Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage Podcast

Join Sean White and Aaron Nichols as they turn the world of solar energy upside down with humor, stories, and a fresh take on education. Discover why facts and graphs aren’t enough, and how laughter and creativity can make even the most technical topics memorable. From fake ads to satirical brainstorms, this episode proves that learning about solar can be fun, engaging, and unforgettable. Tune in for a brighter perspective!   Topics Covered Sitcom = Situation Comedy Making Boring Stuff Fun Graphs & Acronyms Exact Solar This Week in Solar Substack www.exactsolar.substack.com The Modern Mythmaker www.themodernmythmaker.substack.com Podbean Colbert Report Solyndra Fake Advertisement Big Oil Beverly Hillbillies YouTube Channel Repurposing   Reach out to Aaron Nichols here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-nichols Substack: www.exactsolar.substack.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Join host Sean White as he sits down with Mike Haydon, CEO of The Off-Grid Shop, to explore how Australians are leading the way in solar innovation. Discover how peer to peer energy trading is empowering everyday people to share solar power with neighbors, family, and local businesses. Hear real stories about off-grid living, community microgrids, and the unique challenges and opportunities of building energy independence in Australia. Whether you’re a solar enthusiast or just curious about the future of energy, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring ideas from the front lines of the renewable revolution.   Topics Covered The Off-Grid Shop www.theoffgridshop.com Net Metering Solar in Australia Cheaper Home Batteries Solar Market Off-Grid Peer to Peer Utility Energy Lending Eco Hamlet Microgrid Battery Generator   Reach out to Mike Hayden here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mikelhaydon     Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Sean White is joined by Alfred Ignacio, also known as AI, to discuss the proposed changes in the 2029 National Electrical Code (NEC). They cover the renumbering and restructuring of key articles, such as PV systems and energy storage, moving from familiar chapters to new ones, highlighting significant. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of understanding these new placements for professionals in the field, and humorously explores the reliability and future roles of artificial intelligence in handling NEC content. The episode wraps up with a playful interaction, affirming no AI world domination plans.   Topics covered: Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Article 690.12 Rapid Shutdown Article 691 Large-Scale Photovoltaic (PV) Electric Supply Stations Article 692 Fuel Cell Systems Article 705 Interconnected Electric Power Production Sources Article 480 Stationary Standby Batteries Article 445 Generators Article 480 Stationary Standby Batteries Article 694 Wind Electric Systems Article 706 Energy Storage Systems Article 710 Stand-Alone Systems Article 702 Optional Standby Systems Article 100 Definitions Article 110 General Requirements for Electrical Installations Article 220 Branch-Circuit, Feeder, and Service Load Calculations Article 750 Energy Management Systems Chapter 2  Wiring and Protection Chapter 3 Wiring Methods and Materials Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring Article 200 Use and Identification of Grounded Conductors Article 210 Branch Circuits Not Over 1000 Volts ac, 1500 Volts dc, Nominal Article 215 Feeders Article 225 Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders Article 230 Services Article 240 Overcurrent Protection Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials Article 330 Metal-Clad Cable: Type MC Article 334 Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable: Types NM and NMC Article 338 Service-Entrance Cable: Types SE and USE Article 342 Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) Article 344 Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC) Article 352 Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride Conduit (PVC) Article 356 Liquidtight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit (LFNC) Article 358 Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) Chapter 10 Power Systems Article 368 Busways Article 408 Switchboards, Switchgear, and Panelboards Article 450 Transformers and Transformer Vaults (Including Secondary Ties) Chapter 11 Temporary and Open Wiring Chapter 12 Devices and Distribution Equipment Chapter 13 Ligtng equipment Chapter 14 Motors and Motor-Driven Machinery Chapter 15 Electric Heating and Heating Equipment Chapter 16 Other Equipment Chapter 17 Equipment Over a Thousand Volts AC, 1500 Volts DC Chapter 18 Hazardous Locations Chapter 19 Occupancies Chapter 20  Installations Associated with Bodies of Water Chapter 21 Life Safety and Emergency Systems Chapter 22 Electrified Transport Equipment Chapter 30 Tables AI world domination plans   For more information and resources, visit www.solarSEAN.com. Interested in advancing your solar career? Get NABCEP certified with Sean’s classes at: www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/30hr2023nec

Join host Sean White as he interviews John Lind, Senior Vice President of Aspen Power, for an insightful look into the commercial and industrial solar industry. Discover how financial incentives, not just environmental benefits, are driving businesses to adopt solar energy. The conversation covers the evolution of solar technology, the growing importance of battery storage, and the challenges of navigating tax credits, regulations, and supply chain issues. Learn how Aspen Power adapts to changing markets and why distributed generation is shaping the future of energy. Perfect for anyone interested in the business side of renewable energy and the path to mainstream adoption.   Topics Covered Aspen Power www.aspenpower.com Tax Credits Utility Fossil Fuel Saving the Planet VS Saving Money Independent Power Producer Standalone Photovoltaic BBB = Big Beautiful Bill Car Shading Carport EV = Electric Vehicle PPA = Power Purchase Agreement CNI = Commercial and Industrial  Tariff   Reach out to John Lind here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jhlind Aspen Power: www.aspenpower.com Email: jlind@aspenpower.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

In this episode, Sean White talks with Tom Yeshurun, the founder and CEO of Civ Robotics. Tom discusses how his company's innovative robots are helping to make solar farm construction faster and more efficient. By providing tools that assist in surveying and marking precise locations for pile installations, Civ Robotics is minimizing the labor-intensive tasks on job sites. They cover the hiring opportunities available at Civ Robotics, the evolution and future of robotics in the construction industry, and the practicalities of deploying and managing autonomous machines in varied global terrains. Tune in to learn about the latest advancements in construction robotics and what the future might hold for solar energy and beyond.   Topics Covered: Civ = Civil Engineering Robots for surveying Piles Spray beam Laser beam Torque tube Career with Robotics Open careers in Civ Robotics Field Engineers Rental Products/Agreements KPI = Key Performance Indicator Made in America Built for America GPS Technology IMU Intersolar Conference, San Diego   Reach out to Tom Yeshurun here: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tomyeshurun   Website: www.civilrobotics.com/   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvcms

This episode features Lennart Hinrichs from TWAICE, exploring how AI and data analytics are transforming battery energy storage systems. Discover how advanced software helps operators optimize performance, ensure safety, and maximize the value of large-scale batteries. The conversation covers technical challenges, industry acronyms, and the future of energy storage in a rapidly evolving grid. Perfect for anyone interested in renewable energy, battery technology, and the impact of AI on the energy sector.   Topics Covered TWAICE www.twaice.com Battery BESS = Battery Energy Storage System ESS = Energy Storage System DOD = Depth of Discharge SOC = State of Charge PCS = Power Conversion System EPC = Electronic Power Converter NEC = National Electrical Code Chemistry Coulomb Counting C-rate RTE = Round Trip Efficiency AI = Artificial Inteligence   Reach out to Lennart Hinrichs here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lennart-hinrichs TWAICE: www.twaice.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Sean White is joined by Julia Lee, Yash Ketharam, and Ilya Mazalov. The group dives into the journeys of Gen Z engineers and advocates, exploring their roles in student organizations, hands-on projects like the Solar Car Race, and their vision for the future of sustainability. The discussion covers generational perspectives, the power of community, and the challenges and opportunities in renewable energy education.   Topics Covered: Grassroots community Triton Solar Car Formula Sun Grand Prix Solar powered car Generational perspectives Social media Renewable energy education UC San Diego Club Climate change Student leadership Tips in writing and publishing books   Reach them out here: Julia Lee: www.linkedin.com/in/julialee123 Yash Ketharam: www.linkedin.com/in/yash-ketharam Ilya Mazalov: www.linkedin.com/in/ilya-mazalov UC San Diego Renewable Energy Club: www.eswtritons.wordpress.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at: www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/ess

Join host Sean White as he interviews William Grant, co-founder of Sun Collectors, for an inspiring deep dive into the world of solar energy. Discover William’s journey from electrical engineer to solar entrepreneur, the challenges and rewards of building a business in Illinois, and the impact of the SREC program. The conversation covers technical insights, ethical business practices, and the importance of community and second chances. With personal stories of overcoming adversity and a commitment to making solar accessible and reputable, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in renewable energy, entrepreneurship, and positive change.   Topics Covered Sun Collectors www.suncollectors.solar William’s Background SREC = Solar Renewable Energy Certificate Tax Credit Incentives Lease Solar Coaster PPA = Power Purchase Agreement Illinois Peoria Unions   Reach out to William Grant here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-grant-b49a65156/   Sun Collectors: www.suncollectors.solar   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Discover how Brooklyn Solar Works is transforming New York City rooftops with innovative solar canopies. Host Sean White chats with co-founders T.R. Ludwig and Gaelen McKee about the challenges and breakthroughs of installing solar in dense urban environments. Learn how their unique canopy designs overcome space, code, and engineering hurdles, turning underused rooftops into sustainable, usable spaces. From technical insights to humorous anecdotes, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the future of urban solar, the growth of a pioneering company, and the exciting possibilities for clean energy in cities everywhere.   Topics Covered Brooklyn Solar Works www.brooklynsolarworks.com Solar Canopy Solar Carport Burj Khalifa Solar in New York City Codes and Jurisdictions Racking Post and Truss Designs   Previous Podcast with T.R. Ludwig Apple YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean   Reach out to T.R. Ludwig and Gaelen McKee here: T.R Ludwig LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/trludwig Gaelen McKee LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gaelen-mckee Brooklyn Solar Works: www.brooklynsolarworks.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Discover the story of Johnny Weiss, the visionary who transformed solar education and empowered a global clean energy movement. Join host Sean White and guest Jeff Spies as they share personal stories, industry insights, and the lasting impact of Solar Energy International. Learn how one man’s passion for teaching sparked a revolution, inspired thousands, and continues to light the way for a sustainable future. Whether you’re a solar pro or just curious about renewable energy, this episode will leave you inspired by the power of community, education, and one remarkable legacy.   Topics Covered Johnny Weiss Solar Pioneer SEI = Solar Energy International SEI Mini Documentary of Johnny Weiss www.youtube.com Claudia Wentworth Award Mark Mrohs Bill Brooks Solar Training Podcast with Johnny Weiss Apple YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean Podcast with Mark Mrohs Apple YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean Johnny Weiss Initiative Solar Maintenance Fossil Fuel Greenhouse Gas Solar Roots – the Pioneers of PV   Reach out to Jeff Spies here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-spies   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip