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About the Episode:
Imagine a Roomba on a solar farm with a camera that can automatically inspect modules, wiring, even hot-spots, and report all that information back instantaneously to the asset manager. That level of computer vision and automation is finally possible, and it looks a Lot like a fun Disney character you’d recognize!
Derek Chase, founder and CEO of OnSight, is revolutionizing solar asset management through robotics and computer vision that uses a WALL-E-like advanced autonomous navigation robot to significantly enhance the accuracy of solar farm inspections with AI-powered detection. With more than 15 years in the industry, Derek has pioneered scalable operations and maintenance solutions, successfully building and selling one of the most successful O&M businesses in solar - SunSystem Technologies.
But Derek is not one to sit on his haunches and relax, nor are his co-founders (most from his previous venture), and his story of stumbling upon the idea for OnSight (at a Garage Sale, no less) is sure to inspire and inform your entrepreneurial tendencies.
Expect to learn:
How OnSight's robots autonomously navigate and inspect solar farms, capturing high-resolution data beyond human capability
The role of machine learning and computer vision in detecting subtle issues, like high-resistance connections that could cause fires
Strategies for funding and assembling a world-class team
The future of solar asset management with predictive maintenance and comprehensive data collection
Lessons in entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and perseverance
Listen in to discover how Derek Chase and OnSight are solving the unseen risks of solar one robot at a time.
Helpful RESOURCES:
Connect with Derek Chase:
Check out OnSight Technology:
Resources:
NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:
“If anybody wants to start a business, go get a job as a project manager first. You’ll learn how to get a lot of stuff done on time and manage a budget.”
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!
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.