SunCast

What's the value of a NABCEP certification? Since most solar companies don't require one, is it worth the time and money? At RE+ Northeast a few weeks back, Jada Alcindor from NABCEP asked around to answer one of the industry’s key questions: “How much does a NABCEP certification help installers when it comes to designing systems accurately?” When she sat down with John Novak, the founder and CPO of Scanifly, she found a clear answer. And you get to ‘eavesdrop’ on this conversation between two solar junkies as they break down the benefits of certifying installers, talk up some industry-leading tech, and show you how to get free continuing NABCEP education credits. Scanifly is a design software that gives PV designers an edge by providing accurate, real-time roof measurements using drone footage. Scanifly's software helps PV designers eliminate guesswork from satellite imagery and make fewer design mistakes. Expect to learn: How and why a NABCEP certification gives solar designers a clear edgeHow Scanifly's software can turn anyone into a solar project wizardHow to use a drone to lay out where the panels in a solar system should go, down to the inch.A sneak peek into what Scanifly will teach at the upcoming NABCEP conference.Where to find a free resource to become a Scanifly certified designer and surveyor If you're curious about designing top-notch solar energy systems or just love learning about interesting technology, hit play! To learn more about Scanifly you should find their booth at the upcoming NABCEP conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, from March 18 to 21, 2024! See you in RaleighThis is NOT a paid endorsement or advertisement from NABCEP nor from Scanifly.Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus

Can we build an 80% clean energy future without reliable, wide-scale energy storage? It's unlikely. So, what needs to happen? Joan White, Director of Storage and Interconnection Policy at the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), has been fighting to answer that question for years. Now that The Inflation Reduction Act has made it cheaper and easier to produce energy storage technologies domestically, we're seeing heavy investor interest in energy storage. But is it a sustainable market, or are we in an energy storage boom/bust cycle? In this week's conversation, Joan explains how we can build a sustainable energy storage market. Expect to learn: Joan's predictions for the future of energy storage The critical safety code all energy storage installers should be trained in )and how to access the training cheaply)Exactly how The Inflation Reduction Act has set up energy storage manufacturing for success. Tips for making energy storage facilities more efficientWhat needs to happen before we see widespread energy storage adoptionEssential advice for starting an energy storage businessWhy Nico's friends hate when he says energy storage is in a "boom." And much more. Are you prepared for the energy storage boom? Press play and find out! I was intrigued by just how smart and articulate Joan is that I can’t wait to have her back on the show. What would you like to learn about next time?Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

How did Nextracker become the leading solar tracker manufacturer in the world in 10 years, and what was the secret sauce of one of the most successful IPO’s of 2023?  We finally have Nextracker’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, Kristan Kirsh, on the show sharing her journey of helping elevate Nextracker from 400 Megawatts to 90 Gigawatts in shipped solar trackers.With Kirsh running marketing since 2015, Nextracker has not only navigated its landmark public offering but has also cemented its status as an industry icon. This episode delves into the strategic layers of her successful marketing prowess that has served as exemplar within the solar sector, offering listeners a chance to explore:The creation of a customer-centric culture that goes beyond listening to actively incorporate feedback into both product development and marketing strategies.The use of storytelling to make complex technological solutions relatable and captivating in a way that’s meaningful to the audience.The importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering a creative and robust marketing team, and how to encourage diversity and inclusion at a high level.Strategies for managing significant milestones, from tactically naming products to dealing with multiple stakeholders in the IPO process.Nextracker's philanthropy, supporting nonprofits like Green Empowerment with small-scale solar projects in Africa and Latin America.This interview with Kristan Kirsch demonstrates the power of strategic marketing, cultural and global diversity, and truly empowering others to elevate the industry.  And we had the honor of bringing it to you live in-person from the comfort of Kristan’s Bay Area living room! (so, definitely tune in on Youtube and watch!)Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

Community solar has proven a viable pathway to more affordable and equitable clean energy, but how do developers overcome one of the main hurdles to the project’s success - community engagement? Founded with a commitment to making solar energy accessible to all, Solstice has become a key player in community solar, especially in the US Northeast, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and education in expanding renewable energy access. In this episode, Sandhya Murali, Co-founder & COO of Solstice, outlines the company’s strategic decisions and cultural values that have yielded broad success as a community solar pioneer. She delves into how Solstice:Cultivates community trust and broadens solar participation through education and transparent communication.Implements strategic marketing to nurture long-term community relationships.Empowers communities through sustainable energy, whether it be homeowners, renters, businesses, nonprofits, or others. Listeners can also expect to uncover:How economic incentives that circulate through communities can encourage many others to transition to renewable energy Solstice’s proactive approach to engaging with communities in the early stages of solar projectsThe dedication developers must have to engage with the community they are building with to foster a long-term relationship and support for the mission This episode offers an in-depth look at how adhering to core values and focusing on community engagement can drive long-term success in community solar and beyond.Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

Discover the intriguing journey of Bob & Maria Kingery, founders of Southern Energy Management, in the solar industry. They share insights on building a values-driven business, strategic marketing tactics, and sustaining growth. Explore the importance of inclusive leadership, resilient business strategies, and the evolution of solar entrepreneurship.

Barry Reaves, serving as the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice (DEI/J), and Workforce Development at the North East Clean Energy Council (NECEC), is tackling head-on the clean energy sector's need for a more diverse workforce. This challenge expands beyond ethnic boundaries, touching on gender, sexuality, and income status, highlighting the pressing need for a more inclusive approach in the industry's workforce development.The North East Clean Energy Council (NECEC) works tirelessly with a variety of partners across the Northeast, from Maine to New York, to encourage clean energy organizations to think comprehensively about workforce solutions that embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. Reaves’ role involves not just strategizing but shepherding projects with and for member companies that create equitable pathways in clean energy.This conversation contains enlightening lessons on the importance of workforce diversity from a practitioner on the front lines. It underscores the critical role that organizational leaders play as catalysts for change, advocating for diversity and inclusion right from the top. It also delves into the challenges policies can pose to such initiatives, emphasizing the need for holistic thinking in developing programs that attract diverse talent. Reaves’ work calls for inclusion beyond ethnicity, recognizing the need to encompass individuals from rural communities, the military, and various gender and sexual orientations, among others. Listeners will learn about the tangible benefits of diversity for companies, the significance of establishing connections with often overlooked communities, and the strategies the NECEC employs to foster a more inclusive clean energy sector. This dialogue sheds light on the imperative for equitable workforce development, but also illustrates how inclusivity can drive innovation and progress in clean energy and beyond.Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus

Can the solar industry utilize advanced data analytics and software to address the challenges of integrating renewable energy sources into the grid, maintaining project quality, and ensuring long-term asset value? Where are there still gaps to address? As the industry matures, project developers, asset owners and grid operators are increasingly focusing on leveraging data streams from the field to enhance project performance as well as grid reliability. However, one element of data gathering has been a perennial gray area - accurate fieldwork management, which is still a very manual process in just about every respect. And it just may be the part of post-construction asset value retention that is most overlooked, till now.American Made Solar Prize winners, James Nagel and David Penalva, co-founders of SolarGrade by HelioVolta, converted their extensive experience in solar project development and data analysis into a robust software aimed at precisely this conundrum.  SolarGrade, a software tool designed to tackle this challenge by automating field reporting and creating a centralized database called SolarFax, akin to a "Carfax for solar." By integrating detailed project data, SolarGrade aims to improve predictive maintenance, enhance performance insights, and ultimately, support the reliable and cost-effective deployment of solar energy. And, like Carfax, it may prove incredibly useful in the valuation and resale of these assets someday.In this episode, James and David explore several key areas:The critical role of comprehensive data analytics in optimizing solar project performance;How SolarGrade is addressing the industry's data challenges by providing actionable insights;The balance between cost efficiency, quality, and safety in project development;The significance of early customer feedback in refining and scaling innovative solutions;The broader implications of data-driven decision-making for the future of renewable energy.Through their pioneering work, James, David, highlight the importance of balancing cost efficiency with quality and safety in solar projects, the value of field data, and how their journey through the American Made Solar Prize catalyzed their growth and software improvement , all while maintaining a passion for adventure and the great outdoors. Fun fact, if you WATCH this on Youtube, you’ll be able to appreciate just how outdoorsy David truly is, as we filmed in his garage where he has built his own rock climbing wall as a respite from the daily grind of startup life. He’s also responsible for Nico’s rekindling his love for the sport over the last year. They’d both love to talk climbing with you anytime…or meet you on the crag. Hope you enjoy! Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

As more frequent extreme weather events become the new normal, grid operators and project developers alike seek improved data sources and market signals to help balance their daily load forecasts. The surge in electricity demand during such crises not only escalates power costs but also exposes the vulnerabilities of our energy grid, underscoring the urgency for innovative forecasting strategies. How do we harness data technology to better prepare for and respond to these environmental challenges? Sean Kelly, CEO of Amperon, provides nearly 2 decades of energy market & trading expertise to help us understand the implications. His firsthand encounter with the devastating effects of Winter Storm Uri highlights the tangible impact of these weather phenomena, and his stories help anchor the hard truth for his team and clients. At Amperon, Sean leveraged his extensive background in energy trading to pioneer the use of advanced analytics and machine learning in creating precise load forecasts based on real-time weather data. Their work enhances grid reliability and efficiency, offering a proactive approach to managing the unpredictability of weather patterns and their impact on energy systems.Here are a few things Sean teaches us in today’s Tactical Tuesday:the increasing relevance of data in forecasting and preparing for extreme weather events;how clean energy is a response to natural disasters and can help balance the grid; the imperative for regulatory agility to accelerate the clean energy transition; the financial wisdom in adopting a 'merchant mindset' for project optimization and security;the growing focus on asset management and risk assessment in energy investments; and the evolution of weather data as a key constituent to the clean energy transition. This conversation is a clarion call for collaborative efforts towards building a resilient and reliable clean power grid. Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.You'll find more resources and learn about SunCast's guest(s), recommendations, book links, and more than 850 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.You can learn more about partnering with SunCast here: https://mysuncast.com/sponsorsYou can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusSubscribe to Valence, our weekly Linkedin Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/

The United States stands at a pivotal juncture in its clean energy transition, with domestic energy storage manufacturing emerging as the cornerstone of its sustainable future. John Zahurancik, President Americas at Fluence, joins Nico Johnson to discuss the future of domestic battery manufacturing in the United States at Intersolar NA. Also, this episode features an exclusive recording of  Zahurancik’s keynote address which further discusses the need for the U.S. to ramp up its production of energy storage solutions, showcasing Fluence's leading role in this critical shift.What the audience can expect to learn:⚡️ The Critical Role of Domestic Manufacturing: Understand why bringing battery production home is key to America's energy independence and resilience.⚡️ Navigating Supply Chain Challenges: Learn how domestic manufacturing reduces risks from international disruptions, enhancing supply chain reliability.⚡️ Policy Clarity and Partnerships: How clear policies and strong partnerships are essential for accelerating the clean energy transition.⚡️Fluence's Strategic Initiatives: A closer look at Fluence’s efforts, including their manufacturing facility in Utah, to lead the U.S. in energy storage solutions.⚡️ Future of Clean Energy: Zahurancik's vision for a decarbonized future and how domestic energy storage manufacturing plays a crucial role.John Zahurancik's insightful keynote offers a comprehensive blueprint for transforming the United States into a leader in domestic energy storage manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of policy clarity, strong partnerships, and innovation.Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

Occasionally on the anniversary of an episode that really impacted us, we like to run a vignette of something we learned from such an episode to give new listeners (or those of you who just missed it originally) insight from the excellent content in our back catalog, much of which we believe is worth revisiting.As GHG emissions continue to rise, the need to understand and effectively manage carbon emissions on the grid is crucial. Yet, a significant obstacle remains: most individuals and organizations lack real-time, accurate data on their carbon footprint, particularly in relation to electricity consumption. Traditional methods offer only outdated regional averages that fail to reflect the dynamic nature of the power grid, especially with more renewables being deployed. This gap in data is a limitation upon everyone seeking to mitigate the climate crisis from grid operators to individual consumers.Wenbo Shi founded Singularity Energy to resolve this issue once and for all. In this SunCast Soundbyte, Wenbo discusses the pressing issue of GHG emissions and the vital role of accurate carbon data in fighting climate change. Many lack real-time data on their carbon footprint, especially in electricity usage. Traditional methods, offering outdated regional averages, don't align with the dynamic power grid, since there is increased renewable presence on the grid. Singularity Energy, born from Wenbo's pivot from energy management to carbon data, addresses this gap. Singularity Energy stands at the forefront of providing accurate, real-time carbon intensity data. Their innovative approach leverages a combination of public data and proprietary grid operation information from regional utility partners like Eversource. The company’s unique methodology allows for more precise, location-specific carbon estimates, empowering consumers and utilities alike with the data necessary to make more informed decisions on how to effectively reduce GHG emissions.This episode highlights the critical role of real-time carbon data in emission reduction, aligning perfectly with Singularity Energy's mission to deliver up-to-date, granular grid carbon data. This empowers entities to make well-informed decisions, steering them towards effective carbon emission reduction strategies.If this resonates, then you might enjoy the longer episode we did with Wenbo (from which this vignette was clipped); that’s episode #573Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast? Hit us up - team@suncast.me with your feedback & recommendations.Check out OpenSolar OS 3.0 at: https://suncast.media/opensolarIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 875 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus