Episode 667: The Intrapreneur journey and engineering a company pivot, with Sohan Das of EVS Inc.

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Sohan Das, Vice President at EVS, Inc., addresses the demand for(and gap in) skilled engineering labor in the renewable energy sector. EVS, Inc., a family-owned engineering firm, is pivotal in bridging this gap for specialized expertise in electrical, civil, structural, geotechnical, and land survey engineering, crucial for the transition of global energy grids towards renewable sources. Das’s extensive background in architecture and solar energy has been key to EVS’s evolution into an industry-leading engineering services provider in an entirely new category for themselves - Solar Energy. This discussion delves into the company’s approach to meeting the demands of the renewable energy market, highlighting their efficiency and effectiveness in project management. It also explores EVS's successful business model pivot through an intrepid young hire, and the intrapreneurial spirit driven by their core values and customer-centric approach.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Sohan Das:

Check out EVS, Inc.:


Episodes Referenced In this Conversation:

Key Takeaways:

  1. Strategic Market Evolution and Client-Centric Approach: EVS's successfully transitioned from a civil engineering firm to become a pioneer in community solar and storage.  Their commitment to a comprehensive 'one stop shop' engineering services helps clients accelerate project delivery without sacrificing quality, and builds long-term client relationships founded on trust, honesty, and reliability.

  2. Internal Talent Cultivation: Core to EVS’s success is investing in the development and upskilling of employees to build a robust and diverse workforce capable of scaling the company in a demanding renewable energy environment while maintaining the core values of respect, humility, and integrity.

  3. Navigating Leadership Challenges: embrace the responsibilities of leadership, including making difficult decisions and learning from mistakes, to foster a strong and empowered team.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTES:

“Every director is always looking for the best of EVS, not for just the best of their own department. And that’s what I think the Midwest values, the values that Dennis brought. And our core values are respect, humility, and integrity is really key to make that happen.”
— Sohan Das

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 666: Bold Predictions, a Best-of 2023 recap

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Today’s episode features bold predictions from a compilation of 2023’s best episodes. I asked leaders from diverse fields within the renewable energy sector to answer, looking as if from the future: What did we get right to meet our decarbonization and clean energy goals now that it’s 2050?

With this compilation episode, bold predictions for the renewable energy sector from 2023's most impactful conversations are shared. Several factors are necessary to achieve clean energy goals, from the vital role of battery storage and the need for widespread global collaboration to the importance of education for decision-makers. Technological advancements foster optimism, including the emergence of electric vehicles and carbon capture tech solutions ready to scale. The discussion highlights the necessity of diversifying the supply chain, improving efficiency, and supporting a robust “green” workforce to meet ambitious climate & energy targets.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Laura Pagliarulo & check out her episode:

Connect with Ardes Johnson & check out his episode:

Connect with Christie Obiaya  & check out her episode:

Connect with Robert Piconi  & check out his episode(s):

Connect with Aaron Halimi & check out his episode:

Connect with Katherine Hamilton & check out her episode:

Connect with Steven Zhu & check out his episode(s):

Connect with Andy McCarthy & check out his episode:

Connect with Billy Lee  & check out his episode:

Connect with Damian Beauchamp & check out his episode:

Key Takeaways:

  1. Technological Innovations: Battery storage will play an integral role in being able to deploy more renewables on the grid. Continued focus on R&D and tech innovation that can be scaled is also needed to fuel the clean energy transition.

  2. Global Cooperation and Education: Highlighting the critical need for international collaboration among nations in achieving renewable energy targets complemented by a comprehensive understanding of clean energy options among decision-makers and communities.

  3. Workforce Development: Focusing on the importance of developing a strong “green” workforce to meet ambitious renewable energy targets, which is key to driving the transition to a more sustainable future.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTES:

“What we will need to have gotten right is incorporating battery storage to allow more renewables to come online.”
— Laura Pagliarulo
“We decided that every country has to participate, not only from the way that you live, but more more myopically. And when I’m more focused on solar production, and manufacturing, we’re making our first steps and something that’s very new, about how we approach the solar industry, at least in the US.”
— Ardes Johnson
“I truly believe that we have the technological solutions today, to deploy at scale, and to beat this thing.”
— Billy Lee
“Simply by reducing Labor’s costs or material costs, you cannot lower the cost that much, you have to increase your efficiency, you have to increase your productivity, you have to increase your technology, improve your technology, in order to reach a lower cost.”
— Steven Zhu
“You know, the next billionaire out there in the world is probably sitting in their garage right now, he or she is trying to find smarter ways to move electrons around the world.”
— Andy McCarthy

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 665: Intersolar N. America ‘24 - Know Before You Go

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

We’re here to help you gear up for InterSolar North America and Energy Storage North America, happening January 17-19 at the San Diego Convention Center. Discover how this event, with exponential growth since 2019, is the place to kickstart your 2024 mojo and lean into the year’s theme: "accelerating the energy transition." Hear from Wes Doane of Diversified Communications about the event's transformative journey, Rudy Saporite from IBTS about the intense Solar Games competition with $16,000 in cash prizes, and Candace Letizia, who reveals exciting event features, including an interactive floor map app and networking spaces. Plus, don't miss the details on the Thursday night Block Party Bash. This episode offers a comprehensive view of what to expect and how to maximize your InterSolar experience.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Candace Letizia:

Connect with Rudy Saporite:

Connect with Wes Doane:

Check out Diversified Communications:

Check out IBTS:

Check out Intersolar North America & Energy Storage North America:

InterSolar North America Floorplan

Key Takeaways:

  1. Event Theme: This year, InterSolar North America focuses on the principle of "accelerating the energy transition."

  2. Solar Games: This engaging competition showcases the skills of solar installers. Teams compete over three days on parameters such as safety, handling, wiring, code compliance, and, of course, speed - with the championship round occurring at 11 am on the final day - psst - with a not-so-secret host of ceremonies - ME!

  3. Networking Events: Notable side events include early breakfast and tour of a vanadium flow battery project, the Solar Games installation competition, and the memorable Block Party bash. Over 500 exhibitors and 100 speakers will join more than 9000 registered guests in this not-to-miss annual event.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTES:

“We have eight teams from around the US that are competing, the top three winners will take away a combined $16,000 in cash. And it’s just really lovely to see the talent and the industry come together and you know, have a lot of fun while getting a little competitive.”
— Candace Letizia
“What I like about trade shows is they’re kind of this barometer for how the industry is doing.”
— Wes Doane
“You know, teams that are better, more knowledgeable, both in equipment and in process and in strategy on a rooftop tend to have a better outcome, both within the games as well as in real life.”
— Rudy Saporite

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 664: Inside Trina Solar's Strategy for Global Expansion, with President Steven Zhu

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Steven Zhu, President of Trina Solar's US division, is recognized as a pioneer in the solar industry.  His pivotal role in Trina Solar's 20+ year growth is highlighted through anecdote & allegory in this wide-ranging discussion with SunCast Host, Nico Johnson. The discussion reveals Steven's personal journey from childhood in China to leadership roles shaped by experiences in US academia and at technology behemoth IBM. Covering his career trajectory, Steven reflects on how he came to work at Trina Solar, his foray over to competitor GCL, and eventually returning to Trina to lead the US build out. Under Steven's stewardship, Trina Solar has solidified its position as a top global solar manufacturer. His strategic insights underscore the importance of technology improvements and supply chain efficiencies for achieving grid parity without long-term incentives. Steven recognizes as well the need for balancing ambition with conservative execution, one of the keys, he says, to Trina’s durability in an otherwise volatile and difficult marketplace.  Today’s discussion offers a rare glimpse into the strategic mindset of this solar industry giant’s leadership circle and brings into focus Trina Solar's core principles of localization, flexibility, and customer-centricity.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Steven Zhu:

Check out Trina Solar:

Website | LinkedIn | X | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook

Key Takeaways:

  1. Risk-taking: Founder & Chairman, Jifan Gao, sent a young Steven Zhu into uncharted territory very early in the solar industry’s buildout.  Steven recounts being one of the only solar companies visiting the silicon industry’s primary annual conference in San Francisco, and the rapid transformation of that conference toward this “new” industry known as solar.

  2. Expansion Strategy: Localization, customer centricity, and flexibility are central to Trina Solar's strategy for global and U.S. expansion. Zhu underscores the need to balance ambition with prudence and to enter markets with decade-plus visions. 

  3. China’s ambition: Achieving the lowest possible system costs, and thus a proliferation of solar technology globally, would not have been possible, argues Zhu, without the commitment of the Chinese government to drive rapid adoption domestically and to support the industry R&D.  It is hard to argue against China’s role in driving the cost curve down to a point where solar could reach grid parity and scale.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“Simply by reducing labor costs or material costs, you cannot lower the cost that much, you have to increase your efficiency, you have to increase your productivities you have to increase your technology, improve your technology, in order to reach a lower cost”
— Steven Zhu

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 663: Launch of Valence & the Influencer List

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Heading into 2024, in partnership with our team at www.resourcelabs.co, we are launching a LinkedIn newsletter called "Valence: Content that Connects." Borrowing the term from chemistry, we visualize clean energy community members as 'elements' that, when combined, drive sustainable change. Valence highlights influential people and the stories they tell – within the renewable energy and climate sector.  In our launch editions of the Newsletter, we have featured notable figures like Alessandro Blasi, Katharine Hayhoe, and Daniel Shugar with more to be announced daily through January 6 as part of our 12 Days of Christmas. The newsletter will revert to weekly publications thereafter, highlighting leaders who are re-writing the energy & climate narrative.

Our goal for 2024 is to foster daily connections, converging ideas, and leveraging resources to foster the clean energy transition.

Follow along on LinkedIn and subscribe to Valence for the daily list of influencers. And if you missed it, we’ll have the full list over on www.resourcelabs.co afterward.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Episodes Mentioned:

Key Takeaways:

  1. "Valence" meaning: the degree of combining power of an element, as shown by the number of atomic weights of monovalent elements such as hydrogen. With Valence, I want to center around this idea of connectedness and the human potential to change the world through improving our storytelling capacity. Better described here.

  2. Human Potential: I believe that my job is to connect the human potential, it's the human element of the energy and climate story, and to help tell those stories with greater reach and efficacy. Valence, then, captures the how, why and with whom we connect the dots of the energy & climate narrative.

  3. Daily Connections: Goal for 2024 - to forge daily connections, merge diverse ideas, and show YOU how telling a great story can make all the difference in your endeavor.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“As we unpack this project, I guess, one thing I didn’t share with you is, my commitment for the year beyond launching Valence as a standalone project is that the underlying principle is connecting the dots, and therefore making myself a personal challenge that I will be connecting to people every day, for 365 days, I’m going to try to find meaningful ways to connect to those around me, but also to track the progress and the results.”
— Nico Johnson

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 662: Turning Communities Into Renewable Properties, with Aaron Halimi

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Aaron Halimi, the President, and CEO of Renewable Properties shares his experience developing solar projects. Aaron highlights the potentials and challenges of community solar. He discusses his journey into the industry, starting from a project on his family's rural land in Central Californal, through his industry growth phase leading utility-scale origination at Borrego Solar, to founding Renewable Properties. We learn how community solar is evolving to provide more accessible and flexible options compared to residential and utility-scale projects. Aaron also addresses the pivotal role of education and storytelling in dealing with misconceptions about renewable energy. Lastly, the conversation broadens to discuss the integration of renewable energy and the emerging EV market and how to drive energy forward.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Aaron Halimi:

Check out Renewable Properties:

Website | LinkedIn | X | YouTube

Key Takeaways:

  1. Evolution of Community Solar: Community solar has grown as a viable “Fourth Vertical” in the solar market, making it feasible to procure solar energy for those who do not have the option of solar on their individual home or building while presenting less developmental risks compared to utility-scale projects.

  2. Crucial role of communication: Storytelling, education, and addressing public misconceptions about solar deployments are integral parts of any company's development strategy.

  3. Expansion beyond solar: Renewable Properties sees opportunity tangential to the solar development sector to diversify its offerings, including the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, supporting a comprehensive approach to building community-based clean infrastructure.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“We as an industry need to continue to aggressively recruit and attract talent from other industries where there’s transferable skills. And even in industries where there might not be, we need to really be focused on that.”
— Aaron Halimi

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 661: What is Boxing Day? Plus 12 Days of Christmas 2024 Edition

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Today we explore the historical roots of Boxing Day, a tradition echoing gratitude from Victorian times, where the upper class honored their servants with boxes of provisions. 

And, as the holiday spirit continues, join us for a unique '12 Days of Christmas' series introducing influencers in the climate and energy sector. This series will connect you daily with innovators and leaders re-shaping the climate narrative through innovation, science and journalism. 

Follow along on LinkedIn for daily updates through January 6th. And if you missed it, we’ll have the full list over on www.resourcelabs.co afterward.

This short episode covers bridging tradition, innovation, and climate action into the new year.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Nico Johnson on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways:

  1. Boxing Day History: Dating back to Victorian times, Boxing Day is when the upper class traditionally gave boxes filled with food, money, or goods to their servants or tradespeople as a token of appreciation. Today, Boxing Day is marked by sports events, charity runs, and continued exchange of gifts.

  2. 12 Days of Christmas: Stay tuned for our exclusive 12 Day of Christmas “The Influencer List” series featuring thought leaders in Energy & Climate you should be following in 2024.

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Bonus: Invitation - Join me in Hawaii?! (Mastermind)

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Imagine starting your new year in the tropical paradise of Honolulu, Hawaii. Not just for a vacation, but to join industry leaders Nico Johnson and Joshua Porter at a 4-day mastermind event designed to supercharge your leadership skills and network. This isn't just about escaping the winter blues; it's about setting the stage for a successful year ahead. Over these four days, we'll be learning the art of storytelling, getting up-to-speed on the latest policy and market innovations, and engaging with peers in an intimate setting. So why not shake off the winter chill and jumpstart your new year with us?

This mastermind event is co-located with the first ever RE+ Solar & Storage event in Honolulu, Hawaii Jan 22-23. It's a unique opportunity to get insider guidance on understanding the dynamic Hawaii market and how it could influence your approach to other less mature markets in the US. Hawaii has, after-all, been a pioneering market for storage attachment to residential solar projects, and continues to be a test bed that other utilities and market regulators are watching closely. Imagine the synergy of attending this timely industry event, then deepening your understanding through our targeted mastermind sessions. You'll have access to local insiders and exclusive pre & post-event networking & teaching by Josh, Nico and guests. The lessons you learn here could be game-changing, offering a timely injection of knowledge and storytelling prowess to boost your personal and corporate brand early in the year.

Ready to level up? Visitwww.mysuncast.com/precharge to fill out the application. If you're interested in attending, book a call with Josh and Nico next week. We have limited space, as we are only taking a dozen folks with us on this journey. Don't miss this chance to start your year strong, expand your network, and enhance your leadership & storytelling skills. Remember, the best investment you can make is in yourself. Join us in Hawaii this January and let's make this year your best one yet.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Josh Porter on LinkedIn

Connect with Nico Johnson on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways:

  1. Storytelling - Nico & Josh have honed the art of visual and audio mediums for storytelling and have never before shared their secrets in such a timely & intimate setting. Leverage their decade-plus experience to boost your message & media skills

  2. Peer Network - Surround yourself with peers who can push, pull and stretch you to reach your goals and beyond. Mastermind groups give you the support network you need - you don’t have to feel like you’re the only one with the answers.

  3. Kickstart the Year - So many plans are made in Q4 that get off to a sluggish start in January. Be the contrarian and put yourself in a position to dominate your goal list by gaining acumen and accountability among a group of A-Players like yourself.

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 660: Why care about COP28? A Recap with Nathan Jovanelly, Brad Stutzman, Elizabeth Andrews, Tito Jankowski, Steve Anglin

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

This Industry Pulse roundtable, led by hosts Nico Johnson and Nathan Jovanelly, unpacks the insights and experiences of renewable energy & climate leaders - Elizabeth Andrews, Steve Anglin, Brad Stutzman, and Tito Jankowski - from the recently concluded COP28. By touching on technologies, such as green hydrogen, the remarkable scope of COP28, and the need for collaboration and investment in clean energy, our experts cast a keen eye on the event's impact on the global fight against climate change. 

Everyone attends these events with their own agenda: network, raise awareness, raise money, get “in the room” where it happens! 

The discussion offers a look at COP28 from quite different perspectives while tying together their observations into one theme - why should those of us back in the ‘real world’ give a d* about whether or not these proceedings have meaning for our day-to-day lives?

Tune in and discover for yourself.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Brad Stutzman:

Connect with Elizabeth Andrews:

Connect with Tito Jankowski:

Connect with Steve Anglin:

Connect with Nathan Jovanelly:


Check out O3 Energy:

Check out New Energy Nexus: 

Check out AirMiners:

Check out Utopio:

Check out SunRaise Capital LLC:

Check out Limitless Podcast with Nathan Jovanelly:

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Key Takeaways:

  1. Financial Support: There is an ever-present need for increased funding and investment, particularly in developing regions, to fuel the growth of clean energy and climate tech, and COP proceedings pay particular attention to HOW we will raise funding for those most vulnerable to climate change.

  2. Scale: The sheer scale of COP28 and its associated events can be overwhelming, so the panelists discuss where attention should be focused and how they spent time this trip versus where and how they’d do it next time.

  3. Technological Innovation: Like many conferences, the event serves as a catalyst for displaying innovations that could help solve the climate crisis. Startups specializing in climate technologies are provided a great opportunity to connect with investors and expand their networks at the COP events happening outside the Blue Zone.

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 659: The question is not WHO is Meyer Burger, but WHY have you not heard of them, yet?! With Ardes Johnson, President of Meyer Burger Americas

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Ardes Johnson, President of Meyer Burger Americas, introduces us to Meyer Burger, the 70 yr old Swiss firm whose equipment production lines and innovative technological breakthroughs have helped such industry stalwarts as Trina Solar and REC scale to multi-GW factories around the world.  Ardes takes us through their groundbreaking Heterojunction Technology (HJT) and SmartWire Connection Technology that enhance solar energy output while minimizing resource use. Meyer Burger is leading the way in refining technologies like Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC) cells and tandem modules, and is expanding manufacturing operations from Germany to the U.S. The company is constructing solar facilities in Goodyear, AZ and Colorado Springs. Ardes shares his extensive experience gained from starting off as a Nuclear Officer in the Navy to working at GE, SolarWorld, Tesla, and JLM Energy. He underscores the necessity of policy stability for the growth of the solar industry and calls upon stakeholders and policymakers to unite for long-term policy support. This is aimed at propelling American solar manufacturing forward to contribute to global climate goals.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Ardes Johnson:

Check out Meyer Burger:

Key Takeaways:

  1. Technology: Heterojunction technology forms the core of Meyer Burger's innovation beachhead, and they have efforts underway to further lift efficiencies through IBC cells, tandem modules, and the incorporation of, dare we say it… perovskite.

  2. Infrastructure: To establish and nurture a vibrant domestic solar manufacturing industry, immense investments are needed, underpinned by solid policy stability. Meyer Burger is investing in not just a solar module manufacturing plant, but is also bringing a CELL fab to the US As well…that takes guts (and know-how).

  3. Partnerships: A combination of strong partnerships and customer commitments have enabled Meyer Burger to accelerate its U.S. manufacturing plans. It cannot be overstated how important the UP-FRONT customer pull-through is to the success of all the major manufacturing announcements we’ve been seeing. If you don’t see customer commitments behind these announcements, question reality.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“I want to make fewer modules but get the same gigawatt output, right? Get more output on a roof, get more output in the field, do it in a sustainable way, do it in an ethical way with quality product. And that’s really what Meyer Burger is all about.”
— Ardes Johnson

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

658: Top Trends cleantech podcasters predict for 2024? End of Year Cleantech Podcasters Roundtable

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

In this year-end podcasters’ roundtable, fellow renewable energy show hosts Mike Casey, Marie Burgquist, Bill Nussey, Dana Perkins, David Roberts, and Chris Caldwell join Nico to dissect where we stand with clean energy goals going into next year. They assess the year's progress, tackling topics such as China's renewable market explosion, grid infrastructure challenges, COP28, authoritarianism and climate action. They also identified compelling subjects slated for broader public awareness in the upcoming year, spanning innovative storage solutions, advancements in emissions accounting, the potential of off-grid renewables, and the critical role of risk assessments within the insurance industry. This discussion delves into crucial aspects of renewable energy and energy storage, underscoring the ongoing imperative to propel diverse sectors into active participation in the transition toward clean energy.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Mike Casey:

Connect with Bill Nussey:

Connect with Dana Perkins:

Connect with Marie Burgquist:

Connect with David Roberts:

Connect with Chris Caldwell:

Check out Tigercomm/Scaling Clean Podcast:

Check out Freeing Energy:

Check out BloombergNEF/Switched On:

Check out Watts Up by Nelnet Renewable Energy:

Check out Volts:

Check out Conversations On Climate:

Website | LinkedIn

Key Takeaways:

  1. Grid Infrastructure challenges: Interconnection bottlenecks and rising costs remain major obstacles to ramp up the deployment of renewable energy.

  2. Rising Interest Rates: Interest rates impacted the clean energy sector considerably in 2023 especially when it came to residential solar, and it’s expected to be an important factor moving forward.

  3. Potential Developments in 2024: Exciting future transformations could come from areas such as off-grid renewables, thermal batteries, degrowth economic frameworks, along with a heightened attention on mitigating the risks of climate change with financial products.

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 657: Financing Flexibility: Innovative Capital for Solar Developers with Laura Pagliarulo of SolaREIT

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Laura Pagliarulo, the President & Founder of SolaREIT, talks about the financing solutions that her company provides to solar and battery storage developers. She discusses various acquisition strategies, including buying land beneath solar projects during construction or operation, and acquiring leases through lump-sum payments. SolaREIT's unique financial tools offer developers flexible capital that can mean the difference in hundreds of thousands, even millions in returns later in the project cycle. With a rich background in energy markets from her SunEdison and Clean Choice Energy days, Laura and the SolaREIT team deeply understand the developer’s pain. And the products she has structured do bridge the gap most developers experience between good project and reliably solid outcome.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Laura Pagliarulo:

Check out SolaREIT:

Key Takeaways:

  1. Finance Solution: SolaREIT's novel alternative for land acquisition financing for solar and battery developers highlights the necessity and utility of innovative financial solutions in scaling up more renewable developers.

  2. Value Addition: Laura explains how they’re actually paying MORE for purchase options or reducing lease rates that drive bottom line returns.

  3. Strategic Timing: SolaREIT works with developers usually at Financial NTP of the project, which could be up to a year before final construction.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“Solar and battery storage developers need alternative financing solutions for the land that hosts their projects, whether it’s alone against the lease value, whether it’s buying an easement, or whether it’s purchasing the fee simple, and that’s what we’re here to do.”
— Laura Pagliarulo

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 656: Mythbusting solar panel procurement, & Why India is on the rise, with Justin Redd of Emmvee

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Have YOU had trouble procuring modules lately?

I know I’ve heard from dozens of folks that they are hurting in this specific area.

If that’s you, I want to hear from you…shoot me an email “HELP ME GET MODULES NICO!” in the Subject line and we’ll get right on it. (Nico at mysuncast dot com)

How are solar modular manufactures vetted? Where do buyers turn when the much sought-after Bloomberg “Tier 1” suppliers are sold out of modules, making it harder for developments under 20 MW in scale to find vetted suppliers? The demand for solar panels in the US has opened up new markets abroad for suppliers. India has emerged as a leading supplier with its strong trade relationship with the US, and Emmvee, an Indian company, is heretofore little known solar panel manufacturer in the country that is making its entry to the United States. I wanted to learn  more about how buyers should think of these new market entrants, and what considerations are key (and what perhaps are not-so-important as they once were).

Justin Redd of Emmvee North America discusses the complexities of solar panel manufacturing. He provides valuable insights into the evolution of manufacturing processes from labor-intensive to highly automated systems. As demands surge, finding vetted suppliers becomes a challenge. Justin shares his experience and takes us through procurement strategies, detailing the importance of certifications, factory audits, and maintaining trade relationships. Moreover, he addresses concerns around microcracks and the steps needed for quality assurance in the production process. Emmvee's commitment to transparency, evidenced by an invitation to tour their Indian facilities, serves as a valuable benchmark for solar professionals navigating the industry.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Justin Redd:

Check out Emmvee:

Checklist:

Articles & Podcasts Mentioned:

  • Article on the supply chain issues prompting buyers to seek out new suppliers 

  • CEO of Silicon Ranch, Reagan Farr’s 2-part episode # 399

Key Takeaways:

  1. Supplier Vetting: The vetting of suppliers including reviewing certifications, conducting audits, examining partnerships and consulting industry contacts is crucial for ensuring quality and reliability.

  2. Quality Measurement: To quantify quality in solar panel manufacturing, several metrics need to be considered, such as ISO certifications, cleanroom standards, and low RMA rates below industry averages. While Bloomberg Tier 1 status often serves as an indicator of quality, it shouldn't be the sole determining factor for choosing a solar manufacturer.  

  3. Microcrack Mitigation: Microcracks pose a potential threat to the quality and performance of solar panels. Quality control checks, careful material selection, and protective packaging can help mitigate this issue.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“Quality is just having reliable products that don’t need servicing that always do what you bought them for. And then you measure that in our industry through RMA claims.”
— Justin Redd

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.

Episode 655: How do you Finance Solar Project Development? Insight from Encore Renewable Energy’s Blake Sturcke

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

How do you fund a solar project?  

What about the business operations costs necessary to get the project going to begin with?

What structures can you consider, and HOW do you choose the one that’s right for you?

We’re pulling back the veil so you don’t have to wander in the darkness here. 

The business of developing solar power projects is complex, time-consuming, and capital intensive. And for the last decade, hundreds of entrepreneurs have endeavored to apply their creative efforts and work ethic towards solving both the development of the solar projects (not dissimilar to other land-based development deals tbh) and the financing of them.  The latter has proven the more arduous to accomplish as the solar industry had to earn its keep in the world of high finance and prove that the product and its cashflow was durable and risk-mitigated. Unsurprisingly, those who have fared the best are those professionals who were already working in finance in some way, and were able to turn their focus and skills to solving the dual issue facing solar developers - how to get an individual project financed, and how to raise enough working capital to pay the team developing those projects until they could get to cashflow. 

Today, you’ll hear hown one such company, Encore Renewable Energy, transformed from a traditional solar project developer into a vertically-integrated Independent Power Producer (IPP), ie a project Owner & OPerator, and along the way made the choice to become a Certified B Corporation. Their impact-focused business strategy, exemplifies the transformative power of renewable energy towards the triple bottom line - People, Planet, and Profits. The company strategically channels its efforts into solar development, storage solutions, agrivoltaics, and brownfield redevelopment, showcasing a multifaceted commitment to sustainable practices. Moreover, they have successfully secured a remarkable $150 million in equity funding.  Today, you’ll learn a whole lot more about what that means, and how you might be able to do similarly in your own venture.

Blake Sturcke, the co-CEO of Encore, delves into his journey of discovering a passion for solar, drawing on his background in investment banking and entrepreneurship.

Blake discusses how Encore melds their sustainable mission with practical management strategies, the different investment structures available, insightful capital raising options, and a deeply rooted work culture that celebrates diversity and psychological safety.

On this final point, Blake goes deeper still, opening up about his personal experiences dealing with mental health challenges. This vulnerable exchange is particularly near to Blake’s own mission, and he hopes to normalize the topic of mental health awareness and create a safe space for employees to voice their struggles. This conversation isn't only vital for those in the renewable energy field, but also illuminates the possibility of merging success with mental wellbeing in any high-pressure corporate setting.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Blake Sturcke:

Check out Encore Renewable Energy:


If you’d like to hear more about Encore Renewable Energy, give a listen to our past episode Ep 173 with Founder & co-CEO Chad Farrell

Key Takeaways:

  1. From Developer to Independent Power Producer (IPP): Transitioning a company such as Encore Renewable Energy from a traditional solar project developer to an independent power producer (IPP) is a process that requires careful planning, strategic financing, and the development of necessary capabilities over time. But Ultimately it’s a logical, if not natural path of progress.

  2. Aligning Capital Structures: Choosing the optimal capital structure is a key factor for the long-term alignment of the interests between the investors and management. Encore found that raising common equity offers the best alignment. We learn in depth the different options and why they chose this path over others.

  3. Building a Diverse and Safe Workplace: Creating a culture that values psychological safety, diversity, and the empowerment of employees not only contributes towards better performance and retention but also creates an environment that fosters personal and professional growth. Be vulnerable & transparent about your own hurdles and you empower your employees with the safety to do likewise.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“We’re looking to create not really good jobs, but we’re looking to create outstanding, professional and personal growth opportunities for our team members.”
— Blake Sturcke

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 654: Why did Trina Solar wait SO Long to Manufacture in the US? Exclusive interview with Steven Zhu, Trina’s US President

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Steven Zhu, President of Trina Solar, discusses their new 5GW solar manufacturing facility in Wilmer, Texas. He unravels how this significant investment not only strengthens their supply chain but spurs local economic growth with job creation, and underscores their commitment to sustainability. Emphasizing the role of domestic manufacturing in fortifying the renewable energy sector, Zhu offers insights into Trina Solar's site selection process, plans for green production, and their broader vision for U.S. expansion. This conversation highlights the strategic importance of domestic manufacturing in reaching U.S.'s clean energy goals.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Steven Zhu:

Check out Trina Solar:

Key Takeaways:

  1. Importance of domestic manufacturing: Trina Solar is investing in a 5 GW solar module manufacturing facility in Wilmer, Texas, highlighting the critical role of domestic manufacturing to mitigate supply chain risk in the renewable energy sector.

  2. Site selection process: The location for their new facility was chosen strategically considering factors such as land availability, workforce, transportation access, and proximity to markets and ports. Steven details exactly how the site selection process was done. 

  3. Commitment to sustainability: Trina Solar aims to power their new facility with green energy and even (eventually) integrate electric trucks so that they can fully deliver a carbon-free solution.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“We are trying to make the factory greener, we don’t just generate the green products, but also we use the green energy to produce the green power.”
— Steven Zhu

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.

Episode 653: COP28, A Primer: Global Progress Checkpoint for the Paris Agreement with Julia Pyper, Myles Fish, and James Ellsmoor

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

COP28 is the 28th annual Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention (UNFCC) on Climate Change which will be held in Dubai (UAE) and runs from November 30-December 12.

If that's more than you already knew, you're in luck because today we learn from folks who have participated in multiple COP events and learned the ins and outs from the inside. 

This year's COP marks the pivotal halfway point between when the Paris Agreement was established at COP21, and its 2030 targets. COP28 UAE also marks the conclusion of the inaugural five-yearly global stocktake, providing a pivotal moment for the world to evaluate advancements toward the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. This presents a unique opportunity for global stakeholders to come together, align their efforts, and strategize on bridging existing gaps in climate action. Participants and leaders from all corners of the world tackle the urgent agenda of climate change and enact sound strategies towards combating it.

Our guests today offer a wealth of COP experience. Myles Fish, VP of Business Development at Perch Energy, will share insights from his enriching tenure with John Kerry's advance team at COP 21 in Paris. Next to speak is the CEO of Island Innovation, James Ellsmoor, who helps represent and provide perspective of small island developing states and territories at COP. Additionally, Julia Pyper, VP of Public Affairs at GoodLeap, revisits her experience at COP 26 in Glasgow and discusses what she expects to see from COP28.

This year's summit will be integral in tracking progress from a global commitment to fighting climate change. Currently, we are falling short of the target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius set by COP 21, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive action and necessary adjustments.  There are enormous learning opportunities from these high-stakes climate change negotiations and it will be interesting to see what COP28 brings about.

Listen in to this first-ever Suncast coverage of the global climate conference, and I'm sure you'll come away with insight as to how this matters not just for you personally, but our industry and the world.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Myles Fish:

Connect with James Ellsmoor:

Connect with Julia Pyper:

Check out Perch Energy:

Check out Island Innovation:

Check out GoodLeap:

Check out COP28 UAE:

Key Takeaways:

  1. COP Importance: COP conferences are pivotal global gatherings where countries finalize year-long negotiations on mutual commitments to tackle climate change. 

  2. Private Sector Role: The private sector has a critical role to play in achieving climate goals, necessitating significant commitment and financial investment.

  3. COP28 Expectations: COP28 is an opportunity for the global community to evaluate progress on the Paris Agreement goals and focus on how to bridge gaps.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“But it was clear to me that the implementation of COP was happening through the private sector, countries themselves, were going to say, this is what we commit to, but the execution was going to be the private sector.”
— Myles Fish
“COP is almost going to be a never ending cycle really, of trying to bring those different players together and make some decisions and it started off really wanting to focus on how all these countries agreed to cut emissions in some way to measure that. Now a lot of the conversation is around financing the costs of climate change and how we do that.”
— James Ellsmoor
“It takes someone at a meeting raising their hand saying I want to bring in someone who’s a hydrogen expert, a solar expert, a grid reliability services expert, and that’s how the money starts flowing into the solution. Because right now I think there’s a disconnect about high level goals, and then what’s actually going to take to get there. It’s all about the money.”
— Julia Pyper

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 652: How to improve the lives of 2 Billion people, Green Empowerment with Andrea Johnson (Giving Tuesday)

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Andrea Johnson, Executive Director of Green Empowerment, discusses how Green Empowerment uses a micro utility model to bring solar power and clean water to populations lacking these necessities. Their micro utility projects have a 97% long-term success rate of remaining operational while being fully managed by the communities. She also highlights an ongoing solar-plus-storage project for Ugandan health clinics that she’s particularly proud of (wherein Nextracker was a key partner).

Nonprofits play a crucial role in international development, often solving equity gaps and civic/infrastructure gaps that for-profit, corporate and even governmental organizations are incapable of addressing. Green Empowerment is this year’s Giving Tuesday partner, as we are inspired by how they are bringing clean water and renewable energy to rural communities across the world. More than 2 billion humans lack clean water access and another 1 billion are devoid of reliable electricity. Organizations like Green Empowerment are an instrumental development partner charged with helping these billions achieve a better quality of life through deploying global charity into communities of need around the world.

On this Giving Tuesday, consider supporting their ongoing work to provide reliable access to clean water and renewable energy to rural, underserved communities.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Andrea Johnson:

Check out Green Empowerment:

Key Takeaways:

  1. Global Need: Over 2 billion people lack access to clean water and 1 billion lack reliable energy, predominantly in rural communities.

  2. Micro-Utility Model: A unique approach where communities have long-term ownership and management of solar and water systems, ensuring sustainable development and a 97% success record.

  3. Supportive Action: Learn about Green Empowerment's work and help drive impact by making a financial contribution or stay updated on their journey via social media this Giving Tuesday.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“Over 2 billion people in the world do not have access to safe drinking water and just under a billion do not have reliable energy.”
— Andrea Johnson

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 651: Giving Thanks and the secret key to success: Gratitude

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

As those of us here in the United States of America gather around the table on this Thanksgiving Day, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for tuning into the SunCast podcast over the years. Your support has meant the world to me, and it's because of you that this podcast has thrived for eight incredible years.

When I started SunCast, I had a vision of creating a platform that would elevate the voices and stories of leaders in the clean energy industry. And thanks to your unwavering support, we have over 650 examples of HOW the Clean Energy Revolution is taking form. Together, we have explored the latest advancements in solar, energy storage, business models, and more. We have connected with entrepreneurs, innovators, and change-makers who are driving the clean energy transition forward.

Through the SunCast podcast, we have created a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about shaping a sustainable future. It is because of you that this podcast has become a platform for discussion, learning, and inspiration. So, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for being a part of this journey.

Oh, and our all-star team give you additional episodes below that you can queue up if you are eager to catch up on more SunCast this holiday season.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Check out our team’s favorite recent episodes:

Jeremy’s Pick:

  • Episode 616: Agrivoltaics, Brownfields To Brightfields And The Future Of Solar Farming With Dan French, Solar Farm Summit

Chris’s Pick: 

  • Episode 648: Scaling Carbon Capture, Innovation & Entrepreneurial Spirit, With Damian Beauchamp Of 8 Rivers

  • YouTube

German’s Pick:

  • Episode 642: Rethinking Energy Storage: A Conversation With Energy Vault CEO, Robert Piconi

  • Or the shorter version of the episode: Episode 649: What Is A Gravity Battery? Energy Vault’s CEO, Robert Piconi, Explains

  • YouTube

Key Takeaways:

  1. Gratitude: This show is nothing without listeners

  2. Mission: We elevate the voices and stories of the leaders bringing the clean energy transition to fruition.

  3. Team Faves: Listeners should check out our team’s favorite episodes that discuss agrivoltaics, energy storage and eight rivers' scalable carbon capture technology.

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“I do like to think about the fact that if I have achieved any renown at all, it is in elevating the voices and the stories of those champions on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Transition, those iconic leaders who really are challenging the status quo. And so it’s in that vein that I want to say thank you.”
— Nico Johnson

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

BONUS: Feed Drop: Earthlings 2.0 Featuring Lisa Ann Pinkerton with Virginia Klausmeier, on Future Proofing the EV Battery

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

In this bonus episode we’ll introduce you to the Earthlings 2.0 podcast with Lisa Ann Pinkerton, which is now a part of REsource Labs, our Creator Network!  In today’s episode, hear an innovative approach to improving the modern EV battery with guest, Virginia Klausmeier President & CEO of Sylvatex!

Sylvatex's innovative dry cathode production process promises to reduce costs and emissions. It's a step-change in sustainable battery manufacturing, and poised to meet growing demand as the auto industry sets its sights on reducing carbon emissions through EVs. Also highlighted in this episode is a Venezuelan artist,  Oscar Olivares, whose ecological mural of bottle caps stands as a remarkable testament to environmental stewardship and human creativity.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Virginia Klausmeier:

Check out Sylvatex: 

Connect with Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Host of Earthlings 2.0:

Check out Technica Communications:

Check out Women In Cleantech & Sustainability:

Follow Earthlings 2.0 on Socials and check out their website for the latest updates and news: 

Restoring Faith in Humanity Spotlight: Oscar Olivares

Key Takeaways:

  • Cathode Manufacturing: Constitutes 60% of the cost and carbon footprint in lithium-ion EV batteries.

  • Sylvatex's Innovation: Sylvatex's single-step dry process for cathode manufacturing not only reduces energy and water usage but also broadens possibilities with diverse cathode chemistries and input materials.

  • Battery Evolution and Sustainability: Solid-state batteries, which promise improved performance for EVs, are still years away from mass-market adoption. In parallel, battery recycling processes need to evolve to handle the influx of spent EV batteries, prioritizing methods that minimize the carbon footprint while efficiently extracting valuable materials.

WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE:

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.

Episode 650: How do Transferable Tax Credits Work? Billy Lee of Reunion Infrastructure

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

About the Episode:

Billy Lee, Co-founder & President of Reunion Infrastructure, discusses the complexities in monetizing tax credits from renewable energy projects. Learn how Reunion is navigating through tax equity barriers that have historically disadvantaged smaller distributed solar projects. The discussion delves into the transformative impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), unraveling how Reunion connects developers and corporate buyers in the purchase of clean energy tax credits. Also, learn about Billy's journey from working in oil and gas investment banking to becoming a renewable energy entrepreneur.

Key Takeaways:

  • Monetization of Tax credits: Efficient monetization of renewable energy project tax credits has long plagued the industry; with the IRA, a new avenue for green investment and financing emerges that does far more than just help finance solar.

  • Market Liquidity: Reunion Infrastructure’s marketplace of transferable tax credits, demonstrates how effectively creating liquidity in the renewable energy market can drive industry growth and foster innovation.

  • Solving Tax Equity Complexities: The IRA's introduction of tax credit transferability addresses historical barriers faced by smaller distributed solar projects, overcoming complexities associated with tax equity that primarily favored large centralized energy projects. We also learn the pie is much larger than just energy generation.

WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“We set up our unit to be a marketplace that really facilitates the purchase and sale of these credits. And our thesis was that the folks doing tax equity will continue to do tax equity. The folks joining buying tax credits are going to be companies from all walks of corporate America, right. And that’s a big subset of entities out there.”
— Billy Lee

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

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

Elevate your solar projects with PVcase - an innovative company specializing in solar solutions. PVcase products provide user-friendly tools ensuring precision, efficiency, and error elimination—a game-changer for your projects. Please visit https://www.mysuncast.com/pvcase

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.