Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage Podcast

Host Sean White talks with Ovanova co-founder Lester Crafton about the future of energy resilience and microgrids. Discover how portable energy trailers, solar, batteries, and EVs are transforming disaster response and community power. Learn why energy storage, cybersecurity, and local solutions matter more than ever. Real stories, technical insights, and a vision for a smarter, more resilient energy future, all in one episode.   Topics Covered Ovanova www.ovanova.co National Energy Emergency EV = Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Energy Resilience Microgrid ESS = Energy Storage System Inverter PET = Portable Energy Technology PET = Portable Energy Trailer NEC = National Electrical Code Generator Internal Combustion Engine Net metering Battery Backup Solar without Storage Batteries Bidirectional Electric Vehicle Sigenergy Voltage Architecture EV Charging Bitcoin Mining Bitcoin Miner Bitcoin Heating Liquid Cooled Bitcoin Miner Prepper Solar Prepper John Wiles Wildfires Electric Trailer Hurricane Helene Solar Trailers EG4 Electronics Hacking Interconnection Agreement NEC Article 624 Reactive Power Power Factor Utility Dispatchable Energy Storage   Reach out to Lester Crafton here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lestercrafton Website: www.ovanova.co YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ovanovasolar   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/pvsi

In this episode, Sean White revisits the foundation of the podcast by reading and analyzing Article 690 of the newly released 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC). The session provides a detailed walkthrough of the article, discussing its application, key updates, and specific requirements for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems. The podcast covers various sections, including general and specific equipment requirements, wiring methods, grounding and bonding, and rapid shutdown protocols for PV systems. The episode also includes historical context, teaching experiences, and insights into the evolution of the NEC. Listeners can supplement their learning by taking advanced PV or energy storage classes offered by the host and co-author Bill Brooks.   Topics Covered: NEC Article 690: Scope and System Types 690.2 Listing Requirements for PV Equipment 690.4 General Requirements for PV Systems 690.7 Maximum DC Voltage Calculations 690.8  Circuit Sizing and Equipment 690.9 Overcurrent Protection in PV Systems 690.12 Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems 690.13 Disconnecting Means for PV Systems 690.31 Wiring Methods and Materials 690.31(B) Identification and Grouping of Conductors 690.31 (C) Wires and Cables 690.32 Component Interconnections 690 Part V Grounding and Bonding   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.solarsean.com www.solarsean.com/30hrpv

In this lively episode, Sean White and special guest Shawn O'Brien, the CEO of NABCEP, discuss exciting updates and happenings in the solar energy world. They dive into the details of the upcoming NABCEP conference in Milwaukee, including its St. Patrick’s Day theme, technical sessions, and networking opportunities. Shawn O'Brien provides insights into new certifications and exams on the horizon, including the PV associate and Spanish language options. Tune in for a blend of fun and informative content straight from the Power Up Live Pro studio, presented by Terra Hive, with gratitude to RE Plus and Suncast Media.   Topics covered: NABCEP Conference Milwaukee Baird Center St. Patrick’s Day NABCEP Carribean Subject Matter Experts Live Online Proctoring Energy Center, North Carolina Mark Mrohs Interplay Learning Online Training Online Simulation  New PV Associate Exam JTA = Job Task Analysis Operation and Maintenance Associate Technician Amicus O&M Cooperative Heatspring Energy Storage Installation Professional Spanish version of exam PV Installation Professional PV Design Specialist PV Commissioner Maintenance Specialist PV Installation Specialist Operation Maintenance Associate Technician French Translation NABCEP Conference Registration Opens NYSERDA = New York State Energy Research and Development Authority Grants San Francisco Comedy College Curtis Matthew PV and NEC Book by Sean White and Bill Brooks   Reach out with Shawn O’Brien here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shawnwobrien/ Website: www.nabcep.org/   Previous Podcast with Shawn O’Brien: NABCEP and Job Security featuring Shawn O’Brien President and CEO of NABCEP   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean http://www.solarsean.com/pvaspanish

In this episode, Sean White talks with Brooklynite Neil Hurlock about his path to earning the NABCEP PV Associate certification. They cover his classroom experience, the role of mentorship, and what it’s like starting out in solar at a young age. Along the way, Neil shares a bit of New York perspective and the motivation that keeps him moving forward in the clean energy field.   Topics covered: Neil’s path to solar certification Apex Technical School experience NABCEP PV Associate exam preparation and strategies The role of mentorship and teaching in clean energy Building community and connections The importance of studying and self-motivation New York City culture and traditions (including chopped cheese!) The future of solar and clean energy innovation Overcoming challenges and adapting to change Public transportation, urban life, and sustainability The impact of technology on daily life Opportunities in the solar industry for new generations The value of credentials and ongoing education Policy, tax credits, and industry trends Personal growth, mindset, and positive thinking   Reach out to Neil Hurlock Here: NABCEP Professional Directory: www.directories.nabcep.org   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/pva

The American Solar and Energy Society (ASES) has a new editor in chief Jacob Yang. Jacob brings fresh ideas and enthusiasm to solar today, learn how you can write articles and get involved with ASES, Jacob Knows all the answers.   Note: This podcast was recorded during Jacob Yang's time as Editor-in-Chief of Solar Today.   Topics covered: ASES = American Solar and Energy Society SBSP = Space Based Solar Power Solar Today Magazine Minnesota Prairie Home Companion Solar Educating Cesar Barbosa RE+ ASES Conference National Solar Tour NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association ASES Membership Podcast with Cesar Barbosa Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Pandora Podbean   Reach out to Jacob Yang here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjuancarlosyang Email: jlundy@ases.org   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage podcast, Sean welcomes the legendary Bill Brooks for an engaging conversation. They discuss their recent class, reminisce about their friend John “Gino” Espino, and his unexpected passing, sharing reflections on friendship and the impact John had on the solar industry. They also humorously tackle the topic of 'cancel culture' with the 'John Gino Espino Uncancelled Award.' The episode wraps up with insights into the new 2026 NEC and 2029 National Electrical Codes, making it a mix of heartfelt memories, industry insights, and lighthearted banter.   Topics Covered John “Gino” Espino SPI = now RE+ Sean and Bill Brooks Class North Dakota Alaska RE+ Alaska NEP Racking Sailing Cancelled Dave Chappelle John Espino Uncancelled Award in RE+ Comedy 23 Me Test Birthright Citizenship 2026 NEC Proposals for 2029 Code   Get to know John “Gino” Espino here: John “Gino” Espino LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnespino/ Go Fund Me https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-carole-and-sons-after-johns-passing   Reach out to Bill Brooks here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bill-brooks-6782616/ Website: www.brooksolar.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/pvsi

Join Sean White as he talks with Guy Vandendungen, CTO of Perpetuum Energy, about the latest trends in solar and energy storage across Europe. They discuss real-world challenges like negative energy pricing, grid constraints, battery technology, and the future of decarbonization for industry. Whether you’re in the solar business or just curious about how Europe is leading the energy transition, this episode is packed with practical insights and global perspectives.   Topics covered: PerPetum Energy www.perpetumenergy.com SNEC Global Energy Storage and Battery Council Guy’s Career Background Energy Transition Wind Energy Solar Prices Levelized Cost of Energy Negative Pricing in Europe Grid European Union and European Economic Area European Market US Market ESS = Energy Storage System AFRR = Automatic Frequency Restoration Reserve Solar and Energy Storage Market Battery Frequency Regulation Solar in China European organizations for transmission system operators Grid Underutilization Bifacial PV Vertical PV Solar Panel as Fence Solar Price Decrease Solar Industry Evolution EV = Electric Vehicle Vehicle to Grid Vehicle to Home Decarbonization as a Service Carbon Market ETS = Emission Trade System Cooperation Across Borders Nuclear Energy Oil and Gas Electric Planes and Helicopter   Reach out to Guy Vandendungen here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/guyvandendungen/   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode Sean is joined by Gil Hough, Executive Director of the Tennessee Solar & Storage Association. Broadcasting live from the Power Up Live Pro Studio at RE+, Sean and Gil explore the unique landscape of solar and storage in the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) region. Gil shares the history and structure of TVA, the challenges and opportunities in the seven-state territory, and the rapid growth of solar and storage in Tennessee. The conversation covers TVA’s integrated resource planning and the upcoming Tennessee Solar + Storage Conference.   Topics Covered: The New Deal TVA = Tennessee Valley Authority TVA’s seven-state territory Tennessee Solar + Storage Conference TVA’s (IRP) Integrated Resource Plan Solar and storage market growth 2025 Tennessee Valley Solar + Storage Conference (October 28-30, 2025) LPCs = Local Power Companies FERC = Federal Energy Regulatory Commission TVA’s River management SEIA = Solar Energy Industries Association SEPA = Smart Electric Power Alliance TenneSEIA = Tennessee Solar Energy Industries Association 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) organizations NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association Nonprofit vs. business association roles Lobbying and policy advocacy   Reach out to Gil Hough and TenneSEIA here: Website: www.tenneseiasolar.com Conference registration: www.tenneseiasolar.com/conference   Register for my Tenneseia class here 👇🏻 www.tenneseiasolar.com/conference   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/ESIP

Host Sean White talks with solar engineer and educator Mike Nowicki about utility-scale solar projects, the ins and outs of professional engineering licenses, and the evolution of industry codes. They dive into PE registration, project design, and Mike’s experience teaching future engineers. A must-listen for anyone interested in the real-world challenges and opportunities in solar energy.   Topics covered: ACP = American Clean Power Utility Scale Solar Burns & Mcdonnell www.burnsmcd.com EPC = Engineering, Procurement, and Construction ESS = Energy Storage System ESOP = Employee Stock Ownership Program Solar Engineer PE = Professional Engineer NCEES = National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying Certifications Licenses NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners NEC = National Electrical Code CMP = Code Making Panel NREL = National Renewable Energy Laboratory RE+ Conference PV and the NEC (Sean & Bill’s Book) Solar Power International = SPI Solar Professional Magazine Rapid Shutdown SSIF + Solar and Storage Industry Forum SEIA = Solar Energy Industries Association UL 3741 Clipping Battery DC Coupling AC Coupling Union Labor UBC = United Brotherhood of Carpenters IBEW = International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Backtracking Trackers Next Trackers Wayne State University Grid Short Circuit Fault Utility   Reach out to Mike Nowicki Here: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-p-nowicki Burns & Mcdonnell: www.burnsmcd.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of the Sean White Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, Sean White interviews Ryan Jones, a NABCEP-certified solar professional who transitioned from the U.S. to a thriving career in Europe. The discussion covers Ryan's early experiences in the solar industry, his job at the now-defunct Lyra solar company, and his journey to living in Spain. They explore the challenges and rewards of working internationally, including visa issues, tax considerations, and the different electrical codes and standards. Ryan shares insights on becoming a digital nomad in the solar industry, the evolution of the European solar market with feed-in tariffs, and the drastic growth of solar capacity from 2007 to today. The episode offers valuable advice for anyone looking to take their solar career global.   Topics Covered: NABCEP PV Installer Exam = PV Installer Professional Exam Solyndra Solar Tubes Solar Power International = RE+ Stephen Colbert GCR Crystalline Silicon on tubes CIGS = Copper Indium Gallium Diselenide Solar Coaster Hans Josef-Fell Feed-in Tariff DC Power = Soligent Polar Bear Effect Digital Nomad Fully Remote Work Tax Implications NEC International Electro Technical Commission = IEC UL9540 Working Visa Malaga, Spain Gold Coast Intersolar   Reach out to Ryan Jones here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-jones-9426a211/   Website:  www.recurrentenergy.com/   Hans-Josef Fell Podcast Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hans-josef-fell-started-the-feed-in-tariff-the/id1441958371?i=1000715753971   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/40hress