Hungry, Hungry, Hyperscalers

FEG Insight Bridge

Join FEG CIO Greg Dowling and Scott Harlan, Managing Partner and Founder of Rockland Capital, as they discuss the power industry's critical role in supporting the digital and AI-driven economy. From meter reader to private equity principal, Scott shares his journey and insights on energy challenges, the need for a balanced energy mix, and the shift to private sector investments.

Scott addresses the power needs of AI-driven data centers, battery technology, and the importance of gas-fired plants. He explores the impact of politics on energy policy and highlights Rockland Capital's strategy in developing and improving energy projects.

Tune in for insights on navigating the evolving power industry and the role of private equity in driving the energy transition.
Key Takeaways

• Harlan highlights the necessity of balancing the energy mix, including traditional and renewable energy sources with battery storage. While more new power generation needs to be built, another huge component is extending the life of existing plants.
• The shift from regulated utilities to the private sector is explored, with Harlan explaining how the private sector's desire for better efficiency and risk management drives investment.
• Harlan delves into the power requirements of data centers, especially those driven by AI, and the challenges of connecting these facilities to the grid, proposing ideal power solutions to ensure reliability and meet ESG goals.

You can find every episode of FEG Insight Bridge podcasts in one place and sign up to receive our other publications here.

Chapters

1. Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Episode Introduction (00:00:29)

3. Scott Harlan and Rockland Capital (00:01:02)

4. Operating Challenges and Meeting Energy Demands (00:04:53)

5. Investment and Risk in Power Generation (00:09:43)

6. Powering the Digital Age and AI Needs (00:13:05)

7. Utilities and Battery Technology (00:19:56)

8. Political Impact on Energy Policy (00:23:24)

9. Investment Strategy in Energy (00:26:31)

10. Exit Strategies and Market Aggregation (00:31:51)

11. Impact of Higher Interest Rates (00:34:37)

12. Personal Anecdotes from the Field (00:37:49)