The Solar Age, with The Economist's Hal Hodson

In today's episode we have two insightful interviews that explore the frontiers of clean energy and the political landscapes shaping its future.

Sign up for our UK election night livestream on 4th July at 9pm UK time with a great panel including Sarah Mackintosh, Rupert Read, Prashant Rao, Ben Cooke and more.

Part 1: Hal Hodson, Americas Editor of The Economist

Hal Hodson discusses his recent deep dive into solar energy, exploring the rapid advancements and exponential growth in the sector. He emphasises the importance of solar energy in the global energy transition and shares insights into the positive feedback loops driving solar's expansion.

Key Points:

• The role of solar energy in the energy transition
• Positive feedback loops in solar energy adoption
• The challenges and future potential of solar energy
• Comparison to information processing technologies

Read more from Hal Hodson: The Economist - Solar Special Issue

Part 2: Sarah Mackintosh, CEO of Cleantech for UK

Sarah Mackintosh provides an analysis of the different party manifestos in the UK, focusing on their support for innovation and the growth of the climate tech sector. Sarah also discusses the importance of cross-party collaboration and the potential for the UK to regain its leadership in climate tech.

Key Points:

• Analysis of party manifestos and their support for climate tech
• Labour's framing of climate tech as an economic opportunity
• The need for detailed plans and ambitious policies
• The importance of skills transition and workforce planning

Learn more about Cleantech for UK: Cleantech for UK

Catalysts

Oliver Morton - Editor and author known for his works on climate and energy. Recommended books:

• Eating the Sun
• The Planet Remade

Science Fiction Classics - Authors like Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, whose imaginative works have inspired Hal's thinking about technological unlocks and future possibilities.

James Gleick - Nonfiction author known for his precise and holistic approach to fundamental issues. Notable works:

• The Information
• Chaos

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