FlickTalks: Strategy Behind Sustainability
Guest: Thijs Scholte | Date: December 5th, 2024
Welcome to FlickTalks, the spin-off from The FinanceFlick that brings you front-row seats to the world of sustainability’s biggest players. Kicking things off is Thijs Scholte, an Amsterdam-based consultant who’s making waves in the renewable energy space. With a career spanning high-stakes battery storage projects in the Middle East and wind farm designs across Europe, he’s the guy you call when you need serious solutions. Oh, and on the side? He’s shaping young minds as a strategy professor at EADA Business School.
During our conversation, Thijs was on a work trip to New York, which worked out perfectly for scheduling. Between time zones and busy schedules, catching him during his coffee break felt like a win.
Betting Big on Renewables
For Thijs, jumping into the renewable energy sector was a no-brainer. The numbers spoke for themselves, and it was clear this was a booming industry with staying power. He’s quick to point out that renewables aren’t just about saving the planet — they’re a solid bet for anyone looking for long-term job security. With the industry’s growth showing no signs of slowing, it’s the kind of move that lets you sleep soundly at night, knowing you’ve hitched your wagon to a rising star.
Breaking Ground in the Middle East
Thijs has plenty of projects to be proud of, but one stands out: crafting a comprehensive strategy for the Middle East’s largest Transmission System Operator (TSO) to integrate renewable energy into the grid. This wasn’t just about tech — it required aligning cutting-edge solutions with economic realities and navigating the complexities of regulation and politics, ultimately setting the stage for a smoother transition to renewables in the region.
Close behind was the design and implementation of five pilot battery storage projects totaling 450 MWh. These pilots showcased the potential of energy storage and laid the groundwork for scaling renewable solutions. In a region with surging demand, these initiatives marked a vital step toward a more sustainable energy landscape.
Picking the Right Tech for the Job
When it comes to renewable energy tech, Thijs is all about context. He avoids calling any one technology the future of renewables because success depends on local conditions. In regions like the Middle East, the interplay of solar, wind, and storage technologies is key to meeting demand efficiently.
“It’s all about the meeting point between technologies, economics — including financing — and regulations or politics. That’s how you assess and address what the market needs.”
In other areas, like Northern Europe, wind energy often takes center stage. And while hydrogen has enormous potential, it’s still a young player finding its footing. For Thijs, the real magic happens when these variables align.
Dancing Through the Regulatory Maze
Designing wind farms across Europe sounds glamorous — until you hit the wall of regulations. Each country has its own rules, quirks, and incentives, making every project a puzzle. Thijs likens it to navigating state taxes in the U.S. — no two are the same, and just when you think you’ve cracked the code, a new election shifts the goalposts.
Throw in global political uncertainty, and the challenges multiply. From Finland to Belgium, elections have put markets on pause, leaving everyone holding their breath. For Thijs, though, this is just part of the game. He thrives in the chaos, finding ways to move forward even when the landscape feels like quicksand.
A Flexible Future
Ask Thijs about the future of renewables, and his answer is simple: flexibility. The energy market is unpredictable, with demand skyrocketing thanks to the booming IT sector. To thrive, the industry will need to adapt — fast.
For Thijs, sustainability has never been about rigid frameworks. It’s about rolling with the punches, staying nimble, and making the most of whatever the market throws your way.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
Thijs recommends the podcast Redefining Energy, where Gerard Reid (Berlin) and Laurent Segalen (London) unpack how tech, finance, and policy are reshaping energy — covering everything from renewables to hydrogen and battery storage. A must-listen for industry insights.
Wrapping Up
Thijs Scholte isn’t just part of the renewable energy movement — he’s steering it forward. From his groundbreaking work in battery storage to navigating Europe’s regulatory maze, his career shows what happens when sharp strategy meets real-world impact.
As we close this first edition of FlickTalks, it’s clear that the future of sustainability is in capable, forward-thinking hands with leaders like Thijs. Stay tuned for our next feature, where we’ll dive into more stories from the people redefining how we power the world. Got someone in mind? Drop us a note — we’re all ears for the next great conversation.
Until next time,
FlickTalks
