Energy Storage, EVs & the Future of Clean Power | Rethink What Matters Podcast

In this episode of Rethink What Matters, Paul is joined by Graeme Cooper from Jacobs to explore the future of energy systems, renewable power, and the growing role of energy storage and interconnectivity in the global transition towards net zero.

Drawing on a career spanning mobile communications, renewable energy, and national infrastructure, Graeme shares insights into the challenges of balancing electricity demand within increasingly renewable-powered energy systems. The conversation explores how traditional fossil-fuel-based grids managed fluctuations in energy demand through controllable generation, while renewable systems introduce new challenges because energy production is dependent on weather conditions such as wind and sunlight.

Paul and Graeme discuss the concept of the “duck curve,” which illustrates the daily peaks and troughs of electricity demand and renewable energy generation. Graeme explains why energy storage technologies are becoming increasingly important in helping stabilise modern grids and manage renewable variability, while also emphasising that storage alone is not the complete solution.

A major theme throughout the episode is the growing importance of interconnected energy systems. Graeme explains how projects such as the Viking Link and large-scale renewable energy initiatives connecting regions across continents are enabling electricity to flow more efficiently between areas with surplus renewable generation and areas experiencing higher demand.

The discussion highlights how transferring energy across interconnected grids can often be more efficient than relying solely on large-scale energy storage, as energy conversion and storage processes inevitably result in some energy losses.

The episode also explores the role of electric vehicles within future energy systems. Graeme explains how EVs represent not only a transport solution but also a potential distributed energy storage network through bidirectional charging technologies. Since most vehicles remain parked for the majority of the day, they can potentially store electricity during periods of low demand and feed power back into the grid when required.

Paul and Graeme discuss the practical challenges surrounding EV adoption and charging infrastructure, particularly for people without private driveways or home charging access. Graeme highlights innovations including kerbside charging solutions and workplace charging systems designed to make electric mobility more accessible across different communities.

The conversation also addresses the issue of social equity within the energy transition. Graeme reflects on the growing divide between households able to benefit from technologies such as solar panels, home batteries, and EV charging, and those who currently lack access to these opportunities. He emphasises the importance of infrastructure investment, policy support, and inclusive planning to ensure that clean energy systems benefit society more broadly.

A particularly forward-looking aspect of the discussion is the concept of energy democratisation, where households generating surplus renewable energy could eventually trade electricity locally with neighbours and communities, creating more decentralised and resilient energy networks.

Throughout the episode, Graeme presents a vision of a cleaner, more flexible, and more interconnected energy future where renewable generation, storage, transport, and digital technologies work together to improve efficiency, resilience, and sustainability.

This insightful episode offers a compelling exploration of the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of clean energy and highlights the importance of collaboration, infrastructure, and innovation in building a fairer and more sustainable energy system for future generations.