Episode 770: How to Leverage IRA Grants for Solar Growth

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:

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has unlocked unprecedented federal funding for solar energy, promising billions of dollars to transform the industry. But where is this money going, and how can residential solar installers capitalize on the opportunity? Industry experts reveal the strategies and programs that are poised to help drive solar adoption in rural and low-income communities across the country.

Scott Nguyen, Co-founder and CEO of Bodhi, Sean Garren, Chief Program Officer at Vote Solar, and Corey Ramsden, VP of Go Solar Programs at Solar United Neighbors, share their insights on the nuances of these programs, the challenges facing low-income communities, and the innovative financing models that are emerging to make solar more accessible than ever before.

Expect to learn:

  • The expanded benefits of the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant and how it can reduce project costs by up to 50%.

  • How the $7 billion Solar for All program is being rolled out across the country.

  • Strategies for installers and developers to navigate the complexities of grant applications.

  • Why compliance with federal guidelines, such as Davis-Bacon and Build America Buy America Act, can be a competitive advantage.

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Scott Nguyen:

Connect with Sean Garren:

Connect with Corey Ramsden:

Check out Bodhi:

Check out Vote Solar:

Check out Solar United Neighbors:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The IRA was passed a little over two years ago, promising hundreds of billions of dollars for solar. I’m happy to say that today, the dollars have started to flow.”
— Scott Nguyen
“Farming isn’t always profitable, so what can we do to preserve farmland? This is a big concern, and having that REAP grant available for farmers to help them out is just a really great opportunity for communities like ours.”
— Corey Ramsden
“Tell your local legislators and decision makers, because they need to know the opportunity they’re missing and the fact that this money is going to go away if it’s not getting out the door, and then to just dovetail that with tell the positive stories. We really need to get out there and talk about how solar can be transformative for individuals and communities. These programs are going to create a lot of really transformative change.”
— Sean Garren

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 769: Crowdfunding Solar Projects Made Easy with Climatize CEO Will Wiseman

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:

While global climate movements highlight the urgency of the crisis, many are left wondering how to take meaningful, personal action. 

Climatize is changing that. 

With as little as $10, you can get started today investing in clean energy and get up to a 10% return on an investment that benefits more than your retirement account! (and we’ve got a special code to get you even more benefit - see below)

Renewable energy projects often face significant funding barriers—particularly at the community level, where traditional financial systems fall short. And as an individual, you’re usually required to be an accredited investor to even be considered as an investor in the funds that do help get these assets built.  

As an SEC-registered impact investing platform, Climatize allows anyone over 18 to invest directly into renewable energy projects. And with millions of dollars already invested with dozens of solar developers on the platform, Climatize is bridging the gap in clean energy financing in a unique and valuable way.

Will Wiseman, co-founder and CEO of Climatize, made the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for social impact and is regularly cited in mainstream journals for his advocacy and innovation in the sector. With over a decade of experience in solar installation, project management, and financial structuring, Will has also directly contributed to building more than a dozen solar farms. His technical and financial expertise fuels the Climatize mission to make clean energy investments accessible, fill critical funding gaps, and turn everyday individuals into active participants in the energy transition. 

Beyond the accolades, I was genuinely impressed with how this young entrepreneur and his co-founder are building their business, quickly, and globally. You’ll be rewarded by sticking through to the end to hear some of his recommendations for building culture that is growth-focused while staying fun and rewarding. It’s inspiring to see how the next generation of clean energy leaders are stepping up to solve real-world problems with a tech and media-savvy approach.

Expect to learn:

  • How Climatize is democratizing retail renewable energy investing

  • Greta Thunberg’s surprising role in validating Climatize’s early development

  • How Climatize bridges the "missing middle" for C&I and community solar funding

  • The innovative strategies Climatize uses to build trust and engage first-time investors

  • How crowdfunding regulations and FinTech advancements drive Climatize’s success

Listen now to learn how you can turn small investments into meaningful climate action. Use code NICO25 for $25 toward your first Climatize investment!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Will Wiseman:

Check out Climatize:

Resources:

Check out Ep 704 with Dimitry Gershenson

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Green is the new gold. It’s one of those things where you know, when we look at what truly addressing climate change represents, it’s re-architecting the global economy.”
— Will Wiseman
“Our goal is to fund a billion dollars a year of renewable energy projects within the next five years and build a global network for climate finance.”
— Will Wiseman

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 768: Giving Tuesday Special - Making a Difference Where It Matters Most: Honnold Foundation, Let’s Share the Sun & Climate Action Pathways make your donations go further!

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:

Each year, we give you an opportunity to join us in supporting a non-profit on Giving Tuesday. 

This Giving Tuesday, we are shining a light on not one but three nonprofits using solar to address critical challenges, from disaster recovery to education and global energy access. 

These organizations are making an extraordinary difference by leveraging renewable energy to drive change where it’s needed most.  If you attended Solar Fight Night this year at RE+, you’ve already helped contribute toward these orgs, but you may not even realize it! 

Today, we will introduce you to all three organizataions, give you more detail on their respective missions, and invite you to BOOST the giving by helping us top-off the donation they'll receive from Solar Fight Night! 

We can make a difference. 

Here are 3 outstanding nonprofits that we believe deserve your time AND your treasure.

You’ll hear from:

Solar Fight Night curator, Daniel Dus, has been the driving force behind what we often call “the Met Gala of the solar industry”.  Daniel joins the conversation to help set the stage for what we do and why we chose these 3 specific entities. This unique gathering unites solar industry leaders in an evening of entertainment, but it’s much more than a huge party - the profits raised go directly to these nonprofits. In fact, we’ve generated over $2 million USD to support projects ranging from disaster recovery to education and tribal community empowerment.

Let’s Share the Sun, led by Co-founder and President Bill Jordan, focuses on bringing solar power to underserved communities in under-developed nations like Haiti, Honduras, and Puerto Rico. By providing systems that deliver stability during disasters, such as powering critical medical equipment during hurricanes, the organization is transforming lives and scaling its efforts to reach 200 homes next year.  

Contribute directly to Let’s Share the Sun today: https://bit.ly/ShareSun-Donate

Climate Action Pathways for Schools (CAPS), led by Executive Director Kirk Ann Taylor and Board Member Laurie Smith, partners with California schools to reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and inspire students to pursue careers in clean energy. Their collaboration with Porterville Unified School District has already secured over $20 million for sustainable projects like HVAC upgrades and solar installations.

Contribute directly to CAPS today: https://bit.ly/CAPS-Donate

And last, but certainly not least,

The Honnold Foundation, led by Executive Director Emily Teitswort and created by [famed rock climber] Alex Honnold, enhances energy resilience globally by bringing solar solutions to vulnerable communities. These projects reduce energy costs and provide reliable power for families and local businesses in off-grid areas.  

Contribute directly to The Honnold Foundation today: https://bit.ly/Honnold-Donate

This Giving Tuesday, celebrate how solar energy is changing lives. 

Contribute to these powerful initiatives and help bring clean energy and hope to communities in need.

Will you join us?

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Daniel Dus:

Connect with Bill Jordan:

Connect with Kirk Anne Taylor:

Connect with Laurie Smith:

Connect with Emily Teitsworth:

Check out Solar Fight Club:

Check out Let’s Share the Sun Foundation:

Check out Climate Action Pathways for Schools:

Check out the Honnold Foundation:

Website | LinkedIn | X | Facebook | Instagram

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Clean energy is on the rise, the clean energy transition is happening. It is, in fact, as I said to someone very recently unstoppable. As we enter into a new era politically, we have to be reminded that we are all in the good fight, and it is unstoppable. It is inevitable that clean energy wins.”
— Nico Johnson

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 767: The Key to Retaining and Developing the Next Generation of Clean Energy Professionals with Jen Szaro & Paul Douglas

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:

Expanding the clean energy workforce means focusing on more than just filling jobs; it calls for a commitment to equity, diversity, and creating tangible opportunities that drive lasting community benefits.With federal initiatives like Justice 40 driving investments into underserved communities, the challenge lies in creating pathways for high-quality, local jobs that support the clean energy transition. For industry professionals, understanding how to align workforce development with community impact is a pressing priority.

Jen Szaro, CEO of the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), and Paul Douglas, President of JPI Group, share strategies to meet these demands. Jen leverages her extensive expertise in energy program leadership, while Paul highlights JPI Group’s innovative work in workforce development and supply diversity. Together, they explore how data-driven approaches and inclusive practices can ensure that the benefits of clean energy growth reach everyone.

Expect to Learn:

  • The importance of tracking real outcomes to measure program success.

  • How mentorship fosters retention and knowledge-sharing within the clean energy sector.

  • Strategies for building diversity and equity in workforce programs.

  • How to ensure Justice 40 funding creates measurable community benefits.

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!  And if you’d like to learn more about Jen and AESP, you should listen to her full SunCast episode which published in October!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Jen Szaro:

Connect with Paul Douglas:

Check out AESP:

Check out The JPI Group:


Check out Ep 755: Cultivating A Community of Clean Energy Professionals with Jen Szaro

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The first company to be the most inclusive will be the most successful.”
— Paul Douglas
“I’ve mentored people and I’ve been mentored. It’s so neat to see people that I’ve mentored now that are in the industry, and they’re professionals, and they are now the mentor to the next generation.”
— Jen Szaro

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 766: Empowering Solar Expansion: Unlock Workforce Potential Through Apprenticeships

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:

Apprenticeships are the bridge between the clean energy industry's rapid growth and its critical need for a skilled, reliable workforce. With the Inflation Reduction Act setting ambitious compliance standards, innovative solutions like those pioneered by Adaptive Construction Solutions (ACS) are essential for driving project success and empowering the workforce. These programs are designed for more than just filling positions; they build meaningful, long-term careers for veterans, underserved communities, and the next generation of clean energy leaders.

ACS has served many of the largest EPCs in the solar and battery storage industry through their innovative apprenticeship programs to aid in driving compliance and cultivating a more comprehensive focus on workforce development.

Hear from the ACS team and three of their largest customers:

  • Nicholas Morgan, President at Adaptive Construction Solutions

  • John Leapheart, Project Director at Adaptive Construction Solutions

  • Eric Butticaz, Director of Apprenticeships at SOLV Energy

  • Eric Grant, Director of Learning and Development at Blue Ridge Power

  • Michael Mulheron, Director- Strategic Sales & Operations at Aerotek

Expect to learn:

  • Why ACS invested $10 million in their Apprenticeship Innovation Center, a hub for collaboration, training, and global knowledge-sharing

  • Strategies for successful apprenticeship implementation, including recruitment, training, and evaluation

  • How apprenticeships create clear career pathways through structured on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage atwww.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Nicholas Morgan:

Connect with John Leapheart:

Connect with Eric Grant:

Connect with Michael Mulheron:

Connect with Eric Butticaz:

Check out Adaptive Construction Solutions (ACS):

Check out Blue Ridge Power:

Check out Aerotek:

Check out SOLV Energy:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Apprenticeships are the great equalizer. It doesn’t matter where you came from, where your background was, who your parents were, or how many careers you’ve already had.”
— Nicholas Morgan
“It’s really an opportunity for people to come together, to work, to learn, to collaborate with each other and to move their apprentices forward collectively, rather than working in isolation.”
— Eric Grant
“As the industry grows, the demand for skilled and unskilled labor continues to grow, and there’s a large skills gap, so one of Aerotek’s initiatives is upskilling our workforce, and that aligns directly with the work that ACS is doing through apprenticeships.”
— Michael Mulheron

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 765: Unlocking the Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing: How Snoball is Revolutionizing Customer Acquisition

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 the home services industry, many contractors deliver high-quality work but struggle to leverage satisfied customers for growth. Yet, we know that more than 50% of leads come from referrals. The challenge lies in post-sale engagement, as gathering referrals and building a strong reputation often falls to busy sales reps or technicians who quickly move on to the next job. Without a systematic approach to harnessing word-of-mouth marketing, businesses miss the opportunity to turn happy customers into brand ambassadors, relying instead on costly acquisition channels like paid advertising.

Landon Taylor, Founder & CEO of Snoball, addresses this gap with a platform that automates referral management, review generation, and reputation building. Snoball empowers businesses to take control of their word-of-mouth marketing and unlock the true potential of their customer base.

Expect to learn:

  • Why most companies struggle to generate steady referrals

  • How automation keeps brands top-of-mind for customers

  • The key difference between reputation management and reputation marketing

  • How Snoball fills the gap left by service reps

  • Steps to build a sustainable, word-of-mouth growth strategy

Don't miss this insightful conversation with Landon Taylor, as he shares his expertise and proven strategies for transforming the way businesses approach customer acquisition and retention.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Landon Taylor:

Check out Snoball:

Resources:

Check out The Snoball Effect Podcast

BOOKS MENTIONED AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

 

Multipliers
by Liz Wiseman

Getting Things Done
by David Allen

 
 

The E-Myth Revisited
by Michael Gerber

 

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“I think every single human on the planet has superpowers, and it’s just a matter of finding those having confidence and then not being afraid to fail and moving forward.”
— Landon Taylor
“Our goal is to give the power to the companies that do right by their customers to grow from their happy customers.”
— Landon Taylor

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 764: How to Land a Job in Clean Energy With No Experience—Aaron Nichols of Exact Solar

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:

Can someone without a traditional background still make an impact in clean energy? 

Aaron Nichols, the Marketing & Advocacy Specialist at Exact Solar, answers that question with a resounding ‘yes’. His journey into the solar industry was anything but traditional (we don’t want to spoil it, but it began with circus performers in Ecuador). 

Aaron has written and consulted for some of the biggest names in the solar industry (including Nico himself) and been featured in Business Insider. He divides his time at Exact Solar between pushing for more equitable solar policies and creating the most comprehensive free solar educational resource for homeowners on the internet. 

Expect to learn:

⚡ The ‘secret key’ that opened the the door to a clean energy career 

⚡Why the solar industry is missing out on top talent (and how we fix it) 

⚡ How Aaron went from door-to-door sales to advocating for a more ethical solar industry 

⚡ What the solar industry can do to regain the public’s trust 

⚡ Why ‘save the planet' marketing doesn’t work for everyone

If you didn’t follow the traditional path and still want to start a clean energy career (even if you have no experience) this is the episode for you.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Aaron:

Check out Exact Solar:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTE:

“And we do desperately need people who know how to talk to brilliant people because brilliant people don’t know how to talk to people.”
— Aaron Nichols

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 763: Battery Power: Strengthening Resilience with Energy Storage - Anne Hoskins, Kavita Ravi, & Joan White

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:

With exponential growth year over year, there has never been a more pivotal moment than this for battery energy storage in the renewables market. This momentum is driven by cost declines, supportive policy, and the ability for energy storage to stabilize and optimize renewable energy across the grid. Finally, with batteries, we can eliminate the one thing holding renewables back - intermittency! 

In this discussion, three industry leaders share their expertise around how storage is reshaping energy resilience, accessibility, and grid reliability.  Moderated by Jacob Weinberg, Senior Communications Manager at SEIA, this conversation features:

  • Anne Hoskins, Senior VP of Policy at Generac Power Systems

  • Kavita Ravi, Senior VP of Operations at BlueWave Solar

  • Joan White, Director of Storage and Interconnection Policy at SEIA

Expect to learn:

  • How storage is delivering reliable, resilient energy to underserved communities

  • The importance of training in the latest safety codes, including NFPA 855

  • How virtual power plants (VPPs) can aggregate resources to strengthen the grid

  • The latest on interconnection, value-stacking, and overcoming regulatory barriers

  • Which states are leading in storage innovation and what’s next for deployment


Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Anne Hoskins:

Connect with Kavita Ravi:

Connect with Joan White:

Check out Generac Power Systems:

Check out BlueWave Solar:

Check out Solar Energy Industries Association:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The future is bright for solar and storage in the US, and we’ve actually seen not only massive deployment in the last like three to four years, but we’re seeing year over year exponential growth.”
— Joan White
“If you see somebody in your neighborhood who has solar panels on their roof, and who has a battery, or they don’t have a battery, thank them, because they’re providing power to you next door, nice, clean power.”
— Anne Hoskins
“Interconnection is the biggest problem facing our generation in terms of overcoming climate change and deploying renewable energy resources. But perhaps also, like EVs, will become a problem when they gain volume. So it is very important to modernize the grid to make it digital, self aware, controllable and put our best efforts into it.”
— Kavita Ravi

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 762: DOE’s American-Made Solar Prize Winners, Rd 7: Fram Energy & Gritt Robotics

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:

Resource Labs Network founding member, Lisa Ann Pinkerton of Earthlings 2.0 podcast, hosts a discussion with the DOE’s Becca Jones-Albertus, Director of the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office during the annual RE+ tradeshow to introduce the latest round of winners to our audience!  Thank you, Lisa Ann, for leading this discussion on our live stage!

Every year at RE+ (since 2019!) we have been honored to receive the newly-crowned winners of the Solar Prize, so Lisa Ann and Becca helped commemorate the 7th year of this competition from the Department of Energy which accelerates solar innovation, offering startups critical resources to bring their ideas to market.

And the winners are…

Fram Energy, a winner focused on expanding solar access to rental properties, presented a software solution that addresses the "split incentive" issue between landlords and tenants. Their platform allows landlords or third-party developers to install solar panels on rental buildings and sell the generated power to tenants, tapping into a vast, underserved market in clean energy.

Gritt Robotics, the other Grand Prize winner, aims to streamline solar construction with robotics. Their approach automates labor-intensive tasks, like moving and installing solar panels, making solar deployments faster and more efficient. Using AI-powered robots, they enhance productivity and allow the human workforce to focus on complex tasks.

Competitions like the American-Made Solar Prize are essential for the solar industry, helping innovative startups enter the market faster by providing vital resources, expert connections, and support through the American-Made Network.

To learn more about Resource Labs and check out Lisa Ann’s podcast at www.resourcelabs.co

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Lisa Ann Pinkerton:

Connect with Becca Jones-Albertus:

Check out Technica Communications:

Check out Fram Energy:

Check out Gritt Robotics:

Resources:

Check out: American Made Network’s

Check out: Solar Energy Technologies Office’s

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Our real goal is trying to accelerate the progress of entrepreneurs who have great ideas so that they can get their products to market faster.”
— Becca Jones-Albertus

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 761: Unlock Solar Success: Insider Tips from Top EPC Firms - Burns & McDonnell

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:

An experienced EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) partner is the backbone for the successful execution of solar projects, turning ambitious plans into reliable, high-performing projects. Burns & McDonnell, a top 5 EPC for solar & storage, brings over a century of engineering experience and a hands-on approach to large-scale solar and storage projects, balancing self-perform capabilities with trusted subcontractor partnerships. Community engagement and thoughtful project planning are just part of the project success puzzle; they innovate with terrain-following technology to adapt to challenging sites and collaborate early with project owners to address constraints, streamline designs, and ensure project goals are met efficiently. 

Hear from Director of Renewable Sales & Strategy, Adam Bernardi and Senior Electrical Engineer, Grant Reasor as they share insights from their respective roles across the project development cycle.

 Expect to learn:

  • The techno-economic strategies employed to optimize module selection and meet IRA domestic content requirements, and why it’s not always straightforward.

  • The importance of understanding the owner's project goals and pro forma to drive the best technical solutions.

  • The significance of comprehensive due diligence and upfront identification of site-specific risks to drive project value.

  • How to handle seasonal challenges of performance testing on the frozen tundra of the Upper Midwest

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at RE+ over at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Adam Bernardi:

Connect with Grant Reasor:

Check out Burns & McDonnell: 

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“Owners are getting ahead of it and wanting to engage us earlier, which is super helpful for Grant and the team to start to see projects earlier. We can start to plan our workforce. We can have proactive discussions with OEMs about their capacity to be able to deliver.”
— Adam Bernardi
“It’s more about the quality of the due diligence. If you have a patchwork design with different parcels, do they have the easements in place? Are crossings, highways, and gas lines identified? We can overcome those challenges, but the earlier you identify them and get that level of information, the more it really helps us drive value into it, as opposed to playing from behind and trying to resolve it at the IFC stage.”
— Grant Reasor

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 760: Gemini: A Game-Changer in Solar and Storage Systems, with Adam Larner, COO at Primergy

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:

"The new Silicon Valley is going to be about energy." 

This shift is evident as solar and battery storage combine, pushing renewable energy to achieve firm reliable power. Primergy Solar’s “Gemini” solar-plus-storage project sets the stage for a new era of 24x7 utility-scale solar power delivery. With nearly 700MW of solar capacity and 1400 MWh of battery storage, Gemini can supply up to 30% of Nevada’s power needs at peak, making solar a reliable, on-demand energy source that competes with traditional baseload power. 

The project’s commitment to sustainability—preserving the desert habitat and minimizing land disturbance—illustrates how renewable energy projects can harmonize technological advancement with ecological responsibility.

Adam Larner, COO of Primergy Solar, brings decades of expertise as an electrician, founder, and business owner to his work in renewables. Adam has long championed the logic and promise of sustainable energy, pushing projects that redefine industry norms and the potential of solar-plus-storage. And this interview has been possibly the longest-awaited of any Nico, our host, has pursued! 

Expect to learn:

  • Why battery storage is the key to making solar competitive with fossil fuels as a reliable power source

  • Why natural gas is a necessary complement to renewables, providing backup power and stability as solar and battery technologies scale up

  • How Gemini's success has become a unifying moment for the solar industry, inspiring collaboration and a shared sense of purpose

Tune in to explore how projects like Gemini are redefining renewable energy on a massive scale. And, learn from one of the industry’s most experienced integrators/builders.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Adam Larner:

Check out Primergy Solar:

Resources:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“The key is to educate people to hear the counterpoints, and ultimately to get to a place where it’s a good blend of wind, of batteries of natural gas, of nuclear, solar, and that blend creates a more robust, resilient grid.”
— Adam Larner
“Batteries allow you to dictate when you provide that power, which increases the value, because utilities can predict based on lots of historical data when power needs go up and down.”
— Adam Larner

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 759: EPC Strategies for Successful Battery Storage Integration with Chris Finley of TruGrid

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:

The growing demand for energy storage has transformed the renewable energy sector, but what are the key steps to successfully executing battery storage projects? TruGrid (formerly SunGrid) specializes in the seamless integration of battery systems into solar projects as an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) provider. Their proactive approach to integration and planning minimizes risks and streamlines commissioning.

Chris Finley, Chief Commercial Officer of TruGrid, discusses how EPCs can manage the complexities of battery storage integration. What secrets can we glean? Faster commissioning times, for starters. Drawing on 20 years’ experience and gigawatts of renewable projects in 16 countries, Chris and the TruGrid team have certainly addressed most of the hurdles you’ll face.

Expect to learn:

  • How software integration helps streamline battery storage projects.

  • The common pitfalls developers face in commissioning and how to address them.

  • Strategies for EPCs to reduce supply chain risks in battery storage projects.

  • Why developers should bring EPCs into the planning phase earlier to maximize project success.

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage over at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Chris Finley:

Check out TruGrid:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We are active partners. We may be more of an offensive coach at times, kind of laying out the game plan and making sure it all connects.”
— Chris Finley
“We think it’s a simple solution, preemptively and intentionally designing the integration plan well in advance of the point at which we’ll actually deploy any of the equipment.”
— Chris Finley

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 758: Transforming Transport: Lime Co-Founder On E-Mobility’s Role In Decarbonization

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:

About a third of global carbon emissions come from transportation, with most generated by private vehicles. Cities face a critical challenge: the “last mile” problem—how to efficiently connect people from transit hubs, like bus and train stations, to their homes or workplaces. When public transit falls short, commuters often turn to cars, increasing traffic, pollution, and emissions. Lime, a leader in micro-mobility, tackles this gap with e-bikes and e-scooters, offering a sustainable alternative for these short, essential urban trips. With over 500 million rides completed—covering more than a billion kilometers—Lime demonstrates how small shifts in behavior can make a big impact on decarbonization.

Nico met with Andrew Savage, co-founder and VP of Sustainability of Lime, during a visit to Savage’s hometown of Burlington, VT.  Andrew draws from a career that spans solar energy, policy work, and government relations. Before joining Lime, Savage was a key figure at AllEarth Renewables, helping advance solar energy adoption in Vermont. He also served on political campaigns, advised mayors, and worked closely with Capitol Hill on policy initiatives. His deep expertise in environmental policy gave Savage a unique skillset to help steer Lime’s growth into 280 markets while keeping on pace with the company’s goal of net zero by 2030. 

Curious how a career can span multiple sectors and still hold a true-north of decarbonizing the grid? Interested to learn how e-mobility is helping us achieve our carbon-free future?

Expect to learn:

  • Why early bike-share programs failed—and how Lime’s dockless model offers a better solution

  • How Lime recycles batteries and repurposes them for second-life uses

  • What carbon-reduction strategies keep Lime on track to meet its 2030 net-zero goal

  • How Lime uses rider data to help cities redesign streets and improve safety

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Andrew Savage:

Check out Lime:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We need to decarbonize the grid and we need to have electric mobility, and with the two of them, then you can have fully decarbonized transportation.”
— Andrew Savage
“About a third of all carbon emissions are transportation based, and the majority of those emissions are private vehicles. Our hope is to help develop urban centers and urban environments where mobility can be completely carbon free.”
— Andrew Savage

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 757: Election Special: The Path for Clean Energy Under Trump or Harris

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:

Do you envision that the IRA could be rolled back with a new administration? This question seems to permeate the conversation(s) heard around the industry in the last 6 months.  

Chris Sass, host of Insider’s Guide to Energy, sits down with Mona Dajani, Global Co-Chair of Energy, Infrastructure, and Hydrogen at Baker Botts, to explore the intersection of policy and energy markets. Drawing on decades of experience in clean energy transactions, Mona offers a true insider’s perspective on the election cycle, an update on green hydrogen and much more.

Sneak peak: “If we're pragmatic about it, I don't see the IRA going away materially… for two reasons…the IRA was enacted as law [and] there's a lot of red states that really have a lot of clean energy projects in their state.” 

Regardless your political position, you’re aware the 2024 U.S. presidential election outcome could significantly shape the future of renewable energy in America. With candidates proposing vastly different energy policies, the next administration’s decisions will influence the pace of clean energy deployment, tax equity structures, and international investment. 

Tune-in to learn:

  • How the energy policies of Harris and Trump could impact the renewable energy industry

  • Mona’s insights on the future of the IRA (Inflation Reduction Act)

  • The role of hydrogen in decarbonization

  • The need for faster regulatory and permitting processes to accelerate renewable energy deployment

  • How foreign conflicts impact renewables, from manufacturing to the price of gas and oil.

Do your research, listen to the episode, and—most importantly— if you’re a United States citizen, make your voice heard - VOTE!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Chris Sass:

Connect with Mona Dajani:

Check out Insider’s Guide to Energy:

Check out Baker Botts:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“I really believe that we should go with clean hydrogens and not be 100% green, and we should look at, how do we decarbonize the world?”
— Mona Dajani
“Energy policy really drives deals. It’s very important. People ask me, they’re like, Why do you always focus on policy if you’re a deal maker, if you’re doing transactions? I look at policy, the global economy, and geopolitical tensions all of these factors. If you want to be successful as a deal maker in this space, you gotta go where the puck is going”
— Mona Dajani

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 756: Expert Analysis, 3 Perspectives On What's Trending In Solar

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:

Curious what were the top product insights from RE+ 2024?  Our industry experts scoured the show floor to uncover key solar technology and market trends. 

Hear firsthand reports from the show floor in this special compilation episode where we are aggregating three different conversations into a compilation episode. Industry experts pick their favorites, make predictions and highlight their favorite energy storage and other home energy solutions.

Here’s our roster of experts & influencers:

  • Joe Ordia - Solar Surge

  • Ben Zientara - SolarReviews

  • Ryan Mayfield- Mayfield Renewables

  • Kate Collardson - Omnidian

  • Chris Crowell- Solar Builder

  • Ann Fischer - pv magazine USA

  • Ryan Kennedy- pv magazine USA

  • John Fitzgerald Weaver- Commercial Solar Guy

Expect to learn

  • How platform-based energy management systems are transforming battery solutions and grid integration.

  • The growing role of hybrid inverters in bridging energy storage and solar to create seamless home energy systems.

  • Why software innovations, like Aurora Solar’s obstruction detection, are cutting design time and improving project planning.

  • How domestic manufacturing, tariffs, and policy changes are influencing product development and supply chain strategies.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Joe Ordia:

Connect with Ben Zientara:

Connect with Ryan Mayfield:

Connect with Kate Collardson:

Connect with Chris Crowell:

Connect with Ann Fisher:

Connect with Ryan Kennedy:

Connect with John Fitzgerald Weaver:

Check out Solar Surge:

Check out SolarReviews

Check out Mayfield Renewables:

Check out pv magazine USA:

Check out Solar Builder

Check out Commercial Solar Guy:

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 755: Cultivating A Community of Clean Energy Professionals; Jen Szaro of AESP

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:

Building an efficient energy ecosystem requires collaboration, knowledge-sharing, strategic design, and workforce development. 

It also requires cooperation and community.

Professionals across the energy sector are streamlining grid management, advancing EV adoption, and developing demand flexibility programs to enhance efficiency. Achieving this requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to humanize energy solutions.

Jen Szaro, President & CEO of the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), brings two decades of experience across research, utilities, and nonprofit leadership. Her career includes roles at the Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) and the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC), where she led early efforts in solar and EV infrastructure. 

At AESP, she focuses on bridging the knowledge gaps and bringing energy professionals together through collaborative design and impactful programs. The Flex Initiative and the EV Driver Experience (EVDX) are two notable examples, addressing technical challenges while fostering mentorship and professional growth.

Expect to learn:

  • Why distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar and storage reduce grid strain & avoid costly upgrades

  • How demand flexibility outperforms traditional demand response solutions

  • What EV adoption barriers were uncovered through EVDX’s design labs

  • Where AESP’s Utility Career Map and resource library suggest you should be looking

  • Why AESP’s mentorship programs help clean energy professionals thrive & grow

Listen in toexplore how Jen, dedicated volunteers, and the AESP team are driving the future of energy services and equipping professionals with the tools and knowledge to lead in the clean energy transition.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Jen Szaro:

Check out AESP:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“It truly is a community, the level of volunteerism, the level of knowledge that people are willing to bring to the table to support the next generation of energy professionals, it’s special.”
— Jen Szaro
“The problem we’re trying to solve is to help people understand how to take a big picture, look at all of the different technologies that can be used in an ecosystem environment to serve distributed energy needs, and so we specifically focus on the distribution system down.”
— Jen Szaro

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 754: Is This Renewable Energy’s Hidden Bottleneck? Ben Macias Explains

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:

One of the major bottlenecks in the renewable energy sector is tied to one of the oldest components of the energy grid and is an essential piece tying FAR More of our energy infrastructure together than most realize - the humble transformer. As more renewable energy projects are deployed, transformer shortages delay projects and create significant challenges for grid expansion.

Ben Macias, Chief Revenue Officer at MGM Transformers, brings over a decade of experience in the energy sector. Previously, he led sales at Shoals Technologies, where he was instrumental in that company's tremendous growth story and eventual IPO. Now at MGM, Ben oversees efforts to tackle transformer shortages by expanding production capacity and enhancing efficiency. Ben has a seasoned team focused on solving this industry bottleneck, and this conversation with Nico gives a glimpse into the not-so-sexy-but-necessary world of electromagnetic induction, probably not a topic you thought you’d learn about today! It’s helpful to know that in the many Gigawatts of projects Ben & his team at Shoals helped facilitate, this was always among the most surprising areas of bottlenecks holding projects (and factories, and much more) back from completion.  He and the MGM team, with nearly 50 years’ experience in all types of transformer technology, are focused on fixing this shortcoming and doing it with American-made products.

Expect to learn:

  • How MGM is expanding capacity with new facilities in Texas.

  • The difference between wet and dry transformers and their applications.

  • Why transformer technology has remained largely unchanged for decades.

  • The importance of building a dream team to support customers.

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Ben Macias:

Check out MGM Transformers:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“People are the core of any company and so I truly and firmly believe that you have to have highly capable leaders to build great teams because ultimately those people take care of your customers.”
— Ben Macias
“Reinvesting in manufacturing, bringing Waco online next year is gonna be fantastic for us, and we’re just gonna continue to grow our capacity and support customers and really take care of them.”
— Ben Macias

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 753: How To Achieve 10,000% Growth & Market Dominance, Bryan Wagner of CPS 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:

To have record-setting growth and earn the number one spot in your market, it takes more than a good product. How do you build a team mindset and strategy around turning a relatively unknown company into a market leader? What frameworks and strategies can growth-focused companies use to stay ahead of the competition? 

When Bryan Wagner took the leadership role at CPS America, a top manufacturer of solar Inverters, the company had less than 10 customers in the US Market. With more than 1000 customers and a 7+ yr run as the market leader of 3-phase string inverters, you could say that Bryan and his team have unlocked some success secrets. They’ve also managed tremendous internal growth, with more than 100 team members (up from a dozen) based here in the US.

According to Bryan, they’ve found the answer [to both team & product success]] through innovation, customer service, and a culture of continuous improvement. Recorded at CPS’s headquarters in Richardson, Texas, this conversation with Wagner looks at how the company scaled rapidly while staying competitive, humble and people-focused.

As President and General Manager of CPS America, Bryan Wagner draws from his career in sales and competitive sports, revealing how these experiences shaped his approach to leadership. He discusses the strategies that have helped CPS America dominate the market and grow from a small team to a major force in solar technology. This episode gives an inside look at the company’s growth mindset and how they’ve managed to not just achieve #1 market share but KEEP it in a very fast-paced innovation cycle and an industry characterized by the “race to the bottom” of intense price pressure.

Oh, and this episode is being released on his Birthday! So at least reach out and wish Bryan a happy earthstrong - and another blessed year around our favorite thermonuclear reactor! 

Expect to learn:

  • How Bryan’s sports background shapes his leadership style

  • Why mentorship and coaching are vital in leadership

  • How CPS America grew from 10 to 100 employees while keeping its culture

  • Strategies for managing rapid growth with operational excellence

  • The role of customer feedback in CPS America’s product innovation

Hit play to hear how Bryan Wagner and CPS America are knocking it out of the park with innovation, leadership, and a winning team strategy!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Bryan Wagner:

Check out Chint Power Systems Americas:

Check out our other episode with Bryan:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“We want continuous learners. You really won’t make it in this company if you’re not that way, because we push you to become the best version of you.”
— Bryan Wagner
“Understand your circle of competence. I focus in sales and marketing and operations and in products. I love products. I’ve always been obsessed with technology and making sure that people can buy things in a simple manner.”
— Bryan Wagner

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 752: The Nation’s Largest Building Products Distributor Turns to Solar; James Mason, ABC Supply Co

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:

ABC Supply is the nation’s largest building products distributor, responsible for 1 in 3 American roofs, and now they are setting their sights on what goes on top of our roof: solar panels. ABC Supply is positioned as “the necessary handshake across the aisle between the roofing and solar industry.” This conversation delves into the solar market from a roofer's perspective, exploring how the building supply industry is about to seize the many growing opportunities in solar energy.

James Mason, Vice President of Renewables at ABC Supply, has been pivotal in driving this transformation from within the company. With nearly two decades at ABC, James has a unique perspective on the future of solar and roofing, outlining the company’s strategy and how both roofers and solar installers must work together if this market is to scale appropriately.

Expect to learn:

  • How ABC Supply's 40+ years in building products distribution enables seamless solar integration.

  • Key strategies behind the national expansion of ABC Supply’s renewables division.

  • How to address the "ease of doing business" challenge for roofers transitioning into solar.

  • The company’s approach to training and educating roofers on solar integration, and solar installers on roofing!

Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage over at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with James Mason:

Check out ABC Supply Co. Inc:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“If you’re doing solar and you’re going to be doing roofing, and if you’re doing roofing you’re going to be doing solar, and if you’re not doing both, you’re probably not going to be doing a little bit of much.”
— James Mason
“I’d like to think of this analogy of the train station, where ABC supply is a train station. Just come to the train station. We’ll get you on the right train, get you on the right track, and we’ll get you to your destination.”
— James Mason

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.

Episode 751: How EVLO Energy Storage Is Working to Solve Tomorrow’s Grid Challenges with Martin Rheault

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:

Hydro-Québec (HQ), North America’s largest renewable energy producer, is expanding its footprint into battery storage through its subsidiary, EVLO Energy Storage. Born from decades of expertise in grid management as one of Canada’s largest utilities, EVLO is the result of much research & development by HQ into utlizing batteries for grid stabilization.  EVLO specializes in battery energy storage solutions (BESS) to solve the grid challenges faced by the energy transition. Their solutions emphasize not only performance but also security, ensuring that modern grid technologies are protected from cyber threats.

Martin Rheault, Vice President of Sales and Business Development, shares his journey from a successful career running the renewables practice at a major engineering firm to taking on the challenge of scaling EVLO into a global player in the energy storage market. Along the way, he provides insights into domestic manufacturing in Canada and the U.S., and the mission to build safer, more reliable batteries that are grid-friendly.

Expect to learn:

  • Hydro-Québec's extensive research and development track record, including pioneering work on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries

  • Their approach to cybersecurity, including real-world testing 

  • The role of domestic manufacturing in meeting energy storage demand and strengthening supply chains

  • EVLO’s transparent, collaborative engagement with customers to build trust and “derisk” project deployments.

Catch this conversation recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage during RE+2024 in Anaheim. You can watch this and every other interview over at www.suncast.live!

Helpful RESOURCES:

Connect with Martin Rheault:

Check out EVLO Energy Storage:

NOTEWORTHY QUOTEs:

“For the first few years, even before the name EVLO existed, we had the mission to build custom made product for the grid. So we started to resolve the grid challenges of tomorrow years before. So I think that the way they are integrated, the way it’s state owned, they had the ability to build that expertise before others.”
— Martin Rheault
“In the end, we’re trying to solve a very difficult equation, the energy transition. So you need to know more about what’s the end result. End result is decarbonizing a grid and making sure that storage is really leveraging all of its attributes to the mix.”
— Martin Rheault

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!

Visit https://www.mysuncast.com/cps

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.