Build, Repeat. (A Paces Podcast)

In this episode, James talks with Michael Thomas, Founder of CleanView and creator of Distilled. Michael has built a career around impactful storytelling and actionable data, aiming to accelerate clean energy adoption. From tech marketing to climate entrepreneurship, he has channeled his curiosity into initiatives that demystify energy trends and empower decision-makers.They discuss the evolution and impact of CleanView, a real-time platform offering unmatched visibility into clean energy project development across the U.S. Michael shares the journey behind the product, why accessible, transparent data matters, and how policy, geography, and technology trends are shaping the renewable energy landscape. They also explore the political and economic implications of recent clean energy legislation and why active industry engagement is crucial.How CleanView reduces data friction for developers, EPCs, and investorsMarket trends: battery storage expansion, solar booms in the South, and wind project slowdownsThe impact of proposed ITC/PTC tax credit changes on project viabilityThe strategic importance of transparency, local engagement, and rural investmentThis episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about understanding the intersection of data, policy, and infrastructure in the clean energy sector.Paces helps developers accelerate clean energy infrastructure through comprehensive software and services. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?

In this episode, James talks with Pat Lynch, Executive Managing Director and Global Head of Data Center Solutions at CBRE. With 30+ years in digital infrastructure, Pat shares his journey from early fiber builds in the 90s to leading CBRE’s global data center strategy.They discuss how CBRE’s data center business scaled from 3% to 10% of company revenue through strategic talent and investment, and how today's growth is shaped by shifting from “bringing power to the site” to “bringing the site to power.” Pat breaks down the unique power challenges developers face, the rise of behind-the-meter generation, and why delivery speed is everything in today’s market.You’ll also hear insights on:AI’s impact on siting and infrastructure designThe risk of stranded assets in power-constrained marketsNavigating utility slowdowns and regulatory uncertaintyGlobal growth opportunities and future talent needs in the sectorWhether you’re in energy, real estate, or tech, this episode delivers a front-row seat to the forces reshaping the future of data infrastructure.Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?

Join Kyle Baranko, a product lead at Paces with a knack for energy data science, and Tony Wagler, a renewable energy expert specializing in solar and battery storage, as they explore innovative strategies for solar project development. They discuss using AI and Monte Carlo simulations to reduce soft costs and improve project outcomes. Discover the importance of early de-risking, the four archetypes affecting success, and how automation can save time and enhance decision-making. This compelling conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about the future of clean energy!

Christine Larson, Head of Strategy & Operations at Modern Energy and interim COO at Industrial Sun, shares insights on how early-stage energy developers can navigate a complex landscape. She discusses the importance of tailored operational support like IT and accounting to help founders focus on scaling. Key topics include the rise of green hydrogen and EV charging, the impact of capital bottlenecks and utility coordination, and the necessity for partnerships to drive innovation in clean energy infrastructure.

Join Kyle Baranko, Head of Product at Paces, and Tyler Norris, a Ph.D. student at Duke University, as they tackle the surge in energy demands from AI data centers. They dive into solutions like off-grid solar-plus-storage microgrids and the need for flexible grid connections. The duo discusses the critical balance between reliability and sustainability, examining how current market frameworks affect scaling innovations. With insights into the barriers facing developers, this conversation is vital for anyone curious about the future of energy and infrastructure.

Nan Ransohoff works at Stripe Climate, focusing on carbon removal markets, while Duncan Campbell from Scale Microgrids specializes in optimal energy solutions. They dive into the pressing need for innovative energy solutions amidst climate challenges. Duncan predicts a future where disruptive ideas reshape the grid. The conversation highlights the role of AI in data centers, the urgency of faster adaptation in the electricity sector, and the potential of solar microgrids to meet rising industrial demands. Listeners are encouraged to think bigger in climate action.

In this episode, we sit down with Scott Aaronson, founder and CEO of Demeter Land Development, to explore his unexpected path from criminal defense attorney to renewable energy land origination expert.Scott recounts how his real estate ventures led him to community solar development, shedding light on the evolving challenges of securing land for distributed generation (DG) projects. He discusses the industry's transformation from old-school, door-knocking tactics to a highly strategic, data-driven approach.We cover:How his unique legal background can be applied to land originationThe biggest challenges in permitting, interconnection, and competitionHow personalized landowner outreach makes a differenceThe future of DG renewables and what trends to watchScott emphasizes the importance of local relationships, policy awareness, and strategic first-mover advantage in emerging markets. He also shares how Demeter’s partnership with Paces has helped streamline operations and accelerate growth.If you’re involved in solar development, land acquisition, or renewable energy policy, this episode is packed with valuable insights!Connect with Scott here!Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?

In this episode, we sit down with Peter Hans Hirschboeck, founder and managing director of impactECI, to explore the rapidly evolving world of data centers and energy infrastructure. With a background in electrical engineering and years of experience leading energy projects at AWS, Peter shares invaluable insights on how the demand for AI computing power is reshaping the energy landscape.We discuss:The massive growth of data centers and its impact on energy gridsWhy grid bottlenecks and interconnection queues are delaying projectsHow hyperscalers and AI companies are securing power for large-scale deploymentsThe increasing role of nuclear, renewables, and behind-the-meter solutionsHow utilities, developers, and tech companies can better collaborate to solve infrastructure challengesPeter also breaks down the current trends in power procurement, the importance of speed to deployment, and why grid reform is essential to meet future energy demands.If you’re in energy, data centers, or AI infrastructure, this episode is packed with must-know insights!Connect with Peter & impactECI here!Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?

In this episode, Paul Reed, Founder and CEO of RSunrise Energy, joins host James McWalter to discuss his journey in energy storage and the evolving landscape of renewable power. The conversation explores:Paul's background in chemical engineering and his transition into the energy storage sector, spanning nearly 15 years.The early days of demand response, behind-the-meter storage, and the technological advancements shaping grid-scale energy solutions.Challenges and opportunities in deploying energy storage, from market dynamics to policy shifts that influence large-scale adoption.How R Sunrise Energy innovates in space, bridging the gap between renewables and grid resilience.Tune in for an insightful discussion on the past, present, and future of energy storage!Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?

In this episode, Erica Brinker, Chief Commercial and Sustainability Officer at Chaberton Energy and board member of the Coalition for Community Solar Access, shares her unique career journey and insights into the renewable energy sector. The conversation covers:Erica’s early roles in the fashion and luxury goods industry, followed by her transition to healthcare technology, aerospace, and eventually renewable energy, reflecting her customer-centric approach throughout.Navigating the challenges in renewable energy including the complexities of stakeholder engagement, from landowners to policymakers, and the importance of understanding diverse priorities to drive successful projects.How Chaberton prioritizes markets, balances risks, and integrates policy insights to develop high-quality solar solutions tailored to different stakeholder needs.Erica’s work with the Coalition for Community Solar Access and reflections on how industry collaboration drives impactful policy changes at state and federal levels.Check out Chaberton Energy at https://www.chaberton.com/.Tune in now for an insightful conversation about shaping the future of clean energy!Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?