In a recent fireside chat, Aaron Ratner, Executive Director at Alternus Clean Energy and Co-founder & Managing Partner of Vectr Carbon Partners, discussed the financing and deployment of climate technology into the global world. Ratner shared his background in clean energy, including his work with Generate Capital and Ultra Capital, and his experience in project finance and venture capital. He also discussed his current role at Alternus Clean Energy, a transatlantic utility-scale solar independent power producer (IPP).

Ratner highlighted the importance of experience and passion in developers and founders, and the need for a clear understanding of the legal regime and government’s stance on renewable energy in the countries they operate. He also emphasized the importance of working with the oil and gas industry in the energy transition, stating that there is much to learn from these companies.

Key timestamps include:

00:09: Introduction to ION Influencers Fireside Chat
00:38: Background and Experience in Clean Energy
02:48: Application of Past Experience at Alternus Clean Energy
04:21: Challenges in Deploying Advanced Technologies
04:52: Mandate at Alternus Clean Energy
05:42: Project Acquisition and Growth Strategy
06:14: Sourcing Deals and Partnerships
07:01: Deal Processing and Capital Structure
08:03: Impact of Interest Rates on Capital Structure
09:23: Capital Structure Management and Financial Review
10:43: Negotiating Financing with Project Developers
13:14: Role of Government Subsidies in Project Financing
15:19: Clarity and Institutionalization of Support in the US
16:42: Portfolio Review and Criteria
17:33: Focus on Portfolio Growth
18:15: Business Presence in Europe and the US
18:49: Solar Market Overview and Macro Trends
20:34: Geographical Focus and Future Opportunities
21:09: Importance of Focus and Executive Attention
23:56: Partnerships and Competitors in Storage
24:46: Financing Considerations for Solar Projects with Storage
26:03: Expectations for Electricity Demand and Market Trends
28:09: Macro Considerations for Investment and Project Feasibility
29:38: Project Fitness and Equity Deployment
30:07: Project Variables and Jurisdiction Considerations
30:59: Grid Capacity and Utilities’ Perspective
31:24: Investors’ Concerns and Market Dynamics
32:16: Equity Capital and Growth Strategy
33:34: Criteria for Founders and Developers
34:38: Long-Term Partnership Attributes
35:05: Career Advice and Networking
36:07: Wisdom from Experience