This is a two-part episode with Alvaro Garcia of X-Elio (formerly Gestamp), split between Episode 12 and 13.
Part 1:
This episode of SunCast features Alvaro Garcia of X-Elio, a Gestamp subsidiary. Alvaro has the distinction of being chosen, during his Martifer Solar days, as the EPC for the first Utility-scale project ever financed and built in Mexico - the Aura Solar project in Baja California. And as an ex-pat living in Mexico for more than 5 yrs now, he has some interesting insights into doing business within the confines of the Mexican “economy”. You’ll be surprised to hear what he says about corruption. We discuss the value of hiring local, the key roles to fill in your solar startup, and this year’s Mexico solar auctions. If you’re curious at all about how to develop solar in Mexico, today’s show should scratch your itch.
Part 2: On building Trust relationships
Alvaro has built one of the most significant solar projects to-date in Mexico, the 40MW Aura Solar project, and he’s got 3 years of experience there as an expat building 2 different companies. We dig into stories from Aura, getting buy-in from regulators, the future of C&I as well as resi in Mexico, and how to start the day right. Alvaro is a wellspring of info, and this episode is short but very sweet.
Resources from this episode:
About the Author:
Nico Johnson is the creator and host of SunCast, a regular discussion with Solar Industry professionals who are focused on the Latin America solar market. The content of the show is geared towards listeners looking for in-depth conversation on the trends in the market, how to position companies to win in Latin America, and what today's market leaders do to stay ahead of the pack.
Nico is a 10-year veteran of the solar industry, having led development in the US and Latin America for global companies like Trina Solar and Conergy. His connection to the Latam market extends back to when he served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Guatemala, and he is considered one of the market's leading experts on solar pv expansion in region.
Nico can be reached at nico@mysuncast.com