What is solar inflation? What is “the grid” and why is it “full”? Why are Germany and Chile struggling with negative energy prices? Tune in with our special guest Benjamin, as we discuss these questions, what they mean to electricity production in the future and how we could potentially solve these massive challenges. In this episode you learn all about “the grid”, how complex it can be, where it is "failing" - we are still not certain - and the ultimate wizard solution: virtual power plants.

The global energy firm Wartsila modeled the least-cost renewables mix for all regions of the world, based on projected technology costs for 2030. The analysis shows that all regions require overbuilding of renewable capacity of up to four times. Contrary to popular belief, no seasonal storage is required, “only” four to ten days of multi-day storage capacity.

Colin Breck and Percy Link explore the evolution of Tesla's Virtual Power Plant (VPP) architecture. A VPP is a network of distributed energy-resources (often solar, wind, batteries) that are aggregated to provide smarter and more flexible power generation, distribution, and availability. Tesla's VPP consists of vertically integrated hardware and software, including both cloud and edge computing.

As a U.S. energy consumer, you can make money with a Tesla Powerwall once you install it. In fact, Tesla will send you a check! With the Tesla Powerwall, your home can now become a mini virtual power plant.