Episode 765: Unlocking the Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing: How Snoball is Revolutionizing Customer Acquisition

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 referrals

  • How automation keeps brands top-of-mind for customers

  • The key difference between reputation management and reputation marketing

  • How Snoball fills the gap left by service reps

  • Steps to build a sustainable, word-of-mouth growth strategy

Don'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.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Landon Taylor:

Check out Snoball:

Resources:

Check out The Snoball Effect Podcast

BOOKS MENTIONED AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

 

Multipliers
by Liz Wiseman

Getting Things Done
by David Allen

 
 

The E-Myth Revisited
by Michael Gerber

 

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“I think every single human on the planet has superpowers, and it’s just a matter of finding those having confidence and then not being afraid to fail and moving forward.”
— Landon Taylor
“Our goal is to give the power to the companies that do right by their customers to grow from their happy customers.”
— Landon Taylor

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 764: How to Land a Job in Clean Energy With No Experience—Aaron Nichols of Exact Solar

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Aaron:

Check out Exact Solar:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“And we do desperately need people who know how to talk to brilliant people because brilliant people don’t know how to talk to people.”
— Aaron Nichols

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 763: Battery Power: Strengthening Resilience with Energy Storage - Anne Hoskins, Kavita Ravi, & Joan White

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 Systems

  • Kavita Ravi, Senior VP of Operations at BlueWave Solar

  • Joan White, Director of Storage and Interconnection Policy at SEIA

Expect to learn:

  • How storage is delivering reliable, resilient energy to underserved communities

  • The importance of training in the latest safety codes, including NFPA 855

  • How virtual power plants (VPPs) can aggregate resources to strengthen the grid

  • The latest on interconnection, value-stacking, and overcoming regulatory barriers

  • Which states are leading in storage innovation and what’s next for deployment


Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Anne Hoskins:

Connect with Kavita Ravi:

Connect with Joan White:

Check out Generac Power Systems:

Check out BlueWave Solar:

Check out Solar Energy Industries Association:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The future is bright for solar and storage in the US, and we’ve actually seen not only massive deployment in the last like three to four years, but we’re seeing year over year exponential growth.”
— Joan White
“If you see somebody in your neighborhood who has solar panels on their roof, and who has a battery, or they don’t have a battery, thank them, because they’re providing power to you next door, nice, clean power.”
— Anne Hoskins
“Interconnection is the biggest problem facing our generation in terms of overcoming climate change and deploying renewable energy resources. But perhaps also, like EVs, will become a problem when they gain volume. So it is very important to modernize the grid to make it digital, self aware, controllable and put our best efforts into it.”
— Kavita Ravi

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 762: DOE’s American-Made Solar Prize Winners, Rd 7: Fram Energy & Gritt Robotics

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Lisa Ann Pinkerton:

Connect with Becca Jones-Albertus:

Check out Technica Communications:

Check out Fram Energy:

Check out Gritt Robotics:

Resources:

Check out: American Made Network’s

Check out: Solar Energy Technologies Office’s

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Our real goal is trying to accelerate the progress of entrepreneurs who have great ideas so that they can get their products to market faster.”
— Becca Jones-Albertus

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 761: Unlock Solar Success: Insider Tips from Top EPC Firms - Burns & McDonnell

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 Midwest

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at RE+ over at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Adam Bernardi:

Connect with Grant Reasor:

Check out Burns & McDonnell: 

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Owners are getting ahead of it and wanting to engage us earlier, which is super helpful for Grant and the team to start to see projects earlier. We can start to plan our workforce. We can have proactive discussions with OEMs about their capacity to be able to deliver.”
— Adam Bernardi
“It’s more about the quality of the due diligence. If you have a patchwork design with different parcels, do they have the easements in place? Are crossings, highways, and gas lines identified? We can overcome those challenges, but the earlier you identify them and get that level of information, the more it really helps us drive value into it, as opposed to playing from behind and trying to resolve it at the IFC stage.”
— Grant Reasor

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 760: Gemini: A Game-Changer in Solar and Storage Systems, with Adam Larner, COO at Primergy

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

"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 source

  • Why natural gas is a necessary complement to renewables, providing backup power and stability as solar and battery technologies scale up

  • How Gemini's success has become a unifying moment for the solar industry, inspiring collaboration and a shared sense of purpose

Tune 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.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Adam Larner:

Check out Primergy Solar:

Resources:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The key is to educate people to hear the counterpoints, and ultimately to get to a place where it’s a good blend of wind, of batteries of natural gas, of nuclear, solar, and that blend creates a more robust, resilient grid.”
— Adam Larner
“Batteries allow you to dictate when you provide that power, which increases the value, because utilities can predict based on lots of historical data when power needs go up and down.”
— Adam Larner

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 759: EPC Strategies for Successful Battery Storage Integration with Chris Finley of TruGrid

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Chris Finley:

Check out TruGrid:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We are active partners. We may be more of an offensive coach at times, kind of laying out the game plan and making sure it all connects.”
— Chris Finley
“We think it’s a simple solution, preemptively and intentionally designing the integration plan well in advance of the point at which we’ll actually deploy any of the equipment.”
— Chris Finley

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 758: Transforming Transport: Lime Co-Founder On E-Mobility’s Role In Decarbonization

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 solution

  • How Lime recycles batteries and repurposes them for second-life uses

  • What carbon-reduction strategies keep Lime on track to meet its 2030 net-zero goal

  • How Lime uses rider data to help cities redesign streets and improve safety

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Andrew Savage:

Check out Lime:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We need to decarbonize the grid and we need to have electric mobility, and with the two of them, then you can have fully decarbonized transportation.”
— Andrew Savage
“About a third of all carbon emissions are transportation based, and the majority of those emissions are private vehicles. Our hope is to help develop urban centers and urban environments where mobility can be completely carbon free.”
— Andrew Savage

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 757: Election Special: The Path for Clean Energy Under Trump or Harris

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 industry

  • Mona’s insights on the future of the IRA (Inflation Reduction Act)

  • The role of hydrogen in decarbonization

  • The need for faster regulatory and permitting processes to accelerate renewable energy deployment

  • How 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!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Chris Sass:

Connect with Mona Dajani:

Check out Insider’s Guide to Energy:

Check out Baker Botts:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“I really believe that we should go with clean hydrogens and not be 100% green, and we should look at, how do we decarbonize the world?”
— Mona Dajani
“Energy policy really drives deals. It’s very important. People ask me, they’re like, Why do you always focus on policy if you’re a deal maker, if you’re doing transactions? I look at policy, the global economy, and geopolitical tensions all of these factors. If you want to be successful as a deal maker in this space, you gotta go where the puck is going”
— Mona Dajani

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 756: Expert Analysis, 3 Perspectives On What's Trending In Solar

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 Surge

  • Ben Zientara - SolarReviews

  • Ryan Mayfield- Mayfield Renewables

  • Kate Collardson - Omnidian

  • Chris Crowell- Solar Builder

  • Ann Fischer - pv magazine USA

  • Ryan Kennedy- pv magazine USA

  • John Fitzgerald Weaver- Commercial Solar Guy

Expect 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.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Joe Ordia:

Connect with Ben Zientara:

Connect with Ryan Mayfield:

Connect with Kate Collardson:

Connect with Chris Crowell:

Connect with Ann Fisher:

Connect with Ryan Kennedy:

Connect with John Fitzgerald Weaver:

Check out Solar Surge:

Check out SolarReviews

Check out Mayfield Renewables:

Check out pv magazine USA:

Check out Solar Builder

Check out Commercial Solar Guy:

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 755: Cultivating A Community of Clean Energy Professionals; Jen Szaro of AESP

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 upgrades

  • How demand flexibility outperforms traditional demand response solutions

  • What EV adoption barriers were uncovered through EVDX’s design labs

  • Where AESP’s Utility Career Map and resource library suggest you should be looking

  • Why AESP’s mentorship programs help clean energy professionals thrive & grow

Listen in toexplore 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.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Jen Szaro:

Check out AESP:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“It truly is a community, the level of volunteerism, the level of knowledge that people are willing to bring to the table to support the next generation of energy professionals, it’s special.”
— Jen Szaro
“The problem we’re trying to solve is to help people understand how to take a big picture, look at all of the different technologies that can be used in an ecosystem environment to serve distributed energy needs, and so we specifically focus on the distribution system down.”
— Jen Szaro

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 754: Is This Renewable Energy’s Hidden Bottleneck? Ben Macias Explains

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Ben Macias:

Check out MGM Transformers:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“People are the core of any company and so I truly and firmly believe that you have to have highly capable leaders to build great teams because ultimately those people take care of your customers.”
— Ben Macias
“Reinvesting in manufacturing, bringing Waco online next year is gonna be fantastic for us, and we’re just gonna continue to grow our capacity and support customers and really take care of them.”
— Ben Macias

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 753: How To Achieve 10,000% Growth & Market Dominance, Bryan Wagner of CPS Americas

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 style

  • Why mentorship and coaching are vital in leadership

  • How CPS America grew from 10 to 100 employees while keeping its culture

  • Strategies for managing rapid growth with operational excellence

  • The role of customer feedback in CPS America’s product innovation

Hit play to hear how Bryan Wagner and CPS America are knocking it out of the park with innovation, leadership, and a winning team strategy!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Bryan Wagner:

Check out Chint Power Systems Americas:

Check out our other episode with Bryan:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We want continuous learners. You really won’t make it in this company if you’re not that way, because we push you to become the best version of you.”
— Bryan Wagner
“Understand your circle of competence. I focus in sales and marketing and operations and in products. I love products. I’ve always been obsessed with technology and making sure that people can buy things in a simple manner.”
— Bryan Wagner

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 752: The Nation’s Largest Building Products Distributor Turns to Solar; James Mason, ABC Supply Co

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with James Mason:

Check out ABC Supply Co. Inc:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“If you’re doing solar and you’re going to be doing roofing, and if you’re doing roofing you’re going to be doing solar, and if you’re not doing both, you’re probably not going to be doing a little bit of much.”
— James Mason
“I’d like to think of this analogy of the train station, where ABC supply is a train station. Just come to the train station. We’ll get you on the right train, get you on the right track, and we’ll get you to your destination.”
— James Mason

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 751: How EVLO Energy Storage Is Working to Solve Tomorrow’s Grid Challenges with Martin Rheault

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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) batteries

  • Their approach to cybersecurity, including real-world testing 

  • The role of domestic manufacturing in meeting energy storage demand and strengthening supply chains

  • EVLO’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!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Martin Rheault:

Check out EVLO Energy Storage:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“For the first few years, even before the name EVLO existed, we had the mission to build custom made product for the grid. So we started to resolve the grid challenges of tomorrow years before. So I think that the way they are integrated, the way it’s state owned, they had the ability to build that expertise before others.”
— Martin Rheault
“In the end, we’re trying to solve a very difficult equation, the energy transition. So you need to know more about what’s the end result. End result is decarbonizing a grid and making sure that storage is really leveraging all of its attributes to the mix.”
— Martin Rheault

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 750: Clean Energy as a Wealth Creation Vehicle, Gilbert Campbell | Volte Energy Utility

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

“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

About the Episode:

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 journey

  • How Gilbert leveraged his Corporate training into entrepreneurship and the origin of his energy businesses

  • Why mentorship and developing diverse clean energy leaders led to programs like the Sharing the Power Foundation's HBCU Clean Energy and Environmental Justice Fellowship

  • What are the challenges of clean energy communication and the need for better storytelling

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on how intentional clean energy investments can transform communities and create lasting impact.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Gilbert Campbell:

Check out Volt Energy Utility:

Resources:

 
 

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We are trying to make sure that we leave a healthier planet for our kids, and we are just developing clean solar projects with the intentionality of increasing and generating wealth in communities that have been left behind and improving health outcomes in those communities. So our mission is unapologetically serving those that have been given a bad shake and making sure that they are at the forefront of this revolution that we’re going through with clean energy.”
— Gilbert Campbell
“Somebody has to be able to speak for those that don’t have a seat at the table.”
— Gilbert Campbell

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 749: 45X-tra things to worry about with Battery Storage in 2025

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 outwww.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with John Zahurancik:

Check out Fluence:

Check out our episodes with John Zahurancik:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“If you’re on the Democratic side, and you strongly feel that stewardship and climate issues are what’s driving it, that’s one side. If you’re on the Republican side, you see domestic jobs, U.S. manufacturing, and economic benefits. What we’ve seen with storage—and increasingly with solar and renewables—is that there’s something for everyone across the political spectrum.”
— John Zahurancik
“This is a dynamic market, having sources of supply close to this market so we can take out risks of transportation, risks of weather disruption, risks of terrorism, and geopolitical concern. I think that’s beneficial even if the costs are a little bit higher.”
— John Zahurancik

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 748: Scaling Energy Storage: Why Bigger Isn't Always Better | Andy Tang, Wärtsilä

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 planning

  • Tang’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!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Andy Tang:

Check out Wärtsilä Energy Storage & Optimisation:

Check out our other episode with Andy Tang:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The challenge you have though is many of these solutions have not been designed by integrators. So you know, what does an integrator do? Well, an integrator understands the total system, every individual component.”
— Andy Tang
“Storage is encroaching into distribution and not only is it encroaching into distribution because of of lack of sites, but it’s also increasing into distribution because of the move towards resiliency, and really the ability for networks to build at the grid edge, and so noise is absolutely becoming a really big factor.”
— Andy Tang

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 747: Building Solar Communities One Neighborhood At A Time, w/Anya Schoolman of Solar United Neighbors

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

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 solar

  • Who 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!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Anya Schoolman:

Check out Solar United Neighbors:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We’re training people, we’re engaging them, and then we’re engaging them in advocacy, and it’s both in person and digital.”
— Anya Schoolman
“Projecting hope is actually the most important thing we could do, because people become complacent and disempowered when they lose hope. I think that’s the special sauce that solar has, that nothing else in the climate area has is that people get it.”
— Anya Schoolman

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.

Episode 746: What To Watch In The Evolving BESS Market, with Dave Hebert & Neha Sinha - Wärtsilä

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Advancements in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are setting new standards in renewable energy integration and at a break-neck pace. Wärtsilä Energy Storage and Optimization (ES&O) has long been a leader of this innovation, developing solutions to meet the growing demand for larger, more efficient battery systems, while recognizing the limitations of scale in the race to pack in the most energy density. With a diverse portfolio of products, from their flagship DC block Quantum series to the newly introduced Quantum3, a 5 MWh AC block with integrated string inverters, Wärtsilä continues to push the boundaries of energy storage technology.

Listen in to this Live-recorded session as Dave Hebert, Director of Sales Management, and Neha Sinha, Product Manager for Energy Storage Systems at Wärtsilä, discuss how their products address critical challenges like space constraints, auxiliary power, and noise reduction while adapting to evolving market demands and the complexities of product development.

Expect to learn:

  • Auxiliary power optimization that reduces costs and prevents early battery degradation.

  • Innovative approaches to managing noise in densely populated areas.

  • Benefits of maintaining both AC and DC block products in their portfolio.

  • Design and manufacturing choices in a policy-driven market

Catch this conversation recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage in Anaheim. Watch now at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Dave Hebert:

Connect with Neha Sinha:

Check out Wärtsilä Energy Storage & Optimisation:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“You can sell what you have, or you can sell what they want. Today we’re in a marketplace where it’s want. They have very specific needs. They’ve architected their projects in certain ways. They’ve got grid code interconnections that they have to deal with. There’s so many external elements. We have to be a nimble company and deliver what they’re looking for, which is why we want our product suite to diversify at this point.”
— Dave Hebert
“And so as we get to these larger enclosure sizes, where it is difficult to free up an inverter and shuffle those modules into existing areas on your site, you then have to divert to alternative augmentation strategies that might open yourself up to handling modules in the field.”
— Neha Sinha

Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is Chint Power Systems America!

CPS America is the #1 supplier of 3-phase string inverters for Commercial & Industrial and Utility-Scale projects with more than 8 gigawatts of inverters installed on 20,000+ sites around the nation!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

We are grateful for our GOLD sponsor:

Speed up PV installations for lower LCOE with TrinaTracker and improve overall system value with optimized compatibility using Trina Solar’s industry-leading modules and the TrinaPro utility-scale or C&I Solutions. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/trina

ABOUT THE HOST OF SUNCAST:

Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, consistently rated a top solar podcast in the clean energy sector. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for insights on where the markets are headed, how to position themselves or their companies, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.

Nico is an Investor, Executive Coach, and 16-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy.

You can connect with Nico Johnson on Twitter, LinkedIn or email.

If you’ve been second-guessing your work decisions or maybe trying to reconsider how you "fit" in the renewable energy industry -> grab 15 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.