Welcome back to The Pexapark Podcast! In the first part of the episode, we unpack Europe’s latest regulatory moves, starting with Italy’s FER-X auction, which drew over 20 GW in bids – double its cap – signaling a shift to a more mature offtake market. In Germany, BESS deal activity remains strong despite a court-backed BKZ grid levy. Meanwhile, the UK delivers long-awaited clarity: CfD tenors extended to 20 years and zonal pricing officially ruled out.
In the second part of the episode, Forrest Carroll – from the Energy & Infrastructure Strategy Team at Crusoe – joins us to explore how AI infrastructure is reshaping energy procurement. From modular compute units to megawatt-scale data center builds, Forrest shares a first-hand view into how power strategy meets AI ambition. Enjoy a discussion on themes including:
- What it means to be a vertically integrated AI/data center operator
- Modular compute unit sizing and client types (hyperscalers, enterprise AI)
- Power procurement strategy: site selection, contract structuring, energy mix
- Use of PPAs, hedges, batteries, and carbon tracking mechanisms
- Demand flexibility and whether full utilization leaves room for ramping
- What energy developers and utilities should better understand about data center needs
Listen now:
Episode breakdown:
- 00:00 – Intro
- 01:20 – Regulation
- 06:28 – Deals & Prices
- 13:13 – Wider Energy World
- 14:53 – Interview with Forrest Carroll
Analysis notes: