About this episode

The episode explores Australia's path to net zero emissions with expert insights on energy technologies and challenges.

Join hosts Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick and Iain Strachan of the Totally Cooked team for part 2, as they explore Australia’s path to net zero emissions with Monash University expert Roger Dargaville . The discussion goes deeper into the technologies and hard choices shaping Australia's energy future. Unpacking why nuclear power doesn't stack up economically or technically for Australia's high-renewables grid, how pumped hydro acts as a giant rechargeable battery, and where hydrogen really fits into the mix—hint: it's not grid storage. The conversation also covers EV battery degradation and the emerging recycling industry, the challenges of decarbonising aviation with sustainable fuels, and the frustrating reality that fossil fuels can't simply be switched off overnight. Roger shares what cutting-edge research is happening in his lab—from optimal energy system modelling and EV charging infrastructure to building-integrated solar and green steel—before the hosts close with a frank discussion on the political, economic, and intergenerational barriers that have slowed climate action for decades. Iain records Totally Cooked on the lands of the Bunurong People of…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, Iain Strachan

Guest: Roger Dargaville

Topics covered

• net zero emissions
• energy future
• renewable energy
• nuclear power
• hydrogen
• EV battery recycling
• decarbonising aviation

Keywords

• net zero
• renewable energy
• nuclear power
• hydrogen
• EV batteries
• decarbonisation
• sustainable fuels

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Monash University

Places: Australia, Bunurong People, Kulin Nation, Ngunnawal, Ngambri

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