Renewable energy is transforming the global power system — but with that transformation come new challenges in predictability, integration, and storage.

In episode 49 of the Climate+ Podcast, hosted by Lincoln Bleveans, our CEO & co-founder Fabio Nicolò joined the conversation to share insights on how forecasting is shaping the future of clean energy.

From the unique predictability challenges of wind and solar, to the evolving complexity of grid integration, to the profitability of battery storage, Fabio explains why forecasting should be seen as a strategic asset — not just an operational cost.

☀️ Wind & Solar: Predictability Challenges

At first glance, solar seems predictable: the sun rises and sets each day. But in practice, forecasting solar production is much more complex.

“A single cloud or Sahara dust can change everything — micro-conditions make solar forecasting far harder than it looks.” — Fabio Nicolò

Wind and solar behave very differently, and each requires a tailored forecasting approach. Mastering this predictability is essential to ensure renewable energy can be integrated reliably into the power system.

🌍 Renewable Integration: Past, Present & Future

Integrating renewables into the grid has been a story of evolution. In the early days, the task was straightforward: give renewables priority and balance with fossil generation.

But as the share of wind and solar has grown, the challenge for Transmission System Operators (TSOs) has become significantly more complex.

“In the beginning, it was quite an easy task. But as the share of wind and solar grows, it is becoming a very complex challenge — and TSOs are having to reinvent the way they balance the grid.” — Fabio Nicolò

This shift underscores the critical role of forecasting in enabling grid operators to manage variability and maintain system stability.

⚡ Battery Storage: Profitability & Forecasting

Batteries are emerging as a cornerstone of the energy transition — essential for balancing renewable generation and demand. But their profitability depends heavily on how they are managed.

“To make a battery profitable, you need to optimize its operation. Each charge and discharge cycle affects the life cycle and the profitability of the investment. To optimize, you must integrate multiple data streams: energy prices, imbalance projections, and accurate forecasts.” — Fabio Nicolò

Fabio emphasizes that data and forecasting are strategic levers for unlocking the value of storage, not just costs to be managed.

🔮 Looking Ahead

Across wind, solar, and storage, one message is clear: forecasting is at the heart of the energy transition.

By improving predictability, enabling smarter integration, and optimizing storage, forecasting empowers energy leaders to reduce risks, cut costs, and accelerate the shift toward a more sustainable, reliable, and profitable renewable energy system.

🎧 Watch the Climate+ podcast episode with Fabio Nicolò

📩 Get in Touch

Curious to see how advanced forecasting can strengthen your renewable portfolio? 👉 contact our team.