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If I could give you $10 million to spend to create a more sustainable world, how would you invest it? That's just one of the intriguing questions SunCast Host Nico Johnson and Bodhi CEO Scott Nguyen debate with three expert panelists on today's intriguing podcast.
You'll hear from Mark Tomasovic, principal at Energize Ventures and two Google executives, Caroline Golin, global head of Energy Market Development and Policy and Sonal Somaiya, Sustainability Investments and Corporate Development, for a wide-ranging discussion on tackling climate change through investments and technology.
"There's just so much energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge in the climate area. But the awareness of how to be involved is relatively low, and we try to address that in today's broadcast," Scott said.
You’ll hear about:
The Need for Skilled Labor: Mark highlights the shortage of skilled labor, specifically electricians, to support the electrification of infrastructure in the US.
Spreading Awareness: Sonal emphasizes the importance of spreading awareness about climate technologies and advancements to individuals outside the climate space.
Individual Actions: The panelists suggest practical steps that individuals can take to address climate change.
Career Paths in Climate Tech: Panelists recommend students gain experience in startups to develop a diverse skill set or volunteering for political or policy campaigns.
They also address the impacts of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IRA) — what one panelist called the most influential piece of legislation in the history of America.
So what would our panelists do with $10 million? Caroline would improve carbon trading registries "so people could understand the carbon footprint of their operations." She stressed the importance of measuring because "we can't fix what we don't know," highlighting the need for accurate data to address climate change.
In another part of the discussion, Mark commented on how climate tech and energy startups struggle with lengthy pilot periods. "Pilots are where startups go to die," he said.
He explained that selling climate software or hardware differs from selling regular enterprise software because the customers focus on minimizing risk due to the high-stakes nature of their operations. Startups can find themselves in extended pilot periods, which can be resource-intensive and time-consuming.
And Sonal added that understanding the dynamics of selling climate software is crucial. Entrepreneurs should focus on building an ironclad case for how their technology can drive cost savings and fulfill demand. She emphasized the need for honesty in communicating the unique dynamics of the market and aligning the go-to-market strategy with the buyer's needs.
Today's show is a replay of our special Earth Day live broadcast featuring Google and Bodhi, a software platform that helps growing residential solar companies remove operational headaches and sell more to more people.
Join us as our panelists share practical ways individuals can support the energy transition, emphasizing collective action, informed decision-making, and increased awareness.
They encourage individuals to live the change they want to see, engage in conversations with others, and stay updated with climate-focused technological advancements.
If you enjoy actionable strategies and think you'd enjoy participating in an engaging pop quiz on climate threats and the impact of rising CO2 emissions on global temperatures — well, this podcast is for you.
Video Of Episode 596:
Be sure to check out our past episodes with Bodhi:
Episode 357: Design Principles To Drive Customer Engagement With Scott Nguyen, CEO Of 17 TeraWatts
Episode 472: Customer Experience Expert Scott Nguyen Of Bodhi [Live From RE+NE]
Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!
SUNGROW focuses on integrated energy storage system solutions, including PCS, lithium-ion batteries and energy management system. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/sungrow
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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 20 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.