NTNU Energy Transition Podcast

In Episode 84, clean‑energy luminary Michael Liebreich joins the show to unpack why oil giants like Shell and BP appear to be throttling back on renewables just as the climate crisis intensifies. Drawing on decades in clean-tech finance and heavy-transport electrification, Liebreich argues that the pivot is less a U-turn than a short-term cash grab—and that the physics and economics of “not burning stuff” will ultimately win. Expect candid takes on capital markets, policy headwinds, and where the smartest money is flowing now, all delivered with Liebreich’s trademark data-driven bluntness.

Norway’s electricity system is at a crossroads. With rising consumption, stable production, and an evolving energy mix, the big question is: will we have enough power in the years ahead? In this episode, we sit down with Ane Torvanger Brunvoll, Head of the Energy System Section at NVE (Norges vassdrags- og energidirektorat), to break down the state of Norway’s electricity supply. We’ll explore how the system has evolved, the trends shaping its future, and whether concerns about an energy deficit are justified. What role will wind and solar play? How will industries like data centers and e-fuel production impact demand? And what actions can we take to ensure a stable and resilient grid? Join us for a deep dive into the future of Norway’s electricity system.

In this episode, we examine Equinor’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) strategy and explore a key question: Can oil and renewables coexist within the company and in Norway’s broader energy landscape? Per Arne Solend, VP of M&A and Insights at Equinor, joins us. He shares his perspective on how the company navigates fossil fuels and renewables acquisitions. We discuss the rationale behind Equinor’s recent investments, the role of M&A in the energy transition, and how the company balances its legacy oil and gas operations with its push into offshore wind, batteries, and emerging low-carbon technologies. Co-hosting this episode is Martina Fantini, a PhD researcher at NTNU specializing in sustainable aviation. Tune in to learn how Equinor makes strategic decisions in a rapidly evolving energy landscape—and what the future might hold for oil, gas, and renewables in a transitioning world.

In this episode, we explore the feasibility of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and Norway's potential role as a global hub for their production. I am joined by three distinguished guests: Anders Fagernæs, Vice President of Sustainability at Norwegian Air Shuttle; Steven Gillard, Regional Director – Europe and METACA Sustainability; and Karl Hauptmeier, Managing Director of Norsk e-Fuel. Recorded in Norwegian Air Shuttle's hangar at Oslo Gardermoen Airport, the conversation covers Boeing's partnership with Norsk e-Fuel, the challenges and opportunities for scaling SAF, and how policy and innovation can drive aviation decarbonization. The discussion delves into competing technologies like hydrogen and electric propulsion, industry goals for 2030 and 2050, and the critical need for collaboration across sectors. Tune in to learn about the future of clean aviation and Norway’s position in this transition.

In this episode we look at a debated topic in the energy sector today: the role of nuclear power. Joined by Professor Magnus Korpås, Vice Director of NTNU Energy at NTNU, and Dr. Martin Hjelmeland, a postdoc with expertise in nuclear research, the discussion covers the potential and pitfalls of nuclear energy in Norway and Europe. From the promise of small modular reactors (SMRs) to the challenges of nuclear waste management and public acceptance, this episode explores how nuclear can potentially help us achieve our 2050 decarbonization goals. The conversation also highlights cutting-edge research on nuclear’s role in energy systems and debates the economic viability of nuclear technologies versus renewables like wind and solar. Tune in for a nuanced discussion on one of the more polarizing topics in energy today.