Jul 22 2024 33 mins
In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Simon Baker, CEO and Co-founder of Hydrogenus, a startup specialising in low-carbon hydrogen projects.
Simon, with over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, discusses his transition from corporate multinational roles to founding a startup focused on low-carbon hydrogen projects.
In our chat, Simon emphasises the importance of refining business propositions, developing a long-term vision, and the role of creating diversity in teams.
Simon also highlights the challenges and opportunities in the low-carbon energy sector, stressing innovation, patience, and flexibility.
We also briefly explore the global sustainability goals; how they apply to small businesses and the importance of engaging with customers and networks to shape your business ideas.
In this episode you'll learn:
The experience of Hydrogenus (00:01:51) Simon Baker shares his background and experience, including the formation of Hydrogenus.
Starting a Business in the Energy Sector (00:01:56) Simon discusses the initial idea for the business, collaboration, and growth of the company in the energy sector.
Being Green and Sustainable (00:07:02) Simon talks about the importance of considering global sustainability goals and the impact of climate change on small business owners.
Career Inspiration and Low Carbon Energy (00:08:50) Simon shares his career journey in the low carbon energy sector and the inspiration behind pursuing this field.
Excitement in Low Carbon Energy (00:10:04) Simon discusses the excitement and opportunities in the low carbon energy sector, particularly focusing on hydrogen technology.
Emerging Market Challenges (00:12:32) Simon highlights the challenges and opportunities in the emerging low carbon energy market, emphasising the need for innovation and problem-solving.
Adaptation and Patience in the Energy Sector (00:14:31) Simon discusses the impact of government policy, the need for patience, and the importance of adapting plans in the energy sector.
Long-term Strategies for Business Sustainability (00:17:35) Simon shares strategies for staying in the game, emphasising the importance of engaging with colleagues and networks.
Preparing for the Future (00:19:52) Simon advises on preparing for the future by considering factors such as affordability, net zero, low carbon, and security of supply.
Navigating Industry Changes and Compliance (00:22:50) Simon discusses staying ahead of industry changes, compliance, and the importance of engaging knowledgeable people and trade organisations.
Persistence and Determination in Business (00:24:49) Simon emphasises the importance of persistence, determination, and adaptation in bringing business ideas to fruition.
Importance of Relationships and People in Business (00:26:54) Simon emphasises the value of engaging with people and building relationships in business, highlighting the significance of interacting with individuals who can help shape ideas.
Understanding Different Personalities and Cultures (00:28:47) Simon shares insights on understanding people of different nationalities, resolving issues, and effective communication in a multicultural environment.
Diversity in Teams (00:30:10) A discussion on the importance of diversity in teams for gaining different perspectives and shaping products and offerings.
Exciting Innovations (00:31:28) Discussion about upcoming projects and initiatives in the low carbon energy sector, focusing on technology innovation and problem-solving.
Top Tip for Small Business Owners (00:33:24) Advice to small business owners to talk to people, test ideas, and engage with customers to understand their needs.
Connecting with Simon (00:34:28) Information on how to connect with Simon.
About Simon:
Over 30 years of technical, commercial, finance, and project development experience within the low-carbon power sector.
Former Board Director of EDF Energy's renewables and fossil generation assets business.
Today he is the CEO and Co-founder of Hydrogenus, a startup specialising in low-carbon hydrogen projects.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Culture Map book by Erin Meyer (Amazon UK)
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