Episodes
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In this episode, Adam is joined by James Taplin (Innovate UK) and Rachel Duggan (Urban Foresight) to unpack the transformative potential of the Net Zero Living Programme and its impact on local authorities. Together, they explore how tailored Net Zero solutions - designed to meet specific local needs - can deliver greater energy savings, cost efficiencies, and social benefits compared to one-size-fits-all approaches.
The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities of fostering cross-sector collaboration, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and equipping local authorities with the skills and tools they need to become effective clients for place-based innovation. James and Rachel share compelling examples of local Net Zero strategies, including large-scale retrofits, rural energy hubs, and data ecosystems, which are driving sustainable progress.
Adam, Rachel & James discuss:
How the Net Zero Living Programme helps local authorities implement tailored Net Zero strategiesThe role of collaboration across private and public sectors in driving local Net Zero projectsTackling challenges like data access and stakeholder engagement for better outcomesExamples of projects like rural energy hubs and data ecosystems in action.Useful Links
Innovate UK's Net Zero Living Programme: https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/programme/net-zero-living
Innovate UK's Net Zero Living Programme LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/netzeroliving/
Urban Foresight website: https://urbanforesight.org/
Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-duggan10/
Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamestaplin/
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Global Director of Markets at Kraken, Charlotte Johnson. They delve into Kraken’s rapid growth from a software-first platform to a global leader in energy tech, licensing its solutions to utilities globally. Charlotte sheds light on the unique challenges of scaling intermittent renewables, improving grid infrastructure, and managing the complexities of residential and grid-scale assets. Together, they explore the evolving role of demand-side flexibility in accelerating the energy transition.
Charlotte shares insights into Kraken’s push for industry-wide data standardisation and its use of AI to transform customer interactions, optimise fleets and streamline onboarding processes.
The discussion expands on Kraken’s mission to use technology to make the energy transition faster and cheaper, with a focus on integrating consumer devices like EVs, heat pumps and home batteries into managed programs. Charlotte reveals how Kraken’s innovative culture, supported by initiatives like “family dinner” sessions and embedded data science teams, enables the company to adapt quickly to the evolving energy technology landscape. For the tech enthusiasts, the episode dives into Kraken’s use of tools like its “Snap” model for asset optimisation and its approach to mixed-integer linear programming.
Adam and Charlotte explore:
The role of demand-side flexibilityKraken’s mission, growth and new innovationsComplexities of managing grid-scale and residential assets, and the push for industrywide standardisationKraken’s approach to embedding AI across its operations and the broader challenges and opportunities in energy tech.Chapter markers
[00:17] Meet Charlotte Johnson from Kraken
[00:30] Understanding the role of Global Director of Markets
[00:45] Monetising distributed energy resources
[02:12] Career path and skills for the energy sector
[04:29] Kraken and Octopus energy relationship
[08:31] Data challenges in energy flexibility
[17:19] The role of demand side in energy transition
[25:38] Tech culture and AI at Kraken
[32:27] Closing remarks and future prospects
Useful Links
Charlotte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-johnson-358790b3/
Kraken's website: https://kraken.tech/
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Elizabeth Hollinger, a freelance data and technology consultant based in Scotland. The pair discuss how Elizabeth's role as Director of Insight, Data, and Applications Development at Aggreko led to her subsequent career in consulting.
Elizabeth worked at Aggreko for almost five years and spearheaded new data analysis procedures to help drive value and enhance decision-making across the business. This involved working with various teams to understand what the company needed to grow, and we hear how she managed that cross-team involvement with initiatives including an Insight Steerco. We also learn how Elizabeth worked to build a self-service cloud-first platform for the business's data to be stored for analysis and reporting and how she sold that technology to stakeholders.
Today, Elizabeth is a freelance data and technology consultant, taking all the insight and skills she's learned over her career and using them to help businesses best utilise their data to drive insights and make better decisions. She tells us about how she found that transition into freelancing and how important her connections in her network were for staying up to date with the industry trends after returning from maternity leave.
Together, Adam and Elizabeth discuss:
The use of company data to solve complex international growth challengesLeading efficient cross-team collaborationStrategies for streamlining organisational processes into a modern central hubThe move to freelance consultancy and the importance of a strong network.The Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[00:35] Introduction to Elizabeth, her consultancy work, and her time at Aggreko
[04:25] Using data to solve Aggreko's complex challenges
[09:02] The logistics of effective team collaboration
[12:20] The value of strong consulting skills
[18:07] Streamlining company data to one central hub
[24:30] Elizabeth's journey into freelance consultancy
[27:00] The importance of networking as a data technology professional
[30:16] Elizabeth on the future of AI
Useful Links
Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-hollinger-31055234/
Aggreko's website: https://www.aggreko.com
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Jessica Iriarte, General Manager, Completions at Corva, to talk about her role in helping Corva to drive innovation in data analytics for oil and gas.
Corva is a platform providing analytics and data-driven insights that lead to informed real-time decisions for the oil and gas industry. They refer to themselves as “the app store for the energy sector," thanks to their wide variety of visualisation tools that can showcase site data straight from the source and share it with stakeholders.
Jessica and Adam talk about how Corva is leading the charge for innovation in the sector: facing the challenges of gathering real-time data from often dangerous and remote locations and keeping those methods up to date with the constantly changing drilling technologies and trends.
The conversation then turns to Corva’s robust end-user testing for their user interface and the confluence of subject-matter experts working with machine learning models to provide the most valuable assets.
We also learn about Jessica’s approach to leadership in the high-pressure world of oil and gas. While communication and empowerment are important, Jessica tells us how she values curiosity in her team: you can’t work in innovation if you aren’t naturally curious!
Together, Adam and Jessica discuss:
The unique innovations and challenges in oil and gas data scienceCorva’s prioritisation of end-user testing Machine Learning in data visualisation Leadership qualities for high-pressure environmentsThe Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[00:35] Introduction to Jessica and Corva
[04:00] Why drilling is the most advanced energy operations sector
[06:55] The challenges of gathering data from such difficult situations
[09:55] Perfecting the user interface
[13:58] The common misuses of machine learning
[16:53] The day-to-day life of a Completions Manager
[19:00] Driving innovation while avoiding risk
[22:03] Jessica’s leadership essentials for a high-pressure sector
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Steven Meersman, Founder Director at Zenobē Energy, to talk about the growth of the business, the unique problems to be solved in the energy sector, and how best to train people to solve them.
Adam and Steven begin by talking about how Zenobē has grown as a business in the past eight years. Steven goes on to share his advice on building a team full of T-shaped employees: individuals with specific specialisms who have an understanding of the roles around them. Steven and Adam also discuss the importance of making what’s ecologically sustainable, financially sustainable. Finally, the pair explore their use of data analysis technologies; as we go on to learn, whilst up-to-date technology is necessary, it is nothing without the right people behind it.
Together, Adam and Steven discuss:
The growth of ZenobēHow to develop a team that can overcome the unique challenges faced by the energy sectorThe confluence of creativity and technology in data analytics Why now is the perfect time to get into the energy sectorThe Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[00:40] Introduction to Steven and Zenobē
[04:57] Why ecologically sustainable activities must also be financially sustainable
[06:04] How Zenobē grew their team
[13:32] Data analytics: technology combined with creativity
[18:07] The barriers for new people joining the energy industry
[22:00] The unique challenges for those working in the energy sector
[27:25] The life of being a Founder
Useful Links
Steven on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevencgmeersman/
Zenobē on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenobe-energy-ltd/
Zenobē’s website: www.zenobe.com
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Gus Chadney and Sheng Chai from the Centre for Net Zero, a UK based not-for-profit impact-driven energy research institute that researches solutions for net zero energy production.
Gus, Sheng and Adam discuss the exciting work the CNZ does at home and around the world. Much of their research makes use of historic smart meter data that’s gathered from other energy sector businesses.
They discuss how they interpret this data and use it to fuel synthetic modelling that can be used for research into current energy usage.
We also learn about OpenSynth, a new project the CNZ has launched with The Linux Foundation (LF Energy). The project fuels a community of researchers with smart meter data they’ve gathered, allowing other researchers to conduct their own studies. The dataset released via OpenSynth is said to contain ten million synthetic load profiles, trained on over three hundred million smart meter readings from twenty thousand Octopus Energy UK households.
The three talk about the capitalisation of this information and the privacy concerns that smart meter users may have with research companies, accessing their energy consumption and specific demographic data.
They discuss the different ways smart meter data is gathered around the world and how this can reflect local consumption behaviours. Gus and Sheng also go on to discuss the ways researchers can educate the public on the benefits of using this data, such as publishing use cases.
Gus, Sheng and Adam discuss:
The work carried out at the Centre for Net ZeroThe Centre’s relationship with the energy sectorOpenSynth, the new community of energy researchersThe use of Smart Meter data in researchPrivacy concerns surrounding the capitalisation of such personal dataThe Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:44] Introduction to Gus, Sheng and the Centre for Net Zero
[4:39] Deciding the biggest priorities for CNZ
[06:57] Modelling synthetic smart meter data
[12:23] The difference in data from around the world
[15:26] Generating synthetic data and smart meter data privacy concerns
[22:00] The line between appropriate and problematic data usage
[26:24] The future of smart meter research
Useful Links
The Centre for Net Zero website: centrefornetzero.org
OpenSynth, the CNZ’s new project: https://www.centrefornetzero.org/news/opensynth-new-data-release
Gus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anguschadney
Sheng on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shengy90
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Rosina Norton, a data specialist in clean and climate tech.
Rosina sits down to discuss the confluence of traditional and modern ways of working across the industry, the varying access to existing data, and how to handle clients who don’t (and do!) understand AI and other emerging technologies.
Adam and Rosina also go on to talk about the rise of “tiny ML”, the smaller implementations of machine learning that tend to be locally hosted, as opposed to the infrastructure being hosted offsite or in the cloud – very beneficial for those in areas of low connectivity.
The conversation also touches on the more ‘day-to-day’ side of being a freelance data consultant. Rosina spends a lot of time with SMEs and their data teams, assisting them in the analytics of their new systems and navigating the dangers of trust degradation in working relationships.
She talks about the art of selling a new data process to a business, and Adam shares his thoughts on managing expectations with clients.
Together, Adam and Rosina discuss:
The new opportunities being created via tiny MLThe day in the life of a freelance data and AI specialistAdvice on client management in the energy sector Rosina’s advice for other data specialists in the fieldThe Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:44] Introduction to Rosina and her data consultancy work
[2:41] The biggest opportunities facing the energy sector in regards to data and AI
[07:47] The rise of “tiny ML” and the opportunities available
[10:29] The day-to-day life as a data consultant
[14:49] Educating clients and the art of managing their expectations
[18:55] How to convince clients to invest in new data strategies
[24:05] Rosina’s advice for the next generation of data consultants
Useful Links
Rosina’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosina-norton
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In this episode, Adam is joined by Damian Dowling, BD Manager at Enel X and an active volunteer for Pride in Energy, part of TIDE - “Tackling Inclusivity and Diversity in Energy”.
Damian joins us to discuss the work done at TIDE, their commitments to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the energy sector, and how such commitments can boost efficiency and productivity.
Damian tells us how the Energy sector has historically been one of the least inclusive industries in the UK. It’s important to recognise that there’s a lot of different identities in the industry: different religions, genders, orientations, ethnicities, mental and physical abilities, and so on.
Adam and Damian discuss how everyone can come together and provide support for the colleagues who need it.
But why does this matter? What does it have to do with anything about how businesses can make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth? Quite a lot, as Damian explains.
He tells us how working in a safe and inclusive environment can allow colleagues to work more comfortably as their true selves, leading to more efficiency and productivity in the role.
It’s also good for attracting external business opportunities and new talent: smarter decisions on a social-level, accelerating business growth.
In this episode, Adam and Damian discuss:
How to build an EDI roadmap for your business Navigating the difficult task of change managementHow embracing EDI can lead to business growth in the futureThe Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:46] Introduction to Damian and his volunteering work for Pride in Energy & TIDE
[10:29] How to work with CEOs to build a strategic EDI roadmap for your business and why it’s important.
[16:41] The changing world of work and how EDI initiatives must be seen as a priority now and in the future.
[19:58] The changes Damian would like to see in the sector over the next ten years.
[24:44] Where to go to find out more about Damian and TIDE.
Useful Links
Damian’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiandowling/
The TIDE website: https://www.energyedihub.uk/
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Andrew Hughes, TripShift, on Gathering Real-Time Scope 3 Data
This week, Adam is joined by Andrew Hughes, CEO of TripShift, to discuss the issues surrounding businesses gathering data insights for their Scope 3 (Travel and Transport) emissions to drive sustainable change in their workplace.
Andrew tells us about his business, TripShift, and how they gather real-time data on employee travel habits. UK legislation says that businesses must report on and be held accountable for their Scope 3 emissions - but as Andrew points out, this data isn’t always controllable due to third-party transport and other external factors.
He tells us how technology is evolving in the field of real-time data gathering and analysis and what this means for businesses working to identify areas to reduce their carbon emissions.
Adam and Andrew also discuss how to approach greener transport options without focussing on the “doom-loop” aspect of climate change and how gamification is proving to spur change among larger businesses.
In this episode, Adam and Andrew discuss:
The problems with gathering data for Scope 3 emissionsThe benefits to real-time data and how AI will continue to improve this How gamification can lead the way for change in carbon emission reductionHow to handle the doom-conversations surrounding climate change to advocate for travelThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[1:45] The issues around Scope 3 emissions reporting and how TripShift can help.
[7:02] How businesses can interpret their Scope 3 data to identify areas of change and “move better," and how AI will be able to deliver more insights.
[12:45] The bigger challenges for businesses reporting Scope 3 data.
[16:20] Positive business strategies that can come out as a result of quick-time data.
[18:30] How gamification can use competition to further carbon emission considerations within a business.
[21:55] Why Andrew advocates for travel while navigating the personal “doom-loop” anxiety around global warming.
[25:26] How TripShift finds talent whose goals are aligned with the business.
[28:52] Andrew details where people can find out more about TripShift.
Useful Links
Tripshift
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This week we're thrilled to be joined by Ali Saad, Data Science Lead at Connected Kerb, one of the UK’s leading EV charging companies.
Ali takes us under the hood of some of the data science work that is critical for those building out the country’s EV charging infrastructure. He explains the age-old challenges of data quality, access, and cost and how this impacts the focus of his team.
Adam quizzes Ali on his day-to-day life as a data science lead. They dig into how he prioritises projects, how data science fits within the broader organisation, and some of the big considerations when building a data science team.
Finally, Ali and Adam look ahead at the direction of the industry. They discuss the impact of emerging technologies, and Ali shares his vision for a nationwide, dynamic pricing system to balance the grid and benefit EV users.
In this episode, Adam and Ali cover:
The role of EV charging in achieving grid balanceHow to prioritise data science projects in a start-upWhy your ‘dream team’ may not be the best team when scalingIndustry experience vs technical skill set: Which is most important?The impact of technologies like GenAI on data analysis and modellingLinks from the episode:
Creating a Data-Driven Organization: Practical Advice from the Trenches by Carl AndersonConnected KerbChapter Markers
[0:48] Introduction to Ali Saad, his background, and his role at Connected Kerb.
[01:47] Using Data and AI to optimise EV charging infrastructure.
[05:43] Challenges with EV charging data access, quality, and cost.
[08:40] Defining a data science strategy and prioritising projects as a start-up.
[10:33] A Day in the Life of a Data Science Lead.
[11:26] Key considerations for building a data science team when scaling-up.
[15:49] The most important skills and qualities to look for when hiring.
[18:35] The impact of emerging technologies like GenAI on data science at Connected Kerb.
[19:52] How new technologies and data science trends will advance the energy sector.
[22:59] Areas of focus for young data professionals looking to enter the industry.
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This week, Adam sits down with Kevin Naik, Head of Data Science at IntelliAM, to get his take on the potential of AI and data analytics to advance the energy transition.
Kevin shares his experiences applying data science to district heating networks in the UK, highlighting the challenges and opportunities involved.
He and Adam dig into practical considerations around using AI and data in the sector, from the importance of understanding customer behaviour to the need to evaluate the sustainability of technology.
They look at the trade-offs between speed and accuracy when designing data-driven solutions and how to strike the right balance.
Adam also picks Kevin’s brains on the tools that he uses on a daily basis and gets his advice for those looking to build successful data science teams.
Following on from Kevin’s keynote on using AI for sustainable energy systems at Euro Energy 2024, this episode is a glimpse into how the energy industry can make the most of AI and data in the real world.
In this episode, Kevin and Adam discuss:
How district heating systems in the UK have evolved.Key considerations when optimising energy systems.The energy cost of AI and data science technologies.Advice on tools and approaches for data science teams.The need for both domain experts and technical specialists.The weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:40] Introduction to Kevin and his background in data science and the energy sector.
[2:41] Innovations across UK district heating networks, thermal storage, and demand-side flexibility.
[6:57] Using data and AI to optimise energy systems in real-world scenarios.
[10:15] The need to consider sustainability when leveraging AI and data science.
[13:17] How to strike the balance between user expectations and technical constraints.
[17:06] The possibilities and flexibilities of using open-source tools.
[18:35] An overview of the tools and technologies Kevin uses day-to-day.
[21:32] Advice for designing data-driven energy solutions and the knowledge needed.
[24:38] Kevin talks about his keynote at the Euro Energy 2024 conference.
[29:32] How to connect with Kevin and learn more about his work.
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On this episode of the Hypercube podcast, we are joined by Ryan Ciesielski, Director of Geospatial Data Analytics and Technology at National Grid.
National Grid is a goliath in the UK and US energy space with a huge remit, but our conversation with Ryan focuses on how it is using vast amounts of geospatial data to power its electricity and gas transmission and distribution networks.
Ryan draws on his background using geospatial data in both the armed forces and now the energy sector to illustrate how this technology has evolved. He digs into the scale and complexity of National Grid's geospatial data and the challenges of managing such large data volumes.
He and Adam discuss the pace of the energy and data landscapes, the impact this has on the strategy of such a big organisation, and the opportunity it presents for start-ups to help with problem-solving.
Along with Ryan’s take on the trends to expect, this episode is a real insight into the uses of geospatial data analytics in the energy space.
In this episode, Adam and Ryan discuss:
National Grid’s ‘Big Work’The role of geospatial data and analytics in the utility industry Remaining agile when both the energy sector and data technologies are evolving rapidlyHow entrepreneurs and startups can work to support National GridTrends in geospatial technologies and the growing role of AI and machine learning in the energy sectorThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:34] Introduction to Ryan and what his role at National Grid involves.
[2:59] The scale and complexity of National Grid's geospatial data in the UK and US.
[6:02] National Grid's ‘big work’ challenge and evolving strategies for dealing with the large volume of data.
[8:39] How geospatial technology has changed over the course of Ryan's career in both the armed forces and in the energy sector.
[11:21] The process for adopting new technologies and how National Grid operates with the agility to leverage innovative solutions.
[13:34] Advice for developing an enterprise geospatial strategy with a ‘problem-first’ approach.
[16:11] The importance of seeing through strategic decisions despite an evolving landscape.
[18:11] Trends in geospatial technology and how they can be applied in the energy sector.
[22:54] How events like the Data Lab's geospatial fringe event foster talent in the energy industry.
[24:24] Opportunities to connect with Ryan and learn more about the National Grid.
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This week, Adam is joined by Doug Cook, Director of Strategy and Flexibility at Ohme. The pair discuss how software and flexible energy management can help balance the grid and integrate more renewable energy sources.
Doug gives his perspective on the importance of bridging information gaps in the supply and demand of electricity and using software to manage it. He highlights the big motivations for this, especially as the energy landscape shifts towards electric vehicles and heat pumps as a home’s most energy-hungry appliances. He also makes interesting observations on where the sector will get its data in the future and how to utilise it.
Alongside the software and technical considerations, Doug and Adam delve into the complexity of the energy industry and the need for simpler messaging to improve public understanding, which will drive change. Doug discusses the challenges facing both major players and smaller, innovative companies in building trust with customers and finding successful commercial models. He puts the energy industry in context with some of his unique analogies and shares his vision for the future, highlighting the importance of creative and bold thinking as part of the transition to a more sustainable future.
In this episode, Adam and Doug discuss:
Using flexible energy management approaches to balance the gridThe need for a maturity journey in the energy industryWhere the innovation will come from in the sectorChallenges in building trust and commercial modelsSetting bolder goals for the energy sectorThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[1:07] Grid balancing challenges and how software and flexible energy management can help.
[4:55] How local, decentralised energy assets can help with national grid challenges.
[7:38] The importance of considering the end-user when designing energy strategies.
[12:27] Changes in data collection, the limitations of smart metres, and the need for innovation.
[19:05] How Ohme has focused on building trust through transparency and customer-centric approach.
[24:18] Changing commercial models within the energy sector to build ongoing relationships with customers.
[26:58] Restrictions in how the energy industry operates that limit innovation.
[28:55] Thinking more boldly about energy, what it offers customers, and how it can be used.
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This week, Jethro Browell, Professor of Statistics and Data Analytics at the University of Glasgow in the School of Maths and Statistics, joins Adam to discuss the importance of universities in nurturing the talent that will transform the energy sector.
Jethro discusses his academic journey from his mathematics background and how he is now looking at its practical application in the energy sector. He and Adam discuss the joint responsibilities of both universities and the energy industry itself to attract talent and equip individuals with the skills needed to advance in an increasingly high-profile sector.
From the role of hackathons and forecasting competitions to how universities grapple with teaching emerging technologies, the conversation covers the intersection of academia and the energy industry and why it is so key. Jethro talks about how changes in the availability of data are allowing better research to come from universities and how the evolution of models like AI weather forecasting will have a profound impact moving forward.
In this episode, Adam and Jethro cover:
Attracting talent with the right skills to the energy industryThe impact of forecasting competitions on innovationTeaching technologies that are still developingThe development of “weather-led” energy systemsDemocratising access to accurate predictions with emerging technologiesThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:43] Introduction to Jethro, his career in academia, and what led him to focus on energy forecasting.
[2:52] Adam and Jethro explore whether universities are approaching subjects in the right way to prepare people for roles in the industry.
[5:22] What does the energy sector itself need to do to attract the best talent?
[7:14] Changes in data accessibility and the impact this has on researchers and innovation.
[10:10] Advice for researchers and those aspiring to follow in Jethro’s footsteps of academia.
[12:29] How energy forecasting and trading competitions have changed and what they do for the industry.
[19:09] The emergence of AI weather models and how they can be utilised for energy forecasting.
[20:58] Adam asks which technologies and trends will be most impactful over the next few years.
[23:15] How universities grapple with teaching emerging technologies, in particular, Large Language Models.
[25:42] Jethro explains where you can find out more about his research and upcoming University of Glasgow initiatives.
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This week, Adam is joined by Robyn Lucas, Director of Data Science and Research at Modo Energy. Modo offers a platform to deliver data and analytics for the grid-scale battery market and has a huge focus on improving access to information in the energy sector.
Adam and Robyn zoom in on the UK energy sector and the real-world challenges of data science, analytics, and modelling for this market. Robyn outlines the issues with data quality and the fact that, in this space, the future does not necessarily reflect the past. They dig into how regulatory and policy decisions affect the industry and why it is essential to maintain stability through any changes to ensure ongoing financial investment.
They share their perspectives on future trends, particularly in relation to energy storage, and touch on demand-side responses for domestic users. Robyn goes on to emphasise the importance of delivering simplified, explainable insights for industry stakeholders as it moves towards net-zero.
During their conversation, Adam and Robyn cover:
Data quality issues that make modelling a particular challenge Bringing more data science talent into the industryThe importance of stability in the sector for investmentEnergy market reforms in the UK and their impactMaintaining precision in data models without sacrificing usabilityThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
If you enjoyed the episode with Robyn, go back and listen to our previous episode with Modo Energy CEO Quentin Scrimshire for more on how the company is focused on increasing the visibility of information within the sector.
Chapter Markers
[0:50] Robyn gives an overview of Modo Energy and her background in the energy storage sector.
[3:30] Robyn and Adam discuss the challenges of data science in the energy sector and the difficulties of building accurate models in the sector.
[5:18] Robyn touches on the difficulties of finding and developing talent for data science roles in the energy industry and offers advice for students and those looking to get into the sector.
[8:07] Robyn unpacks the key takeaways from the second consultation of REMA and the considerations around pricing structure changes
[11:37] Here, the pair discuss the need for a stable investment environment and certainty around regulation to secure the finance needed for the green transition.
[14:01] Robyn discusses the UK's CFD reforms and how they can be used to incentivise positive behaviours within the sector.
[16:55] Adam and Robyn talk through changes to the capacity market and the progress that is needed to support net-zero goals.
[20:27] Robyn predicts an increased demand for storage and flexibility in the future UK energy system, driven by wind and solar.
[24:07] Robyn gives a breakdown of Modo's work and the different levels of focus on the areas of insights, modelling, and product development
[28:37] Balancing a full and accurate reflection of the complexity of the industry with accessibility and usability when building models.
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If you want to explore how data and artificial intelligence can be used to help your organisation make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth, get in touch by visiting the Hypercube website: https://wearehypercube.com/
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This week’s guest on the Hypercube podcast is Quentin “Q” Scrimshire, CEO and Founder of Modo Energy, a SaaS company that delivers data and analytics for the grid-scale battery market. In conversation with host Adam Sroka, this episode focuses on the technical complexity of the energy asset market and how to make it as accessible as possible.
Adam and Q dive straight into the nitty-gritty of the energy asset space. They look at how to navigate the intersection between the energy and finance sectors to accelerate the energy transition. Q gives an overview of the Modo platform as a software-based answer to questions on energy asset valuation and modeling. He also goes on to discuss the challenges of growth, including mistakes made along the way.
He and Adam share the books that inspired their business strategies as start-ups serving the energy market. They discuss the changing demographics of the energy industry and how to generate content that builds an engaged community working towards the same energy transition goals. Listen right to the end as Adam shares a funny story of one of his earliest interactions with the Modo team.
In this episode, Adam and Quentin cover:
Simplifying the complexity of the energy industry for the finance community Learning from mistakes while scaling internationallyCarving out a niche as a start-up in the energy sectorUsing content to build an engaged audienceThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
If you want to find the books mentioned in this episode, the links are below:
Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore
The Ultimate Sales Machine by Chet Holmes
The Snowball System by Mo Bunnell
Chapter Markers
[0:55] Introduction to Quentin, including his journey to set up Modo, their recent Series A fundraising round, and his move to Texas.
[3:43] Both discuss the size and scale of the energy asset market and the evolution of Modo Energy into a SaaS provider focused on asset valuation.
[8:37] Why simplifying technical and complex information in the energy asset sector for the financial community is crucial.
[11:40] Adam and Q discuss the importance of making mistakes to grow and how the size of mistakes scales with the business.
[13:29] The challenges Modo faced when expanding internationally and the value of customer feedback.
[15:03] Adam and Q share the books that inspired their business strategies as they discuss Modo’s philosophy of doing a small number of things really well.
[20:44] How the demographic changes within the energy industry make content-based marketing more impactful for building both an audience and a business.
[23:10] Q gives insight into the importance of video content as part of Modo’s strategy and how to keep audiences engaged.
[26:03] Adam shares a funny story about one of the early interactions he had with the Modo team.
[28:27] Q details where listeners can go to find Modo’s content and the forecasting capabilities they offer.
If you want to explore how data and artificial intelligence can be used to help your organisation make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth, get in touch by visiting the Hypercube website: https://wearehypercube.com
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This week, Daniel Fletcher-Manuel, Director of Prices and Data at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, joins the Hypercube podcast to discuss the company’s role as a price reporting agency, the challenges of gathering and analysing data from opaque commodity markets like lithium, and the important role it plays in the energy transition.
Daniel gives an insight into how, in a hyped market like lithium, Benchmark uses diverse data sources and analytical techniques to verify production capacity claims and gather market intelligence for reliable reporting. He discusses the pitfalls of using information that strays too far from fact into opinion and speculation and the impact this has on reporting accuracy.
We also step back and look at the bigger picture of why accurate price reporting on commodities like lithium is so essential as part of the energy transition. He explores the wider consequences of exaggerating volatility for policymakers and decision-makers, particularly around energy storage.
In this episode, we discussed:
Why accurate lithium pricing data is essential for the energy transition How geospacial capabilities can be used to verify market informationThe problem of conflating plurality and liquidity in PRAsThe human challenge of data collection for price reporting Allocating capital to the assets needed to drive the energy transitionThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:42] Daniel starts by giving an overview of his background and the current focus at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.
[2:26] Daniel emphasises the importance of lithium prices in the context of decarbonisation and electric vehicle production.
[5:16] Adam asks Daniel to explain in more detail about the role of a commodity price reporting and market intelligence agency, particularly around utilising data.
[7:45] Daniel highlights the importance of pricing analysts having relationships across the supply chain.
[9:13] Daniel outlines the techniques that Benchmark employs to verify market information, including using geospatial capabilities.
[12:53] Daniel walks through the structured and unstructured data challenges that he faces when compiling market analysis.
[17:02] Daniel demonstrates why accurate pricing data for lithium is crucial for decision-making around the energy transition.
[20:03] Daniel compares the methodology of price reporting for new markets like lithium and graphite with that of mature commodities and explains the need for a different approach.
[22:43] Daniel discusses the challenge of capital investment in assets needed for the energy transition.
[26:14] Daniel shares where listeners can access information, including policy and pricing newsletters from Benchmark.
If you want to explore how data and artificial intelligence can be used to help your organisation make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth, get in touch by visiting the Hypercube website: https://wearehypercube.com
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This week’s guest on the Hypercube podcast is Anjukan Kathirgamanathan, Senior Data Scientist at GridBeyond. As part of the modelling and forecasting team, Anjukan joins us to talk about machine learning (ML) techniques in the energy space.
Adam and Anjukan take a deep dive into reinforcement learning (RL), a subset of ML. RL enables an agent to learn how to take the optimal set of actions by interacting with a dynamic environment, learning in a similar way to humans. It is an area with great possibilities for the energy space, but there are a number of challenges to overcome—from educating customers to having sector-specific talent. Anjukan shares his perspective as a data scientist working on real-world RL applications.
In this episode, we discussed:
Human oversight in AI-powered trading.Data quality for ML modelling.Challenges in deploying RL in practical applications.Managing smaller, distributed resources with RLAttracting data science talent to the industry.The weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:30] Anjukan introduces himself and gives an overview of where GridBeyond sits in the ecosystem.
[3:02] Anjukan explains why pricing is the area of forecasting where he sees the greatest value-add.
[4:31] Adam asks Anjukan to talk more about AI-based control methods and reinforcement learning.
[7:57] Anjukan digs deeper into the topic of reinforcement learning and the challenges of bringing it to market.
[10:59] Adam and Anjukan discuss how to help customers buy-in to reinforcement learning.
[14:41] Anjukan shares his advice for battery owner start-ups interested in adopting AI and reinforcement learning.
[16:57] Anjukan gives his view on the potential for reinforcement learning to be used within the energy industry.
[19:13] Adam asks Anjukan to share his perspective on the talent crunch in AI and reinforcement learning, specifically for the energy sector.
[21:30] Anjukan emphasises multi-agent reinforcement learning in the energy space as an area he thinks will be exciting over the next few years.
[23:00] Anjukan speaks about the technologies he feels are overhyped in the energy space.
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If you want to explore how data and artificial intelligence can be used to help your organisation make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth, get in touch by visiting the Hypercube website: https://wearehypercube.com/
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This week, Rachel Hassall, Head of Data Analytics at SSE, drops into the Hypercube podcast to share her insights on how SSE is tackling data analytics and what the future holds for the organisation and the energy sector as a whole.
Rachel walks us through the nuts and bolts of how SSE is approaching data analytics, the transition from a centralised to a federated model, and how her team is helping enable the company's vision of leading in low-carbon, localised energy infrastructure solutions.
We get Rachel’s take on a wide range of topics, from the foundational need for data quality to the future and the need for tools like time series forecasting. Rachel shares her perspective on current environmental issues and the need for sustainability to become as important as cost when looking at optimisation.
In this episode, we discussed:
Insight into how SSE is approaching data, from the tech stack to future projects. The importance of quality data as a foundation for all data initiatives. How rising interest in energy and sustainability is positively impacting recruitment. The importance of avoiding distractions on your data journey and linking to business strategy.The sustainability challenges of data centres and how they impact the green agenda.The weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:29] Rachel gives an overview of her role as Head of Data Analytics at SSE, her career journey to date and the evolution of data analytics within SSE.
[5:45] Adam asks Rachel to give some insight into the tech stack within SSE and asks about the customers and end-users they serve.
[8:26] Rachel explains some of the challenges of communicating forecasting and model performance and ways to approach presenting technical findings.
[9:38] Rachel walks through how forecasting tools have changed and what this looks like within SSE.
[10:48] Rachel and Adam discuss the increasing interest in forecasting and the energy market more generally, and how this has impacted recruitment.
[12:37] Rachel highlights some of the upcoming exciting projects at SSE, including full microgrid optimisation.
[14:10] When asked about market challenges, Rachel emphasises the need for reliable data quality, data access, and data interoperability.
[15:24] Rachel shares her advice for organisations and individuals who are on their own data analytics journey.
[16:16] Rachel shares thoughts on how the next generation will view attitudes toward data storage.
[17:51] Adam asks Rachel to share her view on the big trends over the next five years.
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If you want to explore how data and artificial intelligence can be used to help your organisation make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth, get in touch by visiting the Hypercube website: https://wearehypercube.com/
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This week we are joined on the Hypercube podcast by Chris Wallace, Head of Data and Analytics at InterGen, to get his take on how data and AI are impacting both the organisation, and the wider industry.
Chris takes us behind the scenes at InterGen and talks through how the data team is working closely to support the trading team and the business more broadly. He cuts through the hype of new technologies, focusing on where the application of established technologies like predictive modelling and automation can have a tangible business impact. He also highlights the limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT, emphasising the importance of trust and confidence in the models being used, and gives us a frank and realistic assessment of the current landscape.
In this episode, we discussed:
Taking a cautious approach to cloud migration.The challenge of finding the overlap between on-premises and cloud skillsWhich data tools are currently adding the most value. The need for data teams to educate the wider businessDelivering data tools that work for the end userThe weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.
Chapter Markers
[0:29] Chris gives a quick introduction to InterGen and his role with the company.
[2:42] Chris explains the need for caution when tackling cloud migration in the energy industry.
[4:00] Chris discusses some of the skills challenges in the energy sector and attracting the right talent.
[5:18] Adam asks if there is anything now holding back the energy/utility sectors.
[7:52] Chris shares his perspective on the current use of AI and data science in the industry.
[9:31] Chris shares his view on educating non-technical stakeholders on the limitations of AI.
[13:16] Chris highlights the need to be cautious about what can be achieved with LLMs.
[15:06] Chris talks about some of the ways AI and data are being used to support energy trading.
[20:53] Chris talks about implementing tools that work for the end user.
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If you want to explore how data and artificial intelligence can be used to help your organisation make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth, get in touch by visiting the Hypercube website: https://wearehypercube.com/
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