SunCast 837: MET Stations... the Secret Weapon For Solar Energy? Ann Will | GroundWork
Jul 24, 2025
Ann Will, founder of GroundWork Renewables, dives into the game-changing role of high-accuracy irradiance data in securing crucial funding for solar projects. She reveals how just 0.3% of CapEx can lead to a staggering 10X ROI. Ann shares her journey from investment banking to launching a successful clean energy startup, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships and data-driven decisions. Listeners will learn how GroundWork helps de-risk solar developments and the innovative use of satellite data in project assessment.
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Value of Precise Solar Measurements
- High-quality solar resource measurements reduce uncertainty and improve energy and revenue forecasts for utility-scale solar projects.
- GroundWork's precise pyranometer data lowered uncertainty from 8% to about 2.5%, increasing developer confidence and financing possibilities.
Ann Will's Career Pivot Story
- Ann Will left a digital marketing leadership role after maternity leave and a tough firing experience.
- Coming from a wind farm development family network, she seized the opportunity to build a solar metering business at an early industry stage.
Tiny Cost, Massive Solar Value
- The cost of metering systems in utility-scale solar is only about 0.3% of total project capital expenditure.
- Despite low cost, the accurate data they provide can drive a 10x return by enabling millions in financing and improved project value.
