• 89) Smart Microgrids: Benefits, Challenges & Barriers to Uptake
    Jan 8 2026

    In this episode of the Energy Essentials podcast, Flexible Generation & Storage Lead Tim Dixon and Energy Users Lead Jacob Briggs are joined by Dan Nicholls, Chief Product Officer at SNRG.

    They discuss the role of smart microgrids in addressing challenges within the energy market, including connections to grid, infrastructure, network congestion, and decarbonisation. They also explore the definition of smart microgrids, their potential benefits for users of the energy system, the challenges they address, and the barriers to their wider adoption.

    Cornwall Insight customers can listen to this in-depth episode on CATALYST or listen to all episodes of the Energy Essentials podcast here.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    39 mins
  • 88) Being Smarter With Metering
    Nov 3 2025

    In this special extra episode of the Energy Essentials podcast, Robert Buckley, Head of Strategic Accounts at Cornwall Insight, is joined by Suket Singhal, CEO of Secure Meters Limited.

    Suket will be joining us at CI Live 2025! on the 5 November to discuss the future of smart metering data and energy solutions. In this discussion with Robert, Suket shares insights from Secure’s extensive experience in the energy sector, highlighting the importance of data-driven innovation and customer-centric solutions.

    You can find out more about the challenges and opportunities in achieving affordable net zero by 2030 at CI Live 2025! Cornwall Insight’s Annual Energy Conference on the 5 November in London. With Gold Sponsor Secure, this event explores how the industry can overcome hurdles and embrace a more efficient, sustainable future.

    Cornwall Insight customers can find the full episodes on CATALYST or listen to the Energy Essentials podcast here.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    17 mins
  • 87) Innovation in CPPAs - The Next Steps
    Oct 13 2025

    In this episode of the Energy Essentials Podcast, Cornwall Insight experts Robert Buckley (Head of Strategic Accounts) and Tom Andrews (Senior Consultant) are joined by James Hall, COO at Evolve Energy.

    They discuss the innovation in Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) in a rapidly evolving energy market, focusing on license exempt supply and its implications for both generators and consumers. They explore the regulatory landscape, opportunities for innovation, and the future of energy supply contracts, emphasising the importance of understanding the complexities of the market.

    You can hear more on this plus many other essential industry topics at Cornwall Insight's annual energy conference CI Live 2025! Join us on the 5 November 2025 at Glaziers Hall in London. Get your ticket today.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • 86) Balancing Innovation & Stability in Market Infrastructure
    Aug 6 2025

    In this episode of the Energy Essentials podcast, Cornwall Insight's Kate Mulvany (Principal Consultant) and Tom Edwards (Principal Modeller) are joined by Peter Stanley (Elexon CEO) to discuss the critical topic of energy flexibility and the government's ambitions for a clean power system by 2030.

    They explore the significant market reforms underway, the role of data in the energy transition, and the importance of consumer behaviour in driving demand. The conversation also delves into the impact of half-hourly settlement, the challenges of code governance, and the exciting innovations emerging in the energy sector.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • 85) How Can we Make Household Energy Markets Work Better for Customers?
    Jul 14 2025

    In this episode of the Energy Essentials podcast, Cornwall Insight experts Anna Moss (Principal Consultant) and Robert Buckley (Head of Strategic Accounts) meet with Uswitch CEO Angus McCarey to discuss the future of energy supply markets and the evolving role of consumers in the net zero transition.

    Topics covered include:

    • The balance of innovation and market structure
    • The data-driven future and what this means for access and engagement
    • Expectations for 2030

    Find out more about our Home Supply and Services analysis subscription, providing strategic insights and analysis on what’s happening in the market and what’s driving those changes.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • 84) Contracts for Difference AR7: What We Know and What's Next
    Jun 18 2025

    In this episode of the Energy Essentials podcast, Cornwall Insight experts Tim Dixon, Lucy Dolton, and Robin Clarke discuss the recently published indicative timeline for the upcoming Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 7 auction. Focusing on key dates, implications for developers, and any potential uncertainties or risks surrounding the timeline.

    You can also find out more about our Contracts for Difference support service and bespoke CfD consulting capabilities.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • 83) Understanding Standing Charges in Energy Bills
    Apr 23 2025

    In this podcast episode, our experts Tom Edwards and Dr. Craig Lowrey are joined by Peter Smith from National Energy Action. They discuss the complexities of standing charges in energy bills, their implications for consumers, especially vulnerable households, and the potential changes in energy pricing structures. They explore the impact of regional variations, the introduction of zero standing charge tariffs, and the future of energy pricing in a world with smart meters. The conversation also touches on the political dimensions of energy policy and the pursuit of a more equitable approach to energy costs.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • 82) Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Ireland and Northern Ireland and the Key Challenges
    Jan 28 2025

    As Ireland and Northern Ireland transition to net zero and the volume of variable renewable generation in the electricity generation mix increases, there is a need for more flexibility provision. There is >1GW of operational energy storage on the Island, however the majority of this has been short duration batteries participating in system services. There are a number of market reforms underway that will change the landscape for energy storage projects including incentive mechanisms for longer duration storage assets.

    In our latest Energy Essentials podcast we introduce the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) market in Ireland and Northern Ireland, discuss the key challenges facing it and how wider reforms of the SEM energy market might impact BESS assets.

    Keep up to date with latest from Cornwall Insight by following us on Linkedin, or by signing up to our regular newsletter.

    Show More Show Less
    20 mins