From Backbone to Back up? Understanding Gas’s Role in Setting Future Power Prices

Welcome back to The Pexapark Podcast! In this episode, we start with an ERCOT edit, including an update on the energy market’s PPAs and Tolls pricing following Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports; a major load forecast revision, and the rising political tension in Texas. More topics include the proposals of the French energy regulator to boost the local PPA market, Germany’s latest EEG solar auction, and more, followed by a deep dive into the evolving nature of gas markets. Seb Kennedy is the founding Editor of Energy Flux, a premium newsletter analysing global natural gas markets through the lens of Europe’s net zero journey. As one of the sharpest voices on the shifting dynamics of global gas markets, we aimed to contemplate questions such as: Is gas still the price anchor in Europe? What would a system look like if natural gas only served as a backup?What is the definite trend that emerged from Seb’s analysis of capture price and rates of thermal plants over the past years, compared to renewables? What is the outlook for US and European LNG margins? And what could be some big macroeconomic scenarios that could influence natural gas pricing regimes in 2025? Episode breakdown:00:00- Intro01:11-Regulation05:30-Deals & Prices07:25- Interview with Seb Kenedy LinksEnergy Flux NewsletterPexapark Q1 2025 Renewables & PPA Market Update ReportsUnlock More PPA Market InsightsRegister for your free Pexapark account to stay updated on the latest energy transition trends. Learn more >