Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage Podcast

In this episode, Sean White sits down with Matt Ward, President of Etica AG, to explore the fascinating world of battery immersion technology. Discover Etica AG’s approach to submerging lithium-ion batteries in dielectric oil to keep them cool and fire safe. From enhanced safety measures to potential applications across various industries, Matt provides an in-depth look at the benefits and future of this technology. Whether you’re an energy enthusiast or a tech novice, you won’t want to miss this enlightening conversation!   Topics covered: Etica AG Battery Immersion Technology Dielectric Oil Thermal Runaway ESS = Energy Storage System UL9540 UL9540A Cell to Cell Propagation Liquid Cooling Transformer Cooling Batteries BMS = Battery Management System HVAC = Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning O&M = Operations and Maintenance Etica www.etica.com AGI www.agirepair.com Power Cabinet   Reach out to Matt Ward Here: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mattward-energy Etica AG: www.eticaag.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, Alex Zhu shares his journey in the solar industry, starting from his time at Suntech to founding ES Foundry, one of the few U.S.-based solar cell manufacturers. We dive into the technical aspects of solar cell production, from silicon wafers to screen printing silver, and discuss the challenges and opportunities of manufacturing solar cells in the United States. Learn about the importance of a stable industry policy, the intricacies of solar technology, and the future of solar manufacturing in America. Tune in to gain insights into the world of solar cells and discover how ES Foundry is empowering the solar industry in the U.S.   Topics discussed: No wafer manufacturing in the USA 6 9s (99.9999% pure) silicon Suntech Suniva Crystalline Silicon Chemical etching Texturing PN Junction Phosphorus Diffusion Oxidation Silicon Dioxide Silicon Nitride Screen Printing Silver Bifacial solar cells Aluminum Oxide Monofacial solar cells Semiconductor PERC technology = Passive Emitter Rear Contact Investment Tax Credit 45x = 4 cents a watt ES = Empower Solar SunPower   Reach out Alex Zhu here: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexzhu  ES Foundry Website: www.esfoundrycorp.com    Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

Jeff Spies is organizing The Solar Roots Party which is set to be the fun event of the decade for the solar industry, and all are invited. Party with the solar legends that helped start the solar industry. There will be 2 viewings of the Solar Roots – The Pioneers of PV movie which was produced by Jeff Spies. Jeff is my favorite Solar historian, and he knows the history. Become part of history and have a great time doing it at this party.   Topics covered: Overview of the documentary film, Solar Roots: The Pioneers of PV AEE Solar www.test-shop.aeesolar.com Birth of Solar Pioneer party Filming the Solar Pioneers Purpose of the film Early PV Panel Costs Origins of Solar Industry and Culture Hippies and their solar story Electrochemical Reaction ARCO Solar Module Cell Evolution ARCO 16-2000 ARCO 16-2300 Charge controller Self regulating system Lead acid battery Edmond Becquerel Albert Einstein Solar Energy Wisdom Hippie Magic Solar Roots Party Details Importance of solar educators RE+ in Vegas www.re-plus.com Solar Industry Market Solar tax credit risk Tax credit restrictions Jeff’s Commitment to the Industry Sean's Book Gets a Strong Endorsement   Find out more on: Planet Plan Sets Website: www.planetplansets.com Solar-Roots Website: www.solar-roots.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, we’re joined by Mick McDaniel the Vice President and General Manager of Bila Solar to explore the operations at the Bila Solar Factory in Indianapolis. Mick provides an in-depth look into how the factory produces lightweight, flexible solar modules using domestic materials and traditional framed PV modules. He also discusses Bila Solar’s collaboration with ES Foundry, shedding light on the innovative practices taking place within the factory.   Topics covered: Solar manufacturing factory in Indianapolis Sean’s visit to the Bila Solar Factory Joel Walsman and his contributions to the solar industry Beginning of Bila Solar’s and partnership with ES Foundry Bila Solar’s lightweight, flexible solar panels using aerospace polymer Installation methods using adhesives on metal and membrane roofs Relevance to rapid shutdown compliance and UL 3741 certification Mention of traditional framed modules production alongside flexible panels Lack of U.S. suppliers for thin, hardened solar glass Importance of building a reliable U.S. supply chain under the IRA Challenges importing equipment from China Post-COVID delays in building and manufacturing permits Comparison of old vs. modern solar factories Clarification on “gigawatt” factory capacity Sean’s Journey into the Solar Industry Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) Law: Paul Fenn’s Role and Its Impact Early solar industry figures: Stuart Wentworth, Bill Brooks, Ward Bower Development of early solar inverters and U.S. code challenges Ward Bower’s pioneering work on the modern grid-tie inverter at Sandia National Laboratories Challenges with balcony solar installations and code requirements in the U.S. vs. Germany Durability of flexibility solar modules   Find out more on: Bila Solar Website: www.bilasolar.com   Click here to listen to the podcast with Sean, Bill Brooks, and Ward Bower   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, special guest Jacob Benzaquen shares his journey in the solar industry, highlighting how obtaining a NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) certification has significantly enhanced his career from kilowatts to megawatts. Sean and Jacob engage in a lively discussion covering Jacob's transition from residential to community solar, the importance of understanding solar regulations and codes, and the exciting prospects for larger commercial solar projects. They also dive into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, sustainable energy technologies, and the impact of ethical practices in the solar industry. Join us for an insightful and motivating conversation about the future of solar energy and career growth in this dynamic field.   Topics covered: NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners PV Design Specialist Sean’s PVDS exam prep class www.solarSEAN.com/PVDS Community Solar Virtual Net-metering CCA = Community Choice Aggregation Net-metering Solar DIY Off Grid Tesla Powershare EV = Electric Vehicle EV Charging Nissan Leaf DC Fast Charging Supercharge CHAdeMO Fermata Energy www.fermataenergy.com Bidirectional Inverter Battery Bidirectional Charger Tesla 1 Charger J1772 / J plug Charger Adaptors Tesla Model S Protest Solar Bros Door to Door Salespeople Up in the Air Liquidating Pacific Lumber Bay Area Coalition for Headwaters www.headwaterspreserve.org Yuval Noah Harari   Reach out to Jacob Benzaquen Here: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-benzaquen   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 speaks with Emmitt Muckles, a NABCEP Board Member, consumer advocate and host of the Billionaire Lifestyle Podcast. They discuss their unique history, the importance of consumer education in the solar industry, and efforts to combat scams and misinformation. Emmitt shares insights on proper installation, the role of fractional training, and his mission to ensure consumers are well-informed. Tune in for a blend of industry expertise and engaging anecdotes!   Topics covered: GELT = Green Energy Leadership Training $1 Houses in Detroit Tax Fronius www.fronius.com Inverter Training Sunrun Transformers Car Amplifiers Fractional Training SnapNrack www.snapnrack.com Chicago’s own Code Book Henry Ford Thomas Edison Nicola Tesla Electrocuting Elephants Arc Flash ESS = Energy Storage System The Billionaire Lifestyle Podcast www.open.spotify.com Bitcoin Jefferson Electric www.jeffersonelectric.com Joel Walsman www.linkedin.com/in/joel-walsman Joel Walsman’s Youtube Channel www.youtube.com/@ElectricProAcademy Agricultural Solar Carpenters Union Millwrights NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Dam IREC = Interstate Renewable Energy Council CEU = Continuing Education Units NEC = National Electrical Code = NFPA 70 IFC = International Fire Code IRC = International Residential Code Rapid Shutdown NFPA Tesla EV = Electric Vehicle EV Charging Sue Pratt CT = Current Transformer Intersolar Midwest Solar Expo States of Beam The Eleven Nations of America www.businessinsider.com Solar Bros NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association Door to Door Salespeople Tariff Solar Generators Battery Nissan Leaf AI = Artificial Intelligence E-Bike = Electric Bicycle SNEC PVIP Photovoltaic Installation Professional   Reach out to Emmitt Muckles Here: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/emmittmuckles   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

Richard Walker, a returning citizen (formerly incarcerated) became a motivational speaker in prisons after he was released. He has helped people get their rights back after being released, including the right to vote and the right to run for office.   Richard operates a non-profit organization Bridging the Gap of Virginia www.btgva.org that helps people, including returning citizens, get solar training, get NABCEP credentials and get jobs. His organization relies upon grants and donations, so please help him in his important work.   Richard has an interesting story. When he got his right to vote back, he also got the right to run for public office, so he has ran a few times, just like Sean White has run for office 3 times. Here is Sean’s old candidate website: www.seanwhite.org.   Topics covered: Richard’s Family History Sean & Richard’s Classes Dominion Energy Dominion Energy Pipeline Grants Micro Grid Community Solar Fossil Fuels Bridging The Gap in Virginia www.btgva.org Returning Citizens NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners www.nabcep.org Thriving Communities Grant Losing and Restoring Rights Alysa Liu figure skater World Champion!   Find out if your rights were restored: www.restore.virginia.gov   Reach out to Richard Walker Here: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/richard-walker   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, solar expert Michael Shonka is featured as the special guest. Broadcasting from Nebraska, Shonka shares his extensive experience in the solar industry, dating back to 1983. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the historical evolution of solar thermal systems, the impacts of past governmental incentives, and the differences in energy markets across regions. Shonka also discusses contemporary issues such as unethical solar sales practices and the importance of community solar projects. The episode provides valuable insights for both seasoned solar professionals and newcomers interested in solar thermal technology.   Topics covered: Solar in the 80’s Solar Hot Water Tax Credit Solar Thermal Arco Solar Digital Differential Controller Solar Air System                                                         Nuclear Energy Unethical & Ethical Solar Sales Bad Actors in the Industry “Solar Bros” North Facing System Educating Consumers Hydronic Heating Radiant Floor Heating Atmospheric Tank Pressurized Tank Buffer Tank Avoiding Orphan Systems Home Power Magazine Solar Pro Magazine Build it Solar www.builditsolar.com Heat Exchangers   Reach out to Michael Shonka Here: Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/michael-shonka-6833b3 Website: www.solaromaha.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

Jared Scott discusses AeroSeal’s cutting-edge duct and building sealing technology, highlighting its role in improving energy efficiency, reducing air changes per hour (ACH), and enhancing indoor air quality. He explores the benefits for both new and existing buildings, as well as how AeroSeal’s innovations help solar companies improve customer retention and reduce cancellations. Tune in to learn about AeroSeal’s product advancements, its impact on sealing attics and crawlspaces, and its growing presence in the renewable energy industry.   Topics covered: AeroSeal’s duct and building sealing technology Reducing Air Changes per Hour (ACH) for Efficiency Comparison with Traditional Sealing Methods Sean’s Renewable Energy Training Center Project Sealing Attics, Crawlspaces, and More Using Fog to Detect Air Leaks Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) & Ventilation Compact AeroSeal Equipment Innovation AeroSeal Crews Availability How AeroSeal Helps Solar Companies Retain Customers Importance of proper air sealing in energy efficiency   Find out more on: Aeroseal Website: www.aeroseal.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 Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, Sean speaks with Qun Wang and Jenny Tong from SNEC about the upcoming SNEC conference in Shanghai, scheduled for June 11-13, 2025. They discuss the sheer scale of the event, which is expected to attract up to 700,000 attendees, making it the world's largest solar storage and renewable energy exposition. The trio dives into different aspects of SNEC, including scientific and industrial applications, international collaborations, and the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector in China. They also touch on practical logistics for international attendees and share personal experiences from previous conferences. An insightful episode for anyone interested in the latest advancements and future prospects in solar energy. It is not too late to go to SNEC.   American’s can go to China without a visa for 10 days as long as they transit through another country, which is how Sean is going.   Sean will have a stage at SNEC where he will be teaching solar and storage classes for 2 days at no cost, and additionally he will be podcasting. If you are going to be at SNEC and want to be interviewed on Sean’s podcast, please let us know.   Topics covered: Overview of SNEC Sean’s Involvement on SNEC History and Growth of SNEC Traveling to China with a 240-Hour Transit Visa Shanghai Transportation Cultural Exchange Scientific Conferences features top solar scientists like Martin Green and AKI Weber SNEC’s collaboration with Re+ U.S. solar market challenges Tariffs on renewable energy Manufacturing challenges in the US Cost and growth of solar energy Utility-Scale Solar Projects Sean White’s staff going to SNEC for team building Sean White bringing his mom to SNEC for Mother’s day!   Listen to Sean’s conversation with Madam Mi and Jenny here👇🏻 SNEC ES+ with Madame Mi and Jenny Tong (ES=Energy Storage) SNEC Website: www.SNEC.org   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean