Abstract: The future of our energy systems depends on cutting-edge innovations in Grid Infrastructure Technology (Grid Infra Tech), essential for integrating renewable energy and supporting a sustainable, resilient grid. This seminar will explore the evolving innovation landscape in Grid Infra Tech, with a special focus on the critical subsectors where transformative advancements are occurring. It is estimated that failing to upgrade and expand our grid could result in up to 80% of federal funding dedicated to energy transition goals being lost - a powerful reminder of the urgent need for accelerated smart grid and interconnection solutions. Join us as we delve into how new technologies, from AI-driven grid management tools and interconnection management to advanced energy storage and trading, are set to address these pressing challenges. By uncovering key growth areas, this session will highlight how next-generation solutions can drive impactful change and accelerate the global transition to clean energy.

Bio: Giancarlo Savini is Investment Principal at Future Energy Ventures. He is a seasoned venture capitalist with a 16-year track record in venture investments and strategic partnerships across the energy transition landscape. His expertise spans transformative technologies in software platforms, biofuels, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), carbon capture and storage (CCUS), hydrogen, and energy storage. Before working as investor he developed, scaled and operated a 1GW asset producing hydrogen and electricity. He has lived and worked in the USA, the Netherlands, Norway, and Qatar, and currently serves as a board member and observer for five startups. He is also the founder of a climate-tech startup active in the solar sector. Giancarlo studied at the University of Oxford, along with an MBA from IMD Business School in Switzerland.