Build, Repeat. (A Paces Podcast)

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?

Sarah Moon, Co-Founder of FieldWorks Power, shares her career journey and expertise in the renewable energy sector. The conversation covers:Sarah’s path from studying geology to leading renewable energy initiatives at companies like Solstice Power Technologies and DSD Renewables.Strategies for community solar companies to enter and succeed in emerging markets, from policy advocacy to local community engagement.The role of lean teams and entrepreneurial spirit in driving innovation in distributed energy development.A future-focused vision for renewable energy, emphasizing accessibility, policy innovation, and economic impact.Check out FieldWorks Power at https://fieldworkspower.com/.FieldWorks Power is committed to reshaping the renewable energy landscape. Tune in now for an inspiring conversation on innovation, resilience, and the future of distributed energy!Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. Interested in a call with James, CEO @ Paces?

Ty Baccile, Director of Solar Development at New Energy Equity and a Board Member of NYSEA, shares his career journey and insights from the renewable energy sector. The conversation covers:Ty’s career journey from his blue-collar roots in upstate New York to pioneering wind and solar projects.Scaling community solar and driving economic growth through local development.The role of innovation, collaboration, and data in tackling challenges.Navigating evolving policies and development timelines.A future-focused strategy blending innovation with community respect.Check out New Energy Equity at https://www.newenergyequity.com/Tune in now for an inspiring conversation on innovation, resilience, and the future of energy!Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. 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, Martin Schichtel, Founder and CEO of Kraftblock, shares his career journey and insights into the thermal energy storage sector.The conversation covers:The pivotal moment in 2008 that sparked the idea for Kraftblock, leading to the development of a superior thermal energy storage material.Discussing the waste heat recovery market and the importance of decarbonizing heat in various industries.Kraftblock's approach to targeting direct industrial customers and collaborating with EPCs and ESCOs for comprehensive solutions.Highlighting notable Kraftblock projects and the future vision for the company. Looking ahead, the podcast will release new episodes every other week. The hosts invite listeners to provide feedback and suggest future guests, reinforcing their commitment to staying connected with the clean energy community.Check out Kraftblock at https://www.kraftblock.com/. Tune in now for an inspiring conversation on the 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?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 McWalter interviews Ned Horneffer, Vice President of Development at Third Pillar Solar, to explore the exciting advancements and challenges in the floating solar industry.The conversation covers:Ned’s path in clean energy from venture capital to battery energy storage, culminating in his current role at Third Pillar Solar, where he leads innovative solar initiatives.The growth of the U.S. floating solar market and the benefits of utilizing underused water spaces, with easier interconnection and permitting in certain regions.Understanding the challenges for floating solar, including complex site control and environmental impacts, and how floating solar integrates with existing infrastructure, like mining sites and wastewater ponds.Learn about Third Pillar Solar's plan for partnerships, and hiring opportunities for roles in development and engineering.If you’re interested in connecting with Third Pillar Solar on future partnerships, reach out to Ned. Tune in for an engaging conversation on breakthrough technologies and the future of floating solar.Paces helps developers find and evaluate the sites most suitable for renewable development. 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?