SunCast

With a track record of over 20 years in real estate, Jerry Coleman utilized his knack for growing companies at a national scale to transition into the solar industry. Elevation Solar stands as a testament to his ability, solving a key environmental and consumer issue by providing innovative energy solutions that also enhance property values.In today’s conversation, you will benefit from Jerry's vast wealth of knowledge, offering valuable lessons for founders, CEOs, and managers aspiring to replicate his serial success. Key themes include the delicate art of building robust teams for various stages of company growth, harnessing the power of data and automation to scale ventures, and strategically preparing for the inevitable challenges which arise in entrepreneurship. Additionally, Jerry offers his unique perspective on the future of the solar industry, highlighting the need for continuous adaptation in a fast-evolving field. Amidst these insightful business lessons, Jerry acknowledges the importance of work-life balance, providing a comprehensive view of what it takes to thrive in business and life. If you missed Jerry’s full Executive Profile, you can scroll back and listen to it in episode #548 published Dec 8, 2022Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

UtilityAPI is transforming the energy industry by making utility customer bill and interval data accessible & useful. In today’s conversation, Devin explains the complexities of developing a platform that ensures safe and secure data sharing among various energy stakeholders, as well as what it was like becoming the CEO of a revenue-positive climate tech startup and taking it through its next round of funding. This episode was first aired on our climate tech investment podcast, Climate Avengers, and Nico considered it so good that he is foregoing doing a typical “SunCast-style” interview with Devin and instead just cross-sharing the episode here (so, in fairness, if you’re a Climate Avengers subscriber, you may have already heard this one). Devin and Nico discuss many elements of his coming of age as a climate tech executive, not the least of which is the experience of leading a funding round, particularly as a person of color, during this recent economic downturn.  His perspectives are insightful, emphasizing how he specifically defines 'impact' and the importance of selecting the right investors for scaling any business. Devin is transparent about his personal experiences, shedding light on the unique challenges and victories he's navigated. Among the many gems shared, one especially bright moment is how he helped unlock additional equity earmarked specifically for diverse new talent, with a vision to help them participate in the wealth creation that tech startups can often create for early shareholders.  He also discusses his top picks for climate tech investments right now, giving us all a few more climate tech leaders and companies to add to our Twitter feeds!Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

This is our highly anticipated quarterly podcasters' roundtable, where the cleantech sector's top podcasters converge to share their expertise and unravel the complexities of the clean energy landscape. Listen as they opine on the view from their respective podcast booths on what’s happening in Cleantech & Clean Energy in 2023! We’re joined this round by David Roberts of "Volts," Dana Perkins of "Bloomberg Switched ON," Amy Simpkins of "Power Flow,"  Bill Nussey of "Freeing Energy," Josh Porter of "Solar Coaster”, and our regular hosts, Nico Johnson of “SunCast” and Mike Casey of “Scaling Clean”. The panel addresses the significant trends observed through our collective podcasting endeavors, with keen observations on the barriers hindering the clean energy transition and diving into the industry's most challenging moments. How do these industry insiders rate the performance of the private sector in deploying sustainable solutions within the framework of the IRA? What has been learned this year with regards to media and content creation? Uncover valuable lessons and insights that CEOs and marketing teams can leverage to enhance their own strategies. And listen in as each reveals underrated and “to-watch” players within the cleantech sector.  It was a treat to welcome 3 new participants to the stage, and fans of David “Dr. Vox” Roberts will not be disappointed. It was also our first time having a Bloomberg contributor on the Roundtable. Hope you enjoy the expanded guest list, and let us know what you think we missed!Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

Utility regulators quietly drive the clean energy revolution — yet many energy industry participants know little about them. SunCast Host Nico Johnson pulls back the curtain today in an engaging conversation with Carrie Zalewski, former chair of the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).Carrie leverages her experience as a regulator and energy attorney, plus her background in engineering, to bring a unique perspective to a discussion on the complex world of energy regulation. From influencing how public utilities spend money, to supporting clean energy initiatives and designing beneficial electrification plans that address storage and transmission, Public Utility Commissions (PUCs) tackle a wide range of critical issues affecting your every day life.Four years ago, Carrie joined the ICC from the Illinois Pollution Control Board, where she adjudicated complex environmental cases under the Illinois Environmental Protection Act, shaped critical rulemaking and worked to properly balance the interests of Illinois businesses and residents while protecting the state's land, air, and water.In 2021, the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) named Carrie as head of a new resource group for Commission Chairs from all 50 states and regions to discuss relevant and timely topics. She's also participated in several influential organizations, such as the Organization of Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) States and the Climate Registry's Council of Jurisdictions.Carrie left the ICC on June 16, seven months before her five-year term expired, for personal and professional reasons. Her fingerprints and impact will be felt for much longer than her tenure might suggest. Today’s conversation is wide-ranging and highlights exactly why it’s so important for industry to understand and learn to work with the Commissioners responsible for regulating energy and other resources across the Nation. Carrie was generous with her time and extensive knowledge in helping guide us through the complex undertaking that commissioners engage as public servants.If you're interested in supporting renewables, gaining better insight into the outsize role of utility regulators or understanding how PUC decisions impact businesses and communities, this episode is a must-listen. Join Nico as he uncovers the intricacies of energy regulation and the significant role regulators have in shaping our clean energy future. You'll learn how engaging with state regulators can help you make a difference in the clean energy community and why, as a business or individual, it makes a lot of sense to do so.Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

It’s easy to leave the job of module quality, reliability and even bankability up to “the big companies” or the distribution partners, or Bloomberg or a myriad of other players in the industry whose job it is to help parse what suppliers get blessed with acceptance to Approved Vendor Lists. But what if you really did want to know which solar module suppliers can actually back up their bankability report with true field-tested reliability data? It’s not something that is a luxury for just the Utility-scale developers & EPCs any longer.  As we cross the chasm to the early majority, we increasingly need to ensure that the product being sold to homeowners and business owners alike is going to actually perform as the spec sheet suggests it will.  Enter PVEL and their nearly decade-long study of PV Module industry reliability.PVEL is a pioneer in the solar industry, helping buyers, investors, research institutions, and manufacturers to not only select the best photovoltaic (PV) products but also understand the impact of that selection on projects (and customers’) results. One of their key contributions is their annual PV Module Reliability Scorecard, a comprehensive report that holds manufacturers to high standards and assists in identifying the best performing materials and products in the market.And the person at the helm of that report is Tristan Erion-Lorico, the VP of Sales and Marketing for PV Evolution Labs (PVEL).  We had Tristan on the show way back in 2018, and he’s long been an example I point to of someone who can rise up the ranks in a technical role without an engineering degree!  PVEL benefits from Tristan’s 15 years of experience in the solar and electrical industry, where he collaborates with a wide array of PV module stakeholders to ensure that PV product testing and qualification is done with the highest level of integrity and transparency.Tune in to better understand PVEL's rigorous testing process for PV technology, their unique PV Module Scorecard, and the implications it has for both raising the bar for manufacturers and providing you, the installer, with better selection criteria. You'll gain an understanding of emerging technology trends as well, including the ascension of N-type “Topcon” cells, as well as the various ways solar modules do fail (ie, what to look out for!). Tristan also highlights the rise of India in the solar manufacturing sector and forecasts upcoming trends for the industry. This episode is brimming with insights for anyone involved in the buying solar panels.Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

Jordan Frugé, president of Fastrac Energy Services, challenges the common misconception that solar installations are "a bunch of people running around on rooftops." He dives into the solar industry's intricate details and behind-the-scenes operations, emphasizing the significance of meticulous planning, efficient execution, and customer-centric growth while predicting the market's future.Jordan founded Fastrac, a Gulf Coast Regional solar sales, project management, and installation company, in 2019. With a wealth of experience in the residential solar market and a deep-rooted understanding of the industry's value chain, he has spearheaded Fastrac's emphasis on execution and fulfillment. Before Fastrac, he was CMO and co-founder of Sunnova Energy along with 2 other pioneering solar industry businesses that he and John Berger founded. So, why did he leave the pinnacle of solar success to get down in the dirt again building a fourth startup? In today's podcast, SunCast Host Nico Johnson leads Jordan in a conversation about the solar industry's inner workings and the crucial factors contributing to customer satisfaction, including top software solutions to optimize operations. He shares his vision for regional and super-regional installers, delves into empowering employees, and clarifies common misconceptions about battery storage. Jordan's insights contribute to a more realistic and informed perspective, highlighting the meticulous work that goes into solar installations beyond the surface level. Nico and Jordan will help listeners navigate the solar market effectively while fostering a greater understanding of the sustainable energy landscape.Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

Are N-Type residential solar modules on your radar yet? Paul Heidesch, Director of Sales and head of distribution for Trina Solar in North America, unravels key trends and technologies that are currently shaping the residential solar sector. We delve into the rise of smaller, lighter, yet high-output modules, the increasing focus on value-added benefits over mere hardware, and how understanding these trends will be vital in a growingly competitive market. The conversation offers valuable insights into how N-Type TopCon technology and total solutions will become significant drivers in the sector.We’ll dive into:Exploring how N-type TopCon technology is revolutionizing residential solar by optimizing weight, size, and power output.Understanding the benefits of 210mm N-type TopCon modules, with a focus on safety requirements and the potential for business and homeowner savings.Learning from Paul's expert advice on how installers can transition to N-type modules, decipher facts from fiction, and establish selection criteria considering factors such as availability, pricing, and future-proofing.Discussing the often overlooked yet crucial aspects like warranties, a company's bankability, and the availability of local support.Gaining insights into the homeowner perspective, including their preferences and the ways installers can provide reassurance through comprehensive warranties and aesthetic considerations like all-black modules.Paul offers a treasure trove of insights into the emerging N-Type TopCon technology and its transformative impact on the residential solar market. The in-depth analysis of current trends, technological advancements, and industry best practices presented in this discussion provides a valuable roadmap for anyone involved in or considering residential solar.You'll find more resources and learn about SunCast's guest(s), recommendations, book links, and more than 650 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/

Join host Nico Johnson on the SunCast podcast as guest Andy McCarthy shares an incredible story of determination and resilience that led to the creation of one of Australia's largest solar companies.Andy relied on his ADHD-driven ability to hyperfocus and his natural curiosity to navigate the renewable energy industry. He founded Gippsland Solar in 2010, which was acquired by RACV Solar in 2019.Despite his lack of knowledge about solar technology, he humbly sought guidance from experts, learning and growing every step of the way. In this episode, Andy shares his entrepreneurial journey with Nico, recounting the challenges and triumphs he experienced while building Gippsland with his wife, Kelly.Beyond business success, Gippsland Solar has earned the acceptance and support of the community despite its location in Australia's coal country. Collaborating with government entities and local councils, Andy and his team showcased renewable energy as a path forward, emphasizing ecological stewardship and diversity as catalysts for innovation.The Gippsland Solar Community Fund has invested over $1 million in sponsorships and donations, benefiting various community initiatives such as food banks, wildlife shelters, and drought relief efforts.Andy delves into the personal toll of running a rapidly growing business and the importance of developing a sustainable and resilient business model. And he shares insights on the significance of people in mergers and acquisitions, highlighting their role in ensuring the success of such endeavors.With his unique blend of humor and humility, Andy emphasizes the power of storytelling and community engagement in gaining support for renewable energy. He also touches upon his ADHD diagnosis, viewing it as a superpower that enhances his ability to leverage his unique traits and capabilities.Join Nico and Andy on this inspiring podcast episode on the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to sustainability. Discover how Andy's story can motivate and empower young individuals facing challenges as they strive for a brighter future. Learn valuable lessons on humility, seeking guidance, and continuously learning from others along the entrepreneurial journey.Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

With over 35 years of experience in high tech, manufacturing, and power electronics, Darryl Parker, the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Clean Energy Associates (CEA), is a seasoned professional in the clean energy industry. Based in San Francisco, CA, he leads the sales and marketing efforts at CEA, where his team helps clients navigate challenging supply and quality-assurance engagements in solar and energy storage.During the episode, Darryl discusses his vast expertise, starting from his early days at Sun Microsystems and his involvement with Satcon powers, which experienced rapid expansion. He has played a crucial role in helping numerous hardware startup companies surpass the milestone of $100 million in revenue. The conversation delves into Darryl's perspective on the evolving clean energy economy and how cultivating deep customer relationships is the key to an enduring enterprise.Darryl Parker emphasizes a customer-centered approach to sales and marketing that is honed from many years in the trenches.Please take a moment to Tell Darryl Thank you on Linkedin for dropping these nuggets of wisdom for us!https://www.linkedin.com/in/globaleadership/Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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

Is it possible to keep an electricity grid fueled by renewable energy stable every minute of every day, given the variability of wind and sunlight? Eric Williams, a clean energy advocate and board member of one of the nation's largest publicly owned electric utilities, thinks it is.In a conversation with Nico Johnson, Eric explains his role as one of eight elected directors overseeing the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), which serves 855,000 people in Omaha and 13 surrounding counties in southeast Nebraska. He clarifies how and why public power benefits the energy transition and shares what we can learn from the nation's only 100% public power state. Noting that "intermittent does not mean unreliable," he explains the importance of electing clean energy allies to the governing boards that create the electricity grids of today and tomorrow. Eric has worked to advance clean energy since 2009 as a community organizer, coordinator for a city-operated project and founder of a biofuels cooperative before being elected to the OPPD in 2018. Join us to learn practical insights about advancing clean energy in your community and strategies to ensure your elected officials adopt the right policies to increase clean, reliable, affordable electricity for all.Get your Solar Fight Night tickets before they're gone: https://tinyurl.com/522wf8v3Also check out Renewables UnWind Las Vegas: https://tinyurl.com/2ea2c6k3And don't forget about the pickleball games: https://tinyurl.com/p9h5nv42If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.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