Richard Lowes
Senior Associate at The Regulatory Assistance Project
I research and communicate around the issue of how to transform the energy system from one based around dirty fossil fuel energy to a system based on clean and zero-carbon energy. My specialist area is heating and the move away from gas and oil. I have worked in the gas industry, in universities, and in Governments. I now work for the global think-tank the Regulatory Assistance Project leading heat work in the European team.
How did you get to become an expert in your key topics?
Through university studies, I learned the basics of environmental issues doing a geography degree and then focussed on energy policy for my masters. Following this, I worked for a UK gas network owner leading their work on policy and government relations. I then did a Ph.D. in sustainable heat policy and worked as an academic for a few years. My perfect role then came up at RAP where it’s literally my job to try and make the transition to clean energy go faster.
What sub-topics are you most passionate about?
Hmm…to understand the energy you need to know about the whole system. But I have a big soft spot for offshore wind, heat pumps, hydrogen (in the right places). It’s not my area but I’m also a bit of a transport nerd. I like trains and I’m fascinated by road policy.
Who influences you within these topics?
Auke Hoekstra has the best numbers, Michael Liebreich cuts the crap out, Clem Cowton inspires the passion, and Juliet Phillips deserves a medal for speaking the truth and aligning the progressive bits of the heat sector. But a huge shout-out goes to the heat pump engineers like Ken Bone who are really worth their weight in gold.
What do you think the future holds in this space?
Stratospheric growth. Because if that doesn’t happen we’re in trouble.
What brands are leading the way in this space?
Octopus energy is actively trying to dominate and have much of the required skill set and passion. When it comes to heat tech, big shout out to Nibe, Mitsubishi, and Vaillant. But there is still a long way to go.
If a brand wanted to work with you, which activities would you be most interested in collaborating on?
Podcasts, webinars, whitepaper, speaking opportunities, product innovation, and video interviews. I enjoy video the most as I spend much of my time at a computer and it’s an excuse to leave the house
What are your passions outside of work?
What would be the best way for a brand to contact you?
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