Kicking off the second half of the season, Katie welcomes Alex Howard, Head of Flexibility Markets at UK Power Networks, into the studio to discuss his work in the energy sector.

Alex takes Katie through an overview of what UK Power Networks do and are responsible for, before explaining what his role in Flexibility Markets looks like day-to-day.

Looking at the future of power within data centres, Alex discusses how he and the wider team are having ongoing meetings to find solutions to best supply data centres with the capacity they need, working collaboratively to create a better outcome for all.

The pair discuss the potential of a green grid, and how UK Power Networks are managing the unpredictability of renewable energy , where Alex explains their 'Flexible Connection' programme, and the incentives offered to customers for increasing or decreasing their power usage in line with the amount of power is available at certain times.

Taking a look at his career, Alex reflects on how he made his way into the energy sector by chance following a conversation with a friend in the pub, but is encouraged by how many people are now entering the industry deliberately and enthusiastically. After taking the leap to join a startup business, Alex started in software before working his way to his current role.

Katie finishes by asking Alex what impact he'd like to leave behind (before he relaxes on a beach in 2050, of course!), allowing Alex to consider the work he's currently undertaking, what he loves within his role, the solutions he's played a part in to-date, and those problems he's yet to solve.