Montel News - Energy Insights

Norway says no to nuclear for now

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:19:20 GMT

A government-appointed committee, tasked with exploring the viability of nuclear power production in Norway, published its findings last week, deciding that there wasn’t a pressing need to embrace this low-carbon, baseload capacity due to very high costs and extensive construction times. Reporting by Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway. Contributors: Terje Aasland, Norwegian Energy Minister; Jorgen Bjorndalen, Chief Consultant, DNV; and Jonny Hesthammer, CEO, Norsk Kjernekraft.

Hormuz under siege – Italy sounds the alarm

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:00:14 GMT

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called free passage through the Strait of Hormuz a national priority, warning that Iran's transit tolls risk incalculable damage to global energy and commodity markets. Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, European Energy Correspondent, Montel News. Contributors: Giorgia Meloni, Italian Prime Minister; Guido Crosetto, Italian Defence Minister.

German decongestion plan alarms renewable energy operators

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:31:40 GMT

Germany has rapidly expanded renewable energy in recent years. By the end of 2025, it had around 210 GW of installed renewable capacity, mostly solar and wind, up by more than 60% since 2020. But power line networks are struggling to keep pace. Increasing volumes of clean energy are being wasted as operators are paid to switch off production to ease network congestion. Germany’s economy ministry wants to tackle this waste, but its plans are raising alarms among renewable energy investors.

Reporting by Nathan Witkop, Editor, Clean Energy Desk, Montel News. Contributors: Stefan-Joerg Goebel, Senior VP for Germany, Statfraft; Leonhard Birnbaum, CEO, EON; Thomas Schlaak, Partner, Deloitte; and Marco Wuensch, Principal, Prognos.

Geopolitical uncertainty brings European gas storage into focus

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:49:04 GMT

As LNG-reliant Europe comes to terms with the near-term loss of a fifth of global supply, amid ongoing war in the Middle East, there is a heightened focus on the region’s gas storage facilities and their role in providing supply flexibility and energy security. While storage levels are at their lowest since April 2022, Europe will likely still achieve its storage targets, but at what cost? Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Charlotte Roule, President of Gas Storage Europe; Robin Cannings, Commercial Director, Storengy UK; Yahdian Falah, Senior Portfolio Manager, Trianel.

Italy scrambles to plug gas gap

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:52:06 GMT

European gas prices are at three-year highs due to the war in Iran, forcing countries like Italy to scramble for alternative supply on the global market. Rome says it is better prepared than most. Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel News. Contributors: Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, Italian Energy Minister; and Nicola Monti, CEO, Edison.

Germany’s gas-storage dilemma –  state help or market outcome?

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:57:40 GMT

With gas prices soaring amid a prolonged war in the Middle East, Germany must solve a dilemma when it comes to filling up its storage facilities for next winter. Does it provide regulatory assistance or rely on the market to secure the country’s gas stocks? Reporting by Katharina Johannsen, Reporter, Montel News, Germany. Contributors: Balier Saberi , FSE Portfolio Management and Sebastian Gulbis, Enervis Energy Advisors.

Another energy crisis – boom or bust for the green transition?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:02:29 GMT

The war in Iran could trigger another global recession, with oil and gas prices already at 4-year highs. But might it also be a boon for investments into green energy? Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Gökşin Bavbek, Consulting Manager, Aplus Energy Consulting; Todor Marinov, Deputy CCO, Enery Energy; and André Bosschaart, Head of Analytics, Montel EnAppSys.

Hourly GO Matching - a boost to green market credibility?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:49:12 GMT

A proposal to require a finer match in time and space between production and consumption of renewable electricity aims to increase the credibility of renewable power claims in Europe. Critics fear it will undermine a voluntary market with more than 1,000 TWh in annual turnover.

Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Nordics editor, Montel News.
Contributors: Killian Daly, executive director EnergyTag and Ivar Munch Clausen, Director Business Development at Ecohz.

US grip on Europe’s LNG faces Qatari challenge

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:31:33 GMT

With Qatar set to ramp up LNG exports significantly over the coming years, more volumes could be heading to Europe.

Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Giovanni Bettinelli, Analyst & Advisor, GFB Insight; Cristian Signoretto, Director, Global Gas & LNG Portfolio, Eni; Liz Westcott, Acting CEO, Woodside Energy.

Lessons in war: Can Europe learn from the carnage in Ukraine?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 10:55:55 GMT

Russian missiles and drones have destroyed Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Millions are without power or heating. Now into its fourth year, the war has disrupted the world’s energy supply. What are the key lessons for Europe?

Reporting by Christopher Eales, France Editor, Montel News.

Contributors: Henning Gloystein - Managing Director of Energy and Resources, Eurasia Group.

Hanns Koenig - Managing Director, Aurora Energy Research EMEA.

February freeze could drain German gas storage, boost energy prices

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:44:57 GMT

Forecasters warn a severe February freeze could drain German gas storage to single‑digit fills by April, triggering sharp gas and power spot-price spikes. A breaking polar vortex may unleash cold, windless conditions leaving supplies tight for the remainder of this winter and even next.

Reporting by Julia Demirdag, Montel News.

Contributor: Robin Girmes - Founder & CEO, Energy Weather.

Will Norway turn to nuclear to meet demand growth?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:21:57 GMT

Analysts have warned that Norway risks turning into a net importer of electricity in the early 2030s due to strong demand growth and domestic opposition to build onshore wind farms. Can nuclear power solve the country’s long term supply challenge?

Reporting by Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel News. Contributors: Jonny Hesthammer, CEO, Norsk Kjernekraft; Sigbjorn Seland, Chief analyst, StormGeo.

Europe’s LNG imports face choppy supply in 2026

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 12:33:39 GMT

Europe’s LNG imports are expected to grow again this year, potentially reaching new record levels. The chilled fuel remains vital for the region’s energy security amid its transition to cleaner technologies. However, a variety of factors – including supply and demand trends, geopolitical developments, and policy decisions – will continue to shape market flows.

Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Erisa Pasko, Senior European Gas Analyst, Energy Aspects; Ronald Pinto, Principal Insight Analyst for LNG & Natural Gas, Kpler; Olumide Ajayi, Senior LNG Specialist, LSEG.

Italian batteries: the blueprint for Europe?

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:43:47 GMT

The roll out of storage in southern Italy could solve the problem of intermittent renewable output as well as stabilising prices. The rest of Europe will be watching closely.

Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel.

Contributors: Giorgio Perico, Senior Consultant, Key to Energy. Andrea Marchisio, Founding Partner, Elemens.

Auction flop stalls Germany's offshore wind

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:54:55 GMT

Germany has ambitious plans to grow offshore wind as part of its efforts to secure 80% of its power from renewables by 2030. But a recent tender failed – a bad sign for an industry the country had hoped to grow from 9 GW at present to 30 GW by the turn of the decade. The industry says Germany is going about developing the sector the wrong way – and that time is running out to get investment back on track.

Reporting by Nathan Witkop, clean energy desk editor, Montel News.

Speakers: Matthias Janssen, associate director, Frontier Economics; Katherina Reiche, federal minister for economic affairs and energy, Germany; and Andreas Mummert, policy director, German offshore wind energy foundation. This video was first published on 23.09.2025

Slovakia faces hard landing from Russian gas exit

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 13:45:44 GMT

Slovakia was among the hardest hit European nations when Russian gas transiting via Ukraine ended at the start of this year. Together with Hungary, the two countries have been outspoken in their criticism of EU plans to phase out all Russian gas by the end of 2027. But what has been the impact on supply and costs so far, and what can – or should – Slovakia do to mitigate this?

Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News.

Contributors: Michal Lalik, Director of the Trade Division, SPP; Pavel Hradek, Founder, Slovak Gas Museum. This video was first published on 09.09.2025

A complex web? Nordic balancing market under fire

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:42:04 GMT

Huge price swings, unpredictability and an increase in complexity have led to widespread criticism of the Nordic balancing market.

Reporting by Snoljfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News.

Contributors: Matthew Creese, Head of Market Operations for Wind & Solar, Aneo; Priyanka Shinde, Nordic Expert, Montel Analytics; Armen Kasparov, Head of Energy Trading & Portfolio Management, Eesti Energia.

This video was first published on 02.09.2025.

Iberian blackout reignites battle over Spain’s nuclear future

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 11:42:27 GMT

The Iberian blackout in April has reignited and intensified the debate over Spain’s nuclear future. Nuclear proponents are pushing for licence extensions so that nuclear energy can shore up the country’s power system, while critics question the cost of such a move and what repercussions it might have for the green transition.

Reporting by Pablo Bronte, Editor Iberia, Montel News.

Contributor: Pedro Linares, Energy regulation expert and professor at Comillas University.

Could Norway’s fixed-price power scheme deepen Nordic hydro, wind woes?

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 10:58:59 GMT

Although Nordic wholesale power prices are already expected to rise around 30% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026 due to lower hydropower reserves, Norway’s new fixed-price scheme, known as the “Norway price”, could push prices spikes even higher on cold days with little wind.

Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Nordics editor, Montel News.

Contributor: Eylert Ellefsen, Senior analyst, Montel EQ.

Germany floats energy subsidies for its beleaguered industry

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:15:27 GMT

Germany wants to offer energy intensive companies access to a subsidised power price starting from next year. This comes amid mounting pressure on policymakers to restore the competitiveness of industrial sectors struggling to compete against global rivals with much cheaper energy. The government has all but finalised talks with the European Commission to make its plans conform to the EU’s competition rules. Those restrictions ensure the government’s relief will buy a limited respite, at best. Reporting by Nathan Witkop, Editor, Clean energy desk, Montel News. Contributors: Matthias Belitz, Head of energy policy, VCI; Fabian Huneke, Project leader, Agora Energiewende.

Declining electricity demand questions UK power scenarios

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:05:25 GMT

The UK’s electricity demand is on the decline, calling into question optimistic forecasts of a significant upturn. With system operator Neso building a grid equipped to manage an abundance of renewables, will data centres stem a potential oversupply?

Reporting by Kelly Paul, Reporter, Montel News.

Contributors: Dhara Vyas, CEO, Energy UK; and Simon Gallagher, Managing director, UK Networks Services.

Dunkelflaute Alert — windless cold snaps could send prices soaring once more

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:50:58 GMT

Europe is bracing for another winter as its power system is rewired around renewables like wind and solar. But with flexible fossil fuels being scaled back, unease is growing about the possibility of a “Dunkelflaute”— a windless cold snap that hits when demand peaks and has been responsible for catapulting prices overnight over the last year.

Reporting by Julia Demirdag, Reporter, Montel News. Contributor: Alessandro Armenia, Insight Analyst Power, Kpler.

Rotterdam’s coal era fades amid energy transition

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 10:39:29 GMT

The port of Rotterdam has been a key European gateway for coal imports for decades, but with the EU’s phasing out of this dirty fossil fuel amid the transition to cleaner fuels, how is the port adapting? Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Refke Gunnewijk, Manager Clean Industry & Transport, Port of Rotterdam Authority; Dico Regoord, Commercial Director, ZHD Stevedores

France's energy turmoil – Is there any way out?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:38:21 GMT

France's political landscape is frozen, jeopardizing beleaguered president Emmanual Macron's plans for massive investment in nuclear power and renewables set out in a 2022 speech at Belfort. Can the country break the ice with presidential elections looming?

Reporting by Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel News. Contributors: Julien Teddé, CEO Opera Energie; Maxence Cordiez, expert, Montagne Institute; Samantha Arriaga. Energy analyst, Veolia; Pierre Jeremie, Head of investment, Hy24; and Marie Dégremont, Associate researcher, SciencePo Paris.

Can a new electricity highway bridge Norway’s price gap?

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:03:07 GMT

Norway’s problems with transmission bottlenecks are long-running, but the issue has become even more acute in recent years, as new interconnectors, rapid electrification and heavier precipitation in the north of the country have clearly exposed grid limitations. On 2 October, a new 420 kV Aurland-Sogndal power line was brought into service, immediately strengthening power flows between Norway’s western NO5 and central NO3 bidding zones. But what role is this new electricity line going to play in bridging the country’s significant power price gap between the hydro-rich north and demand-heavy south?

Reporting by Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel News. Contributor: Tord Lien, Head of Communication, Tronderenergi.

Footage of construction work on the Aurland/Sogndal power line was provided by Norwegian TSO Statnett.

Data centres – From grid burden to flexible asset?

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:23:58 GMT

In cities like Dublin, London, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam, data centres already consume 40-80% of electricity and that power demand is expected to rapidly increase in the years ahead. However, these power-hungry facilities may also have a silver lining. They could actually help stabilise the grid by providing demand response flexibility.

Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, European Correspondent, Montel. Contributor: Stefano Da Empoli, CEO, I-Com.

Mind the Gap – Is the UK’s gas storage shortfall a concern?

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:39:01 GMT

There is some concern that the UK’s limited gas storage capacity and growing reliance on imports leave it vulnerable to supply disruptions and price spikes. Projects like the Bains redevelopment, in the East Irish Sea, may offer future relief, but will not arrive soon. In the meantime, reducing dependence on gas in power generation and accelerating the renewables rollout will be crucial in stabilising prices and ensuring energy security.

Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Tony O’Reilly, CEO & Founder, dCarbonX, Fintan Devenney, Senior Energy Analyst, Montel Analytics.

Spain's coal dies – Long live gas?

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:19:35 GMT

The phase-out of coal-fired generation in Spain marks a milestone in the country’s green transition but also presents immediate challenges for the grid. Surging renewable capacity requires backup generation when there is no sun or wind. Interconnectors, demand-side management and storages will be crucial in the coming years, but also gas-fired plants. Reporting by Pablo Bronte, Editor Iberia, Montel News.

Contributor: Margarita Flores, senior power research analyst at LSEG.

Coal plant demolition footage provided by Iberdrola and Endesa.

Will Norway turn its back on the European electricity market?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:50:38 GMT

Norway’s Labour party managed to retain power in September’s general election but now depends on the political support of those that oppose further integration with the EU electricity market. How will this affect Norway’s energy policy over the next four years?

Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Nordics editor, Montel News.

Contributor: Torbjorg Jevnaker, Senior Researcher at Cicero - Centre for International Climate Research.

Storing up trouble? The role of batteries in Europe's energy transition

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:27:15 GMT

Batteries could come to the aid of Europe’s energy transition by reducing the instances of negative prices, easing grid congestion and avoiding the curtailment of renewable energy. But it’s not quite that simple.

Reporting by Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief at Montel News.

Contributors: Ksenia Tolstrup - Principal, Magnus Energy. Lukas Feldhaus - Manager, Thema Consulting Group. Jean-Paul Harreman - Director, Montel Analytics.

Europe’s power networks need stronger crisis strategies

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:03:35 GMT

European transmission system operators need to abandon decades-old emergency planning standards as blackouts this year in Spain, Portugal Italy, France, Czechia and southeast Europe have exposed critical vulnerabilities. Otherwise, as electricity demand soars and renewables reshape the grid, Europe's aging planning frameworks may find it hard to keep the lights on.

Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, European Energy Correspondent, Montel News.

Contributors: Matt Brown, Vice-President Energy, AFRY Consulting; and Daniel Muir, Senior Energy Analyst at S&P Global.

Abundant Swedish wind blows profits away?

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:02:18 GMT

A massive renewables expansion in northern Sweden has hit earnings of wind power producers hard, raising questions about the pace of the green transition going forward. Reporting by Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel News. Contributor: Axel Weyler, Originator, Entelios.

Scorched turbines – Heatwaves stall Europe’s wind power

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:16:16 GMT

Heatwaves across Europe have created a ‘heat dome’ of high atmospheric pressure, and unusually warm sea temperatures. This Hitzeflaute – a period of high temperature and little or no wind – is even more intense and persistent than in previous years and their increasing frequency and duration is reducing wind speeds, further tightening power supply just as demand surges for air-conditioning. Wind developers and power producers should brace themselves for turbulence over the coming years as the world heats up.

Reporting by Julia Demirdag, Reporter, Montel News.

Contributors: Robin Girmes, CEO & Founder, Energy Weather; and Riccardo Longo, offshore grid manager, WindEurope.

Will Germany’s immense infrastructure debt help the country’s energy transition?

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:27:17 GMT

After Germany amended its constitution in mid-March to allow for 500 bn EUR in debt for infrastructure and climate neutrality by 2045, as well as unlimited debt for defence spending, the new government has some room for manoeuvre. In these times of an economic downturn and a changeover in the international order, dilapidated infrastructure could receive a makeover, the economy could receive a growth stimulus, and Europe could gain greater independence from the US. But how will it affect the energy sector and, even more importantly, the country’s transition to a climate-neutral energy supply?

Reporting by Katharina Johannsen, Reporter, Montel News, Germany. Contributors: Daniel Hölder, Head of Global Policy & Markets, Baywa Re; Henning Gloystein, Practice Head Energy, Eurasia.

This video was first published on 8th April, 2025.

EU ban on Russian LNG reloads may boost supply to Europe

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 13:01:46 GMT

On the 26 March, the EU will impose a ban on the transhipment of Russian LNG at European ports. What impact will this measure have and where? Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Olumide Ajayi, Senior LNG Specialist, LSEG and James O’Brien, head of LNG, D.Trading.

This video was first published on 14th March 2025.

Will the Nordic region set a new power export record in 2025?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 09:00:24 GMT

The Nordic countries hit a record-high net power export of 41 TWh last year amid increased renewables and nuclear capacity. With reservoirs levels already at unprecedented highs ahead of the coming snowmelt, will the continuing buildout of renewables and lagging demand lead to a new record this year? And how will that affect power prices for the rest of this year?

Reporting by Gert Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel.

Contributor: Sigbjorn Seland, Chief analyst, StormGeo.

This video was first published on 11th April 2025.

Europe urged to tap into domestic gas reserves

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 07:28:16 GMT

Europe's energy security challenges have been exposed by recent geopolitical crises, and nowhere is this more evident than in its gas supply. According to the International Energy Agency, Europe only produced 221bcm of natural gas in 2024 but its consumption that year was more than double that, standing at 490bcm. Could the continent’s untapped gas reserves provide an alternative to a reliance on unreliable foreign suppliers?

Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel.

Contributor: Davide Tabarelli, President, Nomisma Energy.

*Correction – Currently, the EU imports almost 90% of the gas it consumes annually, but if these five fields were exploited, that import reliance would drop.

This video was first published on 28th March 2025.

Spain’s power blackout – A stress test for renewables?

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 18:34:08 GMT

April’s massive blackout across Spain and Portugal has re-ignited debate about the rapid rollout of renewables, grid stability, and the need for new tools as the power system transforms. The worst blackout in Spain’s recent history has come loaded with lessons for the future energy transition.

Reporting by Pablo Bronte, Editor Iberia, Montel.

Contributor: Ana Barillas, Director, Aurora Energy Research Iberia.

This video was first published on 27th May 2025.

A slowdown in European negative power prices?

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 15:19:42 GMT

Power consumers in central and southeastern Europe may see a decrease in the instances when they are paid to use electricity due to weather conditions, high gas prices and savvy power traders.

Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Amani Joas, Managing Director, FlexPower; and Gábor Szatmári, Head of CEE Sales Region, Montel.

This video was originally published on 28th April 2025.

Have French politicians lost the energy plot?

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 12:19:34 GMT

Some French politicians appear determined to drive the country off the road to carbon neutrality as parliamentary posturing quashes reasoned debate.

Reporting by Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel News.

Contributor: Marie Degrémont, an associate researcher at the SciencePo Paris academic institution.

EU steams ahead with plans to ditch Russian gas

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:41:47 GMT

The EU aims to end Russian gas imports by the end of 2027, but how realistic is this? While the phase-out is a key step in cutting funds for Russia’s war in Ukraine, the nuts and bolts of how this could be achieved remains uncertain and complex.

Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Kateryna Filippenko, Research Director, Global Gas Markets at Wood Mackenzie; Robert Songer, LNG Market Analyst at ICIS.

New nuclear – learning from Finland

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:21:31 GMT

Several countries, most recently the UK, have announced plans to build new nuclear plants. Some have heralded a new renaissance for atomic energy, while others say the pledges mean locking in expensive and inflexible power generation. Finland – the last country to bring a reactor online, albeit massively overbudget and delayed – could provide some advice for those planning new build.

Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Heidi Laurila, CEO, Myrsky Energia; Janne Peljo, Chief Policy Advisor, Climate and Biodiversity, Confederation of Finnish Industries.

Low prices hit northern Norwegian power producers hard

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:03:24 GMT

Power producers in northern Norway are struggling with a persistent period of unusually low power prices, forcing them to cut investments and limit wind power generation as well reduce dividends for their shareholders.

Reporting by Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel News. Contributor: Eylert Ellefsen, Senior Analyst, Montel Analytics.

Data centre boom – What can Europe learn from Ireland?

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:56:10 GMT

Ireland’s ambitions to become a tech hub saw a surge in data centres, mostly clustered around Dublin. Ireland has said it will not allow new facilities in or around Dublin until at least 2028, as it is concerned about supply security. Attaining grid access and providing enough clean energy to feed power hungry data centres will be crucial if the rest of Europe is to emulate Ireland but learn from its mistakes.

Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Dara Lynott, CEO, Electricity Association of Ireland; and Ryan Alexander, Principal, European Advisory, Aurora.

Germany pivots to carbon capture and storage to cut emissions

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:38:50 GMT

Germany’s new government has different energy priorities from its predecessor. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s centre-right Christian Union campaigned on preserving energy security and keeping costs down. It shares the prior centre-left government’s aim to make Germany carbon neutral by 2045. But unlike its predecessor, it is more open to which technologies should pave the way there. One of these is carbon capture and storage – or CCS. Whether this is always economical, however, is another matter.

Reporting by Nathan Witkop, Editor Clean Energy Desk, Montel News. Contributors: Carsten Rolle, Director of Climate and Energy Policies, Federation of German Industries (BDI); Manfred Fischedick, Scientific Managing Director of the Wuppertal Institute.

Italian data centres shift to medium-voltage grid

Fri, 23 May 2025 13:50:10 GMT

As data centre demand surges across Italy, operators are making a strategic shift in how they connect to the power grid. With TSO Terna struggling to keep pace with connection requests, companies are bypassing traditional high-voltage connections in favour of medium-voltage alternatives. Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel. Contributors: Emmanuel Becker, CEO of Mediterra, and Giulio Troncarelli, CEO of Internet of Things.

Complexity slows key EU power market reform

Tue, 20 May 2025 10:41:52 GMT

European market operators have agreed to postpone a move from hourly to quarterly trading windows for day-ahead power markets from 11 June to 1 October. The decision slows a reform deemed crucial to integrate more renewables in the electricity grid but is also supported by some who fear systems are not ready yet to cope with the increased complexity.

Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics.

Contributors: Tom Darell, CEO Nord Pool, Jens Nordberg, Head of Power Trading, Varberg Energi.

Pumping hydro to boost UK power grid resilience

Wed, 14 May 2025 12:48:44 GMT

The UK will need an increasing amount of dispatchable energy supply to balance the electricity grid as it adds more renewables such as wind and solar. The country’s hydro reserves have the potential to meet this requirement, providing a reliable source of supply to generate electricity and meet demand when it’s needed the most. The government is facing calls to provide more incentives to attract investment and boost the sector’s development.

Reporting by Kelly Paul, Energy Reporter, Montel News.

Contributor: Fintan Devenney, Senior Energy Analyst at Montel Analytics.

EU coal imports face bumpy path to oblivion

Tue, 06 May 2025 09:12:11 GMT

Europe’s appetite for thermal coal remains in structural decline, amid widespread plant closures and ever-expanding green generation capacity. While there may be some short-term upturns in demand – as seen in the first quarter of this year – coal's role in the power mix is fading as Europe pushes toward cleaner energy. Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributor: Alexis Ellender, Senior Lead, Dry Bulk Insights, Kpler.

Living on a high wire - A French balancing act?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:07:59 GMT

France is living on a high wire as it increasingly resorts to expensive methods to cope with midday solar peaks to balance its grid. Amid TSO warnings, the country will have to focus on boosting demand with nuclear not flexible enough to tackle oversupply.

Reporting by Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel News.

Contributors: Jean-Paul Harreman, Montel Analytics Director; Emeric de Vigan, Power Analyst, 42 Advisors.

Germany’s new government to prioritise cheaper energy

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:52:26 GMT

After winning a general election on 23 February, Germany’s centre-right Christian Union (CDU/CSU) hopes to form a coalition government with the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) by early May. Bringing down energy costs will be one of their chief priorities. This is leading some to suggest curbing the pace of renewable energy and grid expansion.

Reporting by Nathan Witkop, Desk Editor, Montel News.

Contributors: Markus Krebber, CEO, RWE; and Fiete Wulff, Spokesman, Federal Network Agency.

New Nordic back-up scheme sparks uncertainty

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:01:41 GMT

The cost of balancing the Nordic power market has risen considerably since the region launched a joint automated market for frequency reserves on 4 March. The new mechanism aims to better align supply with demand in a power market increasingly dominated by weather dependent wind and solar generation but also poses huge risks for companies that fall out of balance.

Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Contributors Priyanka Shinde, market expert Montel and Jakob Bendixen, partner at Our New Energy.

Spain’s solar boom – A victim of its own success?

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 10:06:38 GMT

After rapid growth in recent years, Spain is starting to witness a slowdown in renewables deployment. The success of the country’s solar buildout has depressed prices to such a degree that developers are now struggling to secure the revenues they need for their green investments. Reporting by Pablo Bronte, Editor Iberia, Montel. Contributor: Javier Revuelta, Senior Principal, Afry Spain.

Norway’s energy minister shrugs off criticism of fixed power price

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 11:02:28 GMT

Norway’s minority government plans to introduce a fixed power price of EUR 34/MWh from 1 October, a proposal that has been strongly criticised by its neighbours Denmark, Sweden and Finland. Despite this, Norway’s energy minister Terje Aasland is standing fully behind the decision. As things stand, it seems very likely that this populist move will be adopted by the Norwegian parliament and enter into force on 1 October. Reporting by Gert Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel. Contributor: Svend Boye, Partner, Thema. Archive footage of Norway in 1990s provided by www.youtube.com/@bjoisac.

German wind power set to boom as solar struggles

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 11:27:28 GMT

While solar power developers in Germany are under pressure to find new ways of marketing or even technical adjustments due to more frequent periods of negative prices, many new wind power projects are expected to come online soon. For the first time in years, wind power could meet its targets, helping the country to reach its climate goals. Reporting by Katharina Johannsen, Reporter, Montel. Contributors: Bärbel Heidebroek, President, German Wind Association; Oliver Felthaus, Head of Sales, Baywa Re; Nicola Kleihues, Director Portfolio & Transactions; Claus Urbanke, Vice President Wind, Solar & Storage Development, Statkraft.

Baltic TSOs confident about cutting power ties with Russia

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 14:08:03 GMT

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania’s long-planned disconnection from the Russian power system is expected to go ahead on Saturday, 8 February. This move, which is estimated to have cost around EUR 1.6bn, comes almost three years after the Baltic states stopped trading electricity with Russia following the country’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Baltic TSOs are confident the transition will be smooth despite recent threats to vital energy infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel. Contributor: Kalle Kilk, CEO Elering.

Germany’s bidding zone dilemma – Less is more?

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:05:14 GMT

At the end of this month, European transmission grid operators were due to publish their long-awaited recommendations on how to improve the efficiency of Europe’s power market, but they have now delayed publication until the spring. Proposals to ease grid bottlenecks include potentially dividing Germany up into between two and five market zones. However, stakeholders – traders and politicians alike – warn that such a move will undermine Germany’s market liquidity, drive up power costs for consumers and cannibalise any benefits that could come from implementing these new bidding zones. Reporting by Julia Demirdag, Energy Reporter Germany, Montel News.

EU energy market integration – A realistic goal?

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:10:17 GMT

As Italy pushes for a unified EU energy market to combat rising industrial costs, experts warn the proposal faces significant technical and political hurdles. Is the dream of a single European energy price just wishful thinking? Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel News. Contributor: Lorenzo Parola, Energy Lawyer.

Norway’s onshore wind plan halted – A long-term threat to industry?

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 10:18:25 GMT

Norway’s onshore wind industry has gone from boom to bust over the past five years amid strong local opposition. A complete standstill in new project development is causing concern among large industrial power users who fear the advantage they held of relatively low power prices will now evaporate. Reporting by: Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel: Contributor: Eivind Kallevik, Norsk Hydro CEO. Some stock footage was provided by Norsk Hydro.

Sink or float – Norway seeks investors for offshore wind

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:30:54 GMT

Norway plans to push ahead with its first tender for the construction of a large-scale floating offshore wind farm early next year, despite industry concerns over rising costs and insufficient state support. Energy minister Terje Aasland says developing floating wind power is very important in terms of boosting not only the country’s energy supply, but also its manufacturing industry.

Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel.

Contributors: Terje Aasland, Norwegian Energy Minister and Jon Evang, Head of Offshore Wind, Renewables Norway.

France deal raises concerns over EDF dominance – Collective intelligence or...

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 10:22:49 GMT

The recent collapse of France’s minority government has deepened uncertainty about the future of a controversial deal state-owned EDF struck with the government a year ago with the aim of replacing the Arenh regulation.

Arenh, which expires in 2026, required EDF to sell about a third of its annual nuclear output to rival suppliers at a fixed rate of EUR 42/MWh, but this new deal does away with a fixed price and allows EDF to sell all its atomic output on the wholesale market.

The firm says it will aim to sell this output an average price of EUR 70/MWh via long-term supply contracts, auctions, and a tax on wholesale nuclear output. Not only has this provoked fierce criticism from rival suppliers and intensive power consumers who will probably be forced to pay more for their power supplies, but it has also spectacularly failed to attract any takers for EDF’s long-term supply contracts due to lower wholesale prices, potentially endangering the company’s ability to service its huge debts or maintain and expand its nuclear fleet.

So, what should France do next? Reporting by Chris Eales, Editor France. Additional reporting by Caroline Pailliez. Contributor: Andreas Rudinger, energy transition expert, IDDRI.

Germany's nuclear phase-out – too advanced to reverse?

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:00:50 GMT

As Germany grows the share of renewable energy in its power mix, it also continues to shrink its fleet of power plants. Higher electricity prices and a growing reliance on imports is prompting concerns the country may soon have too few power stations to cope with periods of low solar and wind generation. Critics of Berlin’s nuclear exit are becoming more vocal, but a German nuclear revival remains improbable. Contributors: Jochen Winkler, Mayor of Neckarwestheim; and Karsten Neuhoff, Energy Economist, German Institute for Economic Research (DIW).

Hungary bets on cheap but risky Russian gas

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:47:14 GMT

Hungary faces a dilemma as it remains heavily reliant on Russian gas, even as other EU nations diversify their supplies in response to the war in Ukraine. With most of its gas imported via the TurkStream pipeline and smaller volumes sourced from neighbouring countries and Croatia’s LNG terminal, Hungary benefits from Russia’s favourable pricing and dependable delivery under a long-term agreement. This dependency carries geopolitical and supply risks, but due to Hungary’s landlocked geography and lack of diversification, it appears unlikely to reduce its reliance on Russian gas in the near future. Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Tamas Pletser, Analyst, Erste Investment; Gábor Szatmári, Head of Eastern European Sales Region, Montel Analytics. This video was originally published on 6 December 2024.

Italy’s gas infrastructure push – A backdoor to hydrogen funding?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:56:24 GMT

Despite falling gas consumption, Italian utilities are pushing to expand their pipeline infrastructure. Could this be a strategy to secure funding for future hydrogen networks given that funding for gas infrastructural investments is more readily available? And if so, what will be its consequences? Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel News. Contributor: Michele Governatori, Energy Analyst at Ecco.

Nordic market coupling – Counter-intuitive or generally beneficial?

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 10:21:30 GMT

The recent introduction of flow-based market coupling to the Nordic region has already had a significant impact. Designed to automatically optimise the use of transmission capacity across bidding zones, this mechanism has boosted prices in some areas but led to power flows against the price signal in others. What is likely to be its long-term outcome? Reporting by: Gert Ove Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel: Contributor: Priyanka Shinde, Nordic Market Expert at Montel Analytics.

Can Britain solve its momentous energy challenge in time?

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 10:36:21 GMT

The race is on for Britain to transition to a decarbonised economy. The government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy to be reached by 2035 and must attract considerable sums of private investment in order to achieve them. This will also involve the construction of new HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) transmission lines. But while there is a consensus that the system needs to change to accommodate more intermittent renewables, the government has faced pushback on its plans for market design. Reporting by Kelly Paul, Energy Reporter, Montel. Contributors: Johnny Gowdy, Director, Regen; and Phil Hewitt, Director of Montel Analytics. This video was originally published on 26 November 2024.

Swedish defence concerns choke Baltic wind ambitions

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:13:33 GMT

Sweden’s recent decision to axe 32 GW of offshore wind in the Baltic Sea due to national defence concerns has seriously called into question Europe’s ambitious plans to develop offshore wind projects in that region. Reporting by: Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel. Contributor: Christian Holtz, Energy Analyst, Merlin & Metis.

Germany bets on Hydrogen

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 11:56:48 GMT

The German government sees hydrogen as critical to decarbonising its economy by 2045. Some sectors like fertilisers, steel or chemicals have few alternatives. But is the same true for heating? With the help of subsidies, Bonn's municipal utility is already planning a hydrogen-filled future for its gas-fired combined heat and power plant. Reporting by Nathan Witkop, Editor Clean Energy Desk. Contributors: Karsten Neuhoff, Energy Economist, German Institute for Economic Research (DIW); David Cebon, Professor Mechanical Engineering, Cambridge University; and Rolf Driller, Technical Employee, Stadtwerke Bonn.

UK finds solace in LNG, but risks remain

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 15:40:48 GMT

LNG is a vital part of the UK’s energy mix, particularly following the recent closure of its last coal-fired plant and amid diminishing domestic gas production. But while early forecasts show the likelihood of a mild start to winter, the country’s heightened reliance on LNG still poses certain challenges, such as competition from global markets, unpredictable weather conditions and limited storage capacity.

Reporting by: Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-In-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Robert Songer, LNG Market Analyst, ICIS; and Lucy Cullen, Head of Europe Gas and LNG Markets, Wood Mackenzie.

New nuclear – an Italian renaissance?

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:48:31 GMT

Since coming to power two years ago, Giorgia Meloni’s government has pushed for the revival of nuclear energy while maintaining the country’s renewable energy targets. But is this plan actually realistic? Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributors: Antonio Michelon, Office Head Italy, AFRY; Piero Viganò, Partner, Advant Nctm; and Matteo Mazzoni, Director of Energy Analytics, ICIS. This video was originally published on 1 November, 2024.

EU data centres shift south, pressuring demand and prices

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:09:47 GMT

Artificial Intelligence's need for computing power will require the scaling up of data centres over the next decade. Europe's data centre market is heading for a fivefold boom by 2032 and tech giants are seeking out virgin territories with sufficient space to build their new complexes. Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel. Contributor: Luca Beltramino, Vice President and Co-Founder, Italian Datacenter Association.

Could France’s green transition be derailed by poor grid flexibility?

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:02:19 GMT

Already in the shadow of nuclear power, renewables in France risk taking the blame for blackouts unless the country takes steps to better manage its grid at times of oversupply or when there is not enough electricity.

Reporting by Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel News.

Contributors: Clement Bouilloux, Analyst, Montel Analytics; and Maxence Cordiez, Energy and Climate Fellow, Institut Montaigne.

Picasso in the Netherlands – Realism or Abstraction?

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:55:16 GMT

The Netherlands faces price turbulence over the coming weeks with many voicing concerns over a lack of transparency and clarity over its participation in the joint-EU balancing market system Picasso. Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel News. Contributor: Jean-Paul Harreman, Director, Montel Analytics.

Fears raised over Nordic green transition amid H2 and battery woes

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 10:12:09 GMT

Recent announcements by energy giants to shelve hydrogen plants in Norway, Sweden and Denmark have sent shockwaves through the power markets. And combined with the struggles of battery producers, many have been left wondering if the Nordic region’s energy transition has stopped or slowed to a glacial pace. Reporting by Olav Vilnes, Editor Nordics, Montel. Contributor: Sigbjorn Seland, chief analyst Storm Geo.

Austria rushes to avoid gas supply squeeze

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 12:01:47 GMT

Austria is heavily reliant on Russian gas, with around 80% of its imports still coming from Gazprom. But this supply route could be cut off at the end of December, as Ukraine is unlikely to renew the transit deal that allows Russian gas to flow into Austria. With the clock ticking, Austria will soon be scrambling to secure new sources to meet its energy needs.

Reporting by Julia Demirdag, Energy Reporter Germany, Montel. Contributors: Tobias Federico, managing director, Montel Analytics ; and Jake Horslen, senior LNG analyst, Energy Aspects.

The UK says goodbye to coal power

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:29:11 GMT

This week marks a historic milestone for the UK as it shuts down the last remaining coal-fired power station, the 2 GW Ratcliffe-on-Soar plant. Once the backbone of the country’s energy supply, coal has been an essential part of the energy mix for over a century. From the world's first coal-fired power station in London in 1882 to powering industries and homes for generations, coal played a vital role in shaping the modern economy.

While there’s a sense of nostalgia, especially among those who built their livelihoods around coal, there’s also acceptance that it’s time to move forward. The UK has shifted toward renewable energy, hopefully ensuring that future generations inherit a cleaner, more sustainable planet. Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Bruce Heppenstall, Plant Director, Drax Power Station; Nigel Yaxley, former Managing Director of the Association of UK Coal Importers and Producers.

Europe's gas market forecast – bearish or bullish?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 10:50:01 GMT

Price swings on the European gas market are notoriously difficult to predict. With gas storage facilities 93% full two months ahead of schedule and the heating season still a few weeks off, the short-term forecast for some market participants is bearish, but what factors are at play and what wildcards can we anticipate for the coming months? Reporting by Julia Demirdag. Contributors: Joachim Endress, Managing Director, Ganexo GmbH; and Francisco Gaspar Machado, Senior Power Research Analyst, LSEG Power Research.

Nordic renewables – Too much of a good thing?

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:28:50 GMT

The Nordic region has an abundance of green energy, and very ambitious targets for future growth. However, as the rest of Europe is also now generating ever increasing amounts of electricity from renewable sources, wholesale prices can swing wildly over the course of a single day. Could this volatility be frightening away much needed new investments? Reporting by Snjolfur Richard Sverrisson, Editor-In-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Priyanka Shinde, Nordic Market Expert, Montel; Tor Reier Lilleholt, Head of Analysis, Insight by Volue; Marius Holm Rennesund, Partner, Thema Consulting Group; and Maija Ahola, Senior Manager, LevelTen Energy.

Aarhus – Europe’s energy trading hub

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:21:01 GMT

Why have energy trading firms congregated in Denmark’s second city of Aarhus, and what is the secret of their success?
Reporter: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-In-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Phil Hewitt, CTO Montel; Allan Virtue, Head of Markets, Vindenergi Denmark; Martin Damgaard Larsen, CEO Aarhus Energy; Stefan Barkholt Ovesen, Head of Markets, Aaarhus Energy; Gabor Szatmari, CEE Territory Manager, Montel; and Astrid Buhr Broge, Chief Consultant, Green Power Denmark. This video was first published on 15 March 2024.

Unpicking Picasso – Safety in numbers?

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:56:31 GMT

The aim of the much-anticipated Picasso algorithm was to balance European power grids more efficiently but since its introduction in Italy it has had quite the opposite effect. So, what went wrong and what choices do European power markets have to restore stability? Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel. Contributor: Fulvio Fontini, Professor of Economics at Padua University and Italian Energy Ministry advisor.

Paid to use power – a sustainable trend?

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 13:59:11 GMT

European power markets have witnessed a barrage of negative prices in recent months, and this trend is set to continue for the foreseeable future with the ramping up of renewables output. How should Europe react to this challenge and provide the supply stability needed to meet its climate targets? Reporting by Alina Trabattoni, Italy Correspondent, Montel. Contributor: Markus Rauramo, CEO, Fortum.

Swedish nuclear – Just an illusion?

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Sweden is banking on nuclear power to help it meet a forecast sharp rise in demand. But it is a path fraught with obstacles given Europe has so far failed to build any new nuclear capacity on time or on budget. Reporting by: Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel. Contributors: Jesper Marklund, Nuclear Development Manager, Fortum Sweden; Oskar Öhrman, CTO, Svensk Solenergi. This video was first published on 3 June 2024.

The Norwegian GO dilemma – Should it stay, or should it go?

Mon, 27 May 2024 16:48:07 GMT

When Norway’s current centre-left government took office in 2021, it declared that Norway should pull out of the market for Guarantees of Origins. Given that 80% of all GOs issued in Norway are consumed in Europe, mainly in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, such a decision would have serious implications and recent statements from the country’s energy minister do suggest there may have been a change of heart. Reporting by Gert Mollestad, Editor Norway, Montel. Contributor: Daniel Arnesson, Manager GO, Veyt.

Expected far-right gains in EU elections to dilute green deal

Fri, 17 May 2024 08:50:05 GMT

France's far-right is expected to make significant gains in June's European elections. A swing to the right in the European parliament could weaken EU climate policy. Reporting by Chris Eales, Editor France, Montel. Contributors: Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, research fellow in French and European energy policy, Jacques Delors Institute; Alice Franz, Director of European and International Affairs, UFE; and Jan Jacob Boom Wichers CEO, Holosolis.

Twilight years for coal in Europe

Wed, 08 May 2024 17:03:45 GMT

Expanding renewable energy capacity and fierce competition from gas have eroded European demand for thermal coal over the past decade, amid widespread closures of coal-fired plants to meet climate goals. As such, the region’s thermal coal traders are increasingly focusing on other markets, such as Asia, or branching out into different commodities – including biomass, gas and LNG – as alternative energy sources squeeze fossil fuels from the European power mix. Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Guillaume Perret, Director, Perret Associates; Tomasz Mijal, Managing Director, Bulk Trading Polska; Wendelin Knauss, Trader, Uniper.

Cold comfort for Germany's trade exposed industry

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 20:41:14 GMT

The energy prices that underpin Europe’s industrial production have fallen, but the outlook for the continent’s competitiveness remains bleak some two years on from the start of Russia’s war on Ukraine. Reporting by Nathan Witkop, Editor Clean Energy Desk, Montel. Contributors: Christof Bauer, Executive Advisor Energy, Infraserv; Claudia Günther, Research Lead Germany, Aurora Energy Research: and Diana Bacila, Long Term Asset Trader, Alpiq.

Running the Red Sea gauntlet

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:11:21 GMT

Seaborne vessel traffic via the Red Sea has dropped sharply since Iran-backed Houthi rebels began attacks on shipping in November last year. But some ships are continuing to run the gauntlet of missiles and drones, despite rising insurance costs and risks to the safety of crew members. Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Burak Cetinok, Head of research, Arrow Shipbroking Group; Derek Steel, Managing Director, Chartsec.

UK LNG port to boost supply security

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 15:06:22 GMT

Gas will be key to ensuring the UK’s power supply over the coming years, amid a growing reliance on intermittent wind capacity and the phase-out of coal-fired generation. To meet that demand and provide additional security and flexibility beyond the UK’s borders, Grain LNG, Europe’s largest LNG terminal, is expanding its import and storage capacity. | Reporting by Laurence Walker, Editor-in-Chief, Montel. Contributor: Simon Culkin, Terminal Manager, Grain LNG. Drone footage: National Grid Ventures.

Greening the Balkans

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:41:42 GMT

There is appetite for renewables in the Balkans but the roll-out of green energy seems to be stumbling amid a complex regulatory environment and a lack of financing. How can the resource rich region wean itself off fossil fuels and expedite the energy transition?

Ukraine’s continuing fight for energy supply

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Ukraine has survived a second winter of attacks on its energy infrastructure, but with Russia still actively targeting power plants and transmission systems, what can be done to guarantee power supply at a time of war? Reporting by Laurence Walker, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Montel. Contributors: Svitlana Grynchuk, Ukrainian Deputy Energy Minister; Dmytro Sakharuk, Executive Director, Dtek; Yuriy Onyshkiv, Senior Gas Analyst, LSEG.

Are soaring costs of the energy transition stifling green growth?

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:28:27 GMT

Have spiralling costs, high interest rates and low and volatile electricity prices slowed down the decarbonisation of Europe’s economy?

Reporter: Richard Sverrisson, Montel. Contributors:
Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool, a Montel Group company;
Hanns Koenig, Managing Director, Central Europe, Aurora Energy Research;
Henning Gloystein, Director for Energy, Climate and Resources, Eurasia Group.

Gridlocked?

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:35:05 GMT

At COP28, the EU pledged to put EUR 2.3bn towards supporting the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) global target of 11 TW renewables by 2030 to help deliver net-zero emissions by 2050. However, for this goal to materialise, grid and energy-related infrastructure must expand significantly. Montel’s news editor Christian Bushill reports.
Reporter: Christian Bushill, Montel News
With: Dr. Jody Verboomen, Global Head of Grid Analysis & Planning, Siemens Energy

Ukraine readies for Russian winter attacks

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:51:40 GMT

Ukraine is expecting an escalation in Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure this winter, but the country is better prepared than last year, having carried out extensive repairs in recent months and taken significant steps to safeguard energy security. Montel’s Deputy Editor-in-Chief Laurence Walker reports.

Reporter: Laurence Walker, Montel News
With: Svitlana Grynchuk, Deputy Energy Minister, Ukraine
Yuriy Onyshkiv, LSEG
Footage: DTEK

Can nuclear take France to the promised land of net zero?

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:42:23 GMT

Nuclear is firmly back in the driving seat in France. But will it lead to the promised land of carbon neutrality or is the country heading for a crash? Montel's France editor Chris Eales reports.

With:
Valerie Faudon, Director general, SFEN
Franck Gbaguidi, Director, Energy, Climate & Resources, Eurasia Group
Julien Tedde, CEO of Opera Energie
Thibault Laconde, CEO, Callendar

Storm Hans brings relief

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 15:23:54 GMT

A sopping summer and a deluge in the wake of Storm Hans looks set to pressure the Nordic wholesale power market and will lower guarantees of origin prices in the coming months. Montel’s Editor in Chief Richard Sverrisson investigates.

Reporter: Snjólfur Richard Sverrisson, Montel News

With: Tor Reier Lilleholt, Volue Insights
Stefan Erath, Hydro Energi
Laura Malinen, Montel Marketplace
Marcus Ferdinand, Veyt

From Delay to Deliverance?

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:25:02 GMT

Way over budget and long overdue, Finland’s Olkiluoto 3 nuclear reactor, the largest in Europe, was finally commissioned this May. Montel’s France Editor Chris Eales examines its impact on the power market. Reporter: Chris Eales, Editor, Montel News France

With: Jukka Ruusunen, CEO, Fingrid
Sigbjørn Seland, Chief Analyst, StormGeo Nena Analysis
Heidi Paalatie, Director of Operations, Finnish Wind Power Association

Gas price slide – a mere blip?

Fri, 26 May 2023 09:47:14 GMT

European wholesale gas prices have plummeted from the highs seen in the midst of the energy crisis. How low can they go, and will industrial demand return in the medium to long term?

Lucky break

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 23:12:25 GMT

Germany weathered a winter without Russian gas better than many expected – but the road ahead looks far from smooth.

Cold comfort

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Full storage facilities may not be enough to keep Germany warm in the months ahead as the country prepares to enter winter without Russian gas.

Reporter: Nathan Witkop, Montel News.
Guests: Wayne Bryan, Director, European Gas Research, Refinitv.
Tim Steinert, Senior Consultant, Enervis
Diana Bacila, Senior coal analyst, Alpiq
Ana Stanič, Principal, E&A Law Limited

Europe's scramble for gas

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

With the threat of a complete reduction in gas flows to Europe looming and growing uncertainty over the operation of the Nord Stream 1 pipeline after July, the outlook for the coming winter is bleak. At the E-World energy & water conference in Essen, Montel spoke to key market participants and energy analysts about the choices that lie ahead.

Reporter: Richard Sverrisson, Editor-in-Chief, Montel

Interviewees:
Tobias Federico, Managing Director, Energy Brainpool,
Torsten Frank, Managing Director, Trading Hub Europe,
Guillaume Perret, Founder and Director, Perret Associates,
Jeremy Plaister, Senior Commercial Manager, MetDesk
Julia Demirdag, Germany Correspondent, Montel

Montel News - Energy Insights

Norway says no to nuclear for now

Hormuz under siege – Italy sounds the alarm

German decongestion plan alarms renewable energy operators

Geopolitical uncertainty brings European gas storage into focus

Italy scrambles to plug gas gap

Germany’s gas-storage dilemma – state help or market outcome?

Another energy crisis – boom or bust for the green transition?

Hourly GO Matching - a boost to green market credibility?

US grip on Europe’s LNG faces Qatari challenge

Lessons in war: Can Europe learn from the carnage in Ukraine?

February freeze could drain German gas storage, boost energy prices

Will Norway turn to nuclear to meet demand growth?

Europe’s LNG imports face choppy supply in 2026

Italian batteries: the blueprint for Europe?

Auction flop stalls Germany's offshore wind

Slovakia faces hard landing from Russian gas exit

A complex web? Nordic balancing market under fire

Iberian blackout reignites battle over Spain’s nuclear future

Could Norway’s fixed-price power scheme deepen Nordic hydro, wind woes?

Germany floats energy subsidies for its beleaguered industry

Declining electricity demand questions UK power scenarios

Dunkelflaute Alert — windless cold snaps could send prices soaring once more

Rotterdam’s coal era fades amid energy transition

France's energy turmoil – Is there any way out?

Can a new electricity highway bridge Norway’s price gap?

Data centres – From grid burden to flexible asset?

Mind the Gap – Is the UK’s gas storage shortfall a concern?

Spain's coal dies – Long live gas?

Will Norway turn its back on the European electricity market?

Storing up trouble? The role of batteries in Europe's energy transition

Europe’s power networks need stronger crisis strategies

Abundant Swedish wind blows profits away?

Scorched turbines – Heatwaves stall Europe’s wind power

Will Germany’s immense infrastructure debt help the country’s energy transition?

EU ban on Russian LNG reloads may boost supply to Europe

Will the Nordic region set a new power export record in 2025?

Europe urged to tap into domestic gas reserves

Spain’s power blackout – A stress test for renewables?

A slowdown in European negative power prices?

Have French politicians lost the energy plot?

EU steams ahead with plans to ditch Russian gas

New nuclear – learning from Finland

Low prices hit northern Norwegian power producers hard

Data centre boom – What can Europe learn from Ireland?

Germany pivots to carbon capture and storage to cut emissions

Italian data centres shift to medium-voltage grid

Complexity slows key EU power market reform

Pumping hydro to boost UK power grid resilience

EU coal imports face bumpy path to oblivion

Living on a high wire - A French balancing act?

Germany’s new government to prioritise cheaper energy

New Nordic back-up scheme sparks uncertainty

Spain’s solar boom – A victim of its own success?

Norway’s energy minister shrugs off criticism of fixed power price

German wind power set to boom as solar struggles

Baltic TSOs confident about cutting power ties with Russia

Germany’s bidding zone dilemma – Less is more?

EU energy market integration – A realistic goal?

Norway’s onshore wind plan halted – A long-term threat to industry?

Sink or float – Norway seeks investors for offshore wind

France deal raises concerns over EDF dominance – Collective intelligence or...

Germany's nuclear phase-out – too advanced to reverse?

Hungary bets on cheap but risky Russian gas

Italy’s gas infrastructure push – A backdoor to hydrogen funding?

Nordic market coupling – Counter-intuitive or generally beneficial?

Can Britain solve its momentous energy challenge in time?

Swedish defence concerns choke Baltic wind ambitions

Germany bets on Hydrogen

UK finds solace in LNG, but risks remain

New nuclear – an Italian renaissance?

EU data centres shift south, pressuring demand and prices

Could France’s green transition be derailed by poor grid flexibility?

Picasso in the Netherlands – Realism or Abstraction?

Fears raised over Nordic green transition amid H2 and battery woes

Austria rushes to avoid gas supply squeeze

The UK says goodbye to coal power

Europe's gas market forecast – bearish or bullish?

Nordic renewables – Too much of a good thing?

Aarhus – Europe’s energy trading hub

Germany’s gas-storage dilemma –  state help or market outcome?