Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Host Joseph Jacobelli welcomes Mike Thomas, leading energy economist and founder of The Lantau Group (TLG), for their annual review and 2026 outlook. Mike argues that we have reached a historic tipping point where solar-plus-battery hybrids are now cost-competitive with traditional gas and coal, often without requiring a premium for base-load-style power.
The conversation dives deep into the "strategic pivot" in China that has led to a global battery fire sale, the surge in data centre demand in hubs like Johor, and the counter-intuitive risks posed by government-run green energy auctions. Mike also highlights why Malaysia is currently the region's most "ready" market and explores the legal and regulatory "software bugs", such as "intertemporal equity", that must be fixed to allow the physical energy transition to keep pace with technological reality.

LINKS: Research From TLG.

ABOUT MIKE: Founding partner at The Lantau Group with over 30 years of consulting experience, focussing on the energy sector. He advises a wide range of energy sector stakeholders on strategic, regulatory, and competition matters; sustainability; market design and development; and commercial transactions.  Prior to co-founding in 2010, he headed the Asia Pacific Energy & Environment practice of a global consulting firm. Mike has an MPP from Harvard Kennedy School, and a BA in Economics from Carleton College. Within the Asia Pacific region, he has led many significant engagements involving the robust application of economics and analytics to a wide variety of business, policy, and regulatory challenges affecting the electricity and gas sectors. He works extensively with multinationals on sustainability strategies, focussing on the best options in different markets, and on the regulatory and policy changes needed to support increasing renewable energy contracting options.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

This special year‑end episode of Asia Climate Finance unpacks the three defining themes that shaped the energy transition in 2025. Joseph Jacobelli explores the ratchet effect driving unstoppable momentum, Asia’s emergence as a global rule shaper, and the rise of blended finance models unlocking capital for clean energy. He also highlights major trends from AI‑driven electricity demand to the return of nuclear, nature as infrastructure, and new breakthroughs in hard‑to‑abate sectors. A concise, insight‑rich wrap‑up for anyone tracking climate finance, energy markets, and the transition across Asia Pacific.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Asia's climate finance landscape is evolving rapidly. In our discussion, our guest,  KPMG's Ha Do, explores how Asian governments are shifting from policy ambitions to concrete implementation, the climate finance mechanisms proving most effective in mobilising capital, and why state-owned enterprises remain at mid-stage ESG maturity. We examine green public-private partnerships, regulatory convergence around global standards, and why Asia is increasingly positioned to shape, rather than follow, global climate finance architecture.

ABOUT HA: Ha leads the Government and Public Sector, and IDAS practice for KPMG in the Asia Pacific region. She specializes in advising central and local governments, NGOs including multilateral and bilateral development banks/agencies, state-owned enterprise groups, and relevant stakeholders (private enterprises, starts-up, etc) especially in projects and transformation across areas of infrastructure, healthcare and sustainability. Before assuming the regional roles, Ha was Senior Partner of KPMG Hanoi office, Head of Infrastructure, Government & Healthcare (IGH) Sector, Head of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Head of State-Owned Enterprises of KPMG Vietnam and Cambodia. She serves as a board director of Pacific Basin Economic Council (PBEC), an international business association that promotes cross-border trades. She also sits in the Asia Pacific Advisory Council for Global Infrastructure Project Financing Association (IPFA), a global organization for the infrastructure and energy financing industry. Ha has recently participated in the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP)’s Financing Energy Transition program as one of their Advisors. Ha has been a long-time Governor in the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Board of Governors in Hanoi. She is currently the Chairwoman of Women in Business Committee in AmCham. Ha has been a Board Member of Sustainable Finance Sector Committee (SFSC) under European Chamber of Commerce, working with various stakeholders to mainstream green business, abolish barriers, and create the conditions for green business to thrive. Ha was Vice Chairwoman of the Hanoi Business Association for the period of 2017 – 2021, and she is actively involved in promoting business of Vietnamese private enterprises. She sits on various advisory boards for non-profit organisations and runs SympaMeals with her friends, a charity fund providing free meals to poor patients in Hanoi’s cancer and heart hospitals.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Stephen Edkins, CEO of Koya Nuclear, examines how TRISO fuel and small modular reactors could reshape Asia’s decarbonisation pathways. The discussion explains what TRISO is, why its high-temperature resilience and safety profile matter, and how it changes the economics of SMR projects. Stephen also explores government policy, financing hurdles, supply-chain needs, and why he expects a significant SMR build-out once a handful of designs reach commercial scale in the 2030s.

ABOUT STEPHEN: Stephen Edkins is the Chief Executive Officer of Koya Nuclear, a company that focuses on producing and supplying TRISO nuclear fuel for small modular reactors. He has been working and investing in the clean energy space for over 20 years. He was part of the team that took solar and battery companies to the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol SOL) and the London Stock Exchange (ticker symbol IKA) respectively, and was also involved in the early stages of Envision Energy. Prior to that, he was an investment banker in New York covering Latin America with Banco Santander. Originally from the United Kingdom, he holds a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from the University of Oxford.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Explore the powerful links between climate, health, and development. Hear from Dr Vera Siesjö how the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank is tackling health challenges in Asia and beyond. Discover how climate change, digital innovation, and infrastructure investment shape health for millions. Learn why a healthy planet means healthier lives.

REF: INFRASTRUCTURE FOR PLANETARY HEALTH

ABOUT VERA: Vera Siesjö is a global health leader with nearly two decades of international experience advancing planetary health, health systems transformation, and sustainable development. At the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), she leads the Bank’s thought leadership agenda at the nexus of health, nature, climate, and inclusion—helping shape strategies that connect human well-being with the resilience of our planet. Before joining AIIB, Vera held leadership roles across leading international organizations. As Advisor to the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), she oversaw health programs across Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East. She also served as Senior Program Officer and founding team member of the Defeat NCD Partnership at UNOPS in Geneva, and as Director of ACCESS Health International, a global think tank and implementation partner working to accelerate health systems reform worldwide. Throughout her career, Vera has led pioneering initiatives in health financing, climate and health integration, digital innovation, and people-centered healthcare. She has contributed to the creation and management of key global collaborations, including the Center for Health Market Innovation and the Joint Learning Network for Universal Health Coverage. An entrepreneur at heart, Vera co-founded E-Pharma and continues to advise several health sector startups driving innovation and equity in care. Vera holds a Doctor of Psychology from UP and a Master’s in International Public Health from the University of Sydney.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Discover how nature itself is becoming the new infrastructure shaping our future. In this episode, experts from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank reveal how wetlands, mangroves, and forests are not just scenery but powerful tools for climate resilience and sustainable economic growth. We discuss innovative finance solutions mobilising private capital, the challenges of valuing natural assets, and why protecting nature is critical for survival, economics, and smart planning.

REF: INVESTING IN NATURE AS INFRASTRUCTURE

ABOUT ERIK: Erik Berglof is the Bank’s inaugural Chief Economist. He sets the vision and strategy for the Economics Department and leads the planning, implementation and supervision of its work plan in support of the Bank’s mandate. Prior to joining AIIB in September 2020, he was Director of the Institute of Global Affairs, London School of Economics, and Chief Economist of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development from 2006 to 2015, where he was part of creating, and co-led, the Vienna Initiative, a European crisis response team credited with mitigating the impact of the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. He is an expert in transition economics and institutional transformation through private sector development. He holds a PhD in Financial Economics and an MA in Business and Economics, both from the Stockholm School of Economics. Berglof is from Sweden.

ABOUT JP: Jang Ping Thia joined the AIIB in 2016 and is currently the Lead Economist and the Manager of the Economics Department. The department is responsible for economic analysis at AIIB, covering country macroeconomics, debt sustainability analysis, review of project economics, to support investment operations. The department is also responsible for AIIB’s flagship publication, the Asian Infrastructure Finance report, which highlights infrastructure development and financing issues. He was previously with the Singapore Ministry of Finance, covering expenditures on security, sports, community and telecommunication infrastructure. With a PhD from the London School of Economics, he also held a stint as the Economics Director at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, overseeing economic forecasting, research and the development of the Economist Service. Working on trade and geography, infrastructure development and finance related issues, his research has been published in various journals.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Fuel your understanding of climate finance and energy transition. Join Woochong Um, CEO of the Global Energy Alliance, as he reveals how bold partnerships and innovative financing are powering global clean energy solutions. Discover real-world stories of impact, scaling technologies, and breaking down barriers to a greener future. Tune in to unlock the future of sustainable development.

GEAPP REPORT: Impact Report 2025

ABOUT WOOCHONG: Woochong Um is the Chief Executive Officer of the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). Following a distinguished career at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Woochong brings a wealth of experience and expertise in sustainable development, climate financing, and strategic development to GEAPP. At GEAPP, Woochong leads the Alliance’s strategy, finance mobilization and solutions to accelerate the transition to renewable energy in emerging economies, addressing a defining challenge of our time: ending energy poverty and tackling the climate crisis through a just transition to renewable energy. His appointment marks an important milestone for GEAPP’s commitment to realizing greater change and opportunities to unlock green energy in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean to power progress and secure an inclusive, resilient future for all.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

We talk to Kingsmill Bond, energy strategist at Ember, sharing insights from his latest report, "The Electrotech Revolution". Discover how new energy technologies are transforming economies and geopolitics, with a special focus on Asia's rapid clean energy advancements. Tune in to explore the future of power systems, investment shifts, and what it means for a sustainable world.

REF: The Electrotech Revolution; Electricity Data Explorer; Ember.

ABOUT Kingsmill: Kingsmill Bond, CFA is an energy strategist for Ember. He has worked as a financial market analyst and strategist for over 30 years, including for Deutsche Bank and Citibank in London, Hong Kong and Moscow. He believes that the electrotech revolution is the most important driver of financial markets and geopolitics in the modern era. He joined Ember from RMI in 2025 to write analysis on the impact of the energy transition on financial markets, with a focus on the exponential growth of electrotech and the disruption to the fossil fuel sector.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

How do you scale green hydrogen from a laboratory curiosity to industrial reality? Alexander Tancock, CEO of Intercontinental Energy, reveals the breakthrough P2H2 Node system that’s turning massive renewable projects into factory-produced “Lego blocks.”

With numerous projects across three continents and backing from strong financial partners, Intercontinental Energy isn’t just making green hydrogen—they’re creating green iron to decarbonise steel production and building new trade corridors between Australia’s vast renewable resources and Asia’s industrial heartlands.

Alex shares why the hydrogen hype faded, how government partnerships became crucial, and why 2028 could mark the tipping-point for commercially viable green molecules at oil- and gas-scale.

REF: InterContinental Energy

ABOUT ALEX: Alexander Tancock is the CEO and Chairman of the Board of InterContinental Energy, a global leader in large-scale green hydrogen development who has been at the forefront of the industry for more than 10 years. Under his leadership, the company has pioneered a portfolio of groundbreaking projects, with its three flagship projects attracting partnerships from some of the largest names in energy. With backing from major institutional investors like GIC and Hy24, InterContinental Energy has established itself at the forefront of the green molecule sector. The company’s innovative team and approach extend beyond project development, and into giga scale enabling technology through its patented P2(H2)NodeTM architecture. Alex's expertise and strategic insights make him a significant voice in the energy sector.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Joseph Jacobelli and Toby Chan unpack the dynamic landscape of climate tech investing in Asia. The discussion highlights current VC trends, financing gaps, and the transition from emerging tech to mainstream infrastructure, with case studies from maritime and aviation. Discover why Asia is gaining ground amid US policy shifts and how policy, capital, and supply chains are driving change in the region.

ABOUT TOBY: Toby is a co-founder of Audacy Ventures Limited, focused on catalysing and scaling decarbonisation technologies critical to the energy transition post his prior career in traditional energy and renewables. Audacy is an early growth stage investor and supports technologies related to energy efficiency, transportation and industrial decarbonisation, that are in early stages of commercialisation particularly in the APAC region.

Toby has 20 years of investments and advisory experience across energy, infrastructure, technology, real estate and natural resources. Toby advised on over US$15bn of transactions whilst at Macquarie Capital and was part of the founding team of Kerogen Capital, a specialist in international energy investments with over US$2 billion AUM.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

This episode dives deep into Australia's position as an emerging leader in the green hydrogen market, exploring both the immense potential and current challenges facing the industry. Nick Smith, a leading expert, shares insights from his unique perspective spanning corporate, government, and advisory roles, discussing major projects like the 1.8 million tonne Murchison Green Hydrogen Project in Western Australia and the infrastructure developments reshaping the sector. The conversation covers critical topics including cost reduction strategies, safety considerations, financing models, and the shift from export-focused to domestic market applications. With China controlling 80% of global green hydrogen installations and Australia navigating boom-bust cycles, this episode provides a pragmatic assessment of where the industry stands and realistic expectations for the next two decades.

ABOUT NICK. Nick is the Managing Director of Global Decarbonisation Advisory (GDA), bringing together people, projects and capital to accelerate decarbonisation across the energy, mineral processing and hard to abate industrial sectors. Nick is the current President of the International Association for Hydrogen Safety (HySafe), is a member of the International Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association’s Technical Committee and is a member of the Clean Energy Transition Advisory Committee at the Australia Japan Business Co-operation Committee. Nick has extensive experience as an executive and non-executive director predominantly in Australia and is recognised for delivering world leadership in decarbonisation across the energy sector and mineral extraction and processing sector in Australia. Prior to commencing GDA, Nick held a range of senior executive and leadership roles across the government, gas, and construction materials sectors delivering strategy, policy and commercial advice along with full accountability for business performance and profitability.
Nick holds a Masters degree in Business Administration, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Energy.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Southeast Asia's energy transition faces a critical challenge: information fragmentation. With hundreds of projects, billions in investments, and countless stakeholders working across the region, coordination has been nearly impossible - until now. In this episode, we explore SIPET (Southeast Asia Information Platform for the Energy Transition), an open-source platform. Our guest, Maximilian Heil from GIZ, reveals how this innovative tool maps nearly 500 energy projects representing over $45 billion in investments across 10 ASEAN countries. We dive deep into the platform's three core tools - the knowledge hub, project mapping database, and power sector resources - and discover how they're breaking down silos between governments, donors, researchers, and private sector players. From just energy transition partnerships in Vietnam and Indonesia to community-level energy efficiency projects in Laos, SIPET is connecting the dots that were previously scattered across the region. This conversation goes beyond technology to explore the human element of energy transition: capacity building, knowledge sharing, and the collaborative networks that will ultimately determine Southeast Asia's path to carbon neutrality.

REF: Southeast Asia Information Platform for the Energy Transition, GIZ.

ABOUT MAX. Mr. Maximilian Heil is a Project Coordinator at the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) for the project “Clean, Affordable and Secure Energy for Southeast Asia” (CASE). Based in Bangkok, he leads coordination of regional initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid Advancement Programme (APG-AP) and the Southeast Asia Information Platform for the Energy Transition (SIPET). His work focuses on strengthening multilateral energy cooperation, promoting clean energy narratives, and enabling policy dialogue across Southeast Asia. Mr. Heil joined GIZ in 2018 as a liaison officer for Africa–EU Energy Partnership (AEEP) , supporting high-level engagement with the African Union and the European Commission. Before joining GIZ, he worked as a public affairs consultant on EU policy in the fields of energy, climate, and transport. His professional background combines expertise in international energy policy, strategic communication, and project management in multilateral environments. Maximilian Heil holds a bachelor and master ’s degree in  business economics and development studies with international academic experience in Denmark, Mexico, and Germany. 

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this episode, Joseph converses with Srini Nagarajan, who heads Asia for British International Investment (BII). BII is the UK’s development finance institution. It is focused on investing in sustainable infrastructure and businesses in developing countries to promote economic growth and support the UK's development goals. Between 2022 and 2026, BII plans to allocate at least 30% of its total new commitments by value to climate finance. It already has investments in almost 1,500 businesses across 65 countries in emerging economies, with total assets exceeding $10.9 billion. The conversation covers the critical role of financial institutions in Asia's energy transition, actions governments can take to attract foreign investors, and the intersection of inclusion and climate change. Srini provides insights into BII's strategies, including investment in funds, direct equity investments, and the importance of blended finance. He also highlights successful examples from India and Southeast Asia. Enjoy the discussion and please do e-mail us to suggest topics for future episodes.

RESOURCES: About BII; Latest news from BII.

ABOUT SRINI: Srini Nagarajan is Managing Director and Head of Asia at British International Investment. Srini joined BII in 2013 to lead the Asia team under the organisation’s new investment strategy. He has the distinction of having been our first overseas employee and recently moved to Singapore to lead BIIs expansion into the Indo-Pacific region. He has been instrumental in building a high-quality portfolio in the region, which focuses across products and sectors. Under his leadership, BII has a strong presence on the ground and the team has made successful investments in the financial services, healthcare, logistics and renewable energy sectors – including the creation of BII subsidiary Ayana Renewable Power in India, a pioneer renewable energy developer. His role includes support in the origination, execution and management of the portfolio for delivering development goals and value. In addition, he is building BII’s presence in the South-East Asian markets with a focus on climate change. Srini started his career with Standard Chartered Bank, both in India and Southern Africa, before joining British International Investment in 1996. He has managed leasing companies in Africa and in India he managed legacy assets for value before moving into mainstream private equity investing for both British International Investment and Actis. He has a Masters degree in Economics and a post-graduate qualification in Business Administration from Warwick School of Business.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Banle Group’s Venus Zhao discusses how CBL International is revolutionising the maritime industry through sustainable biofuels. Its B24 biofuel blend reduces GHG emissions by up to 25% compared to conventional marine fuels. With operations across 60+ global ports and recent ISCC certifications, CBL is positioned to capitalise on the projected 50% growth in the green marine fuel market despite current supply constraints. Venus outlines how tightening IMO regulations are accelerating industry-wide sustainability adoption and shares CBL's vision to lead the maritime sector's transition towards net-zero emissions through diversification into biofuels, LNG and methanol.
REF: CBL IR page.

ABOUT VENUS: Venus Hui Zhao is the Director of Investor Relations and Public Relations of Banle Group. She is primarily responsible for investor relations, public relations and capital markets of the Group. She has more than 15 years of experience in investor relations, public relations, capital markets and ESG. Prior to joining the Group, she was the General Manager of Hong Kong Office, General Manager of Capital Markets & Corporate Communications at a Hong Kong listed company and assumed different management roles in Hong Kong and US listed companies and Fortune 500 MNCs. Ms Zhao obtained her master degree of Strategic Public Relations in Communications and Journalism School in University of Southern California, and her MBA degree concentrated in Finance in The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology. She is a certified FCMA, CGMA holder from Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), associate member of CPA Australia (ASA) , Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA®) from The European Federation of Financial Analysts Societies (EFFAS), Executive Committee member and fellow of Hong Kong Investor Relations Association (HKIRA), and full member of HKIoD (The Hong Kong Institute of Directors).

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this episode of the Asia Climate Finance Podcast, Joseph and Mark Hutchinson from the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) discuss the latest developments in the offshore wind industry, especially in Asia. Mark highlights GWEC's role in promoting wind energy through government-industry collaboration and expanding office presence in key Asian markets such as China, India, Vietnam, and the Philippines. He details the progress and challenges in specific countries, including Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines, and underscores the importance of policy stability and technological innovation in driving growth. The conversation also touches on the impact of geopolitical shifts, the rise of digital solutions, and the necessity of achieving net-zero targets. Despite recent challenges, Mark expresses optimism about the industry's future.

REF: GWEC's Global Wind Report 2025

ABOUT MARK: Mark is a Director in GWEC's Asia team, and a proven leader in the Energy Transition. Mark spent 16 years leading both Wood Mackenzie's and IHS Markit's (now S&P Global) APAC regional Gas & Power and Energy Transition consulting teams. He has worked with companies, governments and other stakeholders to enable the move to a carbon free future including advising on billions of dollars of renewable energy sector acquisitions, financings, IPOs and other types of capital raising. At GWEC Mark focuses on helping industry and governments transition to better enable the success of the wind industry, helping to meet various net zero carbon, energy security and other policy goals.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this special audio blog, host Joseph Jacobelli dives into the seismic shifts in US clean energy policy under the new administration. Discover how these changes are introducing uncertainty, leading to project cancellations, and potentially redirecting investments to Europe and Asia. With global clean energy markets expanding rapidly, could this shakeup fuel growth elsewhere? Join us as we explore the implications and opportunities arising from this pivotal moment in the energy transition.

ABOUT JOSEPH: Giuseppe ‘Joseph’ Jacobelli is an Asia finance and energy industry veteran. He is the Managing Partner of Bougie Impact Capital Ltd , a dedicated single-family office. Prior to B.I.C., he spent over 26 years in equity analysis with leading global investment banks covering China and other Asian energy stocks as well as five years as senior executive at a large utility and at a clean energy start-up. His book on energy transition, “Asia’s Energy Revolution: China’s Role and New Opportunities as Markets Transform and Digitalise”, was published in 2021.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Asia is at the heart of the global energy transition, presenting a once-in-a-generation investment opportunity. In this episode, Luke Edwards of Brookfield discusses the crucial role of private capital in funding clean energy solutions, the challenges and opportunities in emerging markets, and how investors can navigate this evolving landscape. From large-scale renewables to business transformation strategies, discover what’s driving the shift to a low-carbon future — and why now is the time to act.

RESOURCES:

• Brookfield Launches Emerging Markets Transition Fund with Anchor Commitment from ALTÉRRA Alongside Investment in the Brookfield Global Transition Fund; Both Funds to Help Deploy Over $20 Billion in Climate Initiatives
• Brookfield Announces $10 Billion First Closing for Second Brookfield Global Transition Fund

ABOUT LUKE: Luke Edwards is Head of Australia and New Zealand for Brookfield’s Renewable Power & Transition Group. He is also Head of Japan for Brookfield. In these roles, Mr. Edwards is responsible for the growth and management of renewable power and transition investments in Australia and New Zealand, as well as Brookfield’s overall growth in Japan. Mr. Edwards has previously served in Brookfield’s Infrastructure business, where he focused on investment origination, analysis and execution. Prior to joining Brookfield in 2021, Mr. Edwards held various roles across engineering, commercial and investments sectors, including a director position at Citi. He has also held roles at Goldman Sachs in its power, utilities and infrastructure investment banking teams and has experience as a field engineer for Schlumberger in Brazil and Alaska. Mr. Edwards holds Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) and Bachelor of Commerce degrees from the University of Sydney.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this 60th episode of our podcast we talk with Tim Bush, an analyst at UBS and a top expert in batteries and energy, about the fast-changing world of battery production. Tim provides a clear view of the global battery industry's complex challenges and opportunities. Tim‘s insights include China leading the way with lower costs and big capacity, and the US and Europe facing tough choices as they try to build their own battery supply chains while dealing with China's dominance. Tim highlights the game-changing potential of solid-state batteries, which promise safer and more efficient power. The conversation also covers the struggles of European carmakers as they shift to electric vehicles and the rapid improvements in Chinese EV technology. This conversation gives a clear view of the global battery industry's challenges and opportunities.

ABOUT TIM: Tim Bush is based in Seoul and heads UBS Global Battery Research. He is also responsible for Korea EV supply chain corporate coverage. He has almost 20 years of experience covering Alternative Energy. He joined UBS from BAML in 2015. Notable research includes UBS Battery Teardown series. UBS has analyzed nickel and iron batteries from all incumbents in this signature bi-annual report. Tim holds degrees from Cornell University / NYU Stern and is fluent in Mandarin Chinese.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

Korn Ferry's Seth Peterson reveals how AI and in-house recruitment are revolutionizing executive search in Asia's energy transition sector. Despite the current market slowdown in China, demand for ESG and sustainability talent in Asia Pacific is quite strong. Corporate culture and purpose emerge as key differentiators in attracting top executives. Seth forecasts AI expertise and data science becoming critical skills, while emphasizing that traditional career-building remains fundamental. His insights highlight the dual challenge companies face: embracing technological innovation while maintaining strong organizational values to secure future talent.

ABOUTH SETH: Seth brings more than 25 years of corporate and consulting experience. He leads teams to bring Korn Ferry’s Solutions to clients across the Asia Pacific region. He also executes Executive Searches at the Board, C-Suite and Functional leadership levels across key Industry sectors, working for both Private Equity portfolio businesses and regional conglomerates as well as western multinationals. Seth is fluent in Mandarin Chinese and has been based in Greater China for the majority of his thirty-year career. Prior to joining Korn Ferry in 2018 he spent over seven years as a Partner at Heidrick & Struggles in Hong Kong. In his earlier career he worked in strategic planning, business development, and general management with multinational businesses in the region. He was Vice President, General Manager, in charge of Asia Operations for a Business Unit of Hong Kong-listed Techtronic Industries; and earlier worked for Emerson Electric for several years, where he held several Business Development and P&L responsibilities for various businesses across Asia Pacific and served as a corporate planner at the U.S. headquarters for two years. He began his career in Hong Kong and Shanghai in the early 1990s as a Management Consultant where he was involved in the development of China market strategies for a number of leading corporations. Seth earned an MBA from Washington University’s Olin School of Business in St. Louis and a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Studies and International Relations from Grinnell College. He previously chaired the board of AFS Intercultural Programs, Hong Kong, and served on the board and Executive Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. 

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

This episode features Giorgio Fortunato who leads Clean Energy and Power at Google in Asia Pacific. He outlines Google's dedication to clean energy, including its ambitious 24/7 carbon-free energy target by 2030. Giorgio explores the Asia Pacific region's unique challenges and opportunities, such as grid infrastructure development, diverse clean energy procurement strategies, and the crucial role of data transparency. He also shares specific examples of Google's successful clean energy projects across Australia, India, Japan, and Singapore, emphasizing the need for customized solutions to effectively address the diverse needs of each market.
RESOURCES:
1. 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Procurement in APAC: Pathways for Companies and Countries (BloombergNEF and the Global Renewables Alliance)
2. The Role of High-Impact Utility Green Tariffs (ACEC and CEBA)
3. New paths for clean energy in Asia-Pacific (G Fortunato)

ABOUT GIORGIO. Giorgio leads Clean Energy and Power at Google in Asia Pacific. He is responsible for securing Google's data centre and operational energy needs in the region, while driving Google's efforts to achieve 24/7 carbon-free energy and net-zero emissions across Google’s operations and value chain. His experience in the energy sector includes leading Schneider Electric's Cleantech advisory in APAC, co-founding the offshore wind startup Blue Aspirations, and holding leadership positions at Vestas Wind Systems. He also served as the National Energy Chair at the European Chamber of Commerce in China. Giorgio holds a master’s in aerospace engineering from La Sapienza University of Rome and a dual-degree EMBA from Tsinghua University and INSEAD.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In Episode 57, leading Asia energy economist Mike Thomas of The Lantau Group shared insights on 2024 trends and the 2025 outlook. He highlighted improved investment fundamentals, growing demand for renewables, and significant market reforms in Malaysia and the Philippines. Looking ahead, Mike expects continued renewable growth despite geopolitical uncertainties, more solar-hybrid projects, and evolving challenges in gas flexibility. Mike also thinks that while nuclear power's future remains uncertain in Southeast Asia, small modular reactors show long-term promise.

REFERENCES: TLG Insights

ABOUT MIKE: Mike Thomas is the Managing Director and a founding partner at The Lantau Group with over 30 years of consulting experience, focussing on the energy sector.  He advises a wide range of energy sector stakeholders on strategic, regulatory, and competition matters; sustainability; market design and development; and commercial transactions.  Prior to co-founding in 2010, he headed the Asia Pacific Energy & Environment practice of a global consulting firm.  Mike has an MPP from Harvard Kennedy School, United States and a BA in Economics from Carleton College, United States. More specifically, within the Asia Pacific region, he has led many significant engagements involving the robust application of economics and analytics to a wide variety of business, policy, and regulatory challenges affecting the electricity and gas sectors.  He works extensively with multinationals on sustainability strategies, focussing on the best options in different markets, and on the regulatory and policy changes needed to support increasing renewable energy contracting options.  He has testified or advised as an industry economic expert in commercial contract disputes before courts or arbitral panels in Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Australia, and on disputed regulatory matters before regulatory authorities in New Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines.  His experience in commercial matters includes market forecasts and revenue simulations for numerous renewable energy and conventional energy projects and market assessments in South Asia, North Asia, ASEAN, and Australia/New Zealand.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this episode, we delve into the world of climate business, climate finance, and the energy transition in the Asia Pacific region, as seen through the lens of a major investor. Our guest is Gavin Adda, CEO of Peak Energy Development, a Singapore-based company backed by the $70 billion global infrastructure investor, Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners. We begin by exploring the critical role of power market deregulation in accelerating the energy transition. We delve into specific challenges and opportunities within this space. Additionally, we discuss the markets that Gavin is most optimistic about and examine emerging trends in the industry. We also briefly touch on a couple of case studies that highlight innovative approaches to sustainable energy solutions. Finally, Gavin shares his long-term vision for energy transition projects and related investments in the Asia Pacific region.

ABOUT GAVIN: Gavin Adda is the CEO of Peak Energy Development Pte Ltd with responsibility for renewable energy across Asia Pacific. Peak Energy is the renewable energy developer for Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners in Asia with a focus on solar, onshore wind and battery infrastructure and includes some of the largest projects in Korea and Japan. Previously, he was CEO of TotalEnergies Renewables Utility Scale (Asia) and Distributed Generation (Asia) which was formed when he sold his start-up to TotalEnergies. It subsequently became the largest B2B-focused renewable player in the region before being merged with ENEOS to form a USD 2 Bn joint venture. Based out of Singapore, Gavin is also a Board Director of Maxeon Solar Technologies (NASDAQ:MAXN),a Board Director of Lindström Group and Co-Chair of the Sustainability Committee at the European Chamber of Commerce. Prior to TotalEnergies, Gavin founded several start-ups in the renewable sector. This includes CleantechSolar one of the largest developers in India, now partly owned by Shell and Keppel. At REC Solar, one of the largest, non-Chinese solar panel manufacturers, he ran several departments and launched a corporate turn-around, re-focusing the company on the DG sector. He sold the company to ChemChina for USD 640m (the largest solar M&A deal in ’15). Previously, he had various management roles in Samsung Group. This included developing, constructing and financing a USD 1 Bn portfolio of utility-scale solar projects and launching a JV with one of the largest, independent solar developers in the US. Gavin has an MBA from INSEAD and a Master’s Degree from Cambridge University.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of eco-friendly mining technology with Don Weatherbee, CEO of Regenx Tech, a company specializing in recycling precious metals from catalytic converters. Don shares the company's unique hydro metallurgic process, which is more environmentally sound than traditional mining and smelting. We discuss the market for platinum and palladium, the potential for growth, and the challenges in the recycling industry. Don also reveals Regenx Tech's journey from a junior mining company to a pioneer in catalytic converter recycling, with a focus on the underserved diesel market. We also discuss its fund raising approach. Join us as we explore the intersection of mining, recycling, and clean technology.

ABOUT DON: Don Weatherbee is the Chief Executive Officer of Regenx Tech Corp., a provider of a new clean-tech solution for the recovery of precious metals from end of life materials.  He is an accomplished Senior Executive with extensive experience in leading complex operations with over 28 years in the mining and material processing sectors including 20 years at the executive level. He holds Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta, a CPA, CMA from the Chartered Professional Accountants of Alberta, and a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) designation from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Don has worked for both privately held and publicly listed companies throughout his career.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

In this episode we dive into Taiwan's offshore wind story with Scott Hsu. A veteran in Asia's wind power sector, Scott shares unique insights from Taiwan's remarkable journey to become an offshore wind powerhouse. From market dynamics to financing challenges, we explore how Taiwan is balancing ambitious renewable targets with local industry development.

ABOUT SCOTT: Scott Hsu is the Country Director for Taiwan and the Philippines at K2 Management. Within this role, he advises clients on the development, construction, and management of offshore and onshore wind projects in Taiwan and the Philippines. Prior to this, he was a Site Manager at Vestas, a consultant at 8.2 Consulting AG, a Project Manager at Swancor and a Field Service Manager at GE Renewable Energy. He has a PhD in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from National Central University and a BA in Aerospace Engineering from Tamkang University.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Comments/ideas: asiaclimatefinpod@outlook.com

This episode is the second part of the conversation with a truly exceptional guest: one of Asia’s pre-eminent thinkers on the environment and climate change, Professor Christine Loh. We explore climate policy and climate action in the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong, examining the issues from a policy perspective. Given China's crucial role in global climate action, we began by discussing the nation's policies related to the environment, climate change, and energy.

ABOUT CHRISTINE: Professor Christine Loh, SBS, JP, OBE, Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite, is Chief Development Strategist at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. She was Under Secretary for the Environment in the HKSAR Government (2012-17), Special Consultant to the Chief Executive on the mainland’s ecological civilisation policy (2019-2020), and a Member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council (1992-97 and 1998-2000). Loh has been active in public policy and politics since the 1980s. She founded and was the CEO of the non-profit think tank, Civic Exchange (2000-12), and helped to establish several non-profit organizations in Hong Kong related to the environment, equal opportunity, arts and culture, as well as human rights. Professor Loh is currently a board member of CDP Worldwide, Global Maritime Forum, New Forests Pty Ltd, Towngas Smart Energy Company Limited, and is Asia Society’s Scholar in Residence (2023-2024). She taught a course at Anderson School of Management, University of California at Los Angeles on nonmarket risks for five years (2018-22). She is a published author of many academic and popular works. Loh is a lawyer by training, and a commodities trader by profession. She received her legal training in England and received honorary degrees of Doctor of Law from the University of Hull and Doctor of Science from the University of Exeter.

HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi’s La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.