SunCast

Welcome to a special edition of Tactical Tuesday, featuring practical insights to propel your company and your career. This episode comes straight from our live stage at RE+ in 2022 and we’ve weaved together a rich collection of strategies for audience growth, brand building, and engaging your audience effectively in the dynamic landscape of new media.The first segment delves into the role of platforms such as LinkedIn and TikTok, emphasizing their potential to bolster brand visibility and engagement, particularly in B2B markets. Our speakers caution against diving into trending platforms without strategic forethought, illuminating the unique opportunities and challenges each platform presents. The segment drives home the importance of understanding the customer journey and aligning social media strategies with the company's brand pillars as we spoke with top execs from Nextracker, Shoals, Sungrow, and EDPR.In the second segment, the dialogue turns to the strategic value and potential pitfalls of podcasting for businesses. Lauren Glickman and Nico Johnson provide key advice, suggesting that businesses could potentially reap greater benefits from guest appearances on established podcasts, rather than hastily initiating their own. This segment also delivers practical guidance on effective pitching to podcast hosts, a strategy to broaden your reach.Closing out the episode, Josh Porter and Nico Johnson discuss the art of being a podcast guest. They emphasize the importance of knowing your thought leadership, aligning with podcasters whose audience mirrors your target demographic, and the potential of repurposing podcast content across multiple platforms.By linking these segments, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for businesses navigating the currents of new media. It highlights strategic platform use for audience growth, the ins and outs of building a brand in new media, and effective strategies for resonating and connecting with your audience.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

How would you define Agrivoltaics? Generally, the practice of combining agriculture and photovoltaics has been gaining momentum, and holds significant potential for multiple benefits that are critical for both the environment and society. In a recent interview, Dan French, the Executive Producer of the Solar Farm Summit, discussed his work in agrivoltaics, a practice that merges solar energy production with agricultural activities on the same land. French, known for transforming brownfields into 'bright fields' and for spearheading the agricultural tax movement, outlined the benefits of agrivoltaics. These include increased crop yields, improved soil health, and providing a habitat for pollinators.He pointed to several obstacles that impede wider adoption of agrivoltaics, such as high initial costs, lack of knowledge, and policy challenges. French underscored the importance of community engagement in gaining approval for solar projects and averred that agrivoltaics could help to address local concerns.Drawing from his experience at BP, French shared insights on real estate and brownfield development, emphasizing the relevance of engaging stakeholders and defining clear end goals. He suggested that this 'Brownfield playbook' could be applied to solar development.French expressed optimism for the potential of agrivoltaics in revitalizing rural jobs and small farms, and sees it as a key component of a broader agricultural and land use renaissance in sync with the clean energy transition. He also emphasized the significance of agrivoltaics in mitigating climate effects such as flash droughts and dust bowls. Furthermore, French referred to a study by University of Arizona Professor Greg Barron-Gafford that highlighted the potential for increased agricultural yields with reduced water usage under solar panels.Join us in Richmond August 31st for the Summer Shindig Dan and Nico discuss in the episode.https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virginia-solar-summit-summer-shindig-tickets-680277988777Are 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

Meghan Gainer, VP of Marketing at DSD Renewables, discusses the dual function of marketing, importance of a customer-first approach, and building a brand. She shares her experience with Comcast, SunEdison, and Tesla, emphasizing curiosity and embracing challenges. Gainer reveals her hiring considerations and effective strategy for managing brand perceptions. Her unique approach to managing marketing agencies as integrated parts of her team provides valuable lessons for marketers. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide to marketing with tips, strategies, and personal experiences from one of the industry's leading professionals.

The built environment accounts for 40% of global emissions.. Decarbonizing this significant contributor to greenhouse gasses entails a strategic blend of clean energy adoption, electrifying heating and cooling systems, and enhancing buildings' grid interactivity. It is within this complex, but critical, challenge that McGee Young, founder of WattCarbon, has found his mission.Harnessing his vast entrepreneurial experience from his time with startups MeterHero and H2OScore, and as a former CTO at Recurve, Young has developed WattCarbon. This “Demand-driven Decarbonization Platform” empowers organizations with net-zero commitments to more efficiently access 24/7 carbon-free energy and procure substantial carbon offsets.WattCarbon serves as a marketplace for suppliers delivering carbon-free energy, thereby stimulating the implementation of clean energy resources. Young's belief in open source principles is woven into the platform's technology, fostering problem-solving, innovation, and transparency - all crucial for driving impactful decarbonization efforts. And his entrepreneurial experience and foresight have culminated in the development of this timely platform, one which he admittedly already tried, and failed, to launch a decade too early! Challenging assumptions about the public's understanding of clean energy and decarbonization has been a critical learning for Young. It has emphasized the need for making these concepts accessible and comprehensible, thus encouraging wider participation.Fueled by a deep-rooted commitment to environmentalism passed down from his mother, Young inspires his team to take pride in their contributions, creating an environment that values all stakeholders. This dedication, alongside his capacity to translate complex academic knowledge into tangible real-world applications, is what makes WattCarbon a pioneering force in the fight against climate change.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

In this Tactical Tuesday episode, we delve into the mindset of entrepreneur and solar project developer, Nobel Chang of Palladium Energy. Chang shares insights from his accomplished solar journey stretching all the way to Mexico and beyond. Having transitioned from real estate to renewables, Chang imparts wisdom on when to halt a failing project, and how to secure team buy-in.Explore the concept of "failing forward" as a tool to learn from mistakes, and grasp the nuances of flexibility, not only for individual growth but also for leading a team through strategic shifts. Listen to Chang's perspective on viewing projects as a people business, and his tips on forging the right connections in global markets like Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and Japan.Chang takes us through the three pillars of solar development, an integral part of his business model. Furthermore, he shares the spark that propelled him to start his entrepreneurial journey in the clean energy sector. Listen to his riveting account of how he overcame challenges, and his strategies for breaking through barriers when it feels like you've hit a wall. This episode promises a wealth of practical advice for those looking to grow and excel in the dynamic clean energy industry.If you missed Nobel’s full Executive Profile, you can scroll back and listen to it in episode #530 published Oct 13, 2022Are 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

Dan Leary is one of the OG’s of the solar industry, and is the founder of multiple successful companies that you’ve probably heard of if you’re in the industry, including Nexamp, PanelClaw, and now Denowatts. Denowatts aims to revolutionize solar performance management, an area that has seen little innovation in the past decade. Using advanced benchmarking technology, Digital Twin processing, AI, and IoT interoperability, the company delivers predictive data for the solar industry through their IoT product, the Deno sensor. By providing solutions that capture irradiance and measure sunlight, Denowatts supports solar asset managers with valuable business intelligence.In the interview, Dan shares invaluable insights into harnessing each team member's unique superpower, the necessity of shared values in successful teams, and the power of predictive foresight in entrepreneurial leadership. Themes of service, sustainability, and the importance of data in decision-making punctuate the conversation. This exploration of Dan's career is both an educational resource for those in the energy sector and an inspiring tale for all entrepreneurs.From growing up on a farm in Boston and deploying to Kuwait as an Army officer, to becoming a leading figure in the clean energy industry, Dan humbly reveals key insights from his experiences. By persistently questioning and digging deeper to identify root causes, always seeking third-party validation for technology, and cultivating a strong team culture, Dan’s companies have always managed to become segment & industry leaders. Leary believes in embracing change, encouraging leaders to find and utilize their unique "superpower", and seeing capital as a tool, rather than a customer or client.His vision for the future is one where data and business intelligence drive the solar industry. This is a deep dive with someone that I truly respect as an entrepreneur, as a thoughtful human being who wants to give back to our community, and who really believes that the work we do is bettering our planet and saving human lives.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

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, 2022Are 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

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!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

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!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

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.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