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With trillions of dollars required to meet net-zero goals, states, industry leaders and investors are placing strategic bets on the emerging technologies touted as game-changers in the battle against climate change. From questions over the viability of hydrogen and carbon capture, to the formidable logistics of multiplying global renewable energy output, to the technical challenges of next-generation battery storage and nuclear power, much is riding on the major players choosing wisely. In a new series from Herbert Smith Freehills, our experts explore the key solutions touted as clean-power champions, assessing the commercial realities and technical dynamics at hand as the global energy industry races to remake itself for the post-carbon age.


Part five

The nuclear option – Can atomic power arrive in time (and on budget)?

Nuclear power retains huge potential in the race for carbon-free energy but our Chasing Zero series finds policymakers need long-term thinking to seize the opportunity.


Part four

Chasing Zero – Why battery power should unlock the energy transition

Exponential increases in energy storage are needed for renewable power to displace fossil fuels. Yet plunging costs and soaring demand have yet to forge a stable global battery market


Part three

Snatching defeat – What went wrong for Europe's wind power

After a period of resounding success, 2023 saw a reversal for the industry. The latest in our Chasing Zero series asks: what next?


Part two

Stealing thunder – Scaling Asia wind power is harder than it looks

After a transformational decade in Europe, Asia-Pacific states are racing to ramp up wind power. It won't be easy, says the first of our two-part special


Part one

Energy transition – Can hydrogen go from sci-fi to fact?

Hydrogen power has attracted hype and disillusion before. But with increased realism, policy support and pressing need for carbon-free energy, third time looks lucky



Chasing Zero – Energy Transition

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Nick Baker

Managing Partner, Projects, Energy and Infrastructure, Melbourne

Nick Baker
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Lewis McDonald

全球能源业务主管合伙人, Tokyo

Lewis McDonald

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