SunCast

Amid America's energy shift, initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act and bipartisan infrastructure bills are making clean energy more accessible and affordable, driving a 42% investment increase to $225 billion in a year. Yet, to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, an acceleration is essential. Jesse Jenkins of Princeton University, speaking at Intersolar NA, provides not just an analysis of these challenges but a practical roadmap for embracing clean electricity nationwide. He highlights the shift from traditional fuels to a future powered by renewables like wind and solar, emphasizing the need to boost renewable energy production and expand the grid to support a net-zero future.Jesse’s playbook includes:⚡️ Insights into scaling solar and wind power to unprecedented levels by the 2030s.⚡️ The necessity of adding 75,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines for a robust grid.⚡️ Strategies for phasing out coal and leveraging existing zero-carbon resources for reliability.⚡️ Overview of emerging clean technologies poised for growth in the next decades.⚡️ Approaches to enhance grid flexibility with storage solutions and demand response mechanisms.Jesse Jenkins's talk offers a clear, actionable guide for transitioning the U.S. to clean electricity, emphasizing the expansion of renewable sources and grid enhancement, making it an essential playbook for those committed to America's decarbonization efforts.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

What happens to solar panels when they reach the end of their financed life, but not necessarily their useful life? With the solar industry's growth, the issue of decommissioned panels has become a burgeoning service (and business) opportunity. These “old” panels, though no longer new, are often still under warranty, and definitely still retain a significant portion of their functional capacity and rated power. As we’ll see in today’s conversation, harnessing their remaining potential, or 'second life', could turn a potential waste problem into an opportunity for ongoing clean energy production and social good.Cesar Barbosa, the Founder of Nulife Power Services, has recognized the potential in these gently-used solar panels. Instead of discarding them, Barbosa sees an opportunity to give these panels a second life. His company focuses on refurbishing, repurposing, and repowering old solar arrays (mostly in California), and extending the usability of that older equipment coming off those systems for solar projects in his native Mexico, where affordable solar energy solutions are most needed. Through this innovative approach, Barbosa not only addresses the issue of waste in the solar industry but also helps bridge the clean energy gap in less affluent regions.This discussion highlights the critical need for innovative approaches of making sure solar panels and components are used to their full capacity, reducing waste. It emphasizes how repurposing and repowering solar panels not only addresses environmental concerns but also enhances clean energy access in places like Latin America.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

We often talk here about renewable energy. But how often have you thought about renewable water?  Is it even a thing? And, what if we could manufacture clean water, from the air?Did you know, the EPA reports that 45% of U.S. tap water is toxic!?! And, while an estimated 3 billion people globally currently face water stress, that number is projected to increase to 5.2 billion by 2050! This situation underscores the interconnectedness of the climate and water crises, emphasizing the vital “energy-water nexus” and the urgent need for solutions to ensure both water availability and purity.Alexander von Welczek founded SkyH2O to address these water challenges through atmospheric water generation (AWG). As a seasoned climate tech & solar finance entrepreneur, von Welczek's journey in the water sector began around 2015, motivated by California's severe droughts. And, when he partnered with UC Berkeley scientists shortly after, SkyH2O's ambitious vision of large-scale AWG systems became a reality. Von Welczek and the Berkeley team engineered a system capable of producing 10,000-100,000 gallons of water per day, which is particularly well oriented to solving commercial and industrial water needs. His insights into the global water crisis offer a deep dive into the potential and challenges associated with AWG, a technology that holds massive potential to relieve global water stress as it literally generates water directly from the air without relying on existing water bodies. I’ve known Alex since his early days in Solar, and have been watching as he incubated SkyH2O from it’s earliest ideation.  So I’m honored to finally feature Alex here on SunCast.  SkyH2O's approach to AWG offers a scalable solution to water stress and toxicity. Von Welczek's motto, "no excuses, let's make it happen," embodies the spirit of this mission, inspiring a call to action for sustainable, global water management. This discussion reveals the importance of innovative approaches in climate tech, highlighting SkyH2O's role in addressing the critical need for clean, accessible water and showcasing how visionary solutions can lead to a more sustainable world for future generations.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

With the need to increase solar deployment and prepare for the terawatt era, Terabase Energy Inc. has positioned itself as a leader in transforming utility-scale solar power. This conversation, recorded live at Intersolar North America 2024, dives deep into the innovative strategies and technologies that Terabase is deploying to amplify solar energy production and to meet the demands of the terawatt-level market. With a strategic focus on reducing solar costs to as low as 1 cent per kilowatt-hour, Terabase is pioneering efforts to make this ambitious goal plausible.Matt Campbell, CEO and co-founder of Terabase Energy Inc., brings to the table a rich tapestry of knowledge and experience in the solar industry. Under his guidance, Terabase has developed a comprehensive suite of four state-of-the-art software products. Each product in this suite is tailored to optimize different stages of utility-scale solar projects, encompassing everything from the initial design phase with 'Plant Predict' to the intricate operational efficiencies achieved by 'Plant Controls.' Campbell's vision is both bold and clear – to significantly streamline the solar project lifecycle through digital innovation and automation, thereby enhancing project efficiency and reducing overall costs.This discussion sheds light on how Terabase's integration of advanced software and automation is not merely enhancing solar project development; it is actively revolutionizing the efficiency and sustainability of energy production. By addressing critical aspects such as design optimization, construction management, installation processes, and operational control, Terabase is not only meeting current industry challenges but also setting new standards for the future of utility-scale solar.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 has the IRA affected financing renewables, in particular solar projects? Renewable energy projects are contending with the harsh realities of rising capital costs and shrinking profit margins. Understanding the financial underpinnings of renewable energy ventures is increasingly crucial, particularly for mid-sized and smaller project developers who often face significant challenges in securing sufficient capital to get their solar projects into the pipeline. These obstacles not only threaten the growth of renewable energy but also raise concerns about meeting global sustainability goals. Rob Sternthal, Managing Director at Piper Sandler, brings twenty years of experience in investment banking for the renewable energy sector to bare in this earnest discussion about the realities of the current equities markets and the current financial hurdles faced by project developers.  It is increasingly difficult to achieve the returns necessary to finance large-scale renewable projects amidst rising costs and plateauing electricity prices. He delves into the nuances of the current market, including the shift from traditional equity funds to credit funds demanding higher returns in shorter periods. This shift has significant implications for developers, especially smaller ones who struggle with new barriers like hefty letters of credit for interconnection queues. Sternthal's perspective is not just analytical; he offers pragmatic advice for developers, emphasizing the importance of clear exit strategies, the potential of emerging technologies like battery storage, and the strategic positioning of companies for long-term success.Rob Sternthal's decades of primary experience in renewable energy finance provides us a nuanced glimpse into the drivers directly impacting project development. Will we continue to see headwinds? Does your experience align with Rob’s guidance and perspective? Tune in, and then let me know your thoughts.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

Storytelling is not just entertainment. It's a fundamental part of being human. A story’s most important function is to remind us we are not alone in the world.And as we champion the clean energy transition, our stories help remind hundreds of thousands that there is a career opportunity they can choose that also can leave a legacy. Yet, the gap between the industry’s advancements and public perception of technology such as solar continues to exist despite our industry being one of the largest job creators of the past decade. This disconnect between reality and the narratives told in communities large and small palpable, but a few organizations have finally begun to help re-write the story in compelling and public ways.  Despite the tremendous progress of renewable energy, Joe and Jane Public still have concerns.  And, addressing those concerns requires more than just presenting facts and figures; it calls for a powerful, human-centric approach through storytelling. By sharing personal narratives, the clean energy sector can effectively bridge this knowledge gap, making the transition more tangible and relatable to the general public.Andrew Reagan, Executive Director of Clean Energy for America, understands and advocates the power of storytelling in reshaping public opinion and fostering a deeper understanding of the clean energy transition. Through the "Faces of Clean Energy" campaign, the Clean Energy for America Education Fund highlights the stories of individuals who have transitioned from traditional sectors like oil and gas to clean energy, illustrating the diverse opportunities and skill transferability in this burgeoning field. These narratives serve as a beacon, guiding the public to recognize the reality and potential of clean energy, moving beyond misconceptions, politics, and skepticism.This conversation delves into the essence of storytelling. While statistics and data are informative, it's the 'human element'—the personal stories and experiences—that truly captivate and inspire. This narrative approach is not just about disseminating information; it's about connecting on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Recognizing this, the Valence Newsletter was formed as a dedicated platform to highlight the elemental components of good storytelling and how it can impact and grow the industry. Please check it out and subscribe.This conversation is a call to action to please share your story and encourage others to share their story!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

The demand for skilled engineering labor in renewables is skyrocketing. As the world's energy grids transition towards terawatts of renewable energy, there is an incredible need for owners and developers to outsource key components of electrical, civil, structural, geotechnical, and land survey engineering. This gap in specialized skills presents a unique challenge for developers and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractors who often lack these capabilities in-house or find it non-essential to their core business focus. Over the last decade-plus, however, full-service engineering services companies have begun a vital service for the renewable energy contractor that is becoming increasingly indispensable in the sector.At the forefront of bridging this resource gap is Sohan Das, Vice President at EVS, Inc., a family-owned pure-play engineering firm that has adeptly positioned itself as a 'one-stop-shop' for comprehensive engineering services. With a background in architecture and a robust experience in the solar industry, Das's journey is a reflection upon how one does not have to be the founder or CEO of a business in order to lead it to great heights. Under his leadership, EVS has become a respected and recognized pioneer in growth markets like Community Solar and Battery Energy Storage.  EVS not only provides partners with much-needed engineering expertise, but their depth of experience in these ‘frontier markets’ of the industry has helped streamline the entire project development process, ensuring equity, efficiency and effectiveness across multiple verticals and product integrations as the solar industry has matured.This conversation delves into the essence of intrapreneurship. Sohan's story illustrates that you don’t need to start the company to become a recognized force for positive change in an industry. From cultural values to corporate commitments, EVS’s family approach to business has allowed Sohan to thrive and their own company to survive in this ever-evolving energy & engineering landscape.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

Today’s episode features bold predictions from a compilation of 2023’s best episodes. I asked leaders from diverse fields within the renewable energy sector to answer, looking as if from the future: What did we get right to meet our decarbonization and clean energy goals now that it’s 2050?This compilation features the insights of Laura Pagliarulo(Solareit), Ardes Johnson(Meyer Burger), Christie Obiaya(Heliogen), Robert Piconi(Energy Vault), Aaron Halimi(Renewable Properties), Katherine Hamilton(38 North), Steven Zhu(Trina Solar), Andy McCarthy(RACV Solar), Billy Lee(Reunion) and Damian Beauchamp(8Rivers). Each was a featured guest on one of our Thursday executive deep-dives, and in this special episode I’m providing a synthesis of their collective answers to the key actions they believe are needed to achieve the aggressive decarbonization and clean energy goals necessary to avert climate disaster.One of the most consistent responses on the year was the imperative for increased battery storage to propel more renewables onto the grid by 2030. Technological advancements and a commitment to diversifying supply chains are other key drivers in deploying additional renewables. EVs and carbon capture technologies will also play an important role in reducing emissions and meeting climate goals.In tandem with tech innovation, achieving ambitious renewable targets demands a global collaboration, where every nation plays a significant role. To make these informed clean energy choices, decision-makers and communities must be equipped with the right education. Equally crucial is the cultivation of a 'green' workforce prepared to tackle ambitious targets head-on. Together, these narratives demonstrate the need for innovation, resilience, and unwavering determination to reach climate & energy goals by 2030 and beyond to 2050.I’d love to know what your takeaways were, as well as your favorite episodes on the year!Let’s connect on Linkedin - I’m always looking for feedback: http://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusAre 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

It’s that time of year again - everybody’s favorite warm-winter-weather solar tradeshow - Intersolar North America and Energy Storage North America - is just a few days away.  I’ll be trading the winter chill for sunny San Diego along with 10,000 of my fellow #SolarWarriors. Today's episode is geared to get you ready to go (and pumped) for Intersolar, January 17-19 at the San Diego Convention Center.As with other major shows, I like to do a Know Before You Go (KBYG) episode to help you get oriented and better plan your time.  Reminder, if you haven’t already, you can get a 20% discount to the show with code “SUNCAST” (and also get a FREE Expo Hall pass!)..so what are you waiting for?Today you’ll hear from 3 folks intimately tied to the programming & planning of Intersolar & Energy Storage North America: Wes Doane, Vice President of Diversified Communications, shares the event's transformation journey under the new management and this year’s theme. Rudy Saporite from the Institute for Building Technology and Safety takes us behind the scenes of the crowd-favorite “Solar Games” competition - an actual live installation race where solar installers can earn up to $𝟏𝟔,𝟎𝟎𝟎 in cash prizes! And, Candace Letizia, our third guest and Marketing Director of Clean Energy for Diversified Communications, outlines features of the show designed to enhance attendees' overall experience, including an interactive app and dedicated networking spaces.Don’t miss the Thursday night Block Party Bash! See you there?HMU!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

Steven Zhu, President at Trina Solar, discusses Trina Solar's global expansion and their strategy for driving down the cost of renewable energy. They highlight Trina Solar's achievements, including shipping over 140 GW of modules and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions. They also discuss Trina Solar's growth and localization strategy, as well as the importance of long-term incentives in achieving grid parity in the renewable energy industry.