The future is clean

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the world, but at what cost to the planet? As Earth Day 2025 calls on us to triple global renewable energy by 2030, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” reminds us that progress must come with responsibility. While world leaders and industries push for greener solutions, we also need to examine the digital tools driving that change. AI is one of the most powerful innovations of our time, but its environmental footprint is growing just as fast as its influence. Understanding AI’s Environmental Impact AI tools like ChatGPT may seem effortless to use, operating through a few simple keystrokes, but each interaction depends on an energy-intensive infrastructure. According to Earth.Org, training a large language model like ChatGPT can generate more than 500 tonnes of carbon dioxide, the equivalent of five roundtrip flights between New York and San Francisco for over 500 passengers! And that’s just the training. Once operational, these models run on powerful servers housed in data centres that require constant electricity and water for cooling. As the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) explains, these centres often rely on non-renewable energy sources and use significant amounts of fresh water, contributing to resource depletion. The hardware powering these centres relies on rare earth minerals, which are often extracted through mining processes that cause serious ecological harm. A single request made through ChatGPT uses 10 times more electricity than a typical Google search, as reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA). While global data is still emerging, the IEA also estimates that in Ireland, a key tech hub, data centres could consume nearly 35 per cent of the country’s total electricity by 2026. According to a report by BGR, even the simple act of saying "please" and "thank you" to ChatGPT contributes to higher usage costs, an efficiency issue that’s costing OpenAI tens of millions of dollars, highlighting how even seemingly harmless habits can carry a hidden environmental price. As AI becomes more widely adopted across industries and everyday life, so too does its demand for energy and resources. The ease and speed of generating an AI response masks the significant environmental toll behind the screen. A Tool for Climate Solutions Despite its environmental impact, AI also has the potential to support climate action, if used wisely. It can help optimise smart grids, boost the efficiency of wind and solar power, and model the effects of environmental policies. For researchers and scientists, AI speeds up climate modelling, biodiversity tracking, and pollution monitoring. AI is also becoming a valuable tool for environmental education. Platforms like ChatGPT make sustainability information easier to access and understand, helping more people engage with the issues and take action. As UNEP notes, the challenge isn’t the existence of AI, it’s how we design, power, and deploy it. A shift toward “green AI” is not just possible; it’s essential. This includes prioritising energy efficiency in model design, powering data centres with renewables, and ensuring hardware is ethically and sustainably sourced. Building a Responsible Digital Future Earth Day 2025 is a reminder that we all have a role in shaping a more sustainable world, including how we develop and apply technology. As AI becomes more embedded in our daily lives, it needs to be part of the climate conversation. Its impact, positive or negative, depends entirely on the choices we make: how we design, power, and regulate these tools. At Piper Maddox, we’re committed to building a future powered by clean, conscious innovation. This Earth Day, we’re asking: how can we use technology to drive real climate progress, not just convenience?

Water is essential for life, ecosystems, and economies, yet it is increasingly under threat. On World Water Day 2025, the focus is on glacier preservation, recognising the critical role glaciers play in our planet’s water systems and the urgent need to protect them. The United Nations has also declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, marking 21 March 2025 as the first-ever World Day for Glaciers. Glaciers store nearly 69% of the world’s freshwater, gradually releasing it into rivers and lakes. This process sustains drinking water supplies, agriculture, and hydroelectric power generation. However, climate change is accelerating glacial melt, leading to unpredictable water cycles, increased floods and droughts, and rising sea levels. Without urgent action, these changes will have severe consequences for people, industries, and the environment. How can we better protect our water sources to ensure health and survival for all? Water is a basic human necessity, yet one in three people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water. Clean water is crucial for sanitation, hygiene, and disease prevention, making it an essential pillar of public health. Without it, communities face higher risks of waterborne diseases and poor living conditions. The decline of glaciers exacerbates water scarcity, particularly in regions where glacial meltwater is a primary source of drinking and irrigation water. As these ice reserves shrink, millions of people may experience water shortages, affecting food security and overall well-being. What is the impact of Glacier loss on Agriculture and food security? Agriculture depends heavily on stable and predictable water supplies, much of which originates from glacial melt. In many parts of the world, seasonal glacial runoff is crucial for irrigation, ensuring crops receive the water they need to grow. As glaciers shrink, farmers face reduced water availability, leading to lower crop yields, rising food prices, and increased reliance on unsustainable groundwater extraction. This puts vulnerable regions at a greater risk of famine and food insecurity. Without glacial-fed water sources, entire agricultural systems could be disrupted, threatening global food production and economic stability. Glacial Melt and Rising Sea Levels Glacial melting contributes significantly to rising sea levels, which threatens coastal cities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. As sea levels rise, millions of people living in low-lying areas risk displacement, and extreme weather events such as hurricanes and flooding become more frequent.The destabilisation of glaciers also increases the risk of natural disasters, such as sudden glacial lake outburst floods and landslides caused by weakened permafrost. Urgent action is needed to slow glacial melt and protect vulnerable communities. These environmental risks demand urgent global action to slow glacial melt and protect coastal and mountainous communities. What can we do? Protecting water resources requires collective action. Governments and businesses must invest in sustainable water solutions, such as conservation policies and renewable energy alternatives. Preserving natural water sources like rivers, wetlands, and forests helps maintain the Earth’s water cycle, while reducing waste, through water-efficient practices and responsible consumption—ensures long-term availability. Raising awareness and advocating for smarter water management can drive meaningful change on both local and global levels. Building a workforce for a sustainable future At Piper Maddox, we are dedicated to building the future of clean energy and sustainable infrastructure by connecting top talent with the companies driving global change. From renewable energy and grid modernisation to sustainable water solutions, we help businesses find the experts they need to create a more resilient and sustainable world.

Solar power is one of the most sustainable and abundant energy sources available today. As the world moves towards sustainability, solar energy is playing a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy costs, and ensuring a greener future. According to the United Nations, cheap electricity from renewable sources could provide 65 percent of the world’s total electricity supply by 2030 , highlighting the growing impact of solar power in the global energy transition. Solar Appreciation Day is an opportunity to recognise the impact of solar power and the progress being made in renewable energy. At Piper Maddox, we are committed to supporting this transition by connecting the best talent with the companies driving solar innovation. Why Solar Energy Matters The sun provides an unlimited source of clean energy, yet the world has long relied on fossil fuels that pollute and deplete natural resources. According to the United Nations, fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas are the largest contributors to global climate change, accounting for over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of all carbon dioxide emissions. With advancing technology and decreasing costs, solar energy is now a practical and affordable solution for businesses, governments, and homeowners. One of the biggest advantages of solar power is its environmental impact. Unlike fossil fuels, solar power produces no greenhouse gas emissions and significantly reduces air pollution. It also requires very little water to operate, making it essential in the fight against climate change. As the cost of solar panels continues to drop, businesses and governments are cutting energy expenses while creating jobs and driving economic growth. With the industry expanding rapidly, demand for skilled professionals has never been higher. New Developments in Solar Power The solar industry's rapid growth is driven by technological advancements that make solar power more efficient and versatile. One major innovation is floating solar farms, which generate clean energy on reservoirs and lakes while reducing water evaporation: an ideal solution for regions facing land and water shortages. At the same time, solar technology is being seamlessly integrated into everyday life. Photovoltaic windows and solar roofing materials now enable buildings to generate electricity without traditional panels, embedding solar power directly into urban infrastructure. Reliability has long been a challenge for renewable energy, but recent improvements in energy storage technology are solving this issue. New battery systems are making it possible to store excess solar energy during the day and use it at night, ensuring a stable power supply even when the sun isn’t shining. Driving the Future of Clean Energy Solar power is no longer a niche industry, it is now a key driver of the global energy transition. With governments setting ambitious renewable energy targets and businesses turning to solar to reduce costs and emissions, the industry is expanding at an unprecedented rate. Beyond economics, solar energy is also creating a more resilient power grid. As extreme weather events become more common, decentralised solar installations - such as rooftop solar and microgrids are helping communities maintain access to electricity even during power outages. With demand for solar energy accelerating, the industry is facing a major challenge: finding the right talent to support its rapid expansion. At Piper Maddox, we partner with businesses across the entire solar value chain, ensuring they have the right people to drive innovation and growth. If you’re ready to take the next step in your solar energy career or are looking to build a team that can drive real impact, we can help! Let’s power the future, together.

At Piper Maddox, we are proud to be part of LHi Group, a global specialist in talent solutions, and even prouder to share that our parent company has just released its first-ever Impact & Sustainability Report, an exciting milestone that reflects our collective commitment to a more sustainable future. A Year of Progress: Sustainability and Social Responsibility in 2024 For those of us working in clean energy and clean tech recruitment, sustainability is more than just a corporate initiative, it’s at the heart of everything we do. That’s why LHi’s 2024 Impact & Sustainability Report is particularly meaningful. It showcases the group’s outstanding achievements across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments, diversity and inclusion efforts, and responsible business growth. Key highlights from the report include: Record-breaking fundraising efforts: LHi Group raised an incredible £26,894 for charitable causes, reinforcing our culture of giving back and driving social impact. Strengthening diversity & inclusion: LHi-IN, our dedicated DEI initiative, expanded to include eight thriving communities, providing a platform for employees to engage, learn, and drive meaningful change. A focus on sustainability: LHi continues to integrate ESG into business decisions, from internal policies to industry partnerships, ensuring we contribute to a cleaner, greener future. Empowering women in leadership: The launch of the Women’s Sales Board marked a major step toward achieving 50/50 gender representation in leadership within five years. Technology-driven impact: AI-powered recruitment solutions enhance our ability to connect top talent with organisations making a difference in clean energy and beyond. What this means for Clean Energy talent solutions For us at Piper Maddox, this report reaffirms our mission: To power the clean energy transition by connecting the best talent with the companies leading the charge. With LHi doubling down on ESG commitments and sustainable recruitment, we are better positioned than ever to support clients and candidates who share our passion for a net-zero future. As we step into 2025, we are excited to align with LHi’s key strategic goals: Expanding sustainable recruitment practices to ensure we place candidates in roles that drive real environmental impact. Enhancing AI-driven hiring solutions to streamline the recruitment process and deliver even greater value to clients and candidates. Growing our presence in high-demand clean energy and clean tech markets, particularly in North America, where investment in renewables and grid transformation is accelerating. Looking Ahead The release of LHi Group’s Impact Report is more than just a reflection on the past, it’s a commitment to the future. At Piper Maddox, we are proud to be part of an organisation that prioritises sustainability, DEI, and responsible business practices. We invite our clients, candidates, and industry partners to explore the full LHi Group Impact & Sustainability Report.

The clean energy sector thrives on innovation and progress. Every breakthrough in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable infrastructure comes from those who push boundaries. Yet, despite the critical role women play in shaping the industry, gender disparities persist. This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women accelerating action, driving change, and leading the way in clean energy. Why Gender Diversity in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Matters A sustainable future depends on diverse perspectives, inclusive leadership, and equitable opportunities. Women bring fresh approaches to problem-solving, drive meaningful change, and foster more comprehensive, long-term solutions in the energy sector. Yet, challenges persist as women represent only 32% of the global renewable energy workforce, and leadership positions remain largely male-dominated. By accelerating action toward gender diversity, the industry can unlock new ideas, stronger policies, and greater innovation, ensuring the future of energy is powered by the best talent, regardless of gender. Women Driving Change at Piper Maddox To mark International Women’s Day, we spoke with several inspiring women at Piper Maddox, each making a significant impact in clean energy recruitment and industry leadership: What led you to pursue a career in clean energy recruitment? For Lucy Henry, Divisional Manager at Piper Maddox in London, the journey into clean energy recruitment was fueled by a desire to contribute to a meaningful industry. Having started her career in compliance and financial crime within financial services, she wanted to transition into a field where she could make a tangible difference. "Clean energy felt like the right place both in terms of my personal purpose and the opportunity to drive meaningful impact in the team," she explains. The presence of strong female leaders within the space further solidified her decision. Similarly, Kylie Leberman, Team Lead (Solar & Energy Storage) of Piper Maddox in Miami, found herself drawn to recruitment after working in product and software sales. "During the pandemic, pushing products onto small businesses that were barely staying afloat didn’t sit well with me," she recalls. Transitioning to recruitment allowed her to build meaningful relationships while contributing to a more sustainable future. Despite challenges in a traditionally male-dominated sector, she sees ample opportunities for women to reshape the industry through networking and leadership. How have you seen the role of women in clean energy evolve over the years, and what excites you most about the future? Kylie Leberman has witnessed a significant shift in gender representation since she first entered the industry. "When I started, there were fewer women in leadership roles, and the sector often felt male-dominated," she says. Over the past four years, however, she has seen progress, not just in the number of women entering the field but also in their growing presence at the executive level. "What excites me most is that we’re moving from just talking about diversity to actively implementing policies and programs that support it. More women in leadership means a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient industry.” What skills or qualities do you believe are essential for the next generation of female professionals in this field, and how can they develop them to succeed? For Caitlin McCarley, Divisional Manager of Piper Maddox (UK & Ireland Onshore Renewables) in Bristol, passion is key. "I think the most essential quality for the next generation of women in clean energy is passion for the space. It's such an interesting field that having a drive for a sustainable future and a passion for the technology is crucial for success," she notes. Alongside passion, adaptability and strong communication skills are also vital. "For developing these skills, it's crucial that we lean on each other and provide support across the industry." Who has been an inspiration or mentor in your career, and how has their influence helped shape your path? Having strong female mentors has been instrumental in Kylie Leberman’s career. "I’ve been fortunate to have been surrounded by some exceptional female leaders both from the clean energy industry and outside of it," she shares. "Two strong female leaders from within our business that have really guided me in this career thus far have been Samantha Keay and Carmon Lamolda. Both are incredible leaders who are always willing to support you and teach you but also have paved the way for women in this business like me to take on different and exciting roles that had previously been more male-heavy." What’s one piece of career advice you’ve received that has helped you succeed? "One of the best pieces of advice (life or career) I’ve received is: 'Stay focused on what you can control,'" says Lucy Henry. "Rather than getting stuck on external challenges, I’ve learned to take ownership of my actions and look for ways to continuously improve. Every experience, whether it be success or failure, is an opportunity to learn and grow. By adopting this mindset, I’ve been able to navigate challenges with as much resilience and confidence as I can." Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Renewable Energy Progress depends on removing barriers, creating opportunities, and supporting the women driving change. A future shaped by diverse talent is a future of limitless potential. At Piper Maddox, we are committed to championing diversity, connecting top professionals with organisations that share our vision, and accelerating action toward a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable world. Whether you're looking to advance your career or attract top talent in clean energy, Piper Maddox is ready to help. Contact us today and take action!

The battery industry experienced a groundbreaking year in 2024, marked by significant advancements in energy storage technology. Efforts to improve efficiency and reduce costs saw investments in gigafactories accelerate production, while breakthroughs in lithium-sulphur and flow batteries pointed to a safer, longer-lasting future for energy storage. As we head into 2025, the industry’s focus will shift toward scaling the battery industry and addressing workforce challenges to meet the growing demand. Alex Cohen, Senior Director at Piper Maddox, and Elliot Knox, VP of Client Development and Commercial Strategy, highlighted these pivotal moments in their recent webinar with the Volta Foundation. They explored the trends that defined 2024, including the rise of domestic battery recycling, the evolution of battery chemistry, and the increasing demand for clean energy recruitment to sustain industry expansion. The discussion highlighted the U.S. battery market's role in clean energy innovation and explored global trends, emphasising the importance of workforce development to meet growing industry needs. As Alex Cohen shared during the webinar, the employment market will continue to evolve. Companies must not only attract but retain talent by creating environments where professionals can thrive. With the growing demand for battery engineers, manufacturers must focus on upskilling talent and developing long-term hiring strategies to support production goals. The talent shortage remains a significant hurdle, particularly in battery R&D and gigafactory manufacturing, with some facilities requiring thousands of skilled professionals to meet production targets. The discussion also highlighted that visa policies could become a challenge for hiring international specialists in the future, though the impact remains uncertain. This uncertainty reinforces the need for companies to prioritise attracting and securing domestic talent, ensuring the energy storage market growth continues without disruptions caused by labour shortages. By connecting exceptional talent with forward-thinking companies, Piper Maddox is driving innovation and sustainability in the battery industry. As we celebrate National Battery Day, let’s acknowledge the critical role batteries play in building a cleaner, greener future and the workforce that powers this transition.