CarbonSmart '24: Institutional Leaders Driving the Decarbonization Economy: Successes, Challenges, & Future Direction

In an exciting and tactical conversation, Martin Kessler, Chief Business Officer of Flowcarbon, sat down with Peter Anderson, Matt Sweeney, Dave Lynch and Erica Vertefeuille to discuss key strategies for evaluating clean energy investment opportunities and navigating risks in the fast-evolving world of decarbonization. Drawing from their extensive experience, these experts explored innovative approaches to unlocking greater private investment in the critical sector of carbon removals. The discussion provides valuable perspectives on overcoming barriers, scaling up projects, and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy – offering actionable insights to help catalyze further growth in clean energy and infrastructure financing.

Here are some takeaways from the conversation:

• ‍Peter Anderson, LS Power highlighted the challenge of finding the right balance in investment size for clean energy projects: "smaller is better initially, but with line of sight to scale."
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• ‍Matt Sweeney, Macquarie emphasized the importance of starting with a sensible ticket size for investments and gradually ramping up scale. "[we] recognize the need for smaller tickets to be relevant and aim for exponential growth over time."
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• ‍Dave Lynch, Ares Management Corporation discussed the significance of evaluating risks and focusing on downside protection rather than price volatility, stating: "cost of capital is not the key focus; it's about getting our money back in a downside case."
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• ‍Erica Vertefeuille,Terra Natural Capital advocated for engagement with corporates as a key way to source investable projects in the carbon removal sector: "Develop pipeline with a focus on investability and engage corporates for screened opportunities."

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