Why Tough Tech Startups Will Dominate the Next Energy Boom

Why is “tough tech” set to revolutionize the next wave of energy transition? Michael Kearney, General Partner at The Engine Ventures, shares how startups tackling hard engineering problems are unlocking clean, firm baseload power like geothermal, fusion, and fission. With renewable energy making up 96% of new U.S. production in 2024, Michael explores the rapid scaling of technology, overcoming talent gaps, and the role of team culture in startup success. From AI-driven power demand to industrial scaling, this conversation reveals the key levers tough tech companies must pull to lead the energy boom.Tune in to be captivated by Michael's passion for tough tech and setting energy transition in motion.--- Hey Climate Tech enthusiasts! Searching for new podcasts on sustainability? Check out the Leaders on a Mission podcast, where I interview climate tech leaders who are shaking up the industry and bringing us the next big thing in sustainable solutions. Join me for a deep dive into the future of green innovation exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of pioneering new technologies.Get an exclusive insight into how these leaders started up their journey, and how their cutting edge products will make a real impact. Tune in on…YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadersonamissionNet0Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o41ubdkzChAzD9C53xH82Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaders-on-a-mission/id1532211726…to listen to the latest episodes![0:00] Why firm baseload power matters[1:21] Evolution of tough tech investing[7:30] Progress in energy transition[10:29] What the next 20 years hold[12:24] AI driving power demand[16:08] How The Engine supports founders[22:52] Major startup hurdles in 2025[33:39] Maintaining culture during growth[39:56] The most rewarding part of investingUseful links: Engine Ventures’s website: https://engineventures.com/                Engine Ventures’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/engine-ventures/  Michael Kearney’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kearney-b6704126/ Leaders on a Mission website: https://cs-partners.net/podcasts/Simon Leich’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/executive-talent-headhunter-agtech-foodtech-agrifoodtech-agritech/