057 Michael Crabb, SVP Commercial at Last Energy

In this episode of the Fire2Fission podcast, Mark Hinaman interviews Michael Crabb, SVP Commercial at Last Energy. They discuss Last Energy's background and their mission to build, own, and operate micro nuclear power plants. Michael shares his experience in the energy industry and the challenges faced by the nuclear industry. They also talk about the importance of learning, collaboration, and competition in driving innovation and progress. The nuclear industry faces challenges, both logical and nefarious, but success depends on letting market results dictate winners. Data centers are a hot customer segment, especially with the addition of environmental targets. Other potential customers include mid-scale manufacturing industries that require their own gas CHP units. EV charging is challenging due to the need for baseload power and creditworthy counterparties. Building prototypes has taught valuable lessons in technical design and contract management. The US market faces economic and regulatory challenges, but there is momentum for change. Capital markets are increasingly interested in nuclear, and early deployment capital is crucial for project origination. The future should be an industry that fosters innovation and competition.