst at MST Financial thinks so. In this week's pod, he explains how an escalation of tensions beyond the Hamas-Irael war could see the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and propel oil and LNG prices to USD 200/bbl and USD 100/MMbtu respectively – dwarfing the peaks during the 2022 energy crisis.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Saul Kavonic, Senior Research Analyst, MST Financial.

Germany bucks 17-yr power trend

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 23:00:00 +0100

For the first time in 17 years, Germany became a net electricity importer in 2023, largely due to expensive fossil fuels which meant power from its neighbours was cheaper than that domestically generated. Carbon emissions in the country also plummeted but is the drop permanent as the country looks to transform its power system? Listen to a discussion on the choices facing Germany and the pros and cons of splitting its single power market zone.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Fabian Huneke, Project Lead Energy Transition, Agora Energiewend

The flexibility episode

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 01:00:00 +0100

Europe’s net-zero targets for 2050 are ambitious, but the roll-out of renewable energy will not be successful without a significant boost to flexibility in power markets. Listen to a discussion on the prospects for batteries, both giga and household, in the energy transition and where the hotspots are in Europe. Could new technology such as sodium-ion be a game changer for energy storage?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Sam Ebohon, Director Flexibility, Baringa Partners

Saved by cables?

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 01:00:00 +0100

Cross-border electricity cables are controversial. For some they provide supply security while others believe they increase prices in markets used to low energy costs. Listen to a discussion on the impact the power links had amid a period of extremely cold weather in the Nordic region. In addition, what is the outlook for wholesale prices in the coming weeks and months – could Finland see a return of EUR 800/MWh?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Sigbjørn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm GEO; Odd Gunnar Jakobsen, Analyst, Volt Power Analytics.

Germany’s big freeze

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 17:00:00 +0100

Germany faces a freeze on many counts over the coming weeks. Firstly, a cold snap is likely to send power prices spiralling. In addition, a budget freeze could hamper the country’s plans to meet its decarbonisation targets after a court ruled the EUR 60bn earmarked for its green transition was illegal. How will Europe’s largest energy consumer afford to keep the lights on?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool

End of year round-up, outlook (Part two)

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0100

End of year round-up, outlook

In the next two episodes we discuss the key energy issues in the year to date with Montel journalists, while also looking forward to 2024. Despite markets having come a long way since the crisis of 2022, they remain jittery and volatile. Part one will focus on Spain, Italy and France, while part two discusses Germany, the Nordic region and global fuel markets.

Host: Richard Sverrisson
Guests (Part one): Enza Tedesco, Editor Italy; Pablo Bronte, Editor Spain; Chris Eales, Editor France; Muriel Boselli, Correspondent France
Guests (Part 2) : Andreas Lochner, Editor Germany; Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway; Olav Vilnes, Editor Norway; Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief; Andres Cala, LNG Correspondent

End of year round-up, outlook (Part one)

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0100

Gas hostage to geopolitics, market jitters

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 23:00:00 +0100

Gas storage is ample, the weather has remained largely mild and French nuclear availability has returned to pre-Covid levels. However, given the escalating conflict in the Middle East and stalemate in Ukraine, several risks remain ahead of the winter season. Listen to a discussion on the outlook for prices amid a very jittery market. Also, will the EU impose sanctions on Russian LNG?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Henning Gloystein, Director for Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia;
Wayne Bryan, Director European Gas Research, LSEG.

Finland’s Black Friday

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0100

A bidding error in the Nordic spot power market could be the costliest fat finger event ever in European energy markets – both in terms of financial losses but also the reputational damage for the electricity system and the companies involved. Listen to a discussion on the events that led to EUR -500/MWh power prices and why some Finns treated it as Black Friday.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Maarit Uusitalo, Manager, Market Solutions, Fingrid ;Riku Merikoski, Senior Power Analyst, Axpo; Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway.

Nodal or Zonal?

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0100

The UK is reviewing a shift in how it prices electricity from a single wholesale market, with two locational alternatives under consideration: nodal or zonal. This week’s pod addresses the pros and cons of locational prices and whether they will help or hinder the UK’s quest for net-zero emissions.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Stephen Woodhouse, Director Afry Management Consulting and Phil Hewitt, Director, Montel EnAppSys.

Can COP28 spur EU carbon market?

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0100

World climate negotiators will meet for UN-led talks in Dubai next week in attempt to slow warming that is exacerbating extreme weather from flooding to heatwaves to drought. Could COP28 provide impetus to Europe’s carbon market, where prices have dropped from a record high above EUR 101/t to a one year-low below EUR 75/t amid weak fundamentals and rising geopolitical risks. Listen to a discussion on the outlook for the EU’s key climate policy tool.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Ingvild Sørhus, Lead Carbon Analyst, Veyt

Post-Brexit power trading

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0100

The BritNed cable has boosted power trading between the UK and the Netherlands. Listen to a discussion on post-Brexit trading, the impact of more prevalent negative prices and how the platform could set the standard for other interconnectors. Was the power link shackled or freed by the UK’s exit from the EU?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Nils Teipel, Commercial Operations Manager, BritNed and Daniel Homoki-Farkas, Managing Director, Supercharge.

The Acer conundrum

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0100

Debate has begun in Norway on the EU’s fourth energy package, that dates back to 2019. Listen to a discussion on the key elements of the legislation and why they are proving controversial. The perceived powers of the EU regulatory body Acer are of concern to many, but have they been misunderstood?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Catherine Banet, Professor of Law, Head of Department of Energy and Resources Law, University of Oslo; Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel.

Corporates hunger for green power

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0100

Corporate demand for guarantees of origin (GO) is hotting up and prices could soon be on the rise. Listen to a discussion on the growing importance of GOs not just for generators of electricity but also for a wider range of companies. Could the GO price become higher than the wholesale electricity price?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Bruno Brunetti, Head of low-carbon electricity analytics, S&P Global Commodity Insights.

Middle East conflict stokes gas supply jitters

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0200

What will be the impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on an already jittery and volatile gas market? Listen to a discussion of the potential consequences of a cut to Egyptian gas exports amid lower supply from Israel and what the situation will have on plans for a regional gas hub. In addition, what is the possibility of a reduction in LNG supplies through the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz should the war escalate?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Agata Loskot-Strachota, Energy Policy Research Fellow, Bruegel.

Is EU energy infrastructure vulnerable to attack?

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 01:00:00 +0200

The recent incident of suspected sabotage affecting the Balticconnector – the gas pipeline linking Finland and Estonia – has highlighted the vulnerability of Europe’s energy network, especially offshore pipelines. Who or what is threatening gas links and power cables? Listen to a discussion on why it is imperative that countries work together to protect critical infrastructure and the ways in which this can be achieved.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Jakub Godzimirski, Norwegian Institute of International Affairs

Geopolitics trump fundamentals

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0200

The months ahead will be filled with uncertainty – and price volatility – as energy market participants assess the consequences of the escalating conflict in the Middle East and potential sabotage to the gas pipeline linking Finland with Estonia. Will these events override market fundamentals? Listen to a discussion of the key developments in UK and continental wholesale power and gas markets in the last quarter and the outlook for the coming months.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Jean-Paul Harreman, Director, Montel EnAppSys,
Paul Buckworth, Principal Consultant, Montel EnAppSys.

No room for complacency

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 02:00:00 +0200

European wholesale gas prices are falling, stocks are close to full capacity and LNG is still flowing to the region, though as winter looms market participants cannot afford to relax, yet. Listen to a discussion on the factors that will influence supply and demand in the coming months. What is the risk that Russian LNG will completely stop flowing to Europe? And can we expect renewed industrial action at LNG facilities in Australia?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Andrés Cala, LNG Correspondent, Montel

Investor fury over Rishi's rollback

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 22:00:00 +0200

Investors into the UK's renewable sector have expressed disbelief, disappointment and anger over plans by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to relax rules to phase out fossil fuel cars and boilers. Listen to a discussion on why the populist move makes no sense politically or financially as it will deprive areas outside of London of manufacturing opportunities and export potential. Will investors now prioritise other markets as the UK backpedals?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Helena Anderson, COO, Ikigai Capital

Norway’s looming supply deficit

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:00:00 +0200

Norwegian power prices have swung from record highs last year to all-time lows this year as supply in the hydropower-intensive nation shifted from deficit to surplus. While dry or wet weather generally drives prices, Norway is set for a long-term change from a power exporter to an importer as new capacity lags demand growth. Listen to a discussion about Norway’s struggle with new capacity, notably onshore wind – with only 3 of 356 local communities in approval – and why investors are looking elsewhere due to punitive and retrospective tax measures.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Lars Ove Skorpen, Director, Pareto Securities
Arvid Moss, Executive Vice President, Hydro Energy.

Powering through extreme weather

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0200

Floods, wildfires, heatwaves, drought and hurricanes. Extreme weather patterns are becoming more frequent in Europe and across the globe. But what does this mean for the way energy is produced, consumed and transported? Listen to a discussion on how the energy market will cope with shifting weather patterns like El Nino as the planet heats up. And, what's the outlook for winter in Europe?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Robin Girmes, Managing Partner at Energy Weather

France bets big on nuclear (again)

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 23:00:00 +0200

France has announced ambitious plans to build new nuclear plants, with up to 14 reactors potentially online by 2050. Yet its much vaunted new generation reactor at Flamanville is massively overbudget and more than a decade behind schedule. Listen to a discussion on why the grandiose plans by president Emmanuel Macron may not be realised, along with analysis of the main issues affecting the country's renewables objectives. Will it meet its 2030 targets?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Franck Gbaguidi, Director, Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group

Gas faces triple whammy?

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 21:00:00 +0200

Wholesale gas prices have been very volatile in August, largely over concerns of a reduction in supply due to strikes at Australian LNG facilities. The market has softened in recent days but risks of further spikes remain. Listen to a discussion on the price impact of the strike, maintenance on the Norwegian continental shelf and a potential cold snap. Also, how safe is northern Europe’s gas infrastructure from attack?

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Ole Hvalbye, Commodities Analyst, SEB

Curbing surplus solar power

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Europe is scaling up solar power capacity like never before and could exceed the 46 GW installed last year. But what happens when there is too much feeding the grid? Listen to a discussion on output curtailments, negative prices, and dealing with network constraints.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Naomi Chevillard, Head of Regulatory Affairs, Solar Power Europe

UK green issues take political centre stage

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0200

By pledging to “max out” oil and gas reserves and criticising “loony” green policies, UK prime minister Rishi Sunak appears to be driving a wedge between his government and the opposition Labour party. Listen to a discussion on the country’s faltering climate goals, why offshore wind farms are proving challenging and the fierce debate around urban low-emission zones (Ulez). And, will Britons really be cooking their turkeys on new nuclear power in 2028 (11 years later than originally planned)?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Antony Froggatt, Senior Research Fellow, Chatham House

Slaves to the algorithm

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0200

Algorithmic trading has rapidly developed in Europe’s short-term power markets with about 85% of transactions now performed by robots. Listen to a discussion on how machines react to challenging market conditions and why it is important to keep them in check via human oversight. We also touch on the issues of data transparency and how some of Europe’s short-term markets may be prone to insider trading.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Amani Joas, Managing Director, CF Flex Power

Iceland GO ban stirs market

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0200

A temporary EU ban on Icelandic GOs stirred the guarantees of origin market, raising questions about the credibility of the system amid double counting concerns. Listen to a discussion about why the EU renewables watchdog, the Association of Issuing Bodies (AIB), rattled the GO market and what the utility on the island did to lift the suspension.

Host: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Tinna Traustadóttir, Executive Vice President Sales and Customer Service, Landsvirkjun

CFD controversy, coal subsidy spat

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0200

In the final episode before the summer break, we look at policy developments in Brussels and Berlin. As the energy crisis appears to be easing, we discuss the main policy issues of the past six months from the European Commission and Germany. Why is a spat brewing over plans to issue contracts for difference to existing nuclear plants and why is there opposition to Poland’s proposal to subsidise its coal plants? In addition, has Germany managed to secure gas supply ahead of the winter?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Siobhan Hall, Correspondent Brussels, Montel;
Nathan Witkop, Correspondent Germany, Montel.

Filling reservoirs, cooling reactors

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:00:00 +0200

This week’s episode discusses the hydrological situation in the Nordic and Alpine regions. Reservoir levels in Norway, Sweden and Finland are lower than average, but do not currently pose concerns for winter supply. Listen to a discussion with Mr Hydrology about power exports from Norway, and the outlook for river flows and temperatures in central Europe. Will cooling issues plague France’s nuclear fleet again this summer?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Eylert Ellefsen, Analyst, Energy Quantified

Finland's success story

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Finland's Olkiluoto 3 reactor – Europe's largest power plant – came online in April boosting capacity in the country by 1.6 GW. In addition, record wind power additions mean the country is currently oversupplied with power, for the first time in decades. But consumption has not kept pace, meaning the country needs a rise in demand to avoid sustained low, and even negative prices. Listen to a discussion on the transformation in Finland's power system.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Marko Nieminen, Senior Expert, Fingrid; Riku Merikoski, Senior Power Analyst, Axpo; Heidi Paalatie, Director of Operations, Finnish Wind Power Association.

Sticky negative prices

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 01:00:00 +0200

European electricity prices have spiked from more than EUR 1,000/MWh last year to below EUR 100/MWh this year. Hourly prices recently plunged below zero – as low as EUR -400/MWh in some countries – during periods of robust intermittent renewable supply and low demand. Listen to a discussion why negative prices could be the new normal for the next two to three years, what the consequences will be, and how policymakers should react.

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Sigbjørn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm Geo; Ana Barillas, Head of Iberia, Aurora Energy Research; Jean-Paul Harreman, Director, EnAppSys BV

Backing up the green transition

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 23:00:00 +0200

Without energy storage the energy transition will flounder. As Europe exits coal and gradually reduces gas use, the continent will require back-up green power to keep the lights on. Listen to a discussion on batteries, big and small, and what incentives are needed to boost the expansion of storage to help balance the transmission grid. Will batteries be a crucial element in a centralised or distributed energy system, or a combination of both?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Matt Harper, CCO Invinity Energy Systems; Mike Longson, Commercial Associate, Gore Street Capital.

Will carbon’s bogeymen return?

Wed, 31 May 2023 16:00:00 +0200

Increased renewables generation and lower gas prices will add pressure to European carbon prices in the months ahead but in the medium to long term the market is expected to tighten amid very ambitious climate targets. Listen to a discussion on the main factors driving prices and why we are unlikely to return to EUR 100/t. In addition, who are the “carbon bogeymen” and will policymakers blame them in case of a sharp rise in prices?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Florian Rothenberg, Senior Analyst EU Power and Carbon Markets, ICIS; Paula VanLaningham, Director, Carbon Research, LSEG.

Controversial aid for German industry

Fri, 26 May 2023 02:00:00 +0200

Germany’s plans to cap electricity prices for industry at EUR 60/MWh until 2030 is creating controversy and is even unwelcome by some large industrial firms. Why is there such opposition to a stable and secure power price for almost seven years? Listen to a discussion on the outlook for companies operating in Europe’s industrial heartland. Will gas demand in the EU’s biggest economy return to pre-crisis levels?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests:
Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool
Stefanie Müller, Stefanie Mueller, Director Power Trading & Portfoliomanagement, BASF

Danish consumer backlash

Fri, 19 May 2023 02:00:00 +0200

In a follow-up to the episode on 5 May, we hear why Denmark's energy consumers are up in arms over the profits made by the country’s trading houses. Details over bonuses – promised, then withdrawn – have only added to the uproar. Listen to a discussion on profits, bonuses and allegations of market abuse from the perspective of energy consumers. Is there, or should there be, a more equitable way of sharing the vast proceeds of these Danish firms?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Mogens Pilgaard Sørensen, MPS Solutions

The golden age of PPAs?

Thu, 11 May 2023 23:00:00 +0200

The looming end of temporary interventions in Europe’s wholesale market has triggered a wave of activity in power purchase agreements (PPAs), as companies rush to secure green energy. What has been the impact of the European Commission’s market design proposal on PPAs and the expansion of renewables? Listen to a discussion of why storage will increasingly be a key part of long-term energy deals and why analysis regarding the costs of solar power is outdated almost as soon as it is published.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Luca Pedretti, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Pexapark

Electrifying transport

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:00:00 +0200

In this special live podcast, hosted by Nord Pool at their special event in Bergen, Norway, we discuss how to accelerate the energy transition through the electrification of transport and the use of batteries. What sectors can be electrified and which ones will be more challenging? How likely is it that large ships or planes could run fully on electricity in the years to come? And what should you do if you run out of power far out at sea? Listen to a discussion on range anxiety and the requirements for charging infrastructure.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest:
Marit Meland, Business Development Manager, Eviny - Mobil Energy
Maria Bos, CEO, Plug
Therese Gjerde, Vice President Global Sustainability, World Kinect Energy Services

Backlash after Danish boomtime?

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:00:00 +0200

Several Danish trading companies have posted record high profits in recent weeks. What's the secret to their success? Listen to a discussion on the reasons behind the massive rise in earnings and how they have been received in Denmark amid a cost of living crisis. In addition, a row over huge bonuses and allegations of market manipulation are likely to increase the chances of a regulatory backlash.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Anders Plejdrup Houmøller, CEO, Houmoller Consulting ApS
Martin Dam Wied, Head of Department, Green Power Denmark

Backing up the green transition

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 22:00:00 +0200

Europe has ambitious plans to become net zero by 2050. This will not only require a massive roll out of wind and solar energy, but also flexible capacity for those dark, cold, and windless winter days. Listen to a discussion on the need to speed up permitting, cannibalisation and why large nuclear and coal fired plants are not a good match for renewable energy.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Anja Frada, Chief Operating Officer, Wärtsilä Energy

Calm before the storm?

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 21:00:00 +0200

European gas prices have fallen – and should continue to drop in the weeks ahead – amid ample supply, milder weather and increased electricity generation from renewables. However, problems at French nuclear plants in combination with rising demand in Asia pose risks for winter prices. Listen to a discussion on the reasons why prices could fall in the short-term, but remain elevated in the medium-term. What is the nuclear conundrum, and is Gazprom preparing a final roll of the dice?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Wayne Bryan, Director European Gas Research, LSEG

S Africa's coal ghost trains

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 23:00:00 +0200

Amid surging gas prices, many countries in Europe and beyond turned to the dirty fuel in an attempt to keep a lid on prices. But the increased demand for the dirty fuel triggered a massive rise in global coal prices, which in turn was boon to illegal transport of the commodity in South Africa. Recently, train operator Transnet issued a warning about the rise in so-called "ghost trains", or unchartered, off-timetable shipment of coal to the port of Richard's Bay. Listen to a discussion of the phenomenon and potentially how much of the fuel has found its way to Europe.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Laurence Walker, Gas and Coal Editor, Montel

Bank turmoil and energy markets

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 23:00:00 +0200

There have been mounting concerns over the stability of the global banking system after the failure of Silicon Valley Bank and the rescue of Credit Suisse. Listen to a discussion on the causes of the turmoil and what may happen next. Are we in danger of a broader banking crisis, and what could the consequences be for the energy sector and the rollout of renewables?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Thina Margrethe Saltvedt, Chief Analyst, Sustainable Finance, Nordea and Lucy Eve, Senior Strategist, Eurasia Group

Damage limitation

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 03:00:00 +0100

Many market participants expressed relief that the European Commission did not meddle with the marginal price-setting mechanism in its proposals for energy market reform. But plans to protect customers from volatile and soaring prices through encouraging long-term contracts and a capacity mechanism will impact the internal energy market. Listen to a discussion on plans for virtual trading hubs and why this complex but innovative idea will be challenging to implement.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Michela Beltracchi, Senior Advisor Public & Regulatory Affairs, Nord Pool; Georg Zachmann, Senior Fellow, Bruegel

Battery boost as EU eases state-aid rules

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0100

The European Commission has loosened state-aid rules in a bid to compete with the US Inflation Reduction Act in providing subsidies for green technology. The move comes in the wake of several high-profile European battery manufactures having indicated they are considering building factories in the US. Listen to a discussion on the main hurdles facing the battery and storage sector and how fresh regulation may spur manufacturers to stay in Europe.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Giorgio Corbetta, EU Affairs Director, Eurobat

Stronger together?

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0100

Ahead of the publication of the European Commission's proposals for energy market design, there are concerns that some recent interventions will be permanent. Listen to why the wholesale markets need to retain the marginal pricing model, avoid a patchwork of national regulation and provide incentives to boost the energy transition. What are the lessons learnt from the energy crisis and the resulting flurry of policy measures aimed at protecting consumers?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Jérôme Le Page, Director, European Electricity Markets, Efet

Loopholes and additionality

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +0100

The European Commission recently laid out rules that will define green hydrogen as part of its renewable energy directive. They will provide clarity on what makes hydrogen renewable, define additionality and potentially boost investments into the fuel. Listen to a discussion on what this will mean for the sector and whether labelling nuclear as renewable is possible or even desirable.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Catherine Banet, Professor of Law, Head of Department of Energy and Resources Law, University of Oslo

Ukraine: One year on

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0100

It’s been a year since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This week's pod chats to residents of Kyiv – a gas analyst and a top manager at Ukraine's utility DTEK – about the current situation in the city, while living under the constant threat of attack. Listen to a discussion about how Russia targets the energy system and how Ukraine repairs bombed infrastructure. We also talk about cross-border power flows and the outlook for the country’s gas and electricity sector amid the ongoing war. The pod finishes quite dramatically, so make you keep listening right to the end.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Yuriy Onyshkiv, Senior Gas Analyst, LSEG
Dmytro Sakharuk, Executive Director of DTEK

Out of the woods?

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0100

This week’s pod discusses the outlook for Europe’s gas market for the coming months, as prices have fallen to around EUR 50/MWh – still historically high, but far below those of last autumn. Do low prices spell the end of the energy crisis, or should we expect further supply disruptions. Listen to a discussion on current market dynamics, what it would take to trigger a price surge and why the price cap is pointless.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Wayne Bryan, Director European Gas Research, LSEG

Rethinking forward power markets

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 01:00:00 +0100

The European Commission has launched a consultation on the future market design of wholesale energy markets. Under pressure to shield consumers, industry and households from high prices it seeks to undertake comprehensive reforms. Listen to a discussion of what the the consequences will be for markets, particularly regarding the fine balance between affordability and supply security. Could the proposals to boost renewables through CFDs and PPAs mean a larger role for national governments and the end of forward markets as we know them?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Stephen Woodhouse, Director, Afry Management Consulting

Return of the carbon speculators?

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0100

European carbon prices have climbed since mid-January, with the benchmark contract threatening to breach EUR 100/t before falling on Thursday. Has the upturn been driven by a return of speculators or are companies buying to balance their books ahead of the deadline on 30 April? Listen to a discussion on current market dynamics and whether prices could hit EUR 100/t? In addition, we debate the complex web of policies that will impact the market in the months and years to come.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Ingvild Sørhus, Lead EU Carbon Analyst, Greenfact

Transatlantic battle for green subsidies

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:00:00 +0100

The US’s Inflation Reduction Act – a USD 400bn package of subsidies and tax credits to help spur renewable energy and projects to slash emissions – has rattled European governments and politicians. Some European companies have already announced they are looking to build green energy projects in the US, while EU officials are looking for ways to keep them closer to home. Listen to a discussion on the likelihood of a tit for tat trade war and consequences for net-zero emissions targets.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Niclas Frederic Poitiers, Research Fellow, Bruegel

Scaring off investors

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0100

The flurry of European countries introducing revenue caps on electricity production from renewable sources is largely intended to shield industry and households from soaring prices. But some in the industry fear these interventions may deter much-needed investments in green energy. Listen to a discussion on whether these fears are justified and on other concerns about long-term changes to the current wholesale market design.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Kristian Ruby, Secretary-general of Eurelectric.

Has green growth stalled amid patchwork interventions?

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0100

Europe’s green energy transition risks stalling amid a patchwork of regulation across the 27-nation bloc intended to tax surplus revenues of renewable energy generators. This could also impact the important PPA market, where corporates dominated the sector in 2022. Listen to a discussion about the trends expected for 2023 and how interventions could affect the market and the burgeoning green PPA sector.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Dominique Hischier, Head of Analysis, Pexapark

Opening Pandora’s box

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 01:00:00 +0100

Discussions over potential extensions to the lifespans of German nuclear reactors could lead to several unforeseen consequences and will be like opening Pandora’s box, says Tobias Federico of Energy Brainpool. Listen to a discussion on how Germany managed to replace Russian gas supplies – at a cost – and the challenges ahead for the country in meeting its climate goals. Is the use of fossil fuels a temporary blip or a more permanent feature of the energy crisis?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool

Gas price cap: policy disaster? Montel Weekly Special Episode

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 01:00:00 +0100

The EU gas price cap agreed this week by energy ministers is intended to protect gas consumers from soaring prices, but if triggered may lead to reduced supply and increased demand. Listen to a discussion on why the measure could end up being simply a symbolic gesture, as market participants will find ways of circumventing it. There are also concerns about the creation and implementation of an LNG index – could this lead to market manipulation? Also, the cap could trigger the departure of the Ice exchange from Europe’s wholesale gas market, with worrying repercussions for financial instability.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: James Waddell, Head of European Gas and Global LNG, Energy Aspects.

An energy year like no other (part 2)

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

In the second of two episodes summarising the momentous energy events of 2022, we focus on the developments in the Nordic region, Germany and the coal and gas markets. Listen to a discussion on the impact of record low reservoir levels in Norway, ongoing nuclear issues in Sweden and Finland as well as increased political interference. How did Germany cope with the sudden loss of Russian gas, and what is the outlook for the global LNG and coal markets in 2023?

Guests: Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel; Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel; Andreas Lochner, Editor Germany, Montel; Julia Demirdag, Germany Correspondent, Montel; Laurence Walker, Coal and Gas Editor, Montel.

An energy year like no other

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

In the first of two episodes summarising the momentous energy events of 2022, we focus on the dramatic developments in guarantees of origin market, compare the expansion of renewables in Spain and Italy and discuss ongoing nuclear problems in France. Will next year bring relief to strained markets, or will concerns over security of supply linger?
Tune in next week for part two.

Guests: Rachael Burnett, Correspondent Spain, Montel; Enza Tedesco, Correspondent Spain, Montel; Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel; Muriel Boselli, Correspondent, France, Montel.

Winter starts to bite

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0100

Concerns over a supply shortfall are rising as much of Europe experiences a cold snap. Gas storage units are full, Russian gas is still flowing and industrial demand is almost down by a quarter, but what is the outlook for the coming months and the coming winter? Listen to a discussion on the key supply and demand fundamentals, and the impact of easing Covid lockdowns in China on LNG flows. Could wholesale gas prices return to EUR 300/MWh seen last August?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Nadia Martin Wiggen, Energy Analyst, Pareto and Eleni Papadopoulou, Lead Gas LNG Insights Research, Kpler

Are price caps “a joke”?

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Many EU nations are introducing revenue caps and/or windfall taxes on power production to help consumers cope with soaring energy costs. The European Commission has also proposed wholesale gas market ceiling of EUR 275/MWh. Listen to a discussion why some member states have labelled this as “joke” and why price caps could have a long-term detrimental effect on Europe and will not alleviate the current gas crisis. Would issuing EU bonds be a better option?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guest: Ana Stanic, Principal, E&A Law.

Crisis, what crisis?

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 16:00:00 +0100

Iceland has dodged an energy crisis gripping most of Europe with spiralling costs for households and industrial consumers. While the North Atlantic island nation is self-sufficient in energy, listen to a discussion on why its largest utility Landsvirkjun recently renegotiated a supply contract with one of its industrial consumers. Also, hear about Iceland's energy successes, the prospects of exports but also why Landsvirkjun is concerned about prospective changes to guarantees of origin regulation.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Hördur Arnarson, CEO, Landsvirkjun.

GO prices surge

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:00:00 +0100

GO prices have risen almost fivefold this year amid concerns over supply and robust demand. Listen to a discussion on the outlook for the GO market, forthcoming regulatory changes and why an exit by Norway, a key supplier of the certificates, now looks increasingly unlikely. Will prices soar beyond EUR 8 and remain there in the months ahead?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests: Adam White, Secretary General, RECS International
Leo Robert, Green Power Analyst, Greenfact

How robust is the power system?

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 01:00:00 +0100

An acceleration of the energy transition will put increased stress on Europe’s power system. Energy market stakeholders across the board will need to adopt a more holistic cross-border approach to managing infrastructure in order to ensure the entire system is fit for purpose for green growth. Listen to a discussion on where the current challenges are and how vulnerable the power sector is to attacks, both physical and virtual.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Arne Svendsen, Vysus Group

Winter gas supply risks remain

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 23:00:00 +0100

Warmer than average weather across Europe in combination with full gas storage facilities and an LNG supply glut should not obscure the fact that Europe could still experience a shortage of the fuel over the winter. Of course the winter weather will be decisive, but also gas demand from other parts of the world that could divert shipped cargoes. Listen to a discussion on why security of supply is not guaranteed.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Bjarne Schiedrop and Ole Hvalbye, Commodity Analysts at SEB

Mild spell eases energy crisis: but will it last?

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0200

A mild spell this autumn has calmed spiralling prices in Europe’s gas and power markets for now, enabling gas storage levels to brim near full capacity. Listen to a discussion on La Nina (and El Nino), the Polar Vortex, sudden stratospheric warning and the north Atlantic oscillation. Will a mild winter save Europe's energy crisis?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Amy Hodgson, Meteorologist, Atmospheric G2

Regulation and manipulation

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0200

The European Commission this week proposed a flurry of measures to lower wholesale prices, shield consumers from perceived market failure and to smooth out “excessive volatility”. Listen to a discussion on how “manipulation” has driven gas prices and why intervention in the form of a price cap is necessary. In the medium term, Europe’s energy markets may need more radical overhaul.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Simone Mori, Head of Europe, Enel

Rain brings some relief

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0200

Heavy rainfall over the past few weeks has alleviated some concerns over hydropower supply in southern Norway, boosting reservoir levels from near record lows. While electricity rationing may be off the table, prices remain elevated in some areas. Listen to a discussion on the market outlook over the coming winter in the Nordic region and in continental Europe.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Marcus Eriksson, Lead Analyst, European Power, Refinitiv, Ole Tom Djupskås, Nordic Power Market Expert, Refinitiv.

Finland braces for energy war

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0200

Finland is in the midst of an energy war, with households, industry and the power sector needing to stand together to get through the coming winter. Listen to a discussion on how the country is already preparing for blackouts, as it pins its hopes on the start-up of the much-delayed Olkiluoto 3 reactor, increased wind output and mild weather. Could the lights go out in Helsinki this winter?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Jukka Ruusunen, CEO, Fingrid.

Revisiting the Spanish intervention

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0200

Spain has implemented measures aimed at shielding energy users from soaring prices but the move has had little impact on reducing the country´s demand for gas and may have scared off investors. Listen to a discussion on the effect the Spanish intervention has had so far and why it may not be suitable at a wider EU level. And does Europe face even greater challenges in the winter of 2023/24?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Ana Barillas, Head of Iberia, Aurora Energy Research.

Regulatory tightrope

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0200

The European Commission has proposed several emergency measures aimed at shielding households and businesses from price shocks, and has indicated that it also plans deeper reforms to the current wholesale energy market design. Listen to a discussion on the current sentiment in Brussels - what proposals are on the table and how effective will they be in mitigating soaring prices?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Siobhan Hall, Brussels Correspondent, Montel.

French nuclear conundrum

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 01:00:00 +0200

France has touted a huge nuclear recovery, but experts question the ability of EDF to bring back a reactor a week between October and January. Listen to a discussion on the outlook for French nuclear availability for the coming winter. Should market participants place their trust in promises that reactors will be online in the New Year?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel
Emeric De Vigan, Vice President Power, Kepler
Yves Le Thieis, Vice President, Compass Lexecon.

Fixing energy markets

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 17:00:00 +0200

Politicians have finally threatened action to “fix” a broken energy market that could impoverish households and drive industry out of Europe. Listen to a discussion on what needs fixing and a passionate defence of the marginal pricing model, where the most expensive power plant sets the wholesale price. What short-fixes are urgently required, and how could policymakers reduce the risk of future energy price shocks?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Stephen Woodhouse, Director at Afry Management Consulting.

Germany fills gas storage

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 23:00:00 +0200

Germany looks set to meet its gas storage target well ahead of winter, and some are optimistic the country can muddle through peak demand when the weather turns cold. But others fear sharp drawdowns from November could result in shortages – and price volatility - particularly if Russia were to permanently halt flows through the Nord Stream pipeline. Listen to a discussion on how the country’s central buyer, the Trading Hub Europe, could bring volumes to the market and the impact on prices.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Bjørn Inge Vik, Gas Analyst, Volue
Henning Gloystein, Director - Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group

Demand destruction

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 23:00:00 +0200

Drought, heatwaves, weak river and hydro levels, combined with record low French nuclear output and dwindling gas supplies are driving energy prices to fresh highs on a daily basis. Aluminium producers and fertiliser firms have already announced closures across Europe. Listen to a discussion on the outlook for industry over the months ahead. Will it experience demand reduction or destruction?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Tobias Federico, CEO, Energy Brainpool
Mark Turner, Partner, Baringa
Alexander Andresen, Head of Power Procurement, Elkem.

Norway export cut controversy

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:00:00 +0200

Plans by Norway to impose restrictions on electricity exports if the country’s hydropower reservoir levels drop below critical levels have created uproar at home and abroad. Listen to a discussion on what is currently on the table, the reaction from market participants, and the choices facing policy makers ahead of a difficult winter. What are the repercussions of limiting power flows, and is the proposal a sign that some countries are retreating into isolationist energy policies?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting,
Geir Brønmo, Principal Afry,
Johanees Bruun, Director for Electricity Markets, Energinet.

Winter rationing?

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 23:00:00 +0200

Europe could be forced to extend voluntary reductions in gas consumption to mandatory measures as Russia plays “hardball” by curbing gas supplies before some EU nations like Germany can find alternative sources. Listen to a discussion on the winter outlook and the options – apart from rationing – open to governments and regulators. In the event of mandatory rationing, how would this be organised?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Nadia Martin Wiggen, Partner and Analyst, Pareto Securities
Leon Izbicki, Associate, Natural Gas, Energy Aspects.

Turbine tug of war

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 17:00:00 +0200

Concerns over energy supply for the coming months are mounting as gas flows from Russia to Germany through the vital Nord Stream 1 pipeline have dwindled to 20% of capacity. Market participants fear that deliveries could be cut completely, due to an ongoing spat between the two countries over the turbine necessary to pump the gas. Listen to a discussion with a Ukraine-based expert on the likelihood of a full cut to flows and the potential implications for European industry and households.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Yuriy Onyshkiv, Senior Gas Analyst, London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)

Green shoots may light up gloom

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 23:00:00 +0200

In the last episode before a summer break, we round up the past six months and delve into the key drivers for the remainder of the year. Gas will continue to be the pressing issue, with a squeeze on supply likely to remain the single most important issue for 2022 and 2023. Listen to a discussion on why Nordic firms will be praying for rain and the urgency to solve permitting bottlenecks for green energy across Europe. And much, much, more.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests:
Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel
Andres Cala, LNG Correspondent, Montel
Tasmin Chowdhary, Environmental Markets Reporter, Montel

Russian flow roulette

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0200

Can we expect a total reduction in gas flows to Europe over the coming weeks? Will the Nord Stream 1 pipeline stay offline after annual maintenance in July? These are the key issues facing countries across Europe in the week to come, as a trickle in gas deliveries could deepen the continent’s energy, possibly causing prices to spike still further. Listen to discussion on the outlook for the coming winter and the options available for market participants and policy makers.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Wayne Bryan, Director European Gas Research, LSEG

Gas cut or glut?

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 17:00:00 +0200

The war in Ukraine continues wreaking death and destruction, with hopes of a lasting ceasefire looking unlikely. The conflict also continues to cast a shadow on Europe’s energy market as the bloc looks to wean off its dependency on Russian gas. Listen to a discussion on whether Moscow’s new game plan could be to saturate the market with a view to price out alternative supplies, particularly from the US.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Henning Gloystein, Director, Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group

REPowerEU: “Killing two birds with one stone?”

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 16:00:00 +0200

The European Commission’s recent RepowerEU package seeks to hastily end the continent’s dependency on Russian gas as well as accelerate the expansion of renewables and green gases. Listen to a discussion on the long, expensive road ahead, and why not everyone welcomes plans to boost the region’s gas infrastructure. Will the new measures ease the permitting logjam for green energy or could a more targeted approach work better?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Ilaria Conti, Head of Gas, Florence School of Regulation
Dries Acke. Director, Solar Power Europe

Nordic power squeeze

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0200

In a tale of two regions, southern Norway will continue to experience very high wholesale prices while they will be much lower in northern parts of the country and Sweden, for a long while yet. Listen to a discussion on the market outlook in the Nordics amid the wider energy crisis, Finland’s power squeeze, and why companies are deserting the forward market. In addition, what’s the likelihood of a supply crunch in the coming winter?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Guests:
Sigbjørn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm Geo
Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting

Poland’s blessing in disguise

Thu, 26 May 2022 23:00:00 +0200

Russia’s turning off the gas taps to Poland – along with Bulgaria and more recently Finland – has created an opportunity for one of Europe’s biggest producers of fossil fuels to switch to more renewables like wind and solar. Listen to a discussion on how Russia’s war in Ukraine has spurred Warsaw to speed up its green transition, even if it means a brief pick-up in coal-burn to keep the lights on.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Joanna Mackowiak-Pandera, President of Energy Forum.

Macron’s nuclear push

Fri, 20 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

This week French president Emmanuel Macron announced a new prime minister – with other key energy portfolios still to be put in place. The latest pod discusses corrosion at several of the country’s nuclear plants, expected output over the crucial winter period and the expansion of solar power. We also examine whether Macron’s plan to build up to 14 new reactors is realistic without a restructuring of EDF.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Emeric de Vigan, CEO and Founder Core-E

Keeping out the CO2 speculators

Fri, 13 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

European carbon prices have been sidelined by the debate around sanctions on gas, coal, and oil from Russia. However, EUA prices have seen huge volatility, with price swings of up to EUR 8 a day. Listen to a discussion on the price drivers over the short and medium-term, and why EUR 100/t would be unsustainable. In addition, what is the likelihood of excluding financial entities, or speculators from the market?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Ingvild Sørhus, Lead EU Carbon Analyst, Refinitiv
Marcus Ferdinand, Head of Analysis, Greenfact
Bernadett Papp, Head of Research and Analysis, Vertis

Russia’s ruble stand-off

Thu, 05 May 2022 23:00:00 +0200

Russia’s halt in gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria for their refusal to pay in rubles has the energy market guessing who might be next. It is still unclear whether customers agreeing to the Kremlin’s new terms is a breach in EU sanctions, even without an outright embargo on gas imports. Listen to a discussion on the apparent weaponization of gas, and what a further stop in Russian flows could do to European industry and wholesale prices.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects

Policy meddling may curb Italy’s green boost

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 16:00:00 +0200

Italy lags behind many countries in harnessing its renewables potential, with the country’s energy transition hampered by cumbersome permitting rules. While that could be about to change due to government reform, other interventions such as taxes on green generators’ windfall profits may scare off investors. Listen to a discussion on the outlook for renewable energy in the country amid a scramble to replace Russian gas.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Stefano Cavriani, Co-Founder & Director of Ego Energy,
and Riccardo Rossi, Head of Southern and
Central Europe Origination, Centrica Energy Trading

UK fails to fix energy crisis

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 21:00:00 +0200

In early April the UK announced ambitious plans to wean itself off non-domestic energy sources. Are plans to install 17 GW of nuclear capacity over the coming decades realistic? Who will build a new fleet of reactors, and more importantly, where will the cash come from? Listen to a discussion about why the government’s policy will fail to fix an energy crisis that threatens to plunge huge swathes of the country into energy poverty.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Antony Froggatt, Senior Research Fellow, Chatham House

Contractual uncertainties

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0200

Russia is trying to force companies to pay for its gas in rubles, while the EU has still not decided to implement full energy sanctions amid opposition from some member states. Listen to a discussion on the legal issues for European firms surrounding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the implications of a cut from either side. We also look at the current status of Nord Stream 2 and potential loopholes in the regulatory framework.

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guest: Ana Stanic, Principal, E&A Law

Putin’s energy gambit

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0200

The EU is considering energy sanctions on Russia amid reports of atrocities in its ongoing war in Ukraine but many countries fear the consequences of such measures on the economies of the 27-nation bloc. These potential measures comeo against the backdrop of Russian president Vladimir Putin’s posturing. Is Moscow’s short-term to aim to starve Europe of energy? And could oil and gas prices spike further in the weeks and months ahead?

Host: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel
Guests: Bjarne Schieldrop, Chief Analyst, Commodities, SEB and Nadia Martin Wiggen, Partner and Chief Oil Analyst, Pareto Securities.

EU’s energy conflict

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0200

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ensuing Western sanctions have roiled European energy markets. EU nations are scrambling to find alternatives to Russian supplies, while Moscow is demanding payments be made in rubles. Who will win this energy conflict?

Listen to an update on the EU’s strategy to wean off its dependency on Russia.

Guest:

Siobhan Hall, Brussels Correspondent, Montel

Tackling the energy crisis

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

This week we focus on how Norway and Germany are coping with the energy crisis exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While Oslo is subsidising household energy use, Berlin is reaching far and wide for alternatives to Russian gas.

Listen to a discussion about their tough challenges and why they might succeed.

Guests:

Andreas Lochner, Editor Germany, Montel,
Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel

Total’s Russian tangle

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Many energy firms have been rapidly cutting ties with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. This week’s episode focuses on the deep ties French oil and gas major has with Moscow, its feud with the US and why a “Rexit” may be very difficult and very costly, for the company.

We also touch on the financial challenges facing EDF and the role of energy in France’s upcoming presidential election.

Guests:

Chris Eales, Editor France
Muriel Boselli, Correspondent France

Choppy times for carbon

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Carbon market participants should brace themselves for more price volatility in the week to come - have we reached the bottom at EUR 55/t, or could prices climb to EUR 100/t?

Listen to a discussion on the key drivers going forward, and whether compliance buying could offset selling by speculative and industrial companies.

Guests:

Ingvild Sorhus, Lead EU Carbon Analyst, Refinitiv
Bernadett Papp, Analyst, Vertis Environmental Finance

No end in sight to energy crisis

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

The energy crisis that has engulfed Europe for months is set to continue well into 2023 amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and the concerns over gas and coal supplies from Russia. Will either side cut gas flows, or can Europe source alternative fossil fuels?

Listen to a discussion on the hard choices facing Europe going forward and the outlook for wholesale prices.

Guests:

Wayne Bryan, Director, European Gas Research, London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)
Laurence Walker, Editor Montel

Ukraine crisis: A merit order of torture?

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

As Russian troops pour into Ukraine, we recorded a special episode looking into the implications for Europe’s wholesale energy markets. As we go to press, piped gas continues to flow from Russia, but what are the chances of a supply curtailment? Europe needs to find alternatives and make some hard decisions, in what our guest calls a “merit order of torture”.

Guest:

Georg Zachmann, Senior Fellow, Bruegel

GO bull run?

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

The prices of European guarantees of origin have soared in recent weeks amid robust demand, strong commodity markets and low hydro levels in the Nordic region.

Listen to a discussion on the outlook for GO prices amid increasing interest from corporates, as well as forecasts for carbon prices amid ongoing policy and regulatory reforms.

Marcus Ferdinand, Head of Analysis, Greenfact

Bursting the hydrogen bubble

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Hardly a week goes past without a company announcing ambitious plans to produce green hydrogen. But are these projects realistic?

Listen to a discussion on the folly of using hydrogen as a fuel in the transport, heating and power generation sectors and the sectors where H2 has an important role. Is hydrogen a panacea for the green transition, or a vehicle for greenwashing?

Guests:

Paul Martin, Spitfire Research Consulting
Jan Cihlar, Managing Consultant, Guidehouse

No plan B for France

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

After we recorded this episode, French President Macron announced plans to build up to 14 reactors by 2050. But earlier in the week, EDF announced that it would cut its available 2022 nuclear output by about 5% to between 295 and 315 TWh, a record low.

Listen to a discussion on the latest corrosion problems at the country’s nuclear plants and what they could mean for supply security and prices across north-west Europe. Is building more reactors the answer, and are such plans economically viable?

Guests:

Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel
Paolo Coghe, CEO, Acousmatics

Ukraine crisis stokes gas supply fears

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Continued tension between Ukraine and Russia has supported European wholesale prices, which remain at historically high levels.

This week’s pod delves into the potential consequences of an armed conflict for gas supply to Europe, the impact on prices and market ignorance of some key policymakers. Will Russia cut gas flows and are alternative supplies available elsewhere?

Guests:

Jonathan Stern, Distinguished Research Fellow, Oxford Institute for Energy Studies
Carlos Torres Diaz, Director Power and Gas Market Research, Rystad Energy

Energy Transition wobble

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

The consequences of energy price spikes and massive wholesale market volatility have not only hit the pockets of households and the balance sheets of industrial firms, but have also slowed the pace of deals for power purchase agreements (PPAs). Will the energy crisis and the threat of regulatory intervention cause the expansion of renewables to wobble?

Listen to a discussion on the key deals (and dealmakers) of 2021 and the outlook for this year.

Guest:

Luca Pedretti, COO and Co-Founder of Pexapark

To get more insights from Luca, you can join this Pexapark webinar: link

Nordic energy crisis overblown?

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

The Nordic region has not escaped the unprecedented energy price levels seen elsewhere, but according to this week’s guests, remains competitive compared to other parts of Europe and the world.

Listen to a discussion on the outlook for electricity prices and the market consequences of the crisis. Could the region see the introduction of price caps and export limitations?

Guests:

Sigbjørn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm Geo
Mia Bodin, Head of Analysis, Bodecker Partners

The Russia question

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

European wholesale gas prices have softened in recent days on forecasts of mild weather and the prospects of LNG imports but they are set to remain at historic highs for many weeks to come.

This week’s pod discusses the crucial question of Russian gas supply, LNG shipments in the first quarter and Asian demand. When will the energy crisis ease?

Guest:

Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Oil and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects

Tip of the Eisberg

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Some German energy retailers went under last year, but many more could follow suit in 2022 as the consequences of soaring prices and poor hedging strategies become clear.

Listen to a discussion about whether the existing marginal pricing model is fit for purpose, particularly as renewable energy capacity ramps up and nuclear and coal are phased out. Plus, how will the new German government cope with a potential supply crunch.

Guest:

Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool

Will energy’s wild ride carry on?

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Carbon prices have tripled, gas markets have soared, Europe is burning through its coal stocks but at the same time the demand for green energy procurement has never been higher.

Listen to a review of 2021 in carbon, environmental markets as well as in coal and gas and the key drivers for next year. Will all eyes be on the EC’s Fit-for-55 package or will the focus return to speculators in the EU ETS?

Guests:

Alessandro Vitelli, Freelance Carbon Reporter
Laurence Walker, Coal and Gas Editor, Montel
Rachael Burnett, Environmental Markets Reporter, Montel

Zombies and market reform

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

The collapse of dozens of UK energy retailers amid a spike in wholesale prices suggests too many were operating with just enough money to cover their expenses. Or does it reflect a failure of market design or of government policy?

Listen to this week’s discussion about energy zombie firms and how to fix the UK’s energy market.

Guest:

Emma Pinchbeck, CEO, Energy UK

Nord Stream 2 certification woes

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

This week’s pod discusses the contested Nord Stream 2 pipeline following the temporary suspension of certification by the German regulator.

Listen to a discussion on the latest developments regarding Gazprom’s attempts to gain approval and the bureaucratic, legal as well as geopolitical obstacles that stand in its way. When can we expect Russian gas to start flowing into Germany?

Guest:

Ana Stanic, Principal, E&A Law

CO2 soars on price floor plan

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

This week we return to the European carbon market, where prices have soared following plans by the new German government to introduce a CO2 price floor. Listen to a discussion on the key market drivers and the outlook for the coming months. Could prices hit EUR 100/t by the end of the year or are they more likely to correct down?

Guest:

Ingvild Sorhus, Lead EU Carbon Analyst, Refinitiv

Global CO2 markets after COP26

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

This week our attention turns to COP26 that ended last weekend in Glasgow. Was there a gulf between the technical jargon used by the conference participants and wider the global climate crisis affecting many parts of the world?

Listen to a discussion on the agreement reached and the implications for carbon markets. How far away are we from a global carbon price?

Guests:

Lambert Schneider, Research Coordinator for International Climate Policy at Germany’s Institute for Applied Ecology
Andrei Marcu, Executive Director of the European Roundtable on Climate Change and Sustainable Transition.

Norway’s proposed GO exit

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

This week we focus on Europe’s Guarantee of Origin (GO) market and discuss Norway’s plans to exit the system. What form could such a GO Nexit take and how will the country be able to attract new industry wishing to source green electricity?

Listen to a discussion on the Norwegian proposal, current market dynamics and how many EU GOs the UK will import this year and next in the wake of its departure from the EU.

Guest:

Adam White, Secretary General, RECS International

Regulating the energy crisis

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

This week we speak to a regulator, a first for the pod, about how the French watchdog has dealt with the country’s energy crisis. Will more French suppliers go under, and what, if anything can be done to shield industry from very high prices?

Listen to a discussion on whether the current market design is fit for purpose, and what the CRE is doing to combat market abuse.

Guest:

Dominique Jamme, Managing Director, CRE

The Spanish intervention

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Spanish measures to reform energy markets and the EU ETS are an attempt to shield households and industry from high prices, but the intervention may scare away investment and slow the growth of PPAs.

Listen to a discussion on the reforms Madrid plans for energy markets, domestic and international reactions and what the tinkering may achieve.

Guests:

Pedro Linares, Professor, Universidad Pontificia Comillas
Javier Revuelta, Senior Principal, Afry

Poland’s capacity crunch

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Poland may be one of the last bastions of coal in Europe but exponential growth in solar capacity has propelled it to a top five ranking on the continent.

Listen to a discussion on the outlook for renewables, and how the country plans to cope with a shortfall in capacity from 2025.

Guest:

Pawel Czyzak, Head of Energy and Climate, Instrat.

Beyond speed dating

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Germany’s coalition partners have moved beyond speed dating and are now starting to thrash out the details of an agreement to form a new government.

Listen to a discussion on Germany’s path to decarbonisation and why the country needs to roll out more renewables at a faster rate – especially given the current global energy crisis and soaring fossil fuel prices.

Guest:

Claudia Kemfert, Head of Department Energy, Transportation and Environment, German Institute for Economic Research

Putin intervenes

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

UK and continental European gas prices plunged from record highs following comments by Vladimir Putin saying Russia was prepared to increase gas supply to Europe. Listen to a discussion on current price dynamics, calls for market intervention and black box trading.

Guest:

Wayne Bryan, Director, European Gas Research, Refinitiv

Calls to curb surging energy prices

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Europe’s energy-intensive sectors are already facing spiralling costs ahead of the winter demand season. In this week’s pod, listen to a discussion on the consequences of soaring wholesale electricity prices for the non-ferrous metals sector and why some firms are calling for market intervention. Also, hear a critical view of the guarantees of origin market.

Guests:

Alexander Arnesen, Head of Power Procurement, Elkem
Nick Keramidas, EU and Regulatory Affairs Director, Mytilineos
Cillian O’Donoghue, Energy and Climate Change Director, Eurometaux

Can Berlin deliver by Christmas?

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 14:00:00 +0200

We follow up Friday’s preview with a discussion of the results of Sunday’s elections in Germany and the role the Green party could play in shaping the country’s energy policy. Will the fiscally prudent FDP be able to strike a deal with the Greens over financing a green shift, and could a new government be in place by Christmas?

Guest:

Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool

Traffic light or Jamaica for Germany?

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

A few days before Germany goes to the polls, several government scenarios are still in play. Will the country see a traffic light, a Jamaica or a red-red-green coalition? And what could that mean for the country’s energy policy? Listen to a discussion on potential outcomes.

Could there be a situation where Nord Stream 2 was stopped, along with a speedier coal exit and further green growth?

Guest:

Henning Gloystein, Director, Global Energy & Natural Resources, Eurasia Group

Turkey turning green?

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

This week’s pod turns to Turkey. While the country’s phenomenal economic growth has slowed in recent years, it still has grand ambitions to lessen its dependence on imported fossil fuels by expanding renewables. Listen to a discussion on the challenges and opportunities ahead for Turkey’s energy sector.

Guest:

Nazli Naseh, Editor, Montel-Foreks

The end of an era?

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Norway’s election on Sunday and Monday could herald a change in the country’s climate policy, as current polls indicate growing support for calls to end oil and gas exploration.

Listen to a discussion on the implications for Norway’s oil and gas sector, as well as what the Nordic country’s green transition could mean for others looking to wean themselves off fossil fuels.

Guest:

Stig Schjolset, Head of Policy, Zero

Carbon gains continue

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Despite calls for calm by the European Commission, carbon prices are continuing to break records, largely due to a soaring gas market and expectations of more stringent environmental legislation.

Listen to a discussion outlining the reasons behind the extreme volatility, the key fundamentals and the outlook for the coming months.

Guests:
• Ingvild Sorhus, Lead EU Carbon Analyst, Refinitiv
• Bernadett Papp, Analyst, Vertis Environmental Finance

Bullish cocktail

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Nordic wholesale electricity prices have soared in recent months on a combination of low hydropower stocks, grid congestion, forecasts of dry weather and the start-up of the NSL cable linking Norway to the UK.

Listen to a discussion on the reasons for the price surge, the outlook for the months ahead and the implications for the region’s heavy industry.

Guests:

Sigbjorn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm Geo
Ole Lofsnaes, Nordic Energy Director, Alcoa

Winter gas supply risk

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

This week’s pod discusses the outlook for Europe’s gas market for the coming months, as the risk of higher prices is a concern amid doubts over supply, both from pipelines and LNG, robust demand and very low storage levels ahead of the winter.

An additional factor could be Nord Stream 2, with prices plunging this week after operator Gazprom announced plans to start supplying Germany through the contested pipeline this year.

Guest:

James Waddell, Head of European Gas, Energy Aspects

Commodity bull run

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

This week’s pod discusses soaring energy prices, asking what is behind the bull run, how long it could last and what are the implications for energy intensive industries? As prices surge there is an increased risk of political intervention and perhaps even a call for Germany to return to nuclear power.

Guest:

Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel,
Nathan Witkop, Correspondent Germany, Montel

A guide to the EU taxonomy

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Back after a short summer break, this week’s pod takes a close look at the EU’s green finance taxonomy and how its criteria on sustainable investments will impact the energy sector.

Listen to a discussion on whether nuclear and gas should be included and why some did not want to include hydropower as part of the criteria.

Guest:

Nathan Fabian, Chair of the European Platform on Sustainable Finance and Chief Responsible Investment Officer at the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment.

Fit for Purpose?

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0200

How will traders respond to the European Commission’s legislative package of renewable energy and EU ETS reforms due later this month?

Listen to a discussion with the CEO of the European Federation of Energy Traders on the so-called “Fit for 55” proposals and a plea for policy coherence and consistency. The podcast will then take a short summer break, returning on 6 August.

Guest:

Mark Copley, CEO, European Federation of Energy Traders (Efet)

Green energy headwinds

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

This week our dedicated team of environmental markets reporters discuss the price drivers for GOs, challenges in the PPA and green hydrogen sectors as well as cross-border issues impacting the expansion of renewable energy across Europe.

Guests:

Rachael Burnett, Environmental Markets Reporter, Montel
Tasmin Chowdhary, Correspondent Germany, Montel
Enza Tedesco, Environmental Markets Reporter, Montel

Solar frontier moves north

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

With the costs of producing power from solar falling rapidly, the frontier for PV has moved and now includes the “champion” Denmark, as well as other parts of northern Europe.

Listen to a discussion on the outlook for power purchase agreements (PPAs), the markets that are hot and the ones that are lagging behind in the race for net zero carbon.

Guest:

Andrea Grotzke, Global Director of Energy Solutions, BayWa r.e.

Red tape, green hydrogen

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Italy plans to exit coal-fired power generation by 2025, but what can replace the fossil fuel? Listen to a discussion on the outlook for green hydrogen as well natural gas in a country that is often beset by red tape and lengthy permitting processes.

Guest:

Matteo Mazzoni, Head of Market Strategy, Snam

Lobbyist and legislative flurry

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

The European Commission is preparing new energy and climate legislation – possibly running into thousands of pages – which it will propose in July.

Listen to a discussion on the new rules for the carbon market, the CO2 border tax as well as for renewables and energy efficiency. What kind of changes will lobbyists manage to impose on the final laws over the coming months?

Guest:

Siobhan Hall, Brussels Correspondent, Montel.

Cables, congestion and complexity

Fri, 28 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Nordic wholesale electricity prices have soared compared to last year amid cold weather and exports to Germany, despite high hydropower stocks.

Listen to a discussion on the huge internal price differences in the region's 12 price zones, and the reasons for the spread with Germany in forward prices. Is carbon the key driver, and why are Norwegian hydropower producers saving water for use later in the year?

Guest:

Eylert Ellefsen, Senior Analyst, EQ
Tor Reier Lilleholt, Head of Analysis, Volue
Sigbjorn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm Geo

Is CO2 a new inflation hedge?

Fri, 21 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

As economies jolt back from pandemic-led destruction, there are growing concerns about inflation. An influx of speculative activity in the EU carbon market – which has whipsawed CO2 prices to record highs above EUR 56/t and then below 50/t in a matter of days – suggests investors may be using the ETS as a hedge against inflation.

Listen in to this week’s debate.

Guests:

Ingvild Sorhus, Lead EU Carbon Analyst, Refinitiv
Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Oil and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects
Bjarne Schieldrop, Chief Analyst Commodities, SEB

Decarbonising EU industry

Fri, 14 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

The EU’s countdown to net-zero emissions by 2050 will demand significant changes to many industrial sectors and will herald a host of new policy frameworks and tools to spur low-carbon technology across the bloc of 27 nations.

Tune in this week to hear about the EU executive’s industrial strategy as well as the ideological divide that pits dirigiste countries against those who favour a market-based approach.

Guest:

Giorgio Corbetta, Senior Associate Energy Practice, Global Counsel.

Chalk and Cheese

Fri, 07 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

What a difference a year makes. In 2020 gas prices plunged to record lows, but this year they have rebounded dramatically, surging to multi-year highs on cooler weather, supply concerns and low storage.

Listen to a discussion on whether Gazprom’s recent use of Ukrainian spare transit capacity was driven by geopolitics or economics, as well as other market developments, outages at LNG facilities and the short-term outlook.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Wayne Bryan, Director, European Gas Research, Refinitiv.
Iryna Sereda, Gas Analyst at Refinitiv.

Chocolate, carbon taxes and record highs

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Europe's CO2 market continues to break new records, almost daily. Ahead of a flurry of new legislative proposals from Brussels starting in June, key MEP Jytte Guteland highlights what lies ahead for ETS reform and why MEPs seek to end free allocation to industry as part of the carbon border tax proposals.

Listen to a behind the scenes look at EU negotiations, which can often be marathons where only chocolate gets you to the end.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guest:

Jytte Guteland, MEP for the Social Democrats

Offshore wind’s conundrum

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Connecting 300 GW of offshore wind by 2050 will require a fresh configuration of bidding zones, and multilateral cooperation between countries, TSOs and utilities. Onshore, politics often trumps economics or physics, but will this be the case offshore?

Listen to a discussion on bidding zones, green hydrogen and a look back at key decisions made in Brussels in recent years.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guest:

Bente Hagem, former Director Statnett, ex Chair of Entsoe board

Additionality and Cannibalisation

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

The Nordic region has huge potential for the further expansion of renewable energy as more and more companies seek to procure new or “additional” green energy.

Listen to a discussion on the current trends in PPAs and the risks of “cannibalisation”.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Mia Bodin, Head of Analysis, Bodecker Partners
Paul Orstavik, Lead Originator, Renewable Energy Solutions, Kinect Energy

Mind the Gap

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Germany faces an electricity capacity gap of up to 4 GW in 2023 and 2024 due to the country’s exit from both coal-fired and nuclear power generation.

Listen to a discussion on how supply could be critically endangered and what direction energy policy could take should the Green party join the government following elections later this year.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guest:

Konstantin Lenz, Professor for Energy Economics, University of applied sciences Erfurt and Business Development Manager, Volue

Over a barrel - what’s next for oil?

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Last year’s carnage in global oil demand would have been a lot worse for oil prices without the deep production cut agreement by Opec and non-member partners. But how will current geopolitical tensions play out?

Will Iran keep selling to China? Is Saudi Arabia likely to maintain production cuts, or will Russia continue to boost output?

Listen to a discussion on how the complex web of intrigue and realpolitik is driving the world’s most liquid commodity market.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guest:

Nadia Martin Wiggen, Partner and Energy Analyst, Pareto Securities

Heating up to 50C

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Meteorologists say summer temperatures in southern Europe could hit 50C, surpassing levels seen in recent years. This week’s episode looks at what this could mean for the continent’s power and gas systems in the face of more freak weather incidents such as cold snaps and heatwaves. And tune in to hear the latest forecasts for the weeks and months to come.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Mark Stephens-Row, Meteorologist, IBM Weather
Julian Telford, Head of Energy, MetDesk
Fredrik Cronvall, Meteorologist, SMHI

Green image seekers

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Last year remained a busy year for power purchase agreements (PPAs) despite the Covid pandemic, and activity looks set to accelerate as the market sees a post-virus bounce.

Listen to a discussion on companies who are keen to brand themselves as green – the green image seekers – and those for whom cost is paramount – the green giants.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Thekla von Bulow, Principal Commissioned Projects, Aurora Energy Research

Hydrogen’s green revolution

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

The success of Europe’s climate neutral goal for 2050 will depend a lot on hydrogen, particularly its green form when backed by renewables. Large utilities, industrial firms and oil and gas majors are now gearing up to make big investments in green hydrogen.

This week’s episode looks at some of those ambitious plans in the Nordic region.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Martin Pei, Executive Vice President and CTO, SSAB
Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting
Kathrine Stene Bakke, Head of AFRY Management Consulting Norway
Olav Botnen, Senior Analyst, Volue Insight

Trouble in Texas

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Last week’s deep freeze across the southern US caused power outages for millions in Texas, the country’s second most populous state. Was it an isolated problem or could a similar event occur in Europe?

Listen to a panel of experts as they delve into how Europe needs to integrate renewables and the steps needed to level the playing field for new entrants.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Dirk Biermann, Chief Markets and System Operations Officer, 50 Hertz
Matthias Dilthey, General Manager, DACH, Sonnen

Watching the speculators

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Are speculators behind the rise in carbon prices to new heights above EUR 40/t? This week’s podcast delves into the rally, addresses the fundamental factors supporting EUAs and whether placing limits on non-compliance participants is desirable or possible.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Marcus Ferdinand, Head of EU Power and Carbon Analytics, Icis
Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Oil and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects
Bernadett Papp, Senior Market Analyst, Vertis
Alessandro Vitelli, Carbon Reporter

The School of Hard Knocks

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Developing solar power in parts of Europe not known for being sunny is like being a student at a rough school – you come out a tough kid. At least that’s how the CEOs of Nordic firms Otovo and Alright Energy see it in this week’s episode.

Hear the outlook for rooftop and large-scale solar across Europe.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guests:

Andreas Thorsheim, CEO, Otovo
Harald Overholm, CEO, Alight Energy

Is CO2 the new Game Stop?

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

In a week of dramatic price moves in the carbon market, some participants have questioned the reasons for the rise to fresh highs. Is it the role of new entrants, could EUAs be the new Game Stop?

Listen to a discussion on the various factors at play in the ever volatile EU ETS and the outlook for prices for the weeks and months ahead.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guest:

Ingvild Sorhus, Senior Analyst, Refinitiv

Fear of Gaming

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Europe’s quest to become carbon neutral by 2050 will mean increased grid congestion with an expansion of intermittent renewable energy.

This week’s show discusses how electricity networks could cope with such bottlenecks, and why a fear of gaming and market power is holding back regulators from choosing market-based options.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Andrea Torjussen, Business Development and Regulatory Affairs Manager, Nodes
Gesa Milzer, Project Manager, Nodes
Jan Budke, European Regulatory Affairs Manager, Eon

February freeze?

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Some meteorologists may be playing down the risk of a return of 2018's "Beast from the East", but this winter is far from over and with it the potential for further gas and power price spikes. This week's show discusses the reasons for the recent price surges in Asian LNG, the outlook for the coming months and whether the market became too blase about cheap gas.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel

Guest:

• Wayne Bryan, Director, European Gas Research, Refinitiv

Complexity, competition, break-up

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

France is set to overhaul the mechanism intended to boost competition in the country’s electricity market, but the measure’s complexity as well as disputes over the potential break-up of energy major EDF could see the government postponing reform.

This week’s episode discusses the French solution for competition, and why there may not be a resolution until 2022 or beyond.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Julien Tedde, CEO, Opera Energie,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Upside for German power prices

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

German power prices have gained in recent weeks amid colder weather and a strong carbon market, with the bullish trend set to continue over the coming weeks, at least according to this week’s guest.

Listen to a discussion on Germany’s coal exit tenders which have led, to the surprise of many, to the closure of modern, efficient plants but left older units in operation. In addition, we look at the outlook for carbon prices as well as the prospects for PPAs in Europe’s largest power market.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool.

From turmoil to reset

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

In the last episode of 2020, a year of pandemic and economic turmoil, the Montel Weekly podcast takes listeners on a virtual tour around Europe with discussions about what lies ahead for the continent’s energy markets. We review this year’s key policy milestones, the drive to decarbonise Europe, the latest demand forecasts, and conclude with a plea for peace and love.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guests:

Andres Cala, Editor Iberia, Montel
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel
Siobhan Hall, Correspondent Brussels, Montel
Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordic and Baltic region, Montel
Nathan Witkop, Correspondent Germany, Montel

Lights will stay on this winter

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Power supply in northwest Europe over the coming winter faces uncertainty amid limited nuclear availability, aging conventional plant capacity and colder weather, but the lights will stay on, Vincent Verbeke of Engie assures us.

In this episode we discuss the ever expanding European PPA market and Engie’s strategy going forward, as well as touching on the role of blockchain in the energy transition.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Vincent Verbeke, Member of the Executive Committee, Global Energy Management, Engie.

Brexit chaos looms

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Access to European energy markets is being used as a negotiating tool in Brexit discussions over access to UK fisheries as well as state aid provisions.

In this episode, we discuss the implications of a no-deal Brexit for the power and gas sectors, and how it seems increasingly likely that the UK will adopt a carbon tax instead of a trading scheme.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Antony Froggatt, Senior Research Fellow, Chatham House.

Another annus horribilis

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Continued oversupply, mild weather and a massive growth in wind power capacity, will keep Nordic power prices low for the coming year at least. Further out, increased demand thanks to the electrification of the heating and transport sectors could provide a shot in the arm for power producers.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Sigbjorn Seland, Chief Analyst, Storm Geo.

Certain carbon uncertainty

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Reform of the mechanism to reduce market oversupply, tweaking the cap and not least the final 2030 target are all uncertain factors for the EU ETS which will continue to cause price volatility in the coming months. Listen to a discussion on current EUA price dynamics and where the market is heading in the short as well as medium term.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Ingvild Sorhus, Senior Analyst, Refinitiv.

Import bans, strikes and La Nina

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

China’s ban on Australian coal imports, strikes in Colombia as well as potential weather disruptions from the La Nina effect have had a major impact on global coal prices.

This week’s pod discusses the outlook for coal in Europe and Asia amid the green energy transition, and the role played by Russia, a key exporter to both regions.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guests:

Diana Bacila, Senior Analyst, Alpiq,
Laurence Walker, Coal and Gas Editor, Montel.

The US election and energy

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0100

In a special podcast looking at the US election, we discuss what a Biden administration will mean for global efforts to tackle climate change and transition towards cleaner energy.

With the prospect of a divided government, how far can the US move away from fossil fuels and will a new Congress pursue further sanctions to stop Russia’s Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Ketil Raknes, Assistant Professor, Hoyskolen Kristiania,
Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas and Energy Transition, Energy Aspects.

The Hydrogen backbone

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

This week’s pod discusses plans for a hydrogen backbone in the Netherlands, including proposals for a trading exchange for the potentially green fuel. We also talk about why November has been a key month historically for power market coupling.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Bert den Ouden, Managing Director for Energy, Berenschot.

Liberation Day approaches

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Oil demand could surge following the arrival of a vaccine for Covid-19, possibly as early as early 2021. This key moment, or “Liberation Day”, will see life slowly return to normal, with an increase in oil prices. Listen to a discussion on why the market is nihilistic” and the impact of Opec cuts, Libyan supply and the US election.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Bjarne Schieldrop, Chief Analyst Commodities, SEB.

Combustion is so 20th century

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Burning fuels to generate energy should remain a relic of the last century. This week’s pod discusses, with a touch of “I told you so”, the outlook for decarbonisation in eastern Europe and the options available to countries in the region. Firms will need to urgently move away from coal and lignite before it’s too late or costly.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Paolo Coghe, CEO Acousmatics

Ready, steady, GO

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Guarantees of origin (GOs) will be an important part of the transition to clean energy. And, at current prices companies can source renewable power at very low cost.

This week’s pod discusses how long these weak prices could last and the use of GOs to decarbonize Europe’s gas sector.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Alexandra Münzer, Managing Director, Greenfact.

Let’s talk about the weather

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Europe is experiencing ever more extreme weather, with storms, floods and drought hitting several countries in 2020. This is part of a change from steady, predictable weather patterns to one more dominated by extremes.

Listen to a discussion on the impact on energy markets, and the outlook for the coming months. Will the “beast from the East” return this winter?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Mark Stephens-Row, Meteorologist, The Weather Company, an IBM Business.

Green deal: Theory vs Reality

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

In theory, the Green recovery fund should provide assistance to companies trying to get back on their feet following the coronavirus pandemic, but in practice they will struggle to access available funds.

This week’s episode discusses the legal aspects of the EU Green deal, Nord Stream 2 and Brexit.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Ana Stanic, Principal of E&A Law.

Boosting PPA demand

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0200

PPAs are a vital component of Europe’s green energy transition. This week’s episode discusses whether deals have slowed down amid the Covid crisis, and the outlook in the coming years.

Listen to an expert view on the changes required to increase the involvement of small and medium sized firms, and how companies should deal with counterparty risk.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Sam Ebohon, Transaction Association Director, Arup.

Sticky Asian LNG demand

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Asia’s appetite for LNG will continue to grow as coal becomes more expensive. But outages at key facilities in Australia could tighten global supply ahead of this winter.

This week’s show looks at the key energy market drivers in Asia and a discussion on “sticky” demand.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Henning Gloystein, Director, Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group,
Saul Kavonic, Director APAC markets, Credit Suisse.

To Prussia, with Love

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0200

A poisoning scandal surrounding Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny has threatened to derail the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, now only kilometres away from the German mainland.

This week’s pod discusses the likelihood of a cancellation and the potential impact on Europe’s gas markets.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Hanns Koenig, Head of Commissioned Projects, Central Europe, Aurora Energy Research,
Nathan Witkop, Reporter, Montel.

Poland’s rooftop revolution

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Poland may be one of the last bastions of coal plants in Europe, but the country is currently experiencing massive growth in rooftop solar panels.

This week’s pod discusses the country’s exit from coal and the prospect of replacing the dirty fuel with gas and renewables.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Joanna Mackowiak-Pandera, CEO of Forum Energii.

Oil faces new “normal”

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Ample supply, full inventories and subdued demand are likely to pressure oil prices well into 2021, says Rystad Energy’s Paola Rodriguez-Masiu.

Listen to this week’s pod discuss a potential return pre-Coronavirus market conditions and what the new “normal” will look like, since changing consumer habits, increased electrification and a reduction in commuter and air travel in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic could actually accelerate the demise of oil.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Paola Rodriguez-Masiu, senior analyst, Rystad Energy.

Extreme year for Nordic power

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Nordic power prices have languished near historically low levels amid a combination of extreme factors, notably an abundance of hydropower supply, and limitations in interconnector capacity and nuclear supply.

In this week’s pod, experts discuss the outlook for prices going forward and whether 2020 will be a one-off or if market participants should brace themselves for more of the unexpected.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guests:

Eylert Ellefsen, senior analyst, EQ,
Tor Reier Lilleholt, head of analysis, Wattsight.

Rogue carbon trader?

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

This week’s pod focuses on the carbon market and, in particular, the reasons behind the price spike in mid-July. Was it due to the closing of a speculative position that went rogue, or were other fundamental factors at play?

Tune in for a discussion on the outlook for prices going forward, the potential impact of the EU green deal and the UK ETS post Brexit.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Louis Redshaw, founder and CEO Redshaw Advisors,
Alessandro Vitelli, Carbon Reporter.

Short-lived gas rally?

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

In the first pod after the summer break, we welcome back Wayne Bryan and discuss the outlook for gas prices amid waning demand, ample supply, healthy storage and geopolitical tensions.

Is the current rally in European gas prices sustainable, or will market fundamentals limit the gains amid a potential second wave of Covid-19?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Wayne Bryan, director EU gas research, Refinitiv.

Exporting green hydrogen

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Iceland is starting to position itself as a producer and exporter of “green” hydrogen. Listen to a discussion on the potential for the island nation to export the clean fuel, expand wind power and on the difficulties currently faced by large industrial energy users.

Host:

Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Hordur Arnarson, CEO Landsvirkjun.

Whirlwind European tour

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

For this week's pod, Montel journalists review the key energy market developments in the first six months of the year, and provide an outlook for the remainder of 2020 and beyond.

What will happen to prices, will demand recover and are markets prepared for a second wave?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordics, Montel,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel,
Andres Cala, Editor Iberia, Montel,
Christian Driessen, Editor Germany, Montel.

Remaining vigilant

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Europe’s TSOs will remain vigilant over the months to come in order to keep the lights on and the power system secure amid unprecedented falls in demand as well as growing output from renewables.

Listen to a discussion on digitalisation, accelerating the permitting process and the complicated but necessary task of incorporating decentralised, distributed energy.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Pascale Fonck, Vice Chair of the Board, Entso-E and Chief Officer External Relations, Elia.

Don’t rock the boat, baby

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

All market participants should work together to ensure the electricity system works efficiently and stays afloat, says Auke Lont.

This week’s pod discusses low prices, key interconnectors, bidding zones and the importance of maintaining transparent, liquid wholesale energy markets.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Auke Lont, CEO, Statnett.

End game for fossil fuels

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Direct prohibition of the use of fossil fuels will be necessary in order to meet the goals of the Paris climate agreement, says Rana Adib of REN 21.

This week’s pod discusses how other sectors should emulate the “extraordinary success” of renewable electricity and how short term measures must accompany long term targets for green energy.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Rana Adib, Executive Director, REN 21.

Return to 2019 prices “years away”

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Nordic wholesale power prices are unlikely to return to levels around EUR 40/MWh as delivered last year.

This week’s episode welcomes back Marius Holm Rennesund with a discussion on the outlook for prices over the coming months and years, with prices expected to stay low with demand side measures and batteries assuming a greater role. Rennesund also provides his view of the future development for PPAs in the region.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting,
Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordics, Montel.

It’s all about the wires

Fri, 29 May 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The recent EU recovery fund should help to propel the continent into a greener, cleaner post Covid-19 world.

This week’s episode welcomes Susanne Nies who discusses the outlook for electricity demand in Europe, the importance of smart networks as well as insights in to the political bubble of Brussels.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,

Guest:

Susanne Nies, Country Manager Germany, Smart Wires.

French nuclear crunch from September

Fri, 22 May 2020 00:00:00 +0200

EDF sent shockwaves through Europe’s power and gas markets when it forecast a 20% drop in nuclear output this year due to the coronavirus pandemic crimping demand. The crisis also forced France’s biggest power utility to overhaul its reactor maintenance schedule.

This week’s pod discusses “modulation” outages and a possible shortfall in supply from September.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Emeric de Vigan, CEO and Founder of Core-e,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

LNG must take the slack

Fri, 15 May 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Global gas demand will remain subdued for the remainder of the year amid a continuing supply glut. With much of the continent’s piped gas continuing to flow in large volumes and storage facilities reaching full capacity, LNG will have to take the slack, says Carlos Torres Diaz of Rystad Energy.

This week’s episode discusses the options open for LNG players and the outlook for the gas sector in the medium to long-term.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Carlos Torres Diaz, Head of Gas and Power Markets Research, Rystad Energy.

Don’t ignore negative prices

Fri, 08 May 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The Nordic region could see the return negative prices amid lingering oversupply, wet weather and delayed snowmelt over the coming weeks. Yet elsewhere in continental Europe will see far lower output from hydropower amid drier conditions.

This week’s episode sees the return of Mr Hydrology, aka Eylert Ellefsen, who also discusses how soon we will return to pre-Covid power demand levels.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Eylert Ellefsen, Senior Analyst, Energy Quantified.

Nordic power may see swift recovery

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Nordic power prices will recover faster than many people think, but a weak gas market will limit the upside.

This week’s episode discusses the way in which the region’s wind power sector is ready to race ahead, and how working from home may see some traders actually thriving away from the social distractions of the office.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Fredrik Bodecker, CEO, Bodecker Partners.

Expect more volatility not carbon price crash

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Prices in the EU carbon market are set to remain highly volatile over the coming months, driven mostly by restrictive measures to halt the spread of Covid-19.

Listen to a discussion on the outlook for prices, key fundamental factors and whether speculators will return this year.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Bernadett Papp, Senior Market Analyst, Vertis.

Never seen crazy like this before!

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The oil market is getting messy, with producers struggling to cut in line with plunging demand and bulging inventories.

This week’s episode discusses how we are no longer “masters of the universe” and how misplaced optimism may see oil prices remaining stagnant for the remainder of the year. At least.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Bjarne Schieldrop, Chief Analyst Commodities, SEB.

Legislating the green transition

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The Covid-19 outbreak has ground the wheels of EU legislative processes to a halt, but later this year the bloc’s executive will table a flurry of fresh proposals.

Listen to a discussion on the European Commission’s Green Deal, and whether the coronavirus will brake or accelerate the continent’s decarbonisation.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Øyvind Vessia, Head of European Affairs, Ørsted.

The bearish cherry

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Amid a backdrop of tumbling European wholesale gas prices, this week’s episode takes a look at the multiple bearish factors overwhelming the market. Find out what the “bearish” cherry is and listen to a discussion on where the price floor could be, and how and when prices could recover.

For expert views and analysis of the impact of the coronavirus on energy market, please visit our daily extra at covid19.montelnews.com.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Wayne Bryan, Director, European Gas Research, Refinitiv.

Decarbonising with mini-reactors

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0100

This week’s episode takes a look at the Baltic market and plans to decarbonise the region by rolling out small modular reactors.

Listen to a discussion on how small-scale nuclear could be commercially viable at much lower cost than current projects in France, Finland and the UK.

For expert views and analysis of the impact of the coronavirus on energy market, please visit our daily extra at covid19.montelnews.com.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Kalev Kallemets, CEO of Fermi Energia.

Record low French nuclear output?

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Away from the drama and uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 virus outbreak, we take a close look at France’s nuclear fleet and discuss how production this year could fall to multi-year lows.

For expert views and analysis of the impact of the coronavirus on energy market, please visit covid19.montelnews.com.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Going green with baseload PPAs

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Power purchase agreements (PPAs) continue to grow across Europe as renewables subsidies get phased out and companies look to reduce their carbon footprint.

Listen to a discussion on the outlook for PPAs, and how in the Nordics firms are increasingly using them as hedging instruments, often signing “baseload” deals.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Kathrine Bakke of Afry,
Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordics, Montel.

The gas gambit

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Gas is quickly becoming a global commodity, but the fuel has also become a pawn in a game of geopolitics between large gas producing countries.

This week’s pod looks at the politics of gas as well as its fundamental drivers and competition, and the need to decarbonise the sector.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Karen Sund of Sund Energy.

On the road to climate neutrality

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Ahead of the EC publication of its Climate Law next week, this week’s pod discusses the implications for Europe’s energy sector.

Listen to a discussion on carbon border taxes, sector coupling,
ETS reform and decarbonising gas.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Catherine Banet, Associate Professor in Energy Law,
University of Oslo.

Trading green energy

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0100

The rapid growth of renewables over the coming years will increase the need for PPAs and related products.

This week we discuss what the changes mean for an energy exchange – is the difference between peak and baseload still relevant?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Peter Reitz, CEO European Energy Exchange.

Montel Weekly Extra - Gas markets to get “messy”

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Global gas markets look set to remain historically weak with oversupply forecast to linger this year and into next. Europe in particular will get “messy”, according to Trevor Sikorski of Energy Aspects.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Oil and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects.

Flexing it

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Europe is set to fully decarbonise its energy system by 2050, with a huge impact on the way electricity is produced and consumed.

This week’s pod takes a peek into the brave new energy world,
and discusses flexibility, aggregation and the future of trading.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Matthias Dilthey, General Manager DACH, Sonnen,
Jan Aengenvoort, Head of Communications and Market Research, Next Kraftwerke,
Richard Sarti, Director Marketing and Sales, Nodes.

Gas glut to last until 2025?

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Oversupply in the global gas market could persist until 2025, and the saturation spells bad news for coal plants everywhere.

This week’s pod discusses the current dynamics in the LNG market and why, despite low prices, producers and exporters of gas show no sign of holding back.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Kjell Eikland, Managing Director, Eikland Energy.

German coal 1, Climate 0

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0100

In this week’s pod, energy expert Claudia Kemfert says Germany’s coal exit plans are a massive disappointment.

Listen to a discussion on how the proposals will not end coal generation quickly enough and will come at a far too high cost, both for taxpayers and the climate.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Claudia Kemfert, Head of Department Energy, Transportation, Environment, DIW Berlin,
Nora Kamprath Buli, Editor Germany, Montel.

Carbon set for green deal boost

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0100

European carbon prices will strengthen as the 27-nation bloc tightens its climate ambitions over the next 18 months.

However, prepare for market volatility in the short term amid Brexit, low gas prices and uncertainty over Germany’s coal exit.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Tom Lord, Head of Trading and Risk Management, Redshaw Advisors,
Alessandro Vitelli, Carbon Reporter.

Unprecedented hydro surge

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Hydro levels in the Nordic region are at levels never seen before at this time of year, while southern parts of Europe have also been very wet.

Listen to Mr Hydrology, aka Eylert Ellefsen, talk about the unusually high precipitation and the impact on wholesale power prices from Trondheim to Tarragona.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Eylert Ellefsen, senior analyst, EQ.

Show me the gas demand!

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Europe’s gas market looks set to remain oversupplied this year with prices likely to be close to record lows.

In this week’s episode gas analyst Wayne Bryan questions where the demand will come from to absorb unrelenting flows of LNG and piped gas.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Wayne Bryan, gas analyst,
Nathan Witkop, Germany correspondent, Montel.

Will grassroots movement hasten exit coal?

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Germany will not sign off legislation to exit coal until early this year, but a strong grassroots environmental movement could force politicians to exit the dirty fuel many years before the proposed 2038 date.

Listen to a summary of current German energy policy and the potential for a capacity squeeze in 2022.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool.

Review and outlook

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0100

In the last pod before Christmas, listen to the Montel team discussing the key issues of 2019, and the significant developments shaping Europe’s energy markets next year.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordics, Montel,
Nora Kamprath Buli, Editor Germany, Montel,
Morten Hegna, Sales Director, Montel,
Gert Ove Mollestad, Reporter, Montel.

Produced by Anna Siwecka.

Music by Laurence Walker.

2020: the year of record low gas prices?

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Next year looks set to deliver record low gas prices amid a perfect bearish storm of an ongoing supply glut, mild weather, record high storage levels and a possible agreement in the Ukraine-Russia transit deal.

Listen to four analysts provide their 2019 highlights, and forecasts for next year.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Tor Reier Lilleholt, Head of Analysis, Wattsight,
Marcus Ferdinand, Head of EU Power and Carbon Analytics, ICIS,
Wayne Bryan, Senior Energy and Commodity Analyst, Alfa Energy,
Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Oil and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects.

2050 vision: solar, wind and …. ammonia

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0100

What will happen in 2050 when Europe's power system will be close to 100% renewables? Listen to this week's pod as we turn the Green tea leaves towards a low-carbon world and discuss the potential for energy storage using hydrogen and … ammonia.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Gry Aamodt, Vice Preseident Global Drivers, Statkraft,
Nora Kamprath Buli, Editor Germany, Montel.

Poland’s green transition, fact or fiction?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The dominance of coal in Poland’s energy mix will come to an end – the question is by when and what will replace the dirty fuel.

This week’s pod discusses the options open to the country and which form of power generation will expand at the fastest rate.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Arek Zielezny, Managing Director, Laconia Investments,
Marcin Czekanski, Poland Correspondent, Montel.

Corporates GO green

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Corporate demand for guarantees of origin (GOs) will remain strong next year as companies continue to boost their green credentials. However, supply from French auctions and from German facilities should continue to keep prices around 50 eurocents.

Listen to expert views on what’s currently driving the GO market.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Alexandra Münzer, Managing Director, Greenfact,
Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordics, Montel.

Carbon bears join the picnic

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0100

While currently trading around EUR 25/t, European carbon prices look set to be hit by several bearish factors next year, including a potential flood of UK permits, an economic slowdown and reduced demand as Germany starts its coal exit.

Listen to the in-depth analysis of current and future CO market drivers.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Tom Lord, Head of Trading and Risk Management, Redshaw Advisors,
Alessandro Vitelli, Carbon Reporter.

Will Spain´s PPA bubble burst?

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Spain´s PPA boom could be a bubble that could burst in the coming years. This week´s pod comes from Madrid, where we discuss the upcoming election and the impact on energy policy.

Will the next government be able to push through the necessary legislation in order for Spain to meet its decarbonisation targets?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Andrés Cala, Editor Spain, Montel,
Pedro Linares, Professor of Energy Policy, Comillas Pontificial University.

Blown off course

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Norway could be heading for a slowdown, or even an abrupt halt, in wind power expansion amid growing opposition to onshore turbines.

This week we discuss the growth in green capacity across the Nordics and the potential impact on wholesale prices in the region and beyond.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor, Nordics, Montel,
Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting Group.

Fears of German yellow vests?

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Could Germany be holding back its climate ambitions due to fears of public unrest similar to the gilet jaunes movement in France?

This week’s pod addresses such concerns with Germany’s leading green energy supplier, and how the EU’s biggest economy can hasten its energy transition.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Nils Kompe, Head of power portfolio management, LichtBlick.

Trump and trade wars

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Amid concerns of a global economic slowdown, this week’s pod discussed the energy market implications of the China-US trade war, Trump’s tweet and the latest Brexit developments.

What are the key pointers to look for in an increasingly uncertain gloomy macro environment?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Richard Mallinson, senior analyst, Energy Aspects.

Death by 1,000 cuts

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0200

News of fresh delays and cost overruns at France’s next generation reactor at Flamanville may not be a killer blow for the country’s nuclear industry but the sector could face death by a thousand cuts.

This week´s pod discusses more woes for French and European reactors.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Paolo Coghe, Director, Acousmatics,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Navigating PPA complexity

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0200

PPAs are a crucial way to finance new renewable energy as countries phase out subsidies and companies are looking to consume more green energy. This week´s pod discusses the current state of the PPA market and highlights ways to overcome regulatory barries and other risks.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Caroline Brun Ellefsen, Global Head, Instatrust, DNV GL,
Mariana Heinrich, Manager, Climate and Energy, WBCSD.

To cancel or not to cancel EUAs

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Contrary to expectations, potential German coal plant closures over the coming decade may not result in the cancellation of permits relative to their emissions.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Bernadett Papp, Senior Market Analyst, Vertis,
Marcus Ferdinand, Head of EU Power and Carbon Analytics,
Nora Kamprath Buli, Editor Germany, Montel.

Trading power with the neighbours

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Imagine a world where you can trade power from your solar panel with others, linking households, neighbourhoods and regions through digital technology.

Listen to a version of the future that is already happening in the Netherlands.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Philip Gladek, CEO, Spectral Energy.

Déjà vu: French nuclear concerns return

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0200

This week’s news of potential issues with steam generators at some of France’s nuclear reactors caused energy prices to skyrocket as market participants feared a return of problems seen in the autumn of 2016.

Listen to the guests discuss the implications for France and its neighbours.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Kris Voorspools, Portfolio Manager, Anode Energie.
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Carbon at EUR 45 by year end?

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0200

European carbon prices are set to rise to EUR 45/t by the end of this year, according to Berenberg Bank.

Listen to analyst Lawson Steele explain his reasons in this week’s pod.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Lawson Steele, Senior Utility Analyst, Berenberg Bank.

Green shift for oil and gas majors?

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0200

In a bid to avoid turning into energy dinosaurs, European oil and gas majors are becoming increasingly active in the renewable sector.

In this week’s pod Nordea analyst Thina Saltvedt discusses how these firms are investing in green energy in an attempt to diversify and decarbonise their business.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Thina Saltvedt, Senior Analyst, Nordea Bank.
Nora Kamprath Buli, Editor Germany, Montel.

Is the switch to gas a flash in the pan?

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Recorded live at the Montel Nordic Energy Day, this week’s pod addresses key issues including the outlook for CO2 prices and developments in the Nordic region.

Catch the opening snippets from the event, and then listen in to a deeper discussion about the main drivers in the carbon and Nordic power markets for the coming months. Will the switch to gas-fired generation be temporary, or more permanent?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Ingvild Sørhus, Senior Analyst, EU Carbon Analysis, Refinitiv,
Tor Reier Lilleholt, Head of Analysis, Wattsight.

Conference moderators, Morten Hegna and Olav Vilnes, Montel.

Gas to dominate with “new normal” EUR 30 for CO2

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Gas is set to continue to push coal and lignite out of the power mix amid ample supply and carbon prices at a “new normal” level of EUR 30/t.

Listen to the latest podcast and the discussion about the key drivers for Europe’s gas and power markets in the weeks and months ahead.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Wayne Bryan, senior energy and commodity analyst, Alfa Energy,
Paolo Coghe, president, Acousmatics.

Get your umbrellas out

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0200

The Nordic region is set for a wet autumn if the weather forecasts are to be believed, and the front quarter contract has already fallen 15% since late July.

As well as having umbrellas and raingear at the ready, the podders discuss other key issues market participants should keep an eye on in the coming months.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Olav Vilnes, Chief Editor Nordics, Montel,
Morten Hegna, Sales And Events Director, Montel.

BoJo bluff on no-deal Brexit?

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Boris Johnson’s “do or die” Brexit pledge means the UK could crash out of the EU without a deal on 31 October.

A bluff or not, the energy sector now faces more uncertainty and could lose an important transition period to finalise trading details, says Antony Froggatt of Chatham House.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Antony Froggatt, senior research fellow, Chatham House.

Notes from behind the scenes - Norway's Don Quixote

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0200

The Montel Weekly returns this Friday! For the last time, let us take you back to one of the episode we did in spring. Do you remember the episode in which we discussed the protest against onshore wind turbines in Norway? The reasons behind the opposition and the country’s energy mix?

Let us take you behind the scenes of the episode with Montel’s Gert Ove Mollestad and Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner at Theme Consulting group.

Notes from behind the scenes - King coal head for the exit

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0200

How about the episode with a super-insightful discussion about coal between Paolo Coghe, president of Acousmatics, and Laurence Walker, Coal Editor, Montel?

Anna takes us behind the scenes of ‘King coal heads for the exit'. Hear the outlook for the dirty fuel and the key market developments to keep an eye on in the remainder of the year.

Notes from behind the scenes - France: how safe are its reactors?

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Do you remember the episode in which we discussed the safety issues at France’s nuclear fleet and the country’s outlook for renewables?

Let us take you behind the scenes of the episode with Yara Chakhtoura, Managing Director at Vattenfall Eolien, Jean-Christophe Niel, Director General at IRSN, Yves Marignac, Director at WISE-Paris, and Chris Eales, Editor France at Montel.

Notes from behind the scenes - Is solar set for a bright future?

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0200

In the last episode we announced that the Montel Weekly goes on a summer break… but we have a small surprise for you!

Anna takes us behind the scenes of the show, and shares a few thoughts about some of the twenty episodes we prepared in spring. Do you remember the episode with Sonia Dunlop, senior policy adviser at Solar Power Europe and Leah Charpentier, head of European regulatory and government affairs at First Solar?

Montel Weekly Special – Belgium “not ready” for supply challenge

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0200

The CEO of Belgian TSO Elia urges the country’s politicians to take steps to ensure the lights remain on after 2025. Belgium is currently “not ready to face that challenge”, Chris Peeters tells Montel, adding that technology such as blockchain will help balance the grid.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guest:

Chris Peeters, CEO of Elia.

Entech set for energy transition take-off

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Executives at Europe’s most innovative energy technology (“Entech”) talk to Montel about the potential for blockchain to enable the next phase of the energy transition by integrating renewables as well as EVs and household appliances through blockchain and AI. How can regulation encourage innovation in the entech space?

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Ana Trbovich, co-founder and COO of Grid Singularity,
Jo-Jo Hubbard, CEO of Electron,
Maria McKavanagh, COO of Verv.

Has blockchain matured beyond the hype?

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Has the initial hype around the use of blockchain in the energy sector cooled off, with commercial applications coming to the fore?

We speak to energy experts to discuss progress so far and the likely developments in the coming years.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Christoph Burger, senior lecturer, ESMT.
Tobias Federico, CEO of Energy Brainpool.

Energy sector must prepare for Halloween horror

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0200

With a no-deal Brexit increasingly likely on 31 October, the energy sector in the UK and Europe should brace itself for costly and inefficient cross-border trading, while the EU looks set to lose a driving force in decarbonisation, and a pro-nuclear voice, says Antony Froggatt of Chatham House.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Antony Froggatt, senior research fellow, Chatham House,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Conditions ripe for Finnish wind boom

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 01:00:00 +0200

This year will see a 25% rise in wind power capacity in Finland, largely due to high electricity prices and low production costs.

However, additional green energy raises questions of flexibility in a system dominated by nuclear power, say Anni Mikkonen of the country’s wind power association and Jenni Patronen of Pöyry.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Anni Mikkonen, CEO, Finnish Wind Power Association,
Jenni Patronen, Senior Principal, Pöyry Management Consulting.

Amber alert for summer hydro output

Fri, 31 May 2019 01:00:00 +0200

While hydrological levels have been boosted by a wet – and snowy at high altitudes – May, the outlook for the summer remains uncertain and largely in the hands of the weather gods.

Eylert Ellefsen, also known as Mr Hydrology, talks us through the prospects for hydro generation from the Balkans, central Europe, Spain and the Alpine region in the coming months.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Gert Ove Mollestad, Journalist, Montel,
Eylert Ellefsen, senior analyst, EQ.

Don’t fall in love with old plants

Fri, 24 May 2019 01:00:00 +0200

In this week’s pod, CEOs of two of Europe’s largest energy companies discuss the massive transformation currently happening in the sector.

They talk about the challenges facing them in the transition to a low-carbon economy, and the impact of the European elections. Utilities should avoid becoming too attached to their old fossil fuel-fired plants and plan for the green future, they say.

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,
Andrés Cala, Madrid Bureau Chief.

Guests:

Magnus Hall, CEO of Vattenfall,
Francesco Starace, CEO of Enel,
Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric.

Coming soon: Don’t fall in love with old plants

Thu, 23 May 2019 12:00:00 +0200

In this week’s pod, CEOs at two of Europe’s largest energy companies discuss the massive transformation currently happening in the sector. Utilities should avoid becoming too attached to their old fossil fuel-fired plants and plan for the green future, they say.

Norway’s Don Quixote

Fri, 17 May 2019 00:00:00 +0200

This week’s pod looks at recent protests against onshore wind turbines in Norway, the reasons behind the opposition and the impact on the country’s energy mix and electricity prices. Is it NIMBYism or do the protestors have more widespread support?

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Gert Ove Mollestad, Journalist, Montel,
Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting Group.

A German supply crunch?

Fri, 10 May 2019 01:00:00 +0200

Recorded live at the Montel German Energy Day, this week’s pod addresses key issues in Europe’s largest energy market.

Catch the mood with some key snippets from speakers at the event, and then listen in to a deeper discussion about Germany’s planned coal phase-out. Will the lights go out in 2022?

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,
Nora Kamprath Buli, Team leader Germany, Montel,
Anna Siwecka, freelance journalist/podcaster.

Guests/speakers including by not limited to:

Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool,
Trevor Sikorski, Head of Natural Gas, Coal and Carbon Research, Energy Aspects,
Konstantin Lenz, Business Developer, Wattsight and Professor for Energy Economics at University of Applied Sciences Erfurt,
Uta Staude, Managing Director, European/Asian power, Genscape.

CO2 to bounce over borrowing wall

Fri, 03 May 2019 01:00:00 +0200

Speculators may have been a major contributor to a recent upturn in prices, but several challenges remain for carbon market participants. Brexit and an EUA “borrowing wall” at the end of 2020 – will CO2 bounce over it?

Listen to the latest episode of the Montel Weekly podcast for an update on the key price drivers for this year and beyond.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Paolo Coghe, president of Acousmatics,
Alessandro Vitelli, carbon/energy reporter.

King coal heads for the exit

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0200

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know.
Old King coal is on the way out, but somehow remains remarkably resilient in many parts of Europe and the world.

Listen to the latest episode of the Montel Weekly podcast to hear the outlook for the dirty fuel and the key market developments to keep an eye on in the remainder of the year.

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,
Anna Siwecka, freelance journalist/podcaster.

Guests:

Paolo Coghe, president of Acousmatics,
Laurence Walker, Coal Editor, Montel.

Coming soon: King coal heads for the exit

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 01:00:00 +0200

Old King coal is on the way out, but somehow remains remarkably resilient in many parts of Europe and the world. Listen to the latest episode of the Montel Weekly podcast to hear the outlook for the dirty fuel.

Montel Weekly Special – PPAs and Prosumers

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 01:00:00 +0200

The Montel energy podcast - market insights from people in the know.
Only 40% of planned Spanish photovoltaic projects may actually be built. Listen to the special episode of the Montel Weekly podcast to hear CEO of Audax José Elias discuss market developments in his country, and how “prosumers” will impact the current structure.

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel,
Anna Siwecka, freelance journalist/podcaster.

Guest:

José Elias, CEO Audax.

Coal & Carbon - rollercoaster ride continues

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 05:00:00 +0200

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know.
Carbon prices have been on a rollercoaster ride for the past year, although not in the same direction. With the EU ETS helping to push coal out of Europe’s energy mix, where is the future demand for coal going to come from?

Listen to the latest episode of the Montel Weekly podcast to hear experts discuss fuel switching, greenwashing and the role of speculative traders. And the host plays catch-up.

Host:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Diana Bacila, coal analyst at Alpiq,
Trine Braathen, carbon analyst at Kinect Energy Group.

France – how safe are its reactors?

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 08:00:00 +0200

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we discuss the outlook for renewables in France and safety issues at its nuclear fleet.

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief Europe, Montel.

Guests:

Yara Chakhtoura, Managing Director at Vattenfall Eolien,
Jean-Christophe Niel, Director General at IRSN,
Yves Marignac, Director at WISE-Paris,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Gas – how low can prices go?

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 10:00:00 +0100

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we discuss the latest developments in Europe’s gas market and the outlook for prices for the rest of the year. How low can prices go?

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, News Editor, Montel,
Anna Siwecka, freelance journalist/podcaster.

Guests:

Wayne Bryan, senior energy and commodity analyst, Alfa Energy,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

GO local, think global

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 01:00:00 +0100

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we discuss the latest developments in the guarantee of origin market and the outlook for prices for green energy certification going forward. Will the market be equally volatile this year?

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, News Editor Montel,
Olav Vilnes, Nordic News Editor Montel.

Guests:

Nicholas O’Keeffe, senior portfolio manager, Danske Commodities,
William Dixon, senior originator, Agder Energi.

Coming soon: GO local, think global!

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0100

In future, you may be able to buy renewable energy and a certificate of origin from your neighbor on the blockchain. Listen to the latest episode of the Montel Weekly podcast to find out more about latest developments in the guarantee of origin (GO) market.

Is solar set for a bright future?

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we take a close look at the outlook for solar power in Europe. The sector says “solar is back in business”, but is its optimism justified?

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, News Editor Montel,
Anna Siwecka, freelance journalist/podcaster.

Guests:

Sonia Dunlop, senior policy adviser, Solar Power Europe,
Leah Charpentier, head of European regulatory and government affairs, First Solar.

Coming soon: Is solar set for a bright future?

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0100

France’s nuclear fleet – surprises likely in 2019?

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we take a close look at France’s ageing nuclear fleet. Are we in for any surprise incidents this year, or are “the men in white coats” in control?

As this episode goes online on the International Women’s Day, we salute the women in white coats.

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, News Editor Montel,
Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel.

Crazy carbon price volatility

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we take a close look at the EU’s flagship carbon market (EU ETS) and find out why traders may need “four pairs of sturdy underwear”.

Hosts:

Richard Sverrisson, News Editor Montel
Anna Siwecka, freelance journalist/podcaster

Guest:

Alessandro Vitelli, Freelance carbon/energy reporter.

The latest buzzword – PPAs

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 13:00:00 +0100

Soon to be launched: Montel Weekly podcast

The Montel energy podcast – market insights from people in the know. In this week’s episode, we take a close look at the latest buzzword – PPAs.

Guests:

Olav Vilnes, Nordic news editor,
Nora Kamprath Buli, Team Leader Germany,
Andres Cala, Editor Iberia.