Renewables in Action

Tony Tiyou
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Business
  • Monthly

Welcome to Renewables in Action, where you can explore the exciting world of Renewable Energy. Hosted by Tony Tiyou, a former Automotive Engineer turned Clean Energy Entrepreneur, this show provides a comprehensive look at the trends, business models, and insights of the Renewable Energy sector. Whether you're seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities in the industry or looking to grow your business in this new world, Renewables in Action offers valuable insights and guidance to help you realize your full potential. Join us on our journey to discover the amazing world of Renewables and discover how you can make a positive impact on the world.

  1. Sep 30

    "You Already Have AI. Who's Managing It?" (Shadow AI with Simon Bransfield-Garth)

    If you think your company hasn't adopted AI yet, it probably has. You just haven't met it. In this comeback episode of Renewables in Action, Tony Tiyou sits down with Simon Bransfield-Garth: Cambridge AI researcher from the neural-network days, founder of pay-as-you-go solar pioneer Azuri Technologies (around 250,000 homes powered), and now CEO of Akili AI. Simon explains "shadow AI": the AI that gets into your business through software updates you never reviewed, and through staff pasting confidential data into free ChatGPT. He walks through a spreadsheet that gives a different answer every time it's opened, and a media company that complained about AI firms taking its content while its own journalists were handing that content over. He also takes on the "Californian narrative" of AI. In Africa, he argues, the money isn't in replacing workers. It's in removing the friction that makes a bank account take six weeks to open. And Africa doesn't need to build foundation models to win, just as it didn't need to own the fibre-optic cables to benefit from the internet. The takeaway for every board: assume AI is already inside, assess your readiness, and build a bottom-up opportunity matrix based on real ROI. Chapters 00:00 Intro 03:09 Simon's journey: Cambridge AI, Azuri, Akili AI 04:48 Lessons from the pay-as-you-go solar waves 07:06 Why California's AI narrative doesn't fit Africa 12:24 Where AI is hiding in your organisation 15:30 Shadow AI: hallucinations, data leaks, board risk 19:46 The first steps for CEOs 24:19 Governance that scales, from a 15-person firm to a bank 25:56 Is Africa moving too slowly? 29:52 Creator or consumer: Africa's AI window 32:21 Simon's one message to African boards Free AI readiness check: akili-ai.com Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

    "You Already Have AI. Who's Managing It?" (Shadow AI with Simon Bransfield-Garth)

  2. 07/07/2025

    From Infrastructure to Impact: Spiro’s Approach to Electric Vehicles, Local Jobs, and Energy Access in Africa with Kaushik Burman

    In this edition, recorded during Morocco Energy Week, we speak with Kaushik Burman, Chief Executive of Spiro Electric Motorcycles, a company working to expand electric mobility across Africa. Kaushik Burman is based in Dubai and brings over 20 years of experience in the energy and mobility sectors. Before joining Spiro, he held senior roles at Gogoro, leading its entry into markets such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Korea and India. He also spent several years at Shell in a variety of leadership positions across Europe and Asia. His academic background includes degrees from INSEAD, the Harvard Kennedy School, the University College of Engineering in Hyderabad, and FMS Delhi. Under Kaushik’s leadership, Spiro is working to build a practical, scalable electric mobility solution for Africa. By deploying battery swap stations and using locally available energy sources, the company aims to make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for everyday use. At the same time, Spiro is investing in local skills through Spiro Academy, which offers training in electric vehicle maintenance and operations. Their efforts have recently been recognised at the FT Live Africa Sustainable Futures Awards. Key discussion points with Kaushik Burman: How Spiro is working with communities and partners for site deployment and energy solutionsThe role of solar and hybrid energy in rural battery swap stationsHow battery swapping is improving affordability and accessVision, accessibility, and training partnerships with TVETs and universitiesThe evolving role of local factories as training hubs and innovation centersThe number of trained individuals and the ripple effects on livelihoodsHow Spiro-certified technicians are expected to drive the EV ecosystem across Africa Connect with Kaushik Burman at Kaushik Burman Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

  3. 01/31/2025

    Cracking the Code of EV Adoption: Challenges, Breakthroughs, and the Road Ahead with Mats Larsson

    In this episode, we have an engaging discussion with Mats Larsson, Director of the Global Energy Transformation Institute and author of eight internationally published books, including Global Energy Transformation. Mats brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable transportation and energy systems, offering a deep dive into the critical shifts shaping the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Key discussion points with Mats Larsson: The real challenges in scaling EV infrastructure and what’s needed to overcome themBreakthrough technologies reshaping mobility and accelerating electrificationHow electrification is transforming society beyond transportation, impacting industries and urban developmentThe trillion-dollar investment landscape and the financial realities of energy transformationA systematic approach to tackling financial and organizational hurdles in the transition to sustainable transportationJoin us for an insightful conversation with Mats as we explore the road ahead for EVs, the role of innovation, and what it will take to create a truly electrified future. Connect with Mats Larsson at Mats Larsson Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

  4. 10/14/2024

    Redefining Africa's Energy Landscape: AFC’s Bold Moves in Renewable Projects with Osaruyi Orobosa

    In this episode, we have an engaging discussion with Osaruyi Orobosa, Senior Vice President of Project Development at the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). Osaruyi brings extensive experience in leading power, heavy industry, transport, and telecom infrastructure projects across Africa, playing a pivotal role in AFC’s renewable energy initiatives. Key discussion points with Osaruyi Orobosa: AFC’s acquisition of Lekela Power and its journey to becoming the largest renewable energy player in AfricaThe strategic importance of AFC's partnership with Infinity Power and how it aligns with long-term renewable energy goalsInsights into the Morocco-UK Power Project and its potential to reshape intercontinental energy tradeAFC’s approach to balancing energy poverty and climate change while ensuring rapid energy access through clean energy solutionsThe impact of the Red Sea Power wind farm in Djibouti, set to boost the country’s energy capacity by 50%, and the challenges of managing projects with significant national influenceTune in to explore AFC’s vision for Africa’s renewable energy future and the opportunities and challenges they face in driving sustainable infrastructure development across the continent. Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

  5. 09/20/2024

    Scaling Financial Modelling and Inclusive Financial Solutions Across Africa with Ruben Mooneesawmy

    In this episode, we feature an enlightening conversation with Ruben Mooneesawmy, the visionary CEO and Founder of Numeris and Axcel Insights. With a background in building global marketplace platforms and a regulated advisory firm, Ruben has established himself as a leader in financial modelling, valuations, and corporate finance across Africa and beyond. Key discussion points with Ruben Mooneesawmy: Ruben’s leadership at Numeris, building a global financial modelling and valuation platform with a diverse, pan-African teamAxcel Insights’ role as a licensed advisory firm, specialising in capital raises, mergers, acquisitions, and debt restructuring in AfricaThe unique competitive edge of Numeris and Axcel Insights against the Big 4 firmsChampioning African startups through investment readiness and inclusive financial solutionsA focus on Africa’s power sector, with an emphasis on renewable energyThe benefits of prioritising diversity and driving financial innovation across bordersKeep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

  6. 06/18/2024

    Pioneering Change: Impact Investing and Sima Funds Journey With CEO Asad Mahmood

    In this episode, we feature an insightful interview with Asad Mahmood, the visionary CEO and Managing Partner of Social Investment Managers & Advisors (SIMA) Funds. With a remarkable career that includes spearheading Deutsche Bank's Global Social Investment Funds for 17 years, Asad co-founded SIMA Funds in 2016, continuing his legacy of impactful investing. Under Asad's leadership, SIMA has become synonymous with innovative impact strategies and a culture of transparency.  Key discussion points with Asad Mahmood: Asad Mahmood's leadership at SIMA Funds and his role as CEO and Managing PartnerTransition from leading Deutsche Bank's Global Social Investment Funds to co-founding SIMA Funds in 2016SIMA’s holistic approach to impact investing and fostering a culture of transparency and innovationInitiating the largest off-grid solar fund of its era in 2017Establishing the first code of conduct for the off-grid solar sectorLaunching the first energy access fund in response to the COVID-19 crisisCreating the first Green Bond targeting small to medium-sized solar developersIntroducing groundbreaking affordable mortgage fintech in PakistanFounding SIMA Impact Foundation, blending philanthropy with impact investingDeveloping Sow Good Investments, the first U.S. crowdlending platform for international impact investmentsConnect with Asad Mahmood at Asad Mahmood Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

  7. 06/04/2024

    Harnessing the Breeze: Afonso Faria's Insights on Wind Energy and Sustainable Solutions

    In this episode, learn about the dynamic world of wind energy innovation from Afonso Faria, the visionary CEO of AFF Windservices. Join us as Afonso shares the incredible journey of his company, which has been a pioneering force in the wind energy sector since its inception in 2006. Learn how Afonso's broad global experience and client-centric innovation paved the way for AFF Windservices, a company known for its careful approach and relentless pursuit of excellence. From navigating technological breakthroughs to customising solutions for diverse client needs, Afonso digs into the key insights and skills required for success in this ever-changing sector. Key discussion points with Afonso Faria: Afonso's diverse cultural experiences and global background and how it influenced his vision and led to the establishment of AFF Windservices in 2006.How AFF Windservices prioritizes innovation and client-focused service, setting the company apart as a leader in the wind energy sector.The pivotal role of technological advancements in driving progress within the wind energy industryEssential skills and expertise required for individuals seeking a successful career in the wind energy sectorAFF Windservices' tailored approach to addressing client needsAFF Windservices' significant role in facilitating the transition from traditional fossil fuels to cleaner, renewable energy sourcesFaria's thoughts on the future of wind energyConnect with Afonso Faria at Afonso Faria Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

  8. 04/16/2024

    Innovating Energy: Etana's Journey to Renewable Power Trading

    Tune in to this episode of Renewables in Action as we explore the cutting edge of renewable energy innovation with Etana Energy. Our guest, Evan Rice, CEO of Etana Energy, discusses their pioneering efforts to democratise access to renewable energy for businesses in South Africa. Discover how Etana Energy's revolutionary electricity trading model is reshaping the energy landscape, allowing them to procure clean energy from independent producers and distribute it directly to commercial and industrial clients via the national grid.  Key discussion points with Evan Rice: Etana Energy's pioneering role in increasing access to renewable energy for businesses in South AfricaInsights into Etana Energy's innovative electricity trading model from CEO Evan RiceSourcing power from independent renewable producers and supplying it directly to commercial/industrial customers using the national gridGroundbreaking partnership with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, focusing on a "cluster approach" to aggregate large energy usersSecuring competitive renewable power for businesses collectivelyEvan Rice's perspective on current challenges and opportunities in South Africa's energy landscapeEtana's future vision and plans to champion sustainable energy access nationwideFurther growth and adoption of Etana's trading modelInsight into how electricity trading can unlock renewable energy for businessesAddressing South Africa's broader energy crisis through innovative solutions Connect with Evan Rice at Evan Rice Keep updated and connect with Tony here... Youtube - Renewables in Africa Channel LinkedIn (Tony) – Tony Tiyou Instagram - Renewables in Action

See All (26)

About

Welcome to Renewables in Action, where you can explore the exciting world of Renewable Energy. Hosted by Tony Tiyou, a former Automotive Engineer turned Clean Energy Entrepreneur, this show provides a comprehensive look at the trends, business models, and insights of the Renewable Energy sector. Whether you're seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities in the industry or looking to grow your business in this new world, Renewables in Action offers valuable insights and guidance to help you realize your full potential. Join us on our journey to discover the amazing world of Renewables and discover how you can make a positive impact on the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Tony Tiyou
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Renewables in Action
  • Show Website
    Renewables in Action