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Ep. 246

Talking New Energy: Can merchant batteries make solar PPAs work again? Insights from Alight

Energy transition Solar & battery research C&I research

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In this episode, Tom Smout speaks to Johan Hernström, Head of Revenue at Alight, about why the traditional solar business model is changing and how combining solar, battery storage and innovative PPA structures could create a more resilient path forward.

We discuss:

  • Why pay-as-produced PPAs are becoming less effective as a hedge for renewable projects.

  • How co-located battery storage can improve project economics, reduce risk and create more attractive products for energy buyers.

  • What the next generation of IPPs will look like as they evolve from asset owners into active portfolio managers and power traders.

What’s one thing you would like listeners to take away from this?

  • The future of renewable energy isn't just about building more generation. Success will increasingly depend on combining solar, storage, trading and flexible offtake structures to create more valuable and resilient energy products.