Climate Tech 360

We are taking a short break ahead of New York Climate Week (NYCW) but stay tuned for some amazing guests in the coming months.

If you are attending NYCW and want to connect in person, please message me on LinkedIn or at [email protected]. 

In this episode, Dr. Staffan Qvist, talks about how to get an edge in science tech due diligence using his expert network, DeepSense. DeepSense is a network of scientists, engineers and industry specialists that provide tailored support for your science tech due diligence. The company helps investors evaluate startups' technical feasibility connecting them with experts in specific fields. The process involves reviewing the startup's materials, engaging experts to assess the technology, and conducting a call with the experts, investors, and startup founders. DeepSense aims to identify gaps or areas that need further clarification in the technology and provide valuable insights to investors. The level of engagement and duration of the process depends on the stage and size of the investment. DeepSense provides deep tech investors with an edge by offering a team of experts to dive deep into the technology being evaluated. This gives investors an extra weapon in their arsenal and allows them to make more informed investment decisions. DeepSense helps ensure that capital is directed to the right technologies, avoiding investments in the wrong things. DeepSense also supports startups in preparing for tech due diligence, helping them structure their data rooms, answer questions, and plug any gaps in their knowledge.

Takeaways

Deep Sense helps venture capital investors assess the science and technology risk of startups.

They connect investors with experts in specific fields to evaluate the technical feasibility and potential of the technology.

The process involves reviewing startup materials, engaging experts for assessment, and conducting a call with experts, investors, and founders.

Deep Sense provides valuable insights and identifies areas that need further clarification or investigation. DeepSense provides deep tech investors with a team of experts to dive deep into the technology being evaluated, giving them an edge in making informed investment decisions.

The integrated science tech due diligence framework released by DeepSense offers a comprehensive checklist for investors and startups to navigate the tech due diligence process.

DeepSense supports startups in preparing for tech due diligence, helping them structure their data rooms, answer questions, and fill knowledge gaps.

By working with DeepSense, investors can ensure that capital is directed to the right technologies, avoiding investments in the wrong things.

Links

Link to book a free introductory call with DeepSense here. 

Report on How to Prepare for Science Tech Due Diligence

Join the waitlist for their Ripple at the Drop conference here.

Link to report 

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staffanq/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

In this conversation, Martin Kessler, Chief Business Officer at Flowcarbon, discusses the company's role in securing asset-level financing for carbon removal projects. He explains that Flowcarbon is a vertically integrated carbon finance company focused on arranging project finance for carbon removal projects, assisting project developers with carbon credit issuance, and helping buyers procure carbon credits for their net zero goals. Martin emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the carbon markets and the importance of building a strong ecosystem of partners. He also provides insights into the project finance process and highlights the key factors Flowcarbon considers when evaluating projects, such as feedstock availability, revenue streams, and commercial viability. The company aims to demonstrate the viability of carbon removal projects to the private market community. Private credit investors typically get involved in the financing process once the project is at a stage where it is financeable. Flowcarbon helps developers develop financial models, create data rooms of financeable contracts, and secure necessary insurance. They also explore new market opportunities, such as environmental commodities markets and tax credits.

Takeaways

Flowcarbon is a vertically integrated carbon finance company that focuses on project finance for carbon removals, carbon credit issuance, and carbon credit sales.

The company works with project developers to arrange financing for carbon removal projects and helps them navigate the carbon credit issuance process.

Flowcarbon also assists buyers in procuring carbon credits for their net zero goals, primarily targeting corporate clients.

The carbon markets require an interdisciplinary approach, and Flow Carbon leverages its network and partnerships to provide comprehensive solutions.

The project finance process can take anywhere from six to 18 months, depending on the project's readiness and complexity.

Key factors considered when evaluating projects include revenue streams and commercial viability. 

They work with developers to structure financeable contracts and secure asset-level financing.

Private credit investors typically get involved in the financing process once the project is at a stage where it is financeable.

Flowcarbon helps developers develop financial models, create data rooms of financeable contracts, and secure necessary insurance.

They also explore new market opportunities, such as environmental commodities markets and tax credits.

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-kessler-99518828/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

In this conversation, Patrick Flynn discusses the importance of making the business case for sustainability and leveraging the power of companies to drive change. He emphasizes the need for systemic interventions and highlights the role of leading companies in influencing policy and market signaling. Additionally, Patrick addresses the challenge of bridging the gap between the CSO and CFO and suggests that mandatory disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions is bringing these teams closer together. Patrick also talks about his work at Topo Finance, where he focuses on addressing the emissions associated with cash in the hands of banks. He explains how companies can use their influence to demand more sustainable financial products and services. The conversation concludes with a discussion on sustainability superpowers and the importance of translating the language of sustainability to different parts of the business.

Takeaways

Align sustainability goals with the motivations and decision-making processes of the business

Leverage the company's superpowers to drive impactful change

Bridge the gap between the CSO and CFO by emphasizing the importance of sustainability in financial reporting

Collaborate with other companies and startups to build bridges across the 'valley of death' and accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies Making the business case for sustainability is crucial for driving change within companies.

Systemic interventions, such as influencing policy and market signaling, can have a significant impact on climate action.

Companies can address emissions associated with cash in the hands of banks by demanding more sustainable financial products and services.

Each individual and company has unique strengths that can be leveraged for climate action.

Translating the language of sustainability to different parts of the business is essential for gaining buy-in and creating change.

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-flynn-a054405/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

The conversation with Jeppe Høier covers various topics related to corporate venture capital (CVC). Jeppe discusses the structure of CVCs, the different types of investments they make, the challenges and benefits of working with CVCs, and the differences between European and US CVCs. The discussion also touches on the lengthy process of engaging with CVCs and provides tips for startups to navigate this process. Overall, the conversation aims to provide insights and understanding of CVCs for startups and investors. In this conversation, Jeppe Høier and Samia discuss the role of corporate venture capital (CVC) in the climate tech industry. They explore how CVCs differ from traditional venture capital firms and the advantages they offer to startups. They also discuss the challenges startups face when seeking investment from CVCs and provide advice on how to navigate the landscape. Additionally, they touch on the changing landscape of CVCs and the importance of building relationships with corporates.

Takeaways

Corporate venture capital (CVC) is an important player in the startup ecosystem, with corporates having a significant role to play in the energy transition and climate tech.

The structure of CVCs can vary, with different decision-making processes and strategic goals. Some CVCs invest for return purposes, while others invest with the goal of potential acquisition.

Engaging with CVCs can be a lengthy process due to the bureaucratic nature of large corporations. Startups need to understand the decision structure and process of the CVC they are working with.

Information flow and communication between startups and CVCs can be challenging, but it is crucial for successful collaboration. Startups should consider limiting access to information rights and keeping ownership below 5% to protect their interests.

European CVCs are still developing and may not have the same level of maturity and experience as their US counterparts. However, the European startup ecosystem is growing, and more success stories are emerging. Startups should seek value creation from CVCs beyond just financial investment, such as access to assets, brands, customers, data, and expertise.

When looking for investment from a CVC, startups should understand the specific value they are seeking and target CVCs that align with their industry and goals.

CVCs can provide startups with revenue opportunities, cost savings, and access to their network and resources.

Startups should conduct due diligence on CVCs and seek references from other portfolio companies to understand the value they can bring.

The CVC landscape is constantly evolving, and there is a need for more deep tech investors in the climate tech space.

Corporates can also play a role as limited partners (LPs) in venture funds, but it may take longer to raise capital from them.

Building relationships and understanding the decision-making structure within corporates is essential for successful collaboration with CVCs.

Links

Corporate venturing newsletter

Research: The Lifecycle of Corporate Venture Capital

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeppehoier/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

Susana Lopez discusses her journey into clean tech and the importance of infrastructure development in emerging markets. She shares her experiences in working with private equity funds and the challenges of aligning the goals of different investors. She also explains the concept of blended finance and how it can be used to finance infrastructure projects. The conversation highlights the need for sustainable and impactful infrastructure development considering social and environmental factors. Early engagement and mitigation of negative impacts are key in infrastructure projects. Sometimes projects are successful when developers are willing to address environmental and social issues and work closely with investors. However, there are challenges in funding first-of-a-kind projects and attracting infrastructure funds to emerging markets. Blended finance and green hedging instruments can help mitigate risks and attract more capital to these markets. The goal is to develop infrastructure at scale and pace to meet the needs of developing economies.

Takeaways

Infrastructure development is crucial for economic and social development in emerging markets.

Blended finance, which combines public, private, and philanthropic capital, can finance infrastructure projects.

Aligning the goals of different investors, such as impact-focused donors and return-focused private investors, can be challenging.

Sustainable infrastructure development requires considering both social and environmental factors.

Patient capital and long-term investment horizons are needed to support infrastructure projects. Early engagement and mitigation of negative impacts are crucial in infrastructure projects.

Successful projects require developers to address environmental and social issues and work closely with investors.

Funding first-of-a-kind projects and attracting infrastructure funds to emerging markets are challenges that must be addressed.

Blended finance and green hedging instruments can help mitigate risks and attract more capital to emerging markets.

The goal is to develop infrastructure at scale and pace to meet the needs of developing economies.

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanalopezlopez/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

Aira is a one-stop shop for heat pumps, providing installation, maintenance, and financing solutions. They have a vertically integrated model and have their own installation and sales force. They also offer a comfort guarantee and focus on customer service. Heat pumps are more efficient, saving customers 40% on heating costs and reducing carbon emissions by 75%. Aira has acquired heat pump installation providers in each of their three initial markets: Germany, Italy, and the UK, and has plans to expand into other markets in Europe. Aira's heat pumps come with solid connectivity and control features, allowing for remote monitoring and diagnosis of issues. They also have an integrated app for customers to monitor their energy usage and savings. Aira's success can be attributed to its focus on commercialization and scaling, as well as its strong team and support from the Vargas umbrella. Aira has also recently secured a €200 million debt facility specifically for heat pump securitization, the first of its kind. They offer a monthly payment model for heat pumps, removing the upfront cost for customers. The company's affiliation with Vargas, a leading climate tech investor, provides credibility and access to expertise and contacts. Aira is focused on disrupting the heat pump industry by offering innovative and customer-friendly products.

Takeaways

Aira offers subsidies and financing solutions to make heat pumps more affordable for consumers.

They have a vertically integrated model and provide installation, maintenance, and financing solutions.

Aira has acquired heat pump installation providers in Germany, Italy, and the UK and plans to expand into other markets in Europe.

Their heat pumps come with solid connectivity and control features, allowing for remote monitoring and diagnosis of issues. 

Aira has raised €145 million in a Series B funding round to make clean energy tech affordable and accessible.

They offer a monthly payment model for heat pumps, removing the upfront cost for customers.

Aira has secured a €200 million debt facility specifically for heat pump securitization, the first of its kind.

Their affiliation with Vargas provides credibility and access to expertise and contacts.

Aira aims to disrupt the heat pump industry by offering innovative and customer-friendly products.

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anelauny/

Email us:  [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

In this episode, Lara Pierpoint discusses the Trellis climate program developed by Prime Coalition to address the gap in first-of-a-kind financing for climate technologies. The program focuses on providing catalytic capital to support the scaling and commercialization of climate innovations. Lara explains that the program aims to bridge the gap between early-stage venture funding and infrastructure investment, which is crucial for the successful deployment of climate technologies. She also highlights the challenges of aligning the interests of private capital focused on returns with philanthropic capital focused on impact. The program seeks to ensure that the supported technologies have a pathway to scale and can attract traditional investment in the future. In this conversation, Lara talks about the role of catalytic capital in bridging the financing gap for climate tech startups. She explains that catalytic capital funds projects that traditional investors may not be willing to support due to various risk factors. Lara's call to action for climate tech startups is to start thinking about long-term vision and how to cross the financing gap early on.

Takeaways

The Trellis climate program addresses the gap in first-of-a-kind financing for climate technologies.

The program provides catalytic capital to support the scaling and commercialization of climate innovations.

It aims to bridge the gap between early-stage venture funding and infrastructure investment.

Aligning the interests of private capital focused on returns with philanthropic capital focused on impact is a challenge.

The program ensures that supported technologies have a pathway to scale and can attract traditional investment in the future. Catalytic capital funds projects that traditional investors may not support due to risk factors.

Climate tech startups should start thinking about long-term vision and how to cross the financing gap early.

Links

https://www.primecoalition.org/programs/trellis-climate

Report: Barriers to the timely deployment of climate infrastructure

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-pierpoint-5a740515/

Email us:  [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

This conversation with Nolan Lindquist at the Center for Active Stewardship (CAS) covers various topics, including CAS’s focus of  CAS on climate transition risk and the limitations of using emissions as a universal metric. The conversation emphasizes the importance of fundamental analysis and developing a real rapport with companies to navigate the complex process of decarbonization. The discussion also introduces a tool called Splice, which provides a visualization of a company’s emissions. The conversation delves into the different types of emissions and the significance of trading activities. It highlights the importance of transparency in understanding the quality and cost of emissions reductions. The conversation concludes by discussing the transition from ESG 1.0 to ESG 2.0, focusing on activity-centric reporting and the need to align disclosures with long-term value creation.

Takeaways

The Center for Active Stewardship focuses on climate transition risks and aims to redirect corporate investment towards net zero by finding win-win opportunities that drive shareholder value.

Emissions may not be the best metric for measuring financial materiality of climate change, especially for industries with low energy intensity and high reliance on grid electricity.

For many companies, decarbonization will likely be a passive process as utilities shift away from fossil fuels to renewables.

The decarbonization of hard-to-decarbonize industries, such as steel and cement, requires radical shifts in production processes and significant government support. Active management is crucial in addressing strategic dilemmas related to ESG issues.

Transparency is key in understanding the quality and cost of emissions reductions.

The transition from ESG 1.0 to ESG 2.0 involves activity-centric reporting and aligning disclosures with long-term value creation.

Links

FT: The cast against carbon emissions as a universal metric

Splice: Center for Active Stewardship

Research: State of Play: Proxy Season 2024

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nolanlindquist/

Email us:  [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

Summary

This conversation with James Vaccaro discusses the work of the Climate Safe Lending Network, a multi-stakeholder network focused on accelerating the transition to a sustainable economy. The network brings together banks, investors, NGOs, regulators, and academia to share knowledge, provoke thought, and drive change in the banking sector. James highlights the importance of understanding the emissions generated by a company's banking practices, particularly the financing of fossil fuel industries. He emphasizes the need for companies to engage with their financial partners and demand a shift towards greener investments. He also discusses the role of universities and large corporates in leading the movement towards sustainable finance. The conversation explores the role of banks in the transition to a sustainable economy and the challenges they face. It discusses the need for banks to restrict capital to fossil fuel companies and transition to greener alternatives. It highlights the importance of regulatory action and government intervention to drive change. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in the transition, emphasizing that not all solutions require high-tech interventions. It concludes with a discussion on the potential of fintech and challenger banks to accelerate the transformation of the financial supply chain.

Takeaways 

The Climate Safe Lending Network is a multi-stakeholder network focused on accelerating the transition to a sustainable economy.

Companies need to understand the emissions generated by their banking practices, particularly the financing of fossil fuel industries.

Universities and large corporations have the power to lead the movement towards sustainable finance. Banks need to restrict capital to fossil fuel companies and transition to greener alternatives.

Regulatory action and government intervention are crucial to drive the transition.

Not all solutions require high-tech interventions; simple changes in behavior and practices can have a significant impact.

Fintech and challenger banks have a role to play in accelerating the transformation of the financial supply chain.

Links

The Carbon Bankroll 1.0

The Carbon Bankroll 2.0

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-vaccaro/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

This conversation with Kajsa Ryttberg-Wallgren, EVP of Global Growth at H2 Green Steel, explores the milestones achieved by H2 Green Steel in securing funding for its first-of-a-kind Boden plant. The discussion covers topics, such as early financing, partnerships and value chain support, securing site and power allocation, team structure and growth, joint ventures, and the massive fundraising round. The conversation also delves into the debt structure and equipment financing, working with different types of investors, and the key milestones that enabled H2 Green Steel to raise €1.5 billion in equity financing and sign definitive agreements for €4.2 billion in debt. The discussion covers topics such as securing debt from export credit agencies, early consideration of project finance, replicating financing structures for future projects, power purchase agreements and energy sourcing, securing iron procurement, carbon credits as part of the revenue stack, the financing structure for future projects, involvement of strategic partners, scaling the team and organizational structure, challenges in recruiting specialized talent, milestones and de-risking for financing, location as a key factor in bankability, and the importance of timing in success.

Takeaways

Early consideration of project finance and learning from similar projects can help structure financing, from the beginning.

The financing structure can be replicated for future projects, but location-specific factors must be considered.

Carbon credits can be an important revenue stream for projects with low or no CO2 emissions.

The team and organizational structure must evolve as the company scales and moves into different project phases.

Recruiting specialized talent from around the world is crucial for success in capital-intensive industries.

Milestones and de-risking are important for attracting financing partners.

Location plays a significant role in the bankability of projects, considering factors such as renewable energy availability and cost.

Timing is a crucial element of success, as market conditions and regulatory frameworks can impact project feasibility.

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kajsaryttbergwallgren/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

This conversation with Petros Lekkakis explores the concept of 'first of a kind’ (FOAK) in the climate tech space, which refers to hard asset companies developing technologies at the demonstration or pilot scale and seeking to deploy their first commercial minimum viable product. The discussion highlights the importance of FOAK technologies in achieving net-zero targets and the need for collaboration between venture capital and infrastructure investors to bridge the financing gap. Key players in early infrastructure financing include venture capital firms, concessionary capital providers, growth equity investors, strategic players, government agencies, and multilaterals. The conversation also addresses the knowledge gap in commercializing technologies and the role of specialized funds in providing the necessary expertise and capital to support early infrastructure projects. Two case studies, H2 Green Steel and Infinium, highlight the importance of securing long-term contracts and off-takes to de-risk projects and attract capital. Learnings from the financing markets of solar and LNG provide insights into risk mitigation, project structuring, and the importance of standardization. The episode concludes with a startup checklist that includes team building, contract finance, tech demonstration, focus on FOAK projects, pipeline development, strategic interest, and a solid business plan.

Takeaways

First-of-a-kind refers to hard asset companies developing technologies at the demonstration or pilot scale and seeking to deploy their first commercial MVP.

Collaboration between venture capital and infrastructure investors is crucial to bridge the financing gap for first-of-a-kind technologies.

Key players in early infrastructure financing include venture capital firms, concessionary capital providers, growth equity investors, strategic players, government agencies, and multilaterals.

Specialized funds can provide the necessary expertise and capital to support early infrastructure projects and bridge the knowledge gap in commercializing technologies. Securing long-term contracts and off-takes is crucial for de-risking infrastructure projects and attracting capital.

The success of H2 Green Steel and Infinium demonstrates the importance of securing firm off-takes from reputable partners.

The early infrastructure model can be applied to other industries, such as agriculture, by forming partnerships with strategic players.

Learnings from the solar and LNG markets provide valuable insights into risk mitigation, project structuring, and standardization.

A startup checklist for early infrastructure projects includes team building, contract finance, tech demonstration, focus on first-of-a-kind projects, pipeline development, strategic interest, and a solid business plan.

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lekkakis/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

This episode explores the investment focus of Syngenta Group Ventures, Syngenta’s venture capital group with Michael Lee.  The conversation covers an overview of what Michael categorizes as Agtech vs Agmarkets, as well as the technologies within those segments that are of particular interest to the company. We discuss exit opportunities for companies in these segments as well as the historical average valuation at exit and whether there is a cap. The episode concludes by discussing the importance of a startup being differentiated in this segment to create value. 

Takeaways

Syngenta is a multi-billion, Chinese-owned agrochemicals company, with 50,000+ employees. 

Syngenta Group Ventures does not focus broadly on climate tech but on things that support farmers or farming.

Several different technologies are of interest to the group, both in the Agtech and the Agmarkets segments, and they typically avoid investing in companies that require high capex and have high energy needs. 

The average valuation of the top 10 acquisitions in Agtech over the past decade is approximately 300 million. This would imply, for a 3x return, that the final round valuation would be capped at 100 million (at Series B).  

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-65084/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

This episode explores the topic of offtake agreements in the context of climate technology projects with Kobi Weinberg. The conversation covers the challenges faced by early-stage companies in transitioning from venture capital funding to debt financing, and the role of offtake agreements in this process. We discuss the basics of offtake agreements, including their definition, key considerations for buyers and lenders, and the variability of terms across different industries. We also discuss the involvement of financiers and governments in de-risking offtake agreements and provide examples of offtake agreements in sustainable aviation fuel, hydrogen, and carbon removals. The episode concludes with a list of resources that startups can use to navigate the process of structuring off-take agreements. 

Takeaways

Offtake agreements play a crucial role in the transition from venture capital funding to debt financing for early-stage climate technology projects.

Buyers and lenders have different considerations when it comes to offtake agreements, including price, volume, delivery, non-delivery, and quality.

Engaging with financiers early in the process can provide valuable guidance and help align the terms of the offtake agreement with the requirements for raising debt financing.

Offtake agreements can vary significantly depending on the industry and the specific output being purchased.

Governments and nonprofit organizations can play a role in de-risking offtake agreements and supporting the development of climate technology projects. 

Challenges and risks associated with off-take agreements include pricing uncertainty, credit risk, and termination risk.

Mentioned on the podcast

CREO’s Introduction to Offtake Agreements

CREO’s Introduction to Risk Transfer Solutions for Climate Projects

Department of Energy

Spring Lane Capital

Munich Re

Elemental Accelerator

Prime Coalition

New Energy Risk

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kobiweinberg/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

Dr. Jonathan Foley discusses the time value of carbon and the importance of taking immediate action on climate change. He emphasizes the need to prioritize solutions that can be deployed now rather than waiting for long-term technological advancements. Dr. Foley highlights the mismatch between investment and carbon reduction, urging investors to align their capital with low-carbon solutions. He also discusses the role of technology in various sectors, including electricity, industry, transportation, buildings, and food and agriculture. Dr. Foley calls for more investment in technologies that monitor and improve supply chains, reduce waste, and promote regenerative agriculture. He discusses the Drawdown Capital Coalition, which aims to provide science briefings and deep dives on important climate topics for impact investors and philanthropists and emphasizes the need to focus on areas that have been neglected or where the hype is ahead of the science, such as deforestation and methane emissions. He concludes by urging the deployment of existing solutions and the importance of time in addressing climate change.

Takeaways

The time value of carbon is similar to the time value of money, emphasizing the importance of taking action on climate change now rather than waiting for future solutions.

Investors should prioritize solutions that can be deployed immediately and have a significant impact on carbon reduction.

There is a mismatch between investment and carbon reduction, with a disproportionate amount of funding going towards technologies that are not effective in addressing climate change.

Technology plays a crucial role in sectors such as electricity, industry, transportation, buildings, and food and agriculture, but it should be focused on solutions that monitor supply chains, reduce waste, and promote regenerative practices. The Drawdown Capital Coalition provides science briefings and deep dives on important climate topics for impact investors and philanthropists.

The low-hanging fruit for addressing climate change includes tackling methane leaks, stopping deforestation, and improving efficiency. 

Mentioned on the podcast

Project Drawdown Capital Coalition

Contact Us

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-foley-182808b9

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

This conversation with Hayn Park provides a trader’s perspective on carbon markets and pricing, with a focus on the EU ETS. The discussion covers the current global targets for carbon reduction, the compliance markets and carbon pricing mechanisms, the need for carbon reduction, and the challenges of expanding coverage in the EU ETS. The conversation also explores the role of economic indicators in carbon trading, the liquidity and size of the carbon market, and the day-to-day activities of a carbon trader. Additionally, the conversation touches on other carbon markets and the debate between cap-and-trade and carbon tax approaches. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for more aggressive action to achieve carbon reduction targets. The conversation explores the challenges and potential solutions related to carbon pricing and climate change. It discusses the initial shock of implementing carbon pricing, the viability of new technologies, and the need for global carbon pricing. 

Takeaways

Carbon markets and pricing mechanisms play a crucial role in incentivizing carbon reduction and mitigating climate change.

The EU ETS is the most developed compliance market, but there are also regional markets in the US, China, and other countries.

The carbon market is influenced by economic indicators, market sentiment, and expectations of future policy decisions.

Achieving global carbon reduction targets requires more aggressive action and a combination of technological solutions, policy changes, and international cooperation. Implementing carbon pricing may initially cause economic shocks, but it can lead to the viability of new technologies and accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.

Global carbon pricing is necessary to avoid economic imbalances and ensure a level playing field for industries across different countries.

Bringing all countries on board with carbon pricing is challenging but essential for effective climate action.

Technology plays a crucial role in addressing climate change, and its unpredictable nature makes it a wildcard in the fight against global warming.

The conversation acknowledges the challenges and uncertainties but emphasizes the importance of taking action to address climate change.

Connect with us:

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haynpark/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

Bailey Morrow from HSBC Innovation Banking discusses the structure and mandate of the climate tech team, as well as the services they provide to startups. She explains the different types of debt financing they offer, including venture debt, equipment financing, and hardware as a service. She highlights the role of HSBC in connecting startups with corporates and the diligence process for debt financing, emphasizing the importance of business metrics and key performance indicators to qualify for funding.

Takeaways

HSBC Innovation Banking provides global banking services and lending solutions to climate tech companies.

They offer venture debt, equipment financing, and hardware as a service.

Project finance is challenging for early-stage companies, and bridging the gap between venture debt and project finance is a key focus.

HSBC acts as an ecosystem builder, connecting startups with corporates and facilitating collaboration.

Engaging with lenders early in the fundraising process and having a fully funded plan are important for debt financing. Understanding business metrics is crucial for securing funding in climate tech.

Connect with us:

Email us: [email protected]

Website: https://www.climatetech360.com

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bailey-morrow-b763565/

This conversation with Akshat Rathi explores the concept of climate capitalism and how capitalism can be a driving force for climate change mitigation. It discusses the modification of capitalism to align with climate goals as well as the challenges of partnering with fossil fuel companies in the context of climate hardware startups, the Breakthrough Energy model, enabling factors for climate technologies, the importance of storytelling in climate tech, and Akshat’s current focus as a senior reporter for Bloomberg News.

Takeaways

Capitalism can be a powerful tool for addressing climate change when it is modified to align with climate goals.

Understanding the limits and regulations imposed by nature is crucial in modifying capitalism for climate change.

Founders should carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of partnering with oil and gas companies, taking into account the availability of climate tech funding and the skills needed for their startups.

Enabling factors for climate technologies include policy, finance, global diplomacy, shareholder activism, and effective storytelling.

Effective storytelling is crucial for climate tech founders to communicate their ideas in a simple, compelling, and memorable way.

Mentioned in the podcast:

Askhat’s book, Climate Capitalism: https://akshatrathi.com/book/

Breakthrough Energy: https://breakthroughenergy.org/

Connect with us:

Guest: https://akshatrathi.com/contact/

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader

Naomi Sakamoto, Studio Director and Practice Area Leader at Gensler, discusses the firm's net-zero goals and the technologies they need to achieve them. She explores the use of new low-carbon materials and the need for better tools to make informed decisions. Naomi also highlights the importance of collaboration with startups and the potential for technology to revolutionize the industry. She shares examples of Gensler's collaboration with companies working on direct air capture and liquid CO2 storage. Naomi emphasizes the role of storytelling in showcasing a company's environmental values and attracting talent. The conversation explores various themes related to the climate tech industry, talent movement, remote work,  the European climate tech ecosystem, and the need for more conversations and access to corporates.

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Takeaways

Gensler aims to achieve a net zero carbon impact portfolio by 2030, but faces challenges in the construction industry's heavy reliance on hard-to-decarbonize materials and processes.

Collaboration with startups is crucial in developing innovative solutions for the built environment, and Gensler is actively seeking partnerships to drive change.

Technology can play a key role in optimizing building performance, understanding user behavior, and making informed design decisions.

There is a need for more conversations and access to corporates, as collaboration and understanding across different players in the climate space are essential for impactful solutions.

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Mentioned in the podcast:

Climeworks Orca Project: https://climeworks.com/plant-orca

Soletair Power: https://www.soletairpower.fi/

Energy Dome: https://energydome.com/

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Connect with us:

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-sakamoto-aia-840a696b/

This conversation with Zeev Krieger, Partner at Third Sphere and Managing Partner at Third Sphere Credit, explores the topic of financing climate hardware companies. Various financing options for climate hardware companies are explored, including equipment leasing, corporate loans, venture debt, project finance, and asset-based financing. The episode concludes with examples of how companies in the portfolio of Third Sphere have utilized different financing strategies. It delves into the significance of granularity in financial analysis and the transition to off-balance sheet structures. 

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Takeaways

Financing climate hardware companies is a key concern for investors and founders in the industry.

Different financing options for climate hardware companies include equipment leasing, corporate loans, venture debt, project finance, and asset-based financing.

Understanding the specific needs and complexities of a company's business model is crucial when choosing the right financing strategy. Lending against specific assets, such as smart radiator covers, requires a thorough understanding of the asset's performance and value.

Building a borrowing base is crucial for startups to validate their assets and demonstrate their ability to repay loans.

Granularity in financial analysis, including understanding working capital cycles and asset performance, is essential for risk management and loan structuring.

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Definitions:

Equipment finance: https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/commercial-lending/equipment-finance/

Asset-backed lending: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/assetbasedlending.asp

Revolver: http://tinyurl.com/revolverdefinition

Project finance: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/projectfinance.asp

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Connect with us:

Email us: [email protected]

Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader

Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidzeev/

Third Sphere: https://thirdsphere.com/