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About the Episode:

The solar industry is on the brink of transformation not just in technology but in its very identity! Jigar Shah, director of the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office, challenges our traditional understanding of "solar." Delving into cutting-edge projects that meld solar with batteries and electric vehicles, Shah reveals that the "virtual power plant" model, placing homeowners at the grid's forefront, is the actual industry that we are all participating in now. 

But there's more: how do we ensure equity in energy access? 

Listen in as Shah illuminates a path towards a comprehensive, just, and resilient energy landscape.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Find Jigar Shah on LinkedIn.

Connect with DOE Loan Programs Office on LinkedIn, Twitter and on their blog

Key Takeaways:

  1. Beyond "Solar": Jigar Shah emphasizes that the industry's scope has outgrown the term "solar." With the integration of batteries, electric vehicles, and other innovations, it's becoming a more comprehensive energy ecosystem. 

  2. Equity in Energy: While exploring cutting-edge energy solutions, there's a pressing need to ensure that marginalized and lower-income communities also benefit. These communities often face higher energy costs, and initiatives must be in place to grant them access to these advancements.

  3. Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Model: Shah introduces the concept of the "virtual power plant," a model where individual homeowners can become pivotal contributors to essential grid services by harnessing and redistributing stored energy.

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

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.