SunCast

How do you fund a solar project?  What about the business operations costs necessary to get the project going to begin with?What structures can you consider, and HOW do you choose the one that’s right for you?We’re pulling back the veil so you don’t have to wander in the darkness here. The business of developing solar power projects is complex, time-consuming, and capital intensive. And for the last decade, hundreds of entrepreneurs have endeavored to apply their creative efforts and work ethic towards solving both the development of the solar projects (not dissimilar to other land-based development deals tbh) and the financing of them.  The latter has proven the more arduous to accomplish as the solar industry had to earn its keep in the world of high finance and prove that the product and its cashflow was durable and risk-mitigated. Unsurprisingly, those who have fared the best are those professionals who were already working in finance in some way, and were able to turn their focus and skills to solving the dual issue facing solar developers - how to get an individual project financed, and how to raise enough working capital to pay the team developing those projects until they could get to cashflow. Today, you’ll hear hown one such company, Encore Renewable Energy, transformed from a traditional solar project developer into a vertically-integrated Independent Power Producer (IPP), ie a project Owner & OPerator, and along the way made the choice to become a Certified B Corporation. Their impact-focused business strategy, exemplifies the transformative power of renewable energy towards the triple bottom line - People, Planet, and Profits. The company strategically channels its efforts into solar development, storage solutions, agrivoltaics, and brownfield redevelopment, showcasing a multifaceted commitment to sustainable practices. Moreover, they have successfully secured a remarkable $150 million in equity funding.  Today, you’ll learn a whole lot more about what that means, and how you might be able to do similarly in your own venture.Blake Sturcke, the co-CEO of Encore, delves into his journey of discovering a passion for solar, drawing on his background in investment banking and entrepreneurship.Blake discusses how Encore melds their sustainable mission with practical management strategies, the different investment structures available, insightful capital raising options, and a deeply rooted work culture that celebrates diversity and psychological safety. On this final point, Blake goes deeper still, opening up about his personal experiences dealing with mental health challenges. This vulnerable exchange is particularly near to Blake’s own mission, and he hopes to normalize the topic of mental health awareness and create a safe space for employees to voice their struggles. This conversation isn't only vital for those in the renewable energy field, but also illuminates the possibility of merging success with mental wellbeing in any high-pressure corporate setting.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

Trina Solar US President, Steven Zhu, discusses the importance of domestic manufacturing in the solar industry and the factors that influenced Trina Solar's decision to manufacture in Wilmer, Texas. The podcast highlights their commitment to sustainability, creation of jobs, and future plans for expansion in the US market.

COP28 is the 28th annual Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention (UNFCC) on Climate Change which will be held in Dubai (UAE) and runs from November 30-December 12.If that's more than you already knew, you're in luck because today we learn from folks who have participated in multiple COP events and learned the ins and outs from the inside. This year's COP marks the pivotal halfway point between when the Paris Agreement was established at COP21, and its 2030 targets. COP28 UAE also marks the conclusion of the inaugural five-yearly global stocktake, providing a pivotal moment for the world to evaluate advancements toward the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. This presents a unique opportunity for global stakeholders to come together, align their efforts, and strategize on bridging existing gaps in climate action. Participants and leaders from all corners of the world tackle the urgent agenda of climate change and enact sound strategies towards combating it.Our guests today offer a wealth of COP experience. Myles Fish, VP of Business Development at Perch Energy, will share insights from his enriching tenure with John Kerry's advance team at COP 21 in Paris. Next to speak is the CEO of Island Innovation, James Ellsmoor, who helps represent and provide perspective of small island developing states and territories at COP. Additionally, Julia Pyper, VP of Public Affairs at GoodLeap, revisits her experience at COP 26 in Glasgow and discusses what she expects to see from COP28.This year's summit will be integral in tracking progress from a global commitment to fighting climate change. Currently, we are falling short of the target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius set by COP 21, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive action and necessary adjustments.  There are enormous learning opportunities from these high-stakes climate change negotiations and it will be interesting to see what COP28 brings about.Listen in to this first-ever Suncast coverage of the global climate conference, and I'm sure you'll come away with insight as to how this matters not just for you personally, but our industry and the world.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

Each year we highlight one non-profit making a big impact in the world, and we ask you to join us in supporting their mission on Giving Tuesday.Nonprofits play a crucial role in international development, often solving equity gaps and civic/infrastructure gaps that for-profit, corporate and even governmental organizations are incapable of addressing. They envision a better world and strive to make it reality, particularly for the underserved and marginalized. This year’s nonprofit for our annual Giving Tuesday episode is Green Empowerment, who are bringing clean water and renewable energy to rural communities across the world. More than 2 billion humans lack clean water access and another 1 billion are devoid of reliable electricity.  Organizations like Green Empowerment are an instrumental development partner charged with helping these billions achieve a better quality of life through deploying global charity into communities of need around the world.Andrea Johnson, the Executive Director of Green Empowerment, discusses their innovative micro utility model. Their community ownership model helps ensure communities can make sustainable strides toward independence and self-sufficiency by providing access to distributed renewable energy and clean water.The commitment of Green Empowerment to uplift marginalized communities is resolute. Their track record, with 97% of systems still fully operational years after their installation, showcases the effectiveness of their work. This Giving Tuesday, join us in supporting Green Empowerment and be part of a movement that empowers lives in some of the most deprived corners of the world. 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

Hey there, SunCast listeners! As those of us here in the United States of America gather around the table on this Thanksgiving Day, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for tuning into the SunCast podcast over the years. Your support has meant the world to me, and it's because of you that this podcast has thrived for eight incredible years.When I started SunCast, I had a vision of creating a platform that would elevate the voices and stories of leaders in the clean energy industry. And thanks to your unwavering support, we have over 650 examples of HOW the Clean Energy Revolution is taking form. Together, we have explored the latest advancements in solar, energy storage, business models, and more. We have connected with entrepreneurs, innovators, and change-makers who are driving the clean energy transition forward.Through the SunCast podcast, we have created a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about shaping a sustainable future. It is because of you that this podcast has become a platform for discussion, learning, and inspiration. So, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for being a part of this journey.Here are a few other episodes to catch up on, curated by our all-star team!Jeremy’s Pick: Episode 616: Agrivoltaics, Brownfields To Brightfields And The Future Of Solar Farming With Dan French, Solar Farm SummitChris’s Pick: Episode 648: Scaling Carbon Capture, Innovation & Entrepreneurial Spirit, With Damian Beauchamp Of 8 RiversGerman’s Pick: Episode 642: Rethinking Energy Storage: A Conversation With Energy Vault CEO, Robert PiconiAre 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

In this bonus episode, we’ll introduce you to the Earthlings 2.0 podcast with Lisa Ann Pinkerton, which is now a part of REsource Labs, our Creator Network!  In today’s episode, hear an innovative approach to improving the modern EV battery with guest, Virginia Klausmeier President & CEO of Sylvatex!As electric vehicles become more common worldwide, battery production must rapidly scale to meet the rising demand. The burgeoning electric vehicle market, however, faces limitations imposed by battery costs and material availability. Cathodes, constituting 60% of an EV battery's expense and carbon life cycle, are predominantly produced through energy-intensive and costly processes that also demand a significant amount of water. In light of the automotive industry's widespread commitment to emission reduction and net-zero goals by 2050, the existing challenges posed by current cathode manufacturing techniques emerge as a formidable obstacle for the industry.Virginia Klausmeier and her company Sylvatex are developing a solution. Her startup's single-step dry cathode production process uses less energy and no water compared to traditional techniques. It also has more flexibility in materials used. Klausmeier explains how Sylvatex’s innovation could help battery makers lower costs while meeting ESG mandates, supporting widespread EV adoption. Listeners will gain insight into how innovative new companies are future-proofing batteries and accelerating the global transition to reducing transportation carbon emissions.The Earthling spotlighted is Oscar Olivares, an artist from Venezuela. Olivares completed one of the world’s largest ecological murals. Crafted entirely from bottle caps, this monumental artwork not only captivates the senses but serves as a testament to human creativity and environmental stewardship, providing a much-needed restoration of faith in humanity.Are you or someone YOU know creating a podcast, Youtube channel or newsletter that deserves a larger audience? Perhaps joining REsource Labs is in order?  Let us know your recommendation - team@suncast.meAre 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

Tax equity has long presented barriers for distributed energy projects to access financing. However, a new provision in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) now enables tax credits to be transferred, opening up liquidity for project developers and BILLIONS of dollars in opportunity.Billy Lee, Co-founder & President of Reunion Infrastructure has over 15 years of experience in renewable energy project finance, having worked on some of the earliest solar tax equity deals while at SunEdison. After observing barriers that distributed energy projects faced in accessing tax equity, Billy co-founded Reunion to create efficiency and scale in this new market for tax credit transfers enabled by the IRA. With a substantial pool of clean energy tax credits exceeding $2 billion, the company operates as a dynamic marketplace that facilitates connections between sellers and buyers, enabling streamlined transactions of these tax credits. Today, Reunion stands as an innovator doing due diligence and risk management to create a leading marketplace for transferable clean energy tax credits.In this conversation, discover how Billy recognized the opportunity arise from a key policy improvement, found partners to address the gap and ran with it. The insights he provides, from the value of relationships to the expansive potential of the tax credit transfers market, are invaluable for any solar project developer.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

Did you know that more than 90% of today’s energy storage technology is based on a 140+ year-old concept?  Care to guess what that is?  Hint - has to do with moving water, waiting, then moving water again. Humans have been harnessing the energy of river currents for centuries, using water wheels spun by rivers initially to process grains and cloth. Today, hydropower provides about 16 percent of the world's electricity, generating power in all but two U.S. states. Contrary to popular belief, however, hydroelectric power can seriously damage the climate, displacing millions of inhabitants and in some cases generating more GHGs than their fossil counterparts!With this in mind the genius idea of Energy Vault was born. If you missed our episode with their CEO, Robert Piconi, last month, then you truly missed out on a conversation worth revisiting.  If you don’t have the time, however, for a 60+min treasure trove, then today you can check out a 10 min Tactical Tuesday vignette of that convo specifically focused on how Energy Vault’s team have created a gravity-based storage solution that mimics hydro power without all the water and ecological concerns.Let’s face it, our growing reliance on renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, with inherent intermittency challenges, prevents us from achieving a 100% carbon neutral power grid. Some of the front runners in the current energy storage race are lithium ion batteries and pumped hydro, both of which pose challenges like high cost and a negative environmental impact. Energy Vault’s solution uses gravity (and software, of course) in a novel form factor that is efficient, scalable, economical, and sustainable.Listen as Robert explains how their unique system uses eco-composite bricks for long-duration energy storage(LDES).  He points out the energy storage market is not where it should be, and how their gravity batteries and strategic partnerships are enabling an increasingly renewable-powered grid. Want to know how they are able to be deployed without subsidies? Tune in.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 carbon emissions from heavy industry and power generation at record highs, reducing industrial emissions on a large scale is imperative. Pioneering this mission are the innovative leaders at 8 Rivers, who are leading the field with their carbon capture and oxy-combustion technologies.Damian Beauchamp, President and CDO at 8 Rivers, discusses their in-house approach to technological innovation, the first outcome of which is their industry-leading carbon capture technology. Beauchamp, a multifaceted entrepreneur, innovator, executive, and chemist, not only offers strategic leadership and guidance at 8 Rivers but also infuses the organization with his enthusiasm for outpacing the rest of the industry when it comes to capturing carbon and helping to meet the global goal of net zero by 2050. In this conversation, we are exploring 8 Rivers’ process of innovation, recruitment strategies for scaling up their team, and lessons learned from generating more than $ 2 billion in economic value (and just getting started!). 8 Rivers enhances its diversity and fosters innovation by bridging skill gaps and recruiting talent from the fossil fuel industry. This was a fun conversation that Nico was able to have in-person at the 8Rivers offices. You can WATCH instead on our YouTube channel!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

Yezin Taha, CEO of Nevados, and Peter Kelley from RenewComm discuss the innovative All Terrain Trackers that can accommodate undulating terrain, reducing land damage and being installed on up to 37% grade slopes. These trackers also provide optimal protection against wind and hail. They delve into the development process, addressing non-flat terrain, rooftop solar projects, building solar power plants on rolling terrain, and panel tilting for hail storms. Listen to the live stage event snippet for more insights and gratitude towards the audience and sponsors.