エピソード
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Apprenticeships are the bridge between the clean energy industry's rapid growth and its critical need for a skilled, reliable workforce. With the Inflation Reduction Act setting ambitious compliance standards, innovative solutions like those pioneered by Adaptive Construction Solutions (ACS) are essential for driving project success and empowering the workforce. These programs are designed for more than just filling positions; they build meaningful, long-term careers for veterans, underserved communities, and the next generation of clean energy leaders.
ACS has served many of the largest EPCs in the solar and battery storage industry through their innovative apprenticeship programs to aid in driving compliance and cultivating a more comprehensive focus on workforce development.
Hear from the ACS team and three of their largest customers:
Nicholas Morgan, President at Adaptive Construction SolutionsJohn Leapheart, Project Director at Adaptive Construction SolutionsEric Butticaz, Director of Apprenticeships at SOLV EnergyEric Grant, Director of Learning and Development at Blue Ridge PowerMichael Mulheron, Director- Strategic Sales & Operations at AerotekExpect to learn:
Why ACS invested $10 million in their Apprenticeship Innovation Center, a hub for collaboration, training, and global knowledge-sharingStrategies for successful apprenticeship implementation, including recruitment, training, and evaluationHow apprenticeships create clear career pathways through structured on-the-job training and classroom instruction.Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn
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In the home services industry, many contractors deliver high-quality work but struggle to leverage satisfied customers for growth. Yet, we know that more than 50% of leads come from referrals. The challenge lies in post-sale engagement, as gathering referrals and building a strong reputation often falls to busy sales reps or technicians who quickly move on to the next job. Without a systematic approach to harnessing word-of-mouth marketing, businesses miss the opportunity to turn happy customers into brand ambassadors, relying instead on costly acquisition channels like paid advertising.
Landon Taylor, Founder & CEO of Snoball, addresses this gap with a platform that automates referral management, review generation, and reputation building. Snoball empowers businesses to take control of their word-of-mouth marketing and unlock the true potential of their customer base.
Expect to learn:
Why most companies struggle to generate steady referralsHow automation keeps brands top-of-mind for customersThe key difference between reputation management and reputation marketingHow Snoball fills the gap left by service repsSteps to build a sustainable, word-of-mouth growth strategyDon't miss this insightful conversation with Landon Taylor, as he shares his expertise and proven strategies for transforming the way businesses approach customer acquisition and retention.
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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エピソードを見逃しましたか？
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Can someone without a traditional background still make an impact in clean energy?
Aaron Nichols, the Marketing & Advocacy Specialist at Exact Solar, answers that question with a resounding ‘yes’. His journey into the solar industry was anything but traditional (we don’t want to spoil it, but it began with circus performers in Ecuador).
Aaron has written and consulted for some of the biggest names in the solar industry (including Nico himself) and been featured in Business Insider. He divides his time at Exact Solar between pushing for more equitable solar policies and creating the most comprehensive free solar educational resource for homeowners on the internet.
Expect to learn:
⚡ The ‘secret key’ that opened the the door to a clean energy career
⚡Why the solar industry is missing out on top talent (and how we fix it)
⚡ How Aaron went from door-to-door sales to advocating for a more ethical solar industry
⚡ What the solar industry can do to regain the public’s trust
⚡ Why ‘save the planet' marketing doesn’t work for everyone
If you didn’t follow the traditional path and still want to start a clean energy career (even if you have no experience) this is the episode for you.
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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With exponential growth year over year, there has never been a more pivotal moment than this for battery energy storage in the renewables market. This momentum is driven by cost declines, supportive policy, and the ability for energy storage to stabilize and optimize renewable energy across the grid. Finally, with batteries, we can eliminate the one thing holding renewables back - intermittency!
In this discussion, three industry leaders share their expertise around how storage is reshaping energy resilience, accessibility, and grid reliability. Moderated by Jacob Weinberg, Senior Communications Manager at SEIA, this conversation features:
Anne Hoskins, Senior VP of Policy at Generac Power SystemsKavita Ravi, Senior VP of Operations at BlueWave SolarJoan White, Director of Storage and Interconnection Policy at SEIAExpect to learn:
How storage is delivering reliable, resilient energy to underserved communitiesThe importance of training in the latest safety codes, including NFPA 855How virtual power plants (VPPs) can aggregate resources to strengthen the gridThe latest on interconnection, value-stacking, and overcoming regulatory barriersWhich states are leading in storage innovation and what’s next for deploymentWatch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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Resource Labs Network founding member, Lisa Ann Pinkerton of Earthlings 2.0 podcast, hosts a discussion with the DOE’s Becca Jones-Albertus, Director of the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office during the annual RE+ tradeshow to introduce the latest round of winners to our audience! Thank you, Lisa Ann, for leading this discussion on our live stage!
Every year at RE+ (since 2019!) we have been honored to receive the newly-crowned winners of the Solar Prize, so Lisa Ann and Becca helped commemorate the 7th year of this competition from the Department of Energy which accelerates solar innovation, offering startups critical resources to bring their ideas to market.
And the winners are…
Fram Energy, a winner focused on expanding solar access to rental properties, presented a software solution that addresses the "split incentive" issue between landlords and tenants. Their platform allows landlords or third-party developers to install solar panels on rental buildings and sell the generated power to tenants, tapping into a vast, underserved market in clean energy.
Gritt Robotics, the other Grand Prize winner, aims to streamline solar construction with robotics. Their approach automates labor-intensive tasks, like moving and installing solar panels, making solar deployments faster and more efficient. Using AI-powered robots, they enhance productivity and allow the human workforce to focus on complex tasks.
Competitions like the American-Made Solar Prize are essential for the solar industry, helping innovative startups enter the market faster by providing vital resources, expert connections, and support through the American-Made Network.
To learn more about Resource Labs and check out Lisa Ann’s podcast at www.resourcelabs.co
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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An experienced EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) partner is the backbone for the successful execution of solar projects, turning ambitious plans into reliable, high-performing projects. Burns & McDonnell, a top 5 EPC for solar & storage, brings over a century of engineering experience and a hands-on approach to large-scale solar and storage projects, balancing self-perform capabilities with trusted subcontractor partnerships. Community engagement and thoughtful project planning are just part of the project success puzzle; they innovate with terrain-following technology to adapt to challenging sites and collaborate early with project owners to address constraints, streamline designs, and ensure project goals are met efficiently.
Hear from Director of Renewable Sales & Strategy, Adam Bernardi and Senior Electrical Engineer, Grant Reasor as they share insights from their respective roles across the project development cycle.
Expect to learn:
The techno-economic strategies employed to optimize module selection and meet IRA domestic content requirements, and why it’s not always straightforward.The importance of understanding the owner's project goals and pro forma to drive the best technical solutions.The significance of comprehensive due diligence and upfront identification of site-specific risks to drive project value.How to handle seasonal challenges of performance testing on the frozen tundra of the Upper MidwestWatch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at RE+ over at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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"The new Silicon Valley is going to be about energy."
This shift is evident as solar and battery storage combine, pushing renewable energy to achieve firm reliable power. Primergy Solar’s “Gemini” solar-plus-storage project sets the stage for a new era of 24x7 utility-scale solar power delivery. With nearly 700MW of solar capacity and 1400 MWh of battery storage, Gemini can supply up to 30% of Nevada’s power needs at peak, making solar a reliable, on-demand energy source that competes with traditional baseload power.
The project’s commitment to sustainability—preserving the desert habitat and minimizing land disturbance—illustrates how renewable energy projects can harmonize technological advancement with ecological responsibility.
Adam Larner, COO of Primergy Solar, brings decades of expertise as an electrician, founder, and business owner to his work in renewables. Adam has long championed the logic and promise of sustainable energy, pushing projects that redefine industry norms and the potential of solar-plus-storage. And this interview has been possibly the longest-awaited of any Nico, our host, has pursued!
Expect to learn:
Why battery storage is the key to making solar competitive with fossil fuels as a reliable power sourceWhy natural gas is a necessary complement to renewables, providing backup power and stability as solar and battery technologies scale upHow Gemini's success has become a unifying moment for the solar industry, inspiring collaboration and a shared sense of purposeTune in to explore how projects like Gemini are redefining renewable energy on a massive scale. And, learn from one of the industry’s most experienced integrators/builders.
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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The growing demand for energy storage has transformed the renewable energy sector, but what are the key steps to successfully executing battery storage projects? TruGrid (formerly SunGrid) specializes in the seamless integration of battery systems into solar projects as an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) provider. Their proactive approach to integration and planning minimizes risks and streamlines commissioning.
Chris Finley, Chief Commercial Officer of TruGrid, discusses how EPCs can manage the complexities of battery storage integration. What secrets can we glean? Faster commissioning times, for starters. Drawing on 20 years’ experience and gigawatts of renewable projects in 16 countries, Chris and the TruGrid team have certainly addressed most of the hurdles you’ll face.
Expect to learn:
How software integration helps streamline battery storage projects.The common pitfalls developers face in commissioning and how to address them.Strategies for EPCs to reduce supply chain risks in battery storage projects.Why developers should bring EPCs into the planning phase earlier to maximize project success.Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage over at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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About a third of global carbon emissions come from transportation, with most generated by private vehicles. Cities face a critical challenge: the “last mile” problem—how to efficiently connect people from transit hubs, like bus and train stations, to their homes or workplaces. When public transit falls short, commuters often turn to cars, increasing traffic, pollution, and emissions. Lime, a leader in micro-mobility, tackles this gap with e-bikes and e-scooters, offering a sustainable alternative for these short, essential urban trips. With over 500 million rides completed—covering more than a billion kilometers—Lime demonstrates how small shifts in behavior can make a big impact on decarbonization.
Nico met with Andrew Savage, co-founder and VP of Sustainability of Lime, during a visit to Savage’s hometown of Burlington, VT. Andrew draws from a career that spans solar energy, policy work, and government relations. Before joining Lime, Savage was a key figure at AllEarth Renewables, helping advance solar energy adoption in Vermont. He also served on political campaigns, advised mayors, and worked closely with Capitol Hill on policy initiatives. His deep expertise in environmental policy gave Savage a unique skillset to help steer Lime’s growth into 280 markets while keeping on pace with the company’s goal of net zero by 2030.
Curious how a career can span multiple sectors and still hold a true-north of decarbonizing the grid? Interested to learn how e-mobility is helping us achieve our carbon-free future?
Expect to learn:
Why early bike-share programs failed—and how Lime’s dockless model offers a better solutionHow Lime recycles batteries and repurposes them for second-life usesWhat carbon-reduction strategies keep Lime on track to meet its 2030 net-zero goalHow Lime uses rider data to help cities redesign streets and improve safetyIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn -...
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Do you envision that the IRA could be rolled back with a new administration? This question seems to permeate the conversation(s) heard around the industry in the last 6 months.
Chris Sass, host of Insider’s Guide to Energy, sits down with Mona Dajani, Global Co-Chair of Energy, Infrastructure, and Hydrogen at Baker Botts, to explore the intersection of policy and energy markets. Drawing on decades of experience in clean energy transactions, Mona offers a true insider’s perspective on the election cycle, an update on green hydrogen and much more.
Sneak peak: “If we're pragmatic about it, I don't see the IRA going away materially… for two reasons…the IRA was enacted as law [and] there's a lot of red states that really have a lot of clean energy projects in their state.”
Regardless your political position, you’re aware the 2024 U.S. presidential election outcome could significantly shape the future of renewable energy in America. With candidates proposing vastly different energy policies, the next administration’s decisions will influence the pace of clean energy deployment, tax equity structures, and international investment.
Tune-in to learn:
How the energy policies of Harris and Trump could impact the renewable energy industryMona’s insights on the future of the IRA (Inflation Reduction Act)The role of hydrogen in decarbonizationThe need for faster regulatory and permitting processes to accelerate renewable energy deploymentHow foreign conflicts impact renewables, from manufacturing to the price of gas and oil.Do your research, listen to the episode, and—most importantly— if you’re a United States citizen, make your voice heard - VOTE!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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Curious what were the top product insights from RE+ 2024? Our industry experts scoured the show floor to uncover key solar technology and market trends.
Hear firsthand reports from the show floor in this special compilation episode where we are aggregating three different conversations into a compilation episode. Industry experts pick their favorites, make predictions and highlight their favorite energy storage and other home energy solutions.
Here’s our roster of experts & influencers:
Joe Ordia - Solar SurgeBen Zientara - SolarReviewsRyan Mayfield- Mayfield RenewablesKate Collardson - OmnidianChris Crowell- Solar BuilderAnn Fischer - pv magazine USARyan Kennedy- pv magazine USAJohn Fitzgerald Weaver- Commercial Solar GuyExpect to learn
How platform-based energy management systems are transforming battery solutions and grid integration.The growing role of hybrid inverters in bridging energy storage and solar to create seamless home energy systems.Why software innovations, like Aurora Solar’s obstruction detection, are cutting design time and improving project planning.
How domestic manufacturing, tariffs, and policy changes are influencing product development and supply chain strategies.If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
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Building an efficient energy ecosystem requires collaboration, knowledge-sharing, strategic design, and workforce development.
It also requires cooperation and community.
Professionals across the energy sector are streamlining grid management, advancing EV adoption, and developing demand flexibility programs to enhance efficiency. Achieving this requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to humanize energy solutions.
Jen Szaro, President & CEO of the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), brings two decades of experience across research, utilities, and nonprofit leadership. Her career includes roles at the Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) and the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC), where she led early efforts in solar and EV infrastructure.
At AESP, she focuses on bridging the knowledge gaps and bringing energy professionals together through collaborative design and impactful programs. The Flex Initiative and the EV Driver Experience (EVDX) are two notable examples, addressing technical challenges while fostering mentorship and professional growth.
Expect to learn:
Why distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar and storage reduce grid strain & avoid costly upgradesHow demand flexibility outperforms traditional demand response solutionsWhat EV adoption barriers were uncovered through EVDX’s design labsWhere AESP’s Utility Career Map and resource library suggest you should be lookingWhy AESP’s mentorship programs help clean energy professionals thrive & growListen in to explore how Jen, dedicated volunteers, and the AESP team are driving the future of energy services and equipping professionals with the tools and knowledge to lead in the clean energy transition.
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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One of the major bottlenecks in the renewable energy sector is tied to one of the oldest components of the energy grid and is an essential piece tying FAR More of our energy infrastructure together than most realize - the humble transformer. As more renewable energy projects are deployed, transformer shortages delay projects and create significant challenges for grid expansion.
Ben Macias, Chief Revenue Officer at MGM Transformers, brings over a decade of experience in the energy sector. Previously, he led sales at Shoals Technologies, where he was instrumental in that company's tremendous growth story and eventual IPO. Now at MGM, Ben oversees efforts to tackle transformer shortages by expanding production capacity and enhancing efficiency. Ben has a seasoned team focused on solving this industry bottleneck, and this conversation with Nico gives a glimpse into the not-so-sexy-but-necessary world of electromagnetic induction, probably not a topic you thought you’d learn about today! It’s helpful to know that in the many Gigawatts of projects Ben & his team at Shoals helped facilitate, this was always among the most surprising areas of bottlenecks holding projects (and factories, and much more) back from completion. He and the MGM team, with nearly 50 years’ experience in all types of transformer technology, are focused on fixing this shortcoming and doing it with American-made products.
Expect to learn:
How MGM is expanding capacity with new facilities in Texas.The difference between wet and dry transformers and their applications.Why transformer technology has remained largely unchanged for decades.The importance of building a dream team to support customers.If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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To have record-setting growth and earn the number one spot in your market, it takes more than a good product. How do you build a team mindset and strategy around turning a relatively unknown company into a market leader? What frameworks and strategies can growth-focused companies use to stay ahead of the competition?
When Bryan Wagner took the leadership role at CPS America, a top manufacturer of solar Inverters, the company had less than 10 customers in the US Market. With more than 1000 customers and a 7+ yr run as the market leader of 3-phase string inverters, you could say that Bryan and his team have unlocked some success secrets. They’ve also managed tremendous internal growth, with more than 100 team members (up from a dozen) based here in the US.
According to Bryan, they’ve found the answer [to both team & product success]] through innovation, customer service, and a culture of continuous improvement. Recorded at CPS’s headquarters in Richardson, Texas, this conversation with Wagner looks at how the company scaled rapidly while staying competitive, humble and people-focused.
As President and General Manager of CPS America, Bryan Wagner draws from his career in sales and competitive sports, revealing how these experiences shaped his approach to leadership. He discusses the strategies that have helped CPS America dominate the market and grow from a small team to a major force in solar technology. This episode gives an inside look at the company’s growth mindset and how they’ve managed to not just achieve #1 market share but KEEP it in a very fast-paced innovation cycle and an industry characterized by the “race to the bottom” of intense price pressure.
Oh, and this episode is being released on his Birthday! So at least reach out and wish Bryan a happy earthstrong - and another blessed year around our favorite thermonuclear reactor!
Expect to learn:
How Bryan’s sports background shapes his leadership styleWhy mentorship and coaching are vital in leadershipHow CPS America grew from 10 to 100 employees while keeping its cultureStrategies for managing rapid growth with operational excellenceThe role of customer feedback in CPS America’s product innovationHit play to hear how Bryan Wagner and CPS America are knocking it out of the park with innovation, leadership, and a winning team strategy!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling:
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ABC Supply is the nation’s largest building products distributor, responsible for 1 in 3 American roofs, and now they are setting their sights on what goes on top of our roof: solar panels. ABC Supply is positioned as “the necessary handshake across the aisle between the roofing and solar industry.” This conversation delves into the solar market from a roofer's perspective, exploring how the building supply industry is about to seize the many growing opportunities in solar energy.
James Mason, Vice President of Renewables at ABC Supply, has been pivotal in driving this transformation from within the company. With nearly two decades at ABC, James has a unique perspective on the future of solar and roofing, outlining the company’s strategy and how both roofers and solar installers must work together if this market is to scale appropriately.
Expect to learn:
How ABC Supply's 40+ years in building products distribution enables seamless solar integration.Key strategies behind the national expansion of ABC Supply’s renewables division.How to address the "ease of doing business" challenge for roofers transitioning into solar.The company’s approach to training and educating roofers on solar integration, and solar installers on roofing!Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage over at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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Hydro-Québec (HQ), North America’s largest renewable energy producer, is expanding its footprint into battery storage through its subsidiary, EVLO Energy Storage. Born from decades of expertise in grid management as one of Canada’s largest utilities, EVLO is the result of much research & development by HQ into utlizing batteries for grid stabilization. EVLO specializes in battery energy storage solutions (BESS) to solve the grid challenges faced by the energy transition. Their solutions emphasize not only performance but also security, ensuring that modern grid technologies are protected from cyber threats.
Martin Rheault, Vice President of Sales and Business Development, shares his journey from a successful career running the renewables practice at a major engineering firm to taking on the challenge of scaling EVLO into a global player in the energy storage market. Along the way, he provides insights into domestic manufacturing in Canada and the U.S., and the mission to build safer, more reliable batteries that are grid-friendly.
Expect to learn:
Hydro-Québec's extensive research and development track record, including pioneering work on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteriesTheir approach to cybersecurity, including real-world testing The role of domestic manufacturing in meeting energy storage demand and strengthening supply chainsEVLO’s transparent, collaborative engagement with customers to build trust and “derisk” project deployments.Catch this conversation recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage during RE+2024 in Anaheim. You can watch this and every other interview over at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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“Environmental justice is definitely an area that I’m passionate about because it’s deeply entwined with racial justice. Communities of color have been disproportionately victimized by environmental hazards, discriminatory environmental policy, and are far more likely to live in areas with heavy pollution.
At Volt, we are trying to reverse these injustices by building clean non-polluting solar plants in our communities.” - Gilbert Campbell
Pioneering innovative solutions like the Environmental Justice Power Purchase Agreement (EJPPA) to drive wealth creation and improve health outcomes through solar projects, Campbell has partnered with tech giants like Microsoft to supply 250MW of clean power. His model demonstrates how clean energy can simultaneously foster sustainability and social equity.
Marginalized communities across the country have long faced environmental injustice, overlooked for the kinds of development that bring economic opportunities - like renewable energy. As the shift to clean energy accelerates, prioritizing these communities and addressing both their health and financial needs is a key component of building a more equitable and just energy transition. With intentional deployment, solar projects have the power to close these gaps and create a more equitable future for all communities.
Gilbert Campbell, Founder & CEO of Volt Energy Utility, has dedicated his career to making renewable energy accessible, particularly for communities that have historically been left behind. A Howard University graduate and Board member of SEIA, Gilbert is a prominent leader and influential voice in clean energy.
Expect to learn:
How Gilbert’s values of service and community shaped his clean energy journeyHow Gilbert leveraged his Corporate training into entrepreneurship and the origin of his energy businessesWhy mentorship and developing diverse clean energy leaders led to programs like the Sharing the Power Foundation's HBCU Clean Energy and Environmental Justice FellowshipWhat are the challenges of clean energy communication and the need for better storytellingDon’t miss this inspiring conversation on how intentional clean energy investments can transform communities and create lasting impact.
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling:
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The battery storage sector is [finally] stabilizing with 90% of the IRA tax credit rules now in place, providing developers more clarity and perhaps more certainty. However, domestic production, financing, and evolving tax credit policies still pose challenges, particularly to product development. As developers, you must contend with government policies, geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and safety concerns, all of which can delay projects and affect their long-term viability. And battery suppliers/manufacturers are all sorting out the wants versus the needs of developers as the market gets increasingly crowded & pushes the envelope on size & density.
In a recent live discussion, Fluence President John Zahurancik addresses these complexities, highlighting efforts to expand U.S. battery production and improve safety through rigorous fire safety testing.
Expect to learn:
How storage wasn’t traditionally driven by policy, until the IRA & 45x, but policy is now reshaping storage projects and driving domestic production.Why 4-hour storage systems are most common and what’s needed to advance longer-duration technologies.What is the potential impact of the upcoming election on renewable energy and trade policy.To watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage in Anaheim during RE+ 2024, check out www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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The energy storage market is truly moving faster than ever, and with it, the complexity of building and managing these projects and products that serve our need for 24/7 renewable power. It does, however, raise a number of interesting, if not troubling questions:
How does this rapid change impact the Total Cost of Ownership for battery energy storage projects?
Are there hidden costs to this pace of growth?
As we watch the industry scale, it has started to feel a bit like companies are rushing projects (and products) to market in a race to meet market demand and be “first” in a number of key areas, not the least of which is power density and battery size.
So we have to ask, “how big is too big?”
And, as sites begin to move closer to population centers, what do we do about the inevitable concerns surrounding noise ordinances?
Is Noise the next challenge in front of the industry?
I asked these and many others of today’s special guest while we were live on our PowerUp Live stage recently at RE+ 2024.
With over 12.5 gigawatt-hours of contracted storage systems, including 8.5 gigawatt-hours already in operation, Wärtsilä Energy Storage & Optimisation (ES&O) is rapidly expanding its global footprint across key markets, from the US and Canada to Chile, the UK, and beyond. With the market moving faster than ever, Wärtsilä is tackling both technical and logistical challenges, ensuring that its battery storage systems are ready to meet demand.
Andy Tang, Vice President of Wärtsilä ES&O, brings nearly two decades of expertise in battery storage and grid edge development to the table. And in our conversation, he addresses head on the impacts of rising energy density on Total Cost of Ownership (TCOE) and the hidden costs associated with larger, more complex systems.
Expect to learn:
Whether the race to greater energy-density batteries is really “good” for the market.The emerging challenge of noise and how Wärtsilä is addressing it through advanced design and site planningTang’s advice for procurement managers in vendor & product selection.Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage over at www.suncast.live!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling:
-
Seventeen years ago, two young boys from Washington, DC set a ball in motion that would spark a nationwide solar movement. What inspired them?
Al Gore.
Solar United Neighbors (SUN), a national nonprofit, began as a grassroots effort when two preteens, inspired by An Inconvenient Truth, rallied their neighbors to adopt solar energy. Their initial door-to-door campaign grew into a solar co-op, which has since evolved into SUN, has driven key policy changes across the USA and fosters a network of solar advocates that stretches coast-to-coast. In fact, their neighborhood-focused inkling of an idea has now facilitated over 10,000 residential solar projects, making localized, affordable solar accessible to communities everywhere and catalyzing the largest known community of solar owners we’ve found.
In this episode, Anya Schoolman, Executive Director of Solar United Neighbors, shares how her son, Walter and his friend Diego’s vision for neighborhood-wide solar purchasing planted the seed for a national movement.
Expect to learn:
What is the Solar for All program and how it is expanding solar access to underserved communities.How Solar United Neighbors expanded into a nationwide movement now representing one million solar homeowners.Why we can’t decarbonize without distributed solarWho wins because of the organization’s efforts in consumer protection, ensuring transparency in solar contracts.Listen in to hear how a local project transformed into a national effort driving clean, working toward affordable solar energy for all!
If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.
Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!
SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.
You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.
Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.
Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/
You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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