Recorded 2nd May 2026: This week we explore the forces reshaping distribution level power systems, the UK's new energy policy announcements, and the progress of fossil fuel phase-out after a historic conference in Colombia.

Part One: DERs, VPPs, and the Grid Edge

Stories from Octopus Energy, Uplight, Lunar Energy, & Span all point to the grid becoming more distributed, more intelligent, and more participatory.

DERs - including home batteries, EV charging, & flexible demand - are increasingly being treated as real capacity resources rather than emergency backup systems. VPPs can now meet peak demand at significantly lower cost than conventional generation, using assets that already exist in homes & businesses. As electricity demand rises & interconnection timelines stretch, the fa ...