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About the Episode:
We’ve heard that we need to focus on workforce development. Yet many times the workforce we’ve developed has to re-invent the wheel for lack of reliable systems to a) know what good looks like, and b) replicate it in the field with minimal oversight.
What if any solar installer had reliable, step-by-step installation guidance straight from any manufacturer? Would this improve the process?
Solar projects are custom-built each time, often with components from a range of OEMs. This means that installers have to spend costly hours figuring out how to connect different solar technology on a per-project basis (what we often refer to as commissioning).
Sierra Fan, cofounder of illu, offers a solution to this age-old efficiency hurdle. illu is a software platform that allows manufacturers (and installers) to create custom easy-to-follow processes to aid installers in completing fieldwork of all types. This system eliminates the need for manufacturers(OEMs) to develop their own bespoke software, and it guides installers through solar system installations and commissioning safely, every time.
It’s the simple yet effective idea that won illu the Solar Prize from the DOE and I believe it could be the perfect solution for OEMs trying to better support Installer operations.
Expect to learn:
Why illu won the American Made Solar Prize
How Sierra went from financier at Morgan Stanley to successful entrepreneur
How illu got their start working on microgrids in Myanmar.
Strategies for promoting sustainable technology adoption in emerging markets.
The partnerships and resources that are bringing illu early success
This is a startup-story that you won’t want to miss!
NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:
“We’re here to help standardize and make it super easy for those manufacturers to deploy standardized processes, and onboard an installer network to do that reliably every time.”
“It’s a software version of the owner’s manual, that also actually verifies and collects information. So not just teaches, but also tracks how things are going.”
Thanks again to this week's sponsor, helping keep the podcast FREE to you!
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 20 minutes on Nico's calendar and discuss whether having him as Your personal coach might be the right next step.