Clean Power Hour

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague sits down with Scott Graybeal, CEO of Caelux, to explore the exciting world of perovskite solar technology. Graybeal reveals how his company is on the cusp of revolutionizing the solar industry with their innovative perovskite-based coatings for traditional solar panels.

Graybeal dispels the myth that perovskite technology is still confined to laboratories, announcing that Caelux has already ramped up to 50 megawatts of production capacity in Los Angeles. He explains how their perovskite coating can boost the performance of existing crystalline silicon modules by 20-30% while reducing energy costs by about 20%. This breakthrough could have significant implications for both residential and utility-scale solar projects.

The conversation delves into the technical aspects of perovskite solar cells, addressing concerns about lifespan and the use of lead in the manufacturing process. Graybeal outlines Caelux's approach to sustainability, including their plans for cradle-to-grave traceability and recycling of materials.

Perhaps most strikingly, Graybeal shares a bold prediction from industry research: by 2040, more than 80% of all PV shipments are expected to incorporate perovskite technology. He emphasizes that the commercialization of perovskite solar panels is not a distant dream but a near-term reality, with Caelux aiming to bring products to market in early 2025.

Don't miss this fascinating glimpse into the future of solar energy and the potential for perovskite technology to reshape the industry landscape. Tune in to learn how Caelux is positioning itself at the forefront of this revolutionary shift in renewable energy.

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Scott Graybeal
Caelux

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Agrivoltaics may be the biggest innovation in solar since the invention of the solar tracker. Today on the Clean Power Hour, we dive into the future of solar and farming with Lucy Bullock-Sieger, Vice President of Strategy at Lightstar Renewables. Discover how agrivoltaics is revolutionizing the solar industry and helping rural communities realize that solar and agriculture are compatible. 

Lucy leads strategy for current and new markets, policy, government affairs, and marketing at Lightstar. She works closely with advocacy organizations, industry colleagues, legislators, and administration officials across all Lightstar markets to advocate for sustainable and equitable solar program policy. 

Lucy is an expert in and advocate for solar and agricultural land use issues and has successfully worked to advance agrivoltaic dual-use policies across the country. For the last ten years, she has focused on energy, land use, agriculture, and public health policy and she holds a Masters of Public Administration from Northeastern University.

Lucy shares her journey from environmental health research to becoming a champion for clean energy. Learn how Lightstar is leading the charge with 1200 megawatts of solar in their pipeline, including 300 megawatts of cutting-edge agrivoltaics projects.

Explore the challenges solar developers face and how agrivoltaics is changing the game. Lucy reveals how this innovative approach is helping to overcome nimbyism, build trust with local communities, and provide new opportunities for farmers. 

Get an insider's look at the evolving landscape of solar policy across different states. From Massachusetts' SMART program to Maryland's potential as a petri dish for scaling agrivoltaics, Lucy provides valuable insights into the future of the industry.

Don't miss Lucy's bold prediction for agrivoltaics – she believes it could become the default form of solar development, potentially reaching 50-60% of new projects in the coming years. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and innovative policy solutions.

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Lucy Bullock-Sieger
Lightstar Renewables

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Dane Simpson, Director of LECET (Laborers' and Employers' Cooperation and Education Trust), to explore the vital role of labor unions in constructing the gigawatts of solar needed for the energy transition. Dane elucidates how organizations like LECET and LIUNA (Laborers' International Union of North America) are fostering the growth of the solar industry in the Midwest. The conversation delves into the significance of project labor agreements and apprenticeship programs, highlighting how union contractors can benefit from ready access to skilled labor and valuable industry connections. 

Dane and Tim discuss the challenges of meeting labor demands in a rapidly expanding industry, particularly in light of the Inflation Reduction Act and state-level initiatives like Illinois' Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. Dane shares insights on LECET's multifaceted approach to bringing more people into the trades, including pre-apprenticeship programs, career fairs, and innovative recruitment strategies. The episode provides listeners with valuable information on the advantages of becoming a union contractor, the specific roles laborers play in solar projects, and how LECET supports both contractors and developers.

Throughout the discussion, Dane emphasizes LECET's crucial role in providing project leads, education, outreach, and industry advancement for union contractors. He also touches on their advocacy work in supporting renewable energy projects during zoning and approval processes. The conversation includes mention of upcoming solar projects, such as the Collins Aerospace installation in Rockford, IL. This comprehensive episode offers important insights into the intersection of organized labor and the clean energy transition, making it a valuable resource for developers, EPCs, and anyone interested in the future of solar construction.

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Dane Simpson
Great Plains LECET

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague interviews JR Howard, owner of Texas Solar Sheep, about the growing industry of solar grazing. JR shares his journey into solar grazing, which began three years ago when a friend recommended exploring this unique intersection of agriculture and renewable energy. From a small pilot project, JR's operation has rapidly expanded to manage over 5 gigawatts of solar farms with around 10,000 sheep.

The conversation delves into the benefits of solar grazing for both the solar industry and sheep farmers. JR explains how asset owners can save up to 20-25% on vegetation management costs by incorporating sheep grazing into their operations. He also discusses the importance of water access and appropriate seed mixes for successful solar grazing projects. The interview highlights the collaborative efforts between solar developers and grazers to optimize site designs for sheep.

JR offers insights into the challenges facing the solar grazing industry, including the current shortage of sheep in some regions of the US. He emphasizes the need for ranchers to approach solar grazing as a service business rather than just another grazing lease. The episode also touches on the expanding opportunities in solar farm management, including hay production and no-till seeding.

Listeners will learn about the major solar developers embracing grazing, such as Lightsource BP, Softbank SP Energy, and Adapture Renewables. JR also discusses the role of the American Solar Grazing Association (ASGA) in providing resources and support for those interested in entering the field. The episode concludes with information about new certification programs for solar grazers and JR's optimistic outlook on the future of this growing industry.

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Texas Solar Sheep
JR Howard

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Thomas Byrne, CEO and co-founder of Clean Capital, to discuss the evolving landscape of clean energy investment and development. Byrne shares insights from his journey in the industry, from his beginnings as a project finance lawyer to founding Clean Capital in 2016.

The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing energy transition. Byrne and Montague explore the unexpected surge in electricity demand due to the rise of data centers and artificial intelligence (AI), and how this impacts the push for a renewable energy grid. They discuss the complexities of meeting increased energy needs while simultaneously working to curb greenhouse gas emissions.

Byrne offers a unique perspective on Clean Capital's role in the middle market of clean energy projects, ranging from 1 to 75 megawatts. He highlights their focus on "quirkier" projects, including the development of brownfields, Superfund sites, and reclaimed coal mines. The discussion also touches on Clean Capital's ventures into emerging markets, such as their projects in Alaska and Guam.

The episode provides valuable insights into the financial aspects of clean energy development, including the impact of recent legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act. Byrne and Montague also explore potential technological advancements that could shape the future of the industry, from robotics in solar installation to innovative software platforms for project management.

This conversation offers listeners a comprehensive look at the current state of clean energy investment and development, as well as thought-provoking predictions for the future of the industry. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the financial and practical aspects of the ongoing energy transition.

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Thomas Byrne
Clean Capital

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Alexina Jackson, Vice President of Strategic Development at AES, to discuss the future of the electrical grid and the implementation of grid-enhancing technologies (GETs).

Alexina shares her insights on the transformation of the grid from an analog system to a more digital, dynamic, and distributed network. She explains how this evolution is crucial for integrating renewable energy sources, improving grid reliability, and maintaining affordability. The conversation delves into various GETs, including dynamic line rating, topology optimization, advanced power flow control, and storage as transmission.

The discussion highlights the importance of visualizing and optimizing the grid's capacity, making better use of existing infrastructure rather than solely relying on new construction. Alexina emphasizes the need for regulatory support, education, and deployment of these technologies to overcome barriers and accelerate the clean energy transition.

The episode also touches on AES's commitment to decarbonization and the challenges of transitioning to a renewable energy system. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complexities of grid modernization and the innovative solutions being developed to address them.

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Alexina Jackson
The AES Corporation
Smart Use of the Dynamic Grid Whitepaper

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague welcomes Dr. Zhehan Yi, Utility and ESS Product Solutions Director at CPS America, for an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge utility-scale energy storage solutions. Dr. Yi shares his journey from electrical engineering to becoming a key player in the renewable energy sector, offering unique insights into the evolving landscape of energy storage technology.

The conversation centers around CPS America's groundbreaking 5 megawatt-hour battery storage container solution, a game-changer in the utility-scale storage market. Dr. Yi explains the innovative string structure approach employed by CPS, drawing parallels with their success in the PV inverter market. He delves into the benefits of this modular design, including enhanced controllability, easier maintenance, and the ability to perform rack-level augmentation.

Dr. Yi and Montague discuss the concept of the "smart grid" and its role in revolutionizing power distribution. They explore how advanced communication and controllability are transforming the century-old grid infrastructure to accommodate the growing integration of renewable energy sources and smart devices.

The episode also touches on current trends in utility-scale storage projects across different US markets, from the smaller projects on the East Coast to the massive installations in the Southwest. Dr. Yi provides valuable insights into the various applications of energy storage, including energy arbitrage, peak shaving, and supporting EV charging infrastructure.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of CPS America's commitment to providing comprehensive solutions, including balance of system components and medium voltage transformers. Dr. Yi emphasizes the importance of localized support and customer service in setting CPS apart from competitors in the energy storage landscape.

Whether you're an energy professional, developer, or simply interested in the future of renewable energy, this episode offers a wealth of information on the cutting edge of energy storage technology and its crucial role in the global energy transition.

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Zhehan Yi
CPS America

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Joe Marhamati, co-founder of Sunvoy, a customer relationship management and system monitoring platform for solar installers. Joe discusses his background working at the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office during the early days of utility-scale solar development in the U.S. He then started his own solar installation company, Ipsun Solar, and spun off Sunvoy to address issues around the customer experience pre/during/post installation.

Joe explains how Sunvoy allows homeowners to track their solar project status, see all system performance data in one place (branded to the installer), and easily submit service tickets - avoiding the fragmented experience of dealing with multiple manufacturer apps. He emphasizes the importance of installers owning the full customer relationship to increase referrals and brand equity rather than having manufacturers take over after installation.

Other topics covered include using Sunvoy for active system monitoring across an installer's entire fleet, integrating with all major inverter brands and other software, and Sunvoy's language localization. Joe also discusses the challenges installers face in profitably offering monitoring/service to maintain a great long-term customer experience. The conversation provides insight into creating a compelling end-to-end experience for solar customers.

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Joe Marhamati
Sunvoy

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Dan French, the founder of the Solar Farm Summit, an event dedicated to promoting and advancing agrivoltaic solar (also known as dual-use solar or solar grazing). Dan shares his background, starting from his work as an attorney for BP Oil, then making his mark in brownfield solar development to his current focus on agrivoltaics and agrisolar.

Dan French is Founder and Executive Producer of Brightfield Productions, which produces the Solar Farm Summit, North America's Agrivoltaics Expo, in Chicago, IL as well as the Virginia Solar Summit in Richmond, VA. Having hosted dozens of dynamic development conferences in his career from California to Minnesota to New Hampshire, Dan serves as market-maker and meta-developer and is known for producing deeply substantive, catalytic and market-moving events achieving rare calibers of interdisciplinary collaboration and professional cross-pollination.

Dan is also Founder and Principal of dbForesites, a global advisory boutique translating planetary megatrends in economics, energy, and environment into actionable intelligence for funds, family offices, corporations, and governments. 

Tim and Dan's discussion covers the current state of agrivoltaic practices in the United States, which Dan categorizes into three buckets: crops, critters (livestock grazing), and conservation. Dan highlights the potential benefits of agrivoltaics, such as increased crop yields, water conservation, and environmental gains through pollinator habitat restoration.

Dan provides insights into the upcoming Solar Farm Summit, where topics like USDA initiatives, soil health under solar panels, and solar grazing best practices will be covered. He emphasizes the importance of bringing together different stakeholders, to accelerate the adoption of agrivoltaic systems.

The interview also touches on the myths surrounding agrivoltaics, such as the misconception that nothing can grow under solar panels. Dan dispels these myths and discusses the cost-effectiveness of agrivoltaic systems, highlighting their potential to mitigate environmental issues associated with traditional ground-mount solar development.

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Dan French
Solar Farm Summit

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague talks with Hunter Johnson, Vice President of Alliant Insurance, about the crucial role of insurance in the solar industry and how climate change is impacting the way insurance companies assess and underwrite solar projects.

The discussion covers various factors that solar installers, developers, and asset owners need to consider when insuring their projects, including geographic location, weather risks (hail, lightning, wildfires, floods), equipment quality and availability of replacement parts, and Operations & Maintenance (O&M) practices.

Hunter sheds light on the evolving underwriting process, where insurance carriers are becoming more stringent in their assessment of project sites, equipment manufacturers, vegetation management plans, and emergency response plans. He also explains how rigorous O&M programs can help asset owners reduce their insurance rates.

Additionally, Hunter delves into the trends affecting the insurance industry, such as rising rates, higher deductibles, longer waiting periods for business interruption insurance, and capacity constraints. He also touches on the role of reinsurance and the emergence of captive insurance solutions for larger installers.

Throughout the discussion, Hunter emphasizes the importance of considering climate change's impact on weather patterns and the increasing frequency of catastrophic events like hail storms, hurricanes, and wildfires, which can significantly affect the insurability and financial viability of solar projects.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights for solar professionals on navigating the complex world of insurance and mitigating risks associated with climate change to ensure the long-term success of their projects.

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Hunter Johnson
Alliant Insurance

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague interviews Sebastian Heitmann, the co-founder of the venture capital firm Extantia. The discussion covered a wide range of topics related to the energy transition and decarbonization efforts.

Sebastian shared his journey from the early days of investing in clean tech 1.0, which primarily focused on solar energy, to the realization that more innovation was needed to tackle the challenges of the energy transition. This led to the founding of Extantia, with the goal of attracting institutional capital to back economically viable and resiliency solutions in the clean energy space.

One of the key technologies discussed is deep geothermal energy, which Sebastian referred to as the "holy grail" of energy sources. Deep geothermal involves drilling miles into the Earth's crust to access the immense heat trapped beneath our feet. The conversation explored the challenges and breakthroughs needed to make deep geothermal drilling economical and scalable, such as the development of new drilling technologies that can efficiently penetrate hard rock formations.

Sebastian also highlighted the importance of considering the entire energy landscape, including industrial heat, transportation fuels, and the need for firm capacity or baseload energy sources that can complement intermittent renewables like wind and solar. The discussion touched on the potential of emerging technologies and the role of innovation in finding solutions that are not only environmentally sustainable but also economically viable and resilient.

Throughout the episode, Sebastian emphasized the urgency of the energy transition and the need for a multi-faceted approach that leverages existing infrastructure while also embracing new technologies and innovative solutions. The conversation provided insightful perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in the clean energy space, underscoring the crucial role of venture capital and private sector innovation in driving the energy transition forward.

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Sebastian Heitmann
Extantia

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague interviews Kelly Warner, CEO of Lumin (or Lumin Smart), a company that produces smart electrical panels for load management and electrification. Kelly shares his extensive background in the energy industry, spanning roles in consulting and running technology companies focused on areas like wind power and virtual power plants.

The discussion centers around Lumin's innovative smart panel technology, which enables flexible demand and load management in residential settings. Kelly explains how the Lumin smart panel integrates with solar and battery systems, allowing homeowners to access and prioritize circuits while running on battery power during grid outages. This technology also facilitates the electrification of homes by intelligently managing new electrical loads like EV chargers and heat pumps, often avoiding the need for costly electrical panel upgrades.

Kelly also introduces Lumin's latest product, Lumin Edge, a modular and cost-effective version of the smart panel designed for wider adoption in electrification and utility-scale load management. He highlights partnerships with companies like Sonnen and ABB, which will help scale Lumin's technology and bring it to a broader market.

The conversation also touches on the importance of energy equity, with initiatives aimed at making clean technologies accessible to mainstream and low-to-moderate-income communities. Kelly emphasizes the role of load management systems like Lumin's in enabling more flexible demand programs, optimizing energy consumption in response to economic signals, and ultimately supporting the energy transition toward a cleaner, more efficient grid.

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Kelly Warner
Lumin Smart

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague brings together a panel of experts from CPS America and EnergeiaWorks to discuss proven tactics for talent acquisition and retention in the rapidly growing solar sector. The discussion kicks off with insightful introductions from the panelists, including John Drummond, senior applications engineer at CPS America, William Liuzza, the founder and CEO of EnergeiaWorks, Ryan Pasquali, a recruiting specialist at CPS America, and Matt Dolansky, the Associate Director of Customer Success at EnergeiaWorks.

The conversation delves into the challenges of recruiting top talent in an industry marked by low unemployment rates and high demand for skilled professionals. The panelists share their experiences and strategies, emphasizing the importance of creating a strong company culture built on transparency, trust, and open communication. They highlight the value of investing in employees' growth and development, fostering a sense of inclusion, and providing opportunities for advancement within the organization.

The discussion also touches on the impact of remote and hybrid work environments, the need for flexibility in hiring practices, and the importance of identifying candidates with the right "X-factor" beyond just technical skills. The panelists stressed the significance of building genuine partnerships with employees, treating them as valued members of the team, and establishing a culture of openness and honesty that extends to customer relationships as well.

Throughout the episode, the experts share real-life examples and insights from their experiences at CPS America and EnergeiaWorks, offering practical advice and best practices for companies seeking to attract and retain top talent in the solar and clean energy industries. The conversation highlights the crucial role that talent acquisition and retention play in driving the success of companies and accelerating the energy transition.

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EnergeiaWorks
William Liuzza
Ryan Pasquali
Matt Dolansky
John Drummond

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague is joined by Scott Tess, the Sustainability and Resilience Officer for the City of Urbana, Illinois. They discuss the 5.3 megawatt community solar project that was developed on the city’s closed municipal solid waste landfill in Urbana Illinois in Central Illinois (home of the University of Illinois). This episode holds a special place in Montague’s heart because the landfill was the very first solar project he walked back in 2016 when he we just getting into the PV industry full-time.

Scott provides an in-depth overview of the project, explaining how the City initially identified the landfill as a potential site for solar development and went through a competitive procurement process to select a developer (TotalEnergies is the ultimate developer/owner-operator). He highlights the challenges and uncertainties they faced, such as determining the commercial viability of the site compared to open farm fields and navigating the state's incentive programs.

The conversation delves into the benefits of repurposing brownfields like landfills for solar projects, including generating revenue for the City through lease payments, reducing maintenance costs, expanding access to renewable energy for low-income residents, and putting the property back on the tax rolls.

Scott also shares insights into the development process, including the importance of properly locating inverters to minimize noise disturbances, the use of a ballasted racking system to avoid penetrating the landfill cap, and the potential for incorporating pollinator-friendly vegetation in the project.

Scott also discusses the City's involvement in the Solarize Urbana-Champaign program, which competitively selects a single solar installer and offers bulk pricing and community education to encourage residential and small business solar adoption.

Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the challenges, opportunities, and benefits of developing solar projects on brownfields, as well as the role municipalities can play in supporting and promoting renewable energy initiatives within their communities.

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Scott Tess
City of Urbana

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Adib Nasle, the co-founder and CEO of Xendee, a company that provides a software platform to design and optimize complex on-site energy systems. The discussion revolves around Xendee's unique approach to addressing the complexities and uncertainties associated with distributed energy systems.

Nasle explains that the core problem they aimed to solve was the lack of a practical way to "test drive" on-site energy systems before committing to a purchase decision. Xendee's platform utilizes a science-based algorithm, developed through decades of research, to generate optimal solutions based on the user's objectives, such as carbon emission reduction or profitability.

The platform's capabilities include automatically gathering relevant data like utility tariffs, incentives, weather patterns, and energy consumption for a given location. It then generates solutions by considering various technologies like solar, batteries, heat pumps, and EV chargers, while factoring in the underlying distribution infrastructure and control strategies.

Nasle highlights the importance of not only sizing and selecting the right technology mix but also orchestrating their operation to achieve the desired outcomes. The platform enables collaboration and data portability, facilitating information exchange between different stakeholders and platforms.

Furthermore, Xendee has developed a model predictive control system that uses the same underlying algorithm to operate the designed system in real-time, ensuring that the promised benefits are delivered efficiently and reliably.

The discussion also covers the platform's applicability to larger-scale projects like community microgrids and the potential for standardization and scalability through a single, integrated solution approach.

Overall, the conversation provides an in-depth look at Xendee's innovative software platform, which aims to simplify the adoption of distributed energy systems and unlock their full potential through accurate modeling, optimization, and real-time control.

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Adib Nasle
Xendee

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague hosts a special live webinar with Austin Carr, founder and president of Greenlink Energy Solutions, and Jim Keeling, a business attorney and partner at Hinshaw law, both based in Rockford, Illinois.

They discuss the opportunities and challenges of behind-the-meter solar PV installations for churches and universities in Northern Illinois. Austin and Jim share insights from their recent successful solar projects at Our Savior Lutheran Church and Rockford University.

They provide an in-depth look at the process of developing commercial solar projects for organizations like churches and universities. This includes evaluating potential sites, designing the solar array, navigating available incentive programs like Illinois Shines and Solar for All, and working through financing options from cash purchases to third-party ownership models like PPAs.

A key focus is the generous federal tax credits and state incentives that make solar highly economical for tax-exempt entities like nonprofits and educational institutions in Illinois. The guests walk through the financials of the church and university installations to illustrate the remarkable return on investment achievable.

They also cover stakeholder engagement best practices, as securing buy-in across decision-makers is critical for such installations. The potential benefits of adding energy storage to further reduce costs and improve resilience are discussed as well.

Overall, it provides a comprehensive roadmap for similar organizations looking to go solar and take advantage of supportive policies aimed at accelerating clean energy adoption in markets like Illinois. Selecting qualified installers who understand the intricacies of available incentives is highlighted as a key success factor.

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Austin Carr
Greenlink Energy Solutions
Jim Keeling
Hinshaw law
Sustain Rockford Event

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The hydrogen economy is all the rage, with billions in government funding and skyrocketing private investment. But should we buy into the hype? Energy and utility guru Peter Kelly-Detwiler joins Tim Montague to separate fact from fiction about the promises and perils of the hydrogen economy. 

They discuss the existing hydrogen economy, which is largely centered around industrial processes like refining and fertilizer production, and the potential for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors like steelmaking, high-heat industrial processes, and long-haul transportation using green hydrogen.

Peter explains the challenges and opportunities associated with producing green hydrogen cost-effectively, including the need to drive down renewable energy costs, improve electrolyzer efficiency, and achieve economies of scale.

They also delve into the complexities of transporting and storing hydrogen, including the limitations of existing natural gas pipelines and the potential for leakage, which could indirectly contribute to global warming.

The conversation touches on various pilot projects and initiatives, such as the Inflation Reduction Act's incentives for green hydrogen, the Department of Energy's Hydrogen Hubs program, and hybrid power plants aiming to blend hydrogen with natural gas (ACES in Utah) or potentially transition to pure hydrogen.

Peter emphasizes the importance of failing fast and discarding approaches that don't work, as well as being cautious about investing in the wrong areas, which could provide ammunition to those who don't wish for a successful energy transition.

Overall, the episode provides a nuanced and balanced perspective on the role of hydrogen in the energy transition, highlighting both its potential and the need for careful consideration of its costs, efficiency, and environmental impacts.

Peter emphasizes hydrogen is a tool in the decarbonization toolkit but not a "Swiss army knife" that solves all problems. The next few years will provide more clarity on its optimal role in the energy transition.

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Peter Kelly-Detwiler
Website
Hydrogen Ladder 5.0

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague talks with Nate Owen, founder and CEO of Ampion, about the evolution and future of community solar. Key topics and takeaways include:

- How community solar is moving beyond its roots in state-specific programs to more flexible models that can scale rapidly. Nate discusses "Community Solar 2.0" - applying the shared solar concept to larger projects over 5 MW with diverse corporate and institutional offtakers.

- The huge pent-up demand from companies, municipalities, hospitals, and others to subscribe to community solar farms. Nate says the appetite is "insatiable" and likens it to "selling a slice of bread when they want 10 bakeries."

- How marrying batteries with community solar creates valuable dispatchable assets. Adding storage allows solar farms to provide grid services and generate significant revenue, especially during peak summer hours.

- The critical role of initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act in improving community solar economics through incentives and the ability to monetize environmental attributes.

- Emerging state markets that excite Nate, like New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Illinois, Minnesota, and Colorado. At the same time, he expresses bafflement at California's recent decision that could hinder community solar growth there.

- The nitty-gritty complexities involved in making community solar work, from standardizing contracts and processes to evolving utility billing systems to working with regulators on interconnection policies and consumer protections.

Though challenges remain, Nate is extremely bullish on community solar's future. He envisions an absolutely massive effort to build solar farms everywhere, seeing community-scale projects with multiple offtakers as the predominant model going forward.

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Nate Owen
Ampion

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Solar trackers have swept the utility-scale solar industry in recent years, with single-axis trackers now deployed on a staggering 94% of large-scale projects. While a few big names dominate the tracker market, one company - Nevados Solar - has carved out a distinct niche with its unique all-terrain tracking technology. In this episode, host Tim Montague chats with Nevados founder and CEO Yezin Taha about how their innovative segmented torque tube design is helping developers tackle more challenging project sites while driving down the levelized cost of energy.

Yezin shares the intriguing story of how a serious skiing accident and shattered leg put him on the path to starting Nevados after years working at large engineering firms. He explains how breaking the torque tube into linked segments allows Nevados' trackers to follow the natural contours of the land, greatly reducing the need for expensive and environmentally damaging grading. This terrain-following capability helps developers navigate permitting obstacles, shrink construction costs and timelines, and open up project opportunities on sites that would be infeasible with conventional trackers.

As Yezin details, Nevados pairs its segmented hardware with smart software to optimize energy yields on the undulating ground - no easy feat. He dives into the sophisticated modeling tools the company has developed to accurately predict production and determine optimal module tilt angles on variable terrain slopes before construction.

Key Takeaways

1. Nevados has developed a novel single-axis tracker design using linked torque tube segments that can conform to sloped terrain with minimal grading or site disturbance.
2. Their terrain-following trackers help developers avoid steep costs and permitting hurdles tied to major grading while enabling project construction on sites that would be unworkable for conventional trackers.
3. Nevados' plug-and-play tracker installs 25% faster than standard trackers thanks to its straightforward design and self-aligning module attachments.

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Yezin Taha
Nevados

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The solar industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with string inverters playing a pivotal role in this evolution. In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with John Drummond, the Senior Applications Engineer at CPS America, to explore the advancements in string inverter technology and how they are shaping the future of the solar industry.

Drummond shares his extensive experience, tracing his career journey from the early days of renewable energy to his current role at CPS America. He delves into the critical changes that have enabled the rise of string inverters, such as the shift to ungrounded (transformerless) inverters and advancements in IGBT module technology that allow for faster more efficient switching.

The discussion explores how string inverters have evolved to become sophisticated "computers" that can dynamically inject reactive power, maintain voltage and frequency stability, and even ride through grid disturbances – features that are now required by national standards.

Furthermore, Drummond provides insights into the growing importance of utility-scale string inverter solutions, such as CPS America's flagship 275 kW inverter and their innovative 800V Breaker Box.

This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the transformative journey of solar inverter technology and the pivotal role it plays in the energy transition.

Key Takeaways

1. Evolution of String Inverters: The episode highlights the significant advancements in string inverter technology.
2. Grid Services and Smart Inverter Functions: String inverters have evolved to become sophisticated "computers" that can provide vital grid services.
3. Flexible and Scalable Solutions: CPS America has designed its string inverter products to be highly flexible, allowing for both distributed and centralized architectures to cater to diverse applications.
4. Utility-Scale Innovations: The discussion covers CPS America's development of high-power, high-voltage string inverter solutions, such as the 275 kW inverter and the 800V breaker box.

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John Drummond
CPS America

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Aviv Shalgi, CEO and co-founder of Solar Simplified, to discuss the growing and important niche of community solar. Aviv shares his journey into entrepreneurship, starting in the advertising industry before finding his passion in the energy transition. He explains how Solar Simplified was founded in 2020 with the goal of helping people save money during the COVID-19 lockdowns, and how the team identified community solar as an opportunity to do that while also accelerating the clean energy transition.

Aviv discusses the challenges that developers and asset owners face in the community solar industry, particularly around customer acquisition costs and misaligned incentives with third-party subscriber management companies. He describes how Solar Simplified has sought to address these issues by taking on more risk and responsibility themselves, shielding their partners from mistakes and losses. The conversation also covers the consumer experience, with Aviv highlighting Solar Simplified's focus on building trust and simplifying the signup and onboarding process.

A key part of the discussion centers around the critical role of utilities in the community solar ecosystem. Aviv shares insights on the wide variance in utility performance, from those that make the process seamless for customers to ones that create significant challenges with late or missing bill credits.

Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the community solar landscape, the opportunities and challenges, and how innovative companies like Solar Simplified are working to drive the industry forward and accelerate the clean energy transition.

Key Takeaways

1. The growing trend towards carve-outs and mandates for low-to-moderate income participation in community solar programs.
2. The value of data analytics and machine learning in optimizing customer acquisition, retention, and operational efficiency in the community solar space.
3. The significant variance in utility performance when it comes to community solar bill credits and payments.

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Aviv Shalgi
Solar Simplified

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode, Tim Montague sits down with Francois Byrne, CEO of Hybrid Power Solutions, to discuss the company's innovative approach to decarbonizing mobile power and construction. Francois shares his journey from working on hybrid race cars to developing cutting-edge battery and solar hybrid systems that eliminate the need for diesel generators.

Hybrid Power Solutions offers a range of rugged, plug-and-play products that combine batteries, solar panels, and (optionally) diesel generators to provide cleaner, reliable power for construction sites, mining operations, and other off-grid applications. Francois delves into the challenges of transitioning clients from traditional diesel generators to hybrid systems, emphasizing the cost savings and improved working conditions these solutions offer.

The discussion covers the latest developments in battery technology, including lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and the pursuit of safer, fire-resistant alternatives. Francois also explores the potential of hydrogen fuel cells and other clean power generation methods to further decarbonize mobile power solutions.

Francois shares insights from years of experience in designing products that can withstand the toughest job site conditions. Whether you're a solar installer, developer, or energy professional, this episode offers a fascinating look at the future of mobile power and the energy transition.

Key Takeaways

1. Mobile battery and solar hybrid power systems can significantly reduce fuel costs, emissions, and noise pollution compared to traditional diesel generators on construction sites and other off-grid applications.
2. Combining batteries with appropriately sized diesel generators and solar can create highly efficient hybrid systems that minimize fuel consumption and maximize battery usage.
3. Overprovisioning Inefficiencies: Traditional diesel generators are often significantly oversized for actual power loads. Integrated monitoring in hybrid systems allows right-sizing capacity.
4. Cost Savings and Improved Working Conditions: Beyond environmental benefits, hybrid mobile power solutions can deliver 75-95% fuel cost savings compared to diesel generators.

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Francois Byrne
Hybrid Power Solut

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of The Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague interviews Alex Nussey, co-founder and CEO of Wattch, a cutting-edge solar monitoring and asset management platform trusted by top installers, developers, and utilities. Nussey shares the origin story of Wattch, which began as a college project building IV curve testers for a solar car racing team.

Nussey explains how Wattch differentiates itself as a data-first company by creating precise digital twins of solar assets to model their expected performance. By comparing real-time data against these digital models, Wattch can identify underperformance issues with an impressive 1.5% accuracy, resulting in customers experiencing an average 8% performance improvement within the first three months of using the platform.

The discussion delves into Wattch's comprehensive suite of services, which includes:

1. Monitoring: Enabling remote localization, diagnosis, and resolution of performance issues across a fleet in seconds with device-level insights.

2. Operations & Maintenance: Minimizing truck rolls and guesswork while improving baseline performance by up to 21%.

3. Asset Management: Tracking, optimizing, and reporting on portfolios quickly and easily with embedded financial metrics.

4. Customer Engagement: Expanding customer portfolios, engaging new prospects, and elevating brand using performance data.

Nussey also highlights Wattch's Energy IoT solutions for real-time, bi-directional, secure connections to every energy asset and their turnkey DAS/SCADA Edge Solutions for quick project configuration and commissioning.

Nussey emphasizes the critical importance of cybersecurity for distributed energy resources and provides insights into Wattch's impressive growth, having expanded to over 1,000 sites across 22 U.S. states in just four years since its founding.

Key Takeaways:

1. Wattch's comprehensive suite of services, including monitoring, O&M, asset management, and customer engagement, leverage its innovative "digital twin" approach to solar monitoring.

2. Insights into the complexities of monitoring diverse equipment across solar, energy storage, EV charging, and other distributed energy assets, and Wattch's Energy IoT and Edge Solutions for addressing these challenges.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague is joined by Brian Baxter, Director of Sales East at CPS America, to discuss the rapid evolution of the solar and storage industry. As string inverter technologies gain traction in the utility-scale segment, CPS America is at the forefront of this trend with their innovative three-phase string inverters and battery storage products.

Brian shares his unique background, transitioning from engineering roles at GE to sales leadership at CPS America, providing valuable insights into the industry's technological upheavals and the customer-centric approaches driving the adoption of cutting-edge solutions. He highlights CPS's groundbreaking turnkey PCS Skid for utility energy storage systems, which comes in two standardized configurations: 2MW and 2.4MW. 

The skid incorporates 10 and 12 units of CPS's 200kW string PCS inverters (CPS ECB200KTL/US-800), respectively, and is compatible with CPS's new 5 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (CPS ES-5016KWH-US). This containerized battery solution integrates 12 racks of LFP batteries, offering high energy density for utility applications. It features an advanced liquid cooling system for effective and efficient pack-level thermal management and is packaged into a 20ft container for easy transportation, installation, and O&M.

Throughout the conversation, Brian emphasizes CPS America's strong focus on customer service, transparent problem-solving, and equipping their team with in-depth technical expertise to better serve their clients.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

1. The increasing viability and advantages of string inverter architectures for large utility-scale solar and storage projects.
2. CPS America's innovative turnkey PCS Skid for utility energy storage systems.
3. The company's commitment to customer service, technical training, and collaborative problem-solving.
4. Strategies for successfully transitioning from technical roles to customer-facing sales positions.
5. The value of transparency and providing in-depth expertise when working through challenges with customers.

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Brian Baxter
CPS America

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

America's thousands of closed landfills represent a massive untapped opportunity to generate clean solar power. These unused brownfield sites, which are often seen as burdens on their local communities, have the potential to be transformed into renewable energy assets that provide a range of benefits. In this episode, Tim Montague explores the possibilities and challenges of developing solar farms on retired landfills with guest Annika Colston, founder and president of AC Power.

Annika explains that there are over 10,000 closed landfills in the US that could generate up to an estimated 63 GW of solar power if converted to solar farms. However, building solar on landfills involves additional costs and complexities compared to traditional ground-mounted or rooftop installations.

Despite the obstacles, a growing number of states like New York, New Jersey, and Illinois have recognized the opportunity and enacted policies and incentives to spur solar development in landfills. These programs help offset the extra costs associated with landfill solar projects.

When executed successfully, landfill solar can yield a range of win-wins. The projects generate clean renewable energy, provide a new revenue stream for the landfill owner, reduce ongoing vegetation management costs, and improve underutilized sites that may have been seen as community eyesores.

The episode concludes with a call to action for local leaders and community members to identify and advocate for solar development on idle landfill sites in their own backyards. As Annika puts it: "We should be telling our communities to go out there and develop them."

Key Points:

• There are over 10,000 closed US landfills that could be converted to generate 63 GW of solar
• Landfill solar involves extra costs and complexity but also major opportunities
• Some states have policies/incentives to spur landfill solar development (NY, NJ, IL, PA, VA)
• Benefits include clean energy, revenues, lower maintenance costs, and community improvements
• Local leaders are urged to pursue solar development on their communities' landfills

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Annika Colston
AC Power

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this expert panel webinar, Tim Montague hosts Monroe Jett, CEO and founder of Title Leader, and Mike Koehler, Director of Solar Development at Azimuth Renewables, to discuss how solar developers can accelerate project timelines and boost ROI by modernizing the often overlooked bottleneck of land title search and management. 

Key discussion points include:

- How siloed, decentralized title workflows cost developers time and money at critical project junctures

- The risks of relying on manual title tracking, which leads to errors and duplicated efforts  

- How Title Leader's software platform automates title ordering, prevents duplicate searches, and provides a centralized database 

- Real-world examples from Azimuth Renewables on the benefits of transitioning to Title Leader from traditional fragmented title processes

- The complexities of title search across different counties and states, and how Title Leader partners with national vendors to standardize the process

- Why title insurance underwriters are eager to work with Title Leader to offload the burdens of title search fulfillment

The webinar makes a compelling case for solar developers of all sizes to streamline and automate title management via platforms like Title Leader as an essential step to accelerate project development and reduce soft costs in an increasingly competitive industry. With over 2,000 GW of solar projects in U.S. interconnection queues, finding efficiencies is imperative.

Monroe Jett
Title Leader
Mike Koehler
Azimuth Renewables

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The solar industry has come a long way since its early days of small off-grid systems. With utility-scale solar farms now measured in the 100s of megawatts, grid penetration rising fast, and batteries no longer a novelty but a necessity, there's a world of knowledge required to be successful in solar + BESS.

To help make sense of the current solar and storage landscape, we're joined today on the Clean Power Hour by expert Ryan Mayfield, CEO of Mayfield Renewables. With over 20 years of experience spanning solar's evolution from niche to mainstream, Ryan offers invaluable insights on everything from modeling tools to regional trends.

Ryan has a storied career starting as a solar installer in the late 1990s. He progressed to engineering, training, and now leads Mayfield Renewables providing feasibility studies, design services, and education around complex solar plus storage projects.

Ryan explains key considerations for behind-the-meter commercial solar plus storage projects aimed at resiliency. This includes understanding budget limitations, identifying critical loads, and the importance of detailed feasibility studies and monitoring.

When it comes to choosing compatible components, Ryan notes there are still a limited number of manufacturers with proven commercial-scale solutions. He emphasizes the ongoing need for education and training to support the continued growth of solar plus storage.

The conversation also covers trends in different U.S. states, utility involvement, grid services, EVs as potential distributed storage, and more. Ryan stresses that storage expertise is now mandatory for solar professionals.

Key Takeaways

• Load monitoring and detailed technical/financial modeling helps optimize system design.
• The Midwest, Texas and Southwest are growth markets to watch for near-term solar + storage project development and innovation.
• Regional incentives and utility involvement are driving storage adoption in states like California, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont and Illinois.
• Understanding the client's goals and critical loads is crucial when designing behind-the-meter solar + storage systems aimed at resiliency.

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Ryan Mayfield
Mayfield Renewables

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Solar PPAs are a popular way to finance commercial solar projects, but the process remains nebulous to many installers and developers. In this illuminating webinar, host Tim Montague gets candid insights from two solar financing experts - Marc Palmer of Conductor Solar and Nick Perugini of Solaris Energy. With decades of combined experience structuring, financing, and closing commercial solar PPAs between investors, developers, and host customers, they shed light on real-world best practices.

The discussion covers critical considerations at each stage of the PPA process.

• Finding and aligning with the right customer: What makes a customer a good fit for solar PPAs? How to position the value proposition.
• Project size considerations: Minimum thresholds for economic viability. How different financiers have preferences on project size.
• Finding the right financing partner: Factors like geography, customer type, experience level that determine fit. Due diligence to ensure partner can execute.
• Closing the deal: LOIs, timing, agreement on roles and responsibilities.
• Incorporating battery storage: Emerging best practices on solar + storage PPAs.

Whether you're new to C&I PPAs or have battle scars from past deals gone awry, this webinar will equip you with actionable insights to improve your next C&I solar project. You'll leave ready to replicate the success of leading C&I solar developers and make your next PPA not just workable, but profitable.

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Marc Palmer
Conductor Solar
Nick Perugini
Solaris Energy

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Imagine a world where anyone, from a 10-year-old child to a seasoned professional, can access top-notch training in clean energy technologies like solar, batteries, and energy efficiency – all from the comfort of their living room. That's the vision behind Heatspring, an online learning platform co-founded by Brian Hayden back in 2007. In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Brian Hayden, the co-founder and Managing Partner of Heatspring, an online learning platform for sustainability and the built environment.

Heatspring has become an invaluable resource for clean energy professionals, companies, and the general public interested in learning about solar, batteries, energy efficiency, and related fields. The platform offers over 260 courses, with two-thirds available for free, covering a wide range of topics taught by industry experts.

In the episode, Brian discusses the importance of partnerships and collaborations, like their recent initiative with Revision Energy to open-source apprenticeship program content. He also emphasizes the role of certifications and credentials in the industry's growth and Heatspring's focus on facilitating team-based learning for companies.

Heatspring aims to break down barriers and provide better access to the best information and training, enabling more people to join and succeed in the clean energy workforce, which is crucial for accelerating the energy transition.

Key Takeaways

• Companies can set up free team accounts and assign courses to employees for onboarding and ongoing training.
• Managers can track employee progress, provide accountability, and curate relevant course paths.
• Heatspring emphasizes the importance of certifications/credentials like NABCEP for career growth.
• Partnerships with companies like Revision Energy to open-source apprenticeship program content.
• Approachable platform from a small company aiming to make training more sustainable and accessible.
• Opportunity for clean energy professionals to become instructors and share knowledge.
• Vital for upskilling workforce to meet the projected need for 1 million new electricians for the energy transition.

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Brian Hayden
Heatspring

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific

This week John Weaver and I were joined by Sean White and we discussed,
1. Solar energy, permitting process, and sales strategies.
2. Solar panel installation technology and industry trends.
3. Renewable energy sources and their potential to power the grid.
4. Energy transition, solar projections, and carbon removal strategies.
5. Solar roofing technology and racking systems.
6. Solar energy industry trends and events.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Earn, save, protect - energy storage is revolutionizing the way we think about and utilize electricity. Batteries are no longer just backup power sources - they have become assets capable of providing a multitude of services to the grid and customers. Earn - you can turn a battery into a cash machine by providing ‘ancillary services’ to the grid operator with your battery. Save - you can reduce demand and capacity charges by using the battery to discharge during peak load hours/days. Protect - you can use a battery as a source of backup power during grid outages. Together, this ‘value stack’ is the enchilada that customers are feasting on in many markets across the US and around the world.

In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague interviews David Braun, VP of Sales and Marketing at Intelligent Generation, about how adding battery storage can unlock additional value and revenue streams for behind-the-meter solar projects in PJM territory through this "value stack."

They discuss concepts like energy arbitrage, capacity charge reduction, ancillary services, and resilience. The value of each depends on local energy market rules and tariffs. David explains how Intelligent Generation's software platform optimizes battery dispatch to maximize savings and earnings. This can improve solar project economics by 6-12 months (In Tim’s experience this is a very conservative assessment - you can often 3x the value of a project by adding BESS).

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the "value-stack" of energy storage includes energy arbitrage, reducing capacity/transmission charges, providing ancillary grid services, and enhancing resilience.
• Importance of partnering with companies like Intelligent Generation early in project development to properly size and model the financial benefits of adding energy storage to solar projects.
• Recognizing the unique value propositions and revenue opportunities that energy storage can unlock in different energy markets (e.g., PJM, MISO).
• Staying informed about rapidly evolving battery incentives, tariff structures, and regulatory landscapes across different regions.

David Braun
Intelligent Generation

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Austin Carr, founder of Greenlink Energy Solutions, joins us to discuss his journey from military service to clean energy entrepreneur. We cover electrifying homes and buildings in a 360-degree approach - improving energy efficiency, upgrading mechanical systems, and adding solar and storage. Solar installers take note - this is the future of the solar company, a 360-degree approach to making the built environment more efficient and low carbon. 

Key Takeaways

• Austin's early exposure to solar technology in the military sparked his interest in green energy and starting his own business.
• Weatherization and building envelope improvements like insulation and air sealing maximize the value of solar installations.
• Adding battery storage increases the benefits and value of solar through demand charge reduction, backup power, and more.
• Quality installations, equipment, and workmanship ensure successful solar projects that meet expectations.
• A 360-degree approach to clean energy provides comprehensive services - efficiency, electrification, and renewable energy.
• Navigating evolving markets, technologies and incentives is key for solar contractors to thrive long-term.
• Expanding into larger commercial, industrial, and community solar opens new growth opportunities.

The episode covers ComEd's electrification pilot program, the Illinois solar market's growth and incentives, tips for residential and commercial customers, Greenlink's expansion into larger solar projects, and their comprehensive in-house capabilities.

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Austin Carr
Greenlink Energy Solutions

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The solar industry is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and mounting competition forcing companies to adapt or be left behind. On this week's Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague sits down with Kelly Shamblen, Regional Sales Manager West for Chint Power Systems (CPS America), the leading three-phase string inverter manufacturer in North America.

Kelly has been with CPS for six years which is a testament to the company’s ability to recruit and retain top talent. She has a somewhat unconventional background in the solar industry but Kelly has made an indelible mark on CPS during her tenure. Though she didn't have a technical background, Kelly was drawn to CPS's customer-centric culture and tight-knit feel as a smaller organization at the time she joined. She started in operations, getting exposure to finance, logistics, and order processing. This diverse experience gave her a perfect foundation to transition into her current sales leadership position.

Today we explore how inverter manufacturer CPS America creates a customer-centric culture. Guest Kelly Shamblen shares her passion for partnering deeply with customers and problem-solving their toughest needs. With over 90% customer retention, CPS focuses on service and responsiveness when issues arise. Kelly discusses the company's tight-knit, solutions-oriented approach, embracing difficult situations as learning opportunities.

Tim and Kelly also discuss how CPS has built a customer-centric organization in the competitive technology sales industry. Kelly talks about how CPS focuses on treating customers as long-term partners rather than one-off transactions, taking the time to understand their unique needs and challenges.

They also highlight CPS's commitment to responsive customer service. If there are ever any issues with CPS inverters, the team works diligently to diagnose problems and get systems back up and running as quickly as possible.

Key Takeaways

• What makes CPS stand out?
• How does CPS handle product issues or rollouts that don't go smoothly?
• What is CPS's approach to difficult customers or complaints?
• What opportunities and challenges does CPS's growth present?
• What is CPS's expected growth? 

Kelly Shamblen
CPS America

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Solar developers know that securing site control is mission-critical. But painstaking manual title search processes bog down developers every day, wasting valuable time across dozens of projects. What if you could centralize and streamline title management, gain visibility into individual workloads, and never miss a beat when team members are out? That’s exactly what Monroe Jett envisioned when he launched Title Leader.

After 35 years in banking and title services, Monroe saw firsthand the need to modernize industry practices. Now his SaaS platform is revolutionizing title automation and winning over major renewable energy developers. In this episode, Monroe explains the title search process, the advantages of automation, and how Title Leader is accelerating the energy transition.

NOTE that there is a Clean Power Hour LIVE event featuring Monroe Jett and Mike Koehler on Feb 27, 2024: Accelerate Solar Project Development by Streamlining the Solar Title Process | Register Here

In our discussion, Monroe highlights the key pain points developers face today trying to track searches across multiple projects and employees. Title Leader eliminates these through shared access and visibility into individual workflows. It standardizes naming conventions, stores all documents and communications securely in the cloud and enables continuity when team members are out.

If you're ready to accelerate your title workflow, reduce friction, gain insights, and boost productivity, don't miss this interview.

Key Takeaways

1. What are the current manual title search workflows' main pain points and inefficiencies?
2. How specifically does Title Leader's platform streamline and automate the title search process?
3. What key advantages does Title Leader offer over spreadsheets and other ad-hoc tracking methods?
4. What new search options and product features have Title Leader added to better serve solar developers?
5. How is Title Leader integrating with other platforms to streamline back-office functions?

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Monroe Jett
Title Leader
Webinar

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

In this episode, Tim Montague interviews Marc Palmer, CEO and Co-Founder of Conductor Solar, a platform that aims to accelerate commercial and community solar deals by connecting solar developers and investors to streamline project financing.  Marc is a repeat guest on the show and one of the nicest people in solar. He cut his teeth on the solar industry working for Invenergy in Chicago - one of the US's largest wind and solar developers.

NOTE that there is a Clean Power Hour LIVE event featuring Marc Palmer and Nick Perugini on Feb 21, 2024: C&I Solar PPAs - Best Practices and Success Stories | Register Here

As co-founder and CEO of Conductor Solar, Marc Palmer brings extensive experience in renewable energy project finance and development to the company. With over $1.5 billion raised for clean energy projects, Marc recognized the major roadblocks to funding and building commercial and community solar projects. He founded Conductor to develop software solutions to streamline solar financing and reduce soft costs, enabling more solar projects to move forward. Marc's background in structuring and executing complex energy deals gives him valuable insight into the solar industry's needs. As CEO, he sets the strategy and vision for Conductor Solar to make commercial and community solar more accessible and affordable.

Conductor Solar is a platform to accelerate your commercial and community solar deals:
- Dozens of professional investors with gigawatts of project experience and billions of dollars deployed
- Multiple financing options for every deal
- One source for streamlined project financing
- Tools for analysis and deal acceleration
- Software-enabled efficiency and consistency across project types

Key topics covered in this episode:

- The challenges developers face in financing commercial and community solar projects, including finding the right financing products and trusted partners.
- Using Conductor's platform to get estimated PPA rates to aid initial customer conversations and filter potential deals.
- Key considerations for investors in evaluating project attractiveness.

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Marc Palmer
Conductor Solar

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The solar industry in Illinois has come a long way over the past decade, but its continued growth relies on overcoming legislative and regulatory challenges. In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague talks with Michelle Knox, owner of Wind Solar USA and former Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) board member, about the organization's crucial role in protecting and advancing rooftop solar across the state.

Michelle has been in the solar industry since 2008, starting her company to provide sustainability and energy self-sufficiency to homeowners, businesses, and farms. She shares her perspective on how the Illinois solar market has grown and matured over the past decade thanks to legislation like FEJA and CEJA.

Michelle discusses her experience serving on the board of ISEA and the importance of the organization in advancing rooftop solar through policy and advocacy work. She talks about ISEA's role in protecting net metering when policies have been threatened by utilities hitting net metering caps prematurely. Michelle also touches on the value of ISEA for solar businesses and customers, from educational resources to having a voice in key legislation and rules that shape the state's solar industry.

Michelle reflects on the economic impact of the industry's growth, going from a one-woman company to now employing multiple teams across central and southern Illinois. The conversation explores the opportunities and challenges still facing the solar market in Illinois as the state works towards its renewable energy goals.

The key to achieving Illinois' 100% renewable energy goal is ensuring the policy landscape continues to evolve through the collective voice and expertise of groups like ISEA.

Key Takeaways

1. What role has the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) played in advancing solar policy in the state?
2. How does ISEA help protect net metering policies from utility efforts to undermine rooftop solar?
3. What educational resources and advocacy does ISEA provide to solar companies and customers in Illinois?
4. How can Illinois meet its renewable energy goals?

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Wind Solar USA
Michelle Knox
ISEA

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The Inflation Reduction Act has supercharged clean energy investment in the US through generous tax credits for renewable energy projects. But monetizing those credits can be cumbersome, especially for smaller project developers. My guests today are working to change that.

In this episode of The Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague speaks with Erik Underwood and Derek Silverman, co-founders of Basis Climate, about their new platform designed to help streamline and democratize tax credit transfers for clean energy projects.

Erik Underwood has spent his career developing, investing in, and operating sustainable infrastructure projects across the world for developers and private equity investors alike. Erik formerly worked at Aela Energia, Marathon Capital, and Mainstream Renewable Power.

Derek Silverman is a software engineer turned product manager, Derek was on the founding team at CrowdTangle, a social media analytics tool acquired by Facebook in 2016. Before forming Basis, he was leading product at Rewiring America.

Together they saw an opportunity to leverage technology to make tax credit transactions more efficient, enabling faster deployment of clean energy capital. They discuss how tax credit transfers work.

Erik and Derek explain how their platform brings buyers and sellers together to facilitate these transactions, reducing friction through standardized diligence checklists, documentation, and processes. They highlight how Basis Climate is focused on democratizing access to tax equity, allowing smaller project developers to tap this market rather than having to sell projects to larger players.

Erik and Derek touch on how they are expanding beyond solar, wind, and storage to support other IRA clean energy tax credits.

Key Takeaways

1. How exactly do tax credit transfers work for clean energy projects?
2. What are the key steps in the tax credit transfer process?
3. How can tax credit transfers allow smaller developers to tap tax equity?
4. What other clean energy tax credits will Basis Climate support besides solar, wind, and storage?

Social Media Handles
Basis Climate LinkedIn
Basis Climate
Basis Climate X

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The solar industry is constantly evolving. With new technologies, regulations, and business models emerging every year, it can be challenging for solar companies to keep up. That's where joining your state's solar energy association can make all the difference. In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague talks with Lewis Butler, head of sales and business development at Nelnet Renewable Energy and board member of the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA). He discusses his journey in the industry, including how he first got involved with ISEA.

Want to learn more about working in the Illinois solar market or joining the Illinois Solar Energy Association? Book a meeting with Tim here. Tim Montague has been designing, developing, and installing C&I and community solar projects in Illinois since 2016. He can help your company find the resources, installers, policy experts, and service providers you need to be successful in Illinois.

Lewis highlights the relationships, network, visibility, policy advocacy, and knowledge sharing that ISEA facilitates for its members. For solar companies operating in Illinois, Lewis points to a bevy of benefits of ISEA membership including:

• Access to a network of industry professionals and experts who can provide advice, support, and connections. 
• Having a voice and input into policy and legislation that impacts the solar industry in Illinois.
• Events and networking opportunities to build relationships with other solar companies and professionals in person.
• Getting listed in the ISEA member directory which helps companies be visible and found by others in the industry. 
• Staying up to date on the evolving solar policy landscape in Illinois which is not static. ISEA helps members navigate changes.
• Learning about new technologies and industry trends from other experienced members.

To learn more about ISEA and working in Illinois, reach out to Tim [email tim at cleanpowerhour.com] or book a meeting at https://calendly.com/tim-montague/isea-membership-discussion. 

Lewis Butler
Nelnet
Nelnet LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 provides major incentives and tax credits to accelerate the clean energy transition in the United States. But how can solar, storage, and electrification companies take advantage of the IRA? In this episode, Tim Montague talks with Jamie Skaar, founder and CEO of Luna Energy, about the opportunities and challenges in implementing the IRA.

Jamie explains how solar installers can expand their businesses by adding energy storage, heat pumps, building upgrades, and other electrification technologies. He advises thinking through your local market - the demographics, income levels, and available incentives - rather than jumping into a new service area blindly. We discuss the huge market potential in electrification. With the right long-term vision, Jamie sees companies emerging as "electrification brands" that homeowners trust for their whole energy transition.

Tim and Jamie also talk through actionable tips for contractors, from incentives to serve low-income households to designing multi-year electrification projects. With over $370 billion for energy and climate initiatives, the IRA provides immense opportunities for enterprising solar, storage, and electrification companies. Tune in to get valuable insights on planning your business strategy to maximize benefits from the historic IRA legislation.

Key Takeaways

1. How can solar companies expand their services to take advantage of IRA incentives beyond just solar PV?
2. What strategies can solar contractors use to serve low-to-moderate-income households under the IRA?
3. How can solar contractors structure multi-year projects to provide ongoing value under the IRA?
4. How can solar contractors position their businesses competitively using the new IRA incentives?
5. What digital platforms and tools can help solar contractors navigate local incentives and rebates?

Jamie Skaar
Jamie Contact

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Hawaii is a living laboratory for the future of solar, storage, EVs, and grid innovation. Today on The Clean Power Hour, hosts Josh Porter and Jason Verkaart of the SolarCoaster podcast join Tim Montague and share their in-depth knowledge of Hawaii's clean energy landscape.

Josh and Jason explain how Hawaii's high electricity rates, plentiful solar resources, and early adoption of a 100% renewable energy mandate, drove the growth of the solar industry in the state. Net metering helped catalyze residential solar adoption initially, but as solar penetration increased net metering rules changed, leading to non-injection rules meaning solar electrons had to be captured by a battery to meet the code.

We discuss the challenges with siting and developing large-scale renewable energy projects to help meet Hawaii's goals. Only a fraction of the planned solar and storage projects from recent utility RFPs are likely to get built.

We also talk extensively about the potential for vehicle-to-grid integration and bidirectional EV charging to provide grid services and resilience. With large EV batteries, bidirectional chargers, and smart controls, EVs could play a major role in the renewable energy future. Recovery from the recent catastrophic fires in Maui (where Josh and Jason reside) was augmented by the presence of battery banks deployed to provide backup power.

And finally, we geek out on the upcoming RE+ Hawaii conference which Josh and Jason have partnered with to bring together clean energy professionals dedicated to overcoming challenges and discovering business opportunities unique to Hawaii. Use code COASTER15 to get a discount on the RE+ event.
Key Takeaways

1. Why has Hawaii been a leader in rooftop solar adoption?
2. How are changes to net metering impacting Hawaii's solar industry and residential systems?
3. How can electric vehicles and bidirectional charging support the energy transition?
4. How can events and dialogues like RE+ Hawaii drive continued progress?

SolarCoaster Podcast
Josh Porter
Jason Verkaart
RE+ Hawaii Event

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Just a decade ago, solar installation costs were a whopping $15 per watt. Today, prices have plunged below $3 per watt, thanks to the cost adoption curve. Illinois is now a top 10 solar state. But the meteoric growth didn't happen by chance. Behind the scenes, the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) has been working for years to clear obstacles, influence policymakers, and pave the way for the industry’s success.

On today's episode, Tim Montague interviews Lisa Albrecht, owner of All Bright Solar and a long-standing Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) board member. Lisa gives us an inside look at the association’s efforts to make the state a solar leader while empowering businesses small and large.

We discuss the evolution of the solar industry in Illinois, from the early days of $15/watt to today's market transformed by legislation like CEJA. Lisa shares her journey into solar starting from childhood science fair projects and how she first got involved with ISEA in 2007.

Hear Lisa's perspective on the importance of trade associations like ISEA for networking, education, and advocacy. She talks about the value of the ISEA policy committee and lobbying days for influencing solar policy in the state. Lisa also emphasizes that the voices of local businesses are critical for identifying issues and being heard by lawmakers.

Learn more about Albright Solar's approach to designing, pricing, and servicing solar systems as an independent solar consultant advocating for customers.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the Illinois solar market and how you can get involved in moving the industry forward through organizations like ISEA.

Key Takeaways

1. What role has ISEA played in the growth of solar in Illinois over the past 15 years?
2. How does ISEA give members a voice to influence policymakers and remove obstacles?
3. What educational opportunities does ISEA provide?
4. What is ISEA's role in lobbying and advancing solar legislation in Illinois?
5. How does Lisa describe the camaraderie and spirit of collaboration within ISEA and the broader solar industry?

Lisa Albrecht
ISEA
All Bright Solar

Lis

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific

This week John Weaver and I were joined by Sean White and we discussed,
1. Solar industry trends in 2024, including energy storage and labor shortages.
2. Solar energy deployment projections.
3. Renewable energy sources and their potential to power the grid.
4. Battery technology, solar power, and energy policy in California.
5. Energy storage technology and tax credits.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Happy New Year Folks. The clean energy industry is booming, with projections to double by 2030. This rapid growth represents an immense opportunity for the over 200,000 service members transitioning from the military to civilian life every year. Helping veterans translate their skills and find purposeful work is crucial, and this week's Clean Power Hour dives into how.

On this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague speaks with Jana Toner, Senior Vice President at American Corporate Partners (ACP), a nonprofit that helps veterans transition to civilian careers.

They discuss the challenges veterans face when leaving military service and entering the job market, including translating their skills and building a professional network. ACP provides veterans with mentorships from business professionals to help guide their career goals.

Jana explains how ACP's model connects veterans with volunteer mentors from major companies across industries, including clean energy leaders like NextEra.

Tim shares insights from mentoring two veterans himself. He encourages veterans to embrace a networking mindset, constantly building connections and knowledge to uncover opportunities. Tim sees huge potential for veterans to leverage their leadership abilities in the rapidly expanding clean energy industry.

Jana and Tim explore how individuals and companies of all sizes can get involved with ACP's programs to support veterans. They agree that veterans bring tremendous value through their service, and civilians should help them transition successfully to impactful civilian careers.

Key Takeaways

1. How does ACP help veterans translate their military skills into civilian roles?
2. What mentorship model does ACP use to guide veterans' career goals?
3. How can individuals and companies get involved with ACP to support veterans?
4. How can civilians and companies best recognize veterans' service and promote their successful transitions?
5. What are some of the key skills veterans can leverage in the clean energy sector?

Jana Toner
American Corporate Partners
ACP LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

The Illinois solar market has exploded in recent years thanks to favorable state policies, turning the state into a national leader in renewable energy. Today on the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague talks with Brian Haug, President of Continental Energy Solutions. Brian is a past President of the board of ISEA, the Illinois Solar Energy Association, and an early adopter of solar in Illinois since 2008. We discuss the growth he has witnessed in Illinois Solar and why it is crucial for industry players to engage with the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA).

We discuss how policies like the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and the Climate and Equitable Jobs ACT (CEJA) have spurred solar development and made Illinois a top ten DG market.

Brian explains why it's important for companies in the Illinois solar industry to get involved with ISEA. The organization has been instrumental in crafting solar-friendly policies in the state. Membership provides great networking opportunities and a way to stay on top of changes in the market and policies that affect the industry. Tim Montague encourages both existing and prospective members to reach out to him directly to learn more and get more involved.

This insightful discussion sheds light on how vital it is for solar companies to engage with organizations like ISEA advancing the industry's interests. As Illinois' solar success story continues to unfold, there will certainly be challenges ahead that will require a unified voice.

Key Takeaways

1. Why is it important for solar companies to engage with state industry organizations like the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA)?
2. How can existing ISEA members get more involved with the organization?
3. What collaborations are ISEA engaged in to advance solar—at the state policy level and beyond?
4. How might solar policies in Illinois influence other Midwest states' renewable energy trajectories?
5. What networking, advocacy, and educational benefits does ISEA membership provide?

Brian Haug
ISEA
Continental Energy Solutions

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The global rooftop solar PV market was valued at 101 billion USD in 2022 and is expected to hit 435 billion by 2032 (a CAGR of 16% from 2023 to 2032). At the heart of this growth is a company called PanelClaw, the number one flat roof racking maker in the US. My guest today is Costa Nicolaou, CEO of PanelClaw and the man driving some serious innovation. Racking is about much more than just steel rails - as important as those steel components are, especially when they are made in America - there are engineering, permitting, and logistics platforms behind PanelClaw ClawFR that make it so beloved by installers, developers, and asset owners (IPPs). The ultimate form of flattery is mimicry and if you procure rooftop racking you know the mimics are out there!

PanelClaw wasn’t always the dominant player in rooftop racking (check out Round One) but through constant improvement and innovation, PanelClaw has clawed its way to the top of the heap in racking (Polar Bear, Grizzly Bear, Polar Bear II, Kodiak, Sun Bear, Polar Bear III…ClawFR) and more importantly made innovation their lifeblood. Innovation is what sets PanelClaw apart from the pack and we spend a good deal of time exploring ways that the company is solving customer pain points like engineering, permitting, and logistics.

PanelClaw makes hardware for mounting solar panels but they are hardcore about their software platforms which include clawOS and clawLogic. Their clawOS is an all-in-one design, engineering, and permitting platform so you can get these megawatts of large rooftop solar permitted and installed faster. And you can track your orders with clawLogic down to the pallet so there are fewer supply chain surprises.

Costa explains how PanelClaw focuses solely on rooftop C&I racking solutions to be the best in the industry. He talks about constantly innovating new products so that competitors are always trying to catch up. Whether you are an installer, developer, or financier of commercial solar, this episode provides key insights on how to grow a successful hardware powerhouse for the energy transition.

PanelClaw
Costa Nicolaou

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific

This week John Weaver and I were joined by Sean White and we discussed,
1. The US offshore wind industry faces a moment of reckoning
2. We discuss the newly launched Cybertruck
3. Solar electricity as a part of all electricity up 16% in 2023 so far, next year a big pop expected with 33 GW being deployed this year
4. Wind and solar to pass coal in 2024

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The Illinois solar industry is booming thanks to forward-thinking policies like the Future Energy Jobs Act and the recent Climate & Equitable Jobs Act. Solar companies looking to tap into this growth market must engage locally to capitalize on opportunities fully. That's why joining the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) can pay dividends through supporting pro-solar advocacy, making Springfield connections, navigating policy complexities, and accessing the stakeholder network.

Today on the Clean Power Hour, ISEA Board President Kevin Borgia makes the case for solar companies of all sizes to get involved with the only organization providing that unique blend of Illinois intelligence, relationship building, and collective clout.

Kevin Borgia, VP of External Affairs and Policy at SunVest Solar, joins host Tim Montague to discuss the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA). They talk about the exponential growth of the solar industry in Illinois over the past 5 years thanks to legislation like the Future Energy Jobs Act and the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act.

Kevin outlines key benefits of joining ISEA for solar companies looking to grow in Illinois, including supporting pro-solar policies through advocacy and lobbying days in Springfield, gaining crucial intelligence about navigating the complex Illinois energy market, networking with other local players at ISEA's monthly solar social events, and more.

If you are a solar company interested in engaging with the policy process and networking in the thriving Illinois market, be sure to contact Tim and consider becoming a member.

Key Takeaways

1. What unique benefits does joining the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) offer solar companies looking to tap into Illinois' growth market?
2. Why is it important for solar companies to engage in collective advocacy and policy-making through groups like ISEA?
3. What are some of ISEA's member offerings like networking events and Springfield lobby days?
4. How has the mix of policies like FEJA and CEJA succeeded in unlocking transformative solar growth over the past decade in Illinois?

ISEA
Kevin Borgia

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Installing solar PV on commercial buildings can significantly reduce electricity costs but it requires careful coordination with roof repairs and replacements. Today on the Clean Power Hour, experts from the solar and roofing industries advise facility owners and contractors on best practices for integrated solar roof projects. The speakers include Daniel Sammon from Douglass Colony, a major roofing and solar contractor in Denver Colorado, and Peter Bonavita from Sika Sarnafil, a leading roofing products manufacturer.

Daniel provides an overview of commercial rooftop solar - what it is, why it's becoming more popular, factors to consider like roof condition and ability to handle added weight, mounting system options, incentives, project timelines, and costs. He stresses the importance of coordinating roof replacements or repairs with solar installations to maximize solar panel lifespan. Daniel also covers special solar incentives for nonprofits and rural businesses.

Peter introduces Sika Sarnafil's innovative SSM solar racking system that integrates directly with their PVC roofing membrane. He explains unique benefits like not requiring roof penetrations, weighing only 3.5 lbs per square foot, and being included in the roof warranty. The system is FM Global-approved and easy to install. Peter also discusses retrofitting solar onto older roofs and the challenges of solarizing roofs over 10 years old.

This episode provides excellent advice for facility owners and contractors interested in rooftop solar. It covers technical considerations, financial incentives, project planning, and more. With strong federal tax credits and rising energy prices, now is an ideal time to go solar.

Key Takeaways

1. What roof conditions allow for solar installation? 
2. What solar mounting options work best?
3. How can you maximize financial incentives for solar?
4. What does the solar project development process look like?
5. What innovative mounting solutions are available?

Daniel Sammon
Douglass Colony
Peter Bonavita
Sika Sa

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The clean energy transition requires an unprecedented deployment of wind, solar, storage, and emerging technologies across the globe. However, friction and complexity in financing these projects remain key obstacles to reaching scale. Our guest today sees a major opportunity for software innovation to unlock abundant capital and accelerate the energy transition. Today on the Clean Power Hour Tim Montague interviews Amanda Li, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Banyan Infrastructure, an innovative software platform aiming to accelerate and simplify project finance for the clean energy transition.

Amanda has an impressive background, serving as the 3rd employee and first non-founder at Generate Capital, a leading sustainable infrastructure investment firm started by solar industry legend Jigar Shah. At Generate, Amanda saw firsthand the difficulties and inefficiencies in financing renewable energy projects. She co-founded Banyan in 2018 to streamline and standardize the project finance process, making clean energy investing accessible for more participants.

In this episode, Amanda explains how Banyan's software Platform reduces costs, quickens processes, and enables liquidity across the project lifecycle - from origination to risk management. Banyan aims to automate manual workflows plagued by spreadsheets while also providing portfolio analytics and compliance tools.

Amanda sees abundant opportunities to accelerate solar, wind, storage, and emerging technologies under the landmark Inflation Reduction Act. However, she notes the IRA's benefits also introduce complexities around tax credit eligibility and reporting. Banyan seeks to simplify IRA compliance to maximize the law’s impact.

Key Takeaways

1. How specifically does Banyan Infrastructure's platform streamline workflows and reduce costs for asset owners, developers, and investors in renewable projects?
2. What is Banyan's long-term vision for transforming clean energy project finance? What does success look like in 5-10 years?
3. What innovative data products could come from aggregating project performance data on Banyan's platform?
4. Why should renewable energy developers and funds think "digital first" and adopt modern software early instead of relying on spreadsheets?

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The promise of "clean" natural gas has led many U.S. utilities to bet big on gas infrastructure, but how clean is gas? In this episode, we dive into the risks utilities are taking with massive investments in natural gas, which may be far worse for the climate than coal once methane leakage is accounted for. Expert Nancy LaPlaca joins us to expose the flaws in utility decision-making and regulators' failure to hold them accountable.

Nancy LaPlaca is an expert on regulatory policy and a leading consultant to clean energy organizations. She has over 15 years of experience advocating for renewable energy and challenging the fossil fuel industry. Nancy has worked extensively with utility regulators in Arizona and Illinois to advance solar power and energy efficiency policies.

On this episode of The Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague talks with Nancy about the risks utilities take by investing heavily in natural gas infrastructure. They discuss how natural gas is not the clean fuel it's made out to be, with high methane leakage rates making it potentially worse for the climate than coal.

Nancy provides an insider's perspective on working with utility regulators, and how they are failing to hold utilities accountable as they lock in long-term natural gas dependence.

Other topics covered include the limits of state Renewable Portfolio Standards without clear implementation paths, how monopoly utilities use complexity and influence to maintain control, how net metering policies make or break distributed solar, and the critical importance of public engagement and advocacy at Public Utility Commissions to drive the renewable transition.

Key Takeaways

1. How much worse is natural gas for the climate compared to coal when you account for methane leakage?
2. What are some of the limits of Renewable Portfolio Standards if states lack clear implementation pathways?
3. How do net metering policies in states help or hurt the growth of distributed solar?
4. How can the public play a greater role in getting utilities to embrace renewable energy?
5. What can clean energy advocates do to engage Public Utility Commissions and drive the clean energy transition?

Nancy LaPlaca

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The renewable energy transition requires a massive overhaul of power grid operations and infrastructure. While utilities will play a critical role in this transformation, many face challenges integrating distributed resources like rooftop solar, batteries, and electric vehicles. How can legacy grid operators embrace the distributed energy future? Our guest today, Astrid Atkinson, believes new software systems are the answer.

In this episode, Tim Montague is joined by Astrid Atkinson, founder and CEO of Camus Energy. She shares how her company equips utilities with the visibility, analytics, and control capabilities needed to orchestrate a dynamic, decarbonized grid. With deep experience building large-scale computing systems at Google, she's now applying cloud principles to help utilities navigate the coming wave of electrification.

We discuss the challenges many utilities face integrating solar, wind, EVs, and other distributed energy resources (DERs) into their existing grid infrastructure and business models. Astrid explains how Camus's software gives utilities more visibility into DERs in their service territory and helps orchestrate these assets for reliability and cost optimization.

Astrid provides examples of how municipal utilities and rural electric co-ops use Camus to balance increasing local solar with new industrial load growth while keeping costs low for customers. She discusses the industry transformation required to operate a dynamic, distributed grid and how improved data visibility and AI will be critical enablers.

Key Takeaways

1. How can legacy utilities successfully transition to a distributed, renewable grid?
2. What are the main challenges utilities face with more renewable generation and DERs?
3. Why are some utilities more motivated to embrace DERs than others?
4. How can utilities manage exponential EV charging load growth?
5. What can we learn from early utility adopters of DER integration solutions?

Astrid Atkinson
Camus Energy
Camus Energy LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The Biden administration has set an ambitious goal of decarbonizing the US grid by 2035. Achieving this target will require rapidly scaling up renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and battery storage. The DOE has a little-known office called the Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) that “accelerates the advancement and deployment of solar technology in support of an equitable transition to a decarbonized economy.”

Today on the Clean Power Hour, we bring you Dr. Becca Jones-Albertus, head of SETO, to give an insider’s perspective on initiatives to build the solar workforce of tomorrow, address permitting and interconnection barriers, advance solar technologies, and more.

In this episode, Jones-Albertus discusses the office's work on advancing solar panel technologies, building the next-generation solar workforce, and leading projects like SolarAPP to streamline local solar permitting.

Jones-Albertus also shares her outlook on the impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act, including the growth of US manufacturing, microgrids, thermal technologies, and more. She provides an update on progress made through DOE partnerships and funding opportunities across concentrating solar power, photovoltaics, systems integration, and beyond.

Tune in to hear Jones-Albertus' insights on how her office at DOE is speeding the transition to a carbon-free power sector through both technology innovation and rapid deployment of solar energy.

Key Takeaways

1. How has the Inflation Reduction Act impacted the solar industry and the DOE's work?
2. How does the Solar Energy Technologies Office budget break down in terms of programs and focus areas?
3. What is the DOE doing to address the major backlog in solar interconnection queues?
4. What is the future potential of concentrating solar thermal technologies?
5. How is the SolarAPP permitting software platform progressing in terms of adoption?

Becca Jones-Albertus
Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office
DoE LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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The residential solar market has come a long way since the early 2000s, but there's still ample room for growth. Our guest today on the Clean Power Hour is a true veteran of the industry who's been innovating in rooftop solar for over 14 years. Dave Anderson, founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Complete Solaria, joins Tim Montague to discuss the evolution of financing models, the importance of trusted advisors, and his company's unique partnership strategy to accelerate residential solar adoption.

Complete Solaria is bringing a vertically integrated approach to residential solar, enabling HVAC, security, and other home service companies to easily add solar to their product mix. As founder of Complete Solaria, Dave is pushing rooftop solar forward through strategic partnerships that make it easy for home service companies to add solar.

In this episode, Dave recounts his journey into solar, beginning in a Montana coal town and later building one of California's largest rooftop solar installers. He shares observations on how much the industry has evolved, the rise of financing options, and why a personalized sales approach still dominates.

Looking ahead, Dave discusses the accelerating trend of pairing solar with batteries, innovations like virtual power plants, and the impacts of policy shifts like NEM 3.0. While the market still has ample room to grow, Complete Solaria is driving adoption by allowing HVAC, security, and other home service companies to offer solar seamlessly.

If you're interested in the past, present, and future of residential solar, you won't want to miss Dave's insights from the frontlines of this fast-changing industry.

Key Takeaways

1. What major changes has Dave observed in the solar industry after 14+ years?
2. How is Complete Solaria partnering with home service companies to drive solar adoption?
3. What is the accelerating trend of pairing solar installations with batteries?
4. What impacts is California's shift to NEM 3.0 having on rooftop solar?
5. How are financing options like PPAs and leases making rooftop solar more accessible?

Dave Anderson
Complete Solar

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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How is one of the world's leading engineering firms driving the clean energy revolution? Today on the Clean Power Hour Patrick Hogan, Chief Client Officer at Black & Veatch, joins Tim Montague to discuss how utilities and other stakeholders can work together to green the grid by 2035. He provides insights from Black & Veatch's 2023 Electric Report survey of over 650 utility professionals.

Black & Veatch is one of the world's leading global engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms specializing in building critical infrastructure across the energy, water, telecommunications, and government services sectors.

In this episode, hear how Patrick went from chemist to leading sustainability investments, before joining Black & Veatch to enable the energy transition. He shares findings from their 2023 Electric Report surveying utility professionals on integrating renewables, hydrogen's potential for low-carbon dispatchable power, the need for distributed and resilient microgrids, and preparing the grid for massive electrification.

One staggering statistic discussed during the episode is the 2000+ GW of planned power awaiting interconnection approval. Patrick sheds light on the lengthy 5+ year process that often causes significant delays in bringing clean energy projects online.

The conversation also touches upon various technologies shaping the clean energy landscape, including hydrogen, nuclear power, and energy storage. Patrick provides valuable insights into their potential and how they can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Key Takeaways

1. How is Black & Veatch enabling the global energy transition as a leading EPC firm?
2. What are the main challenges and opportunities for utilities integrating more renewable energy today?
3. What emerging technologies like hydrogen and nuclear offer dispatchable low-carbon energy?
4. What is Black & Veatch's perspective on the role of natural gas as a bridge fuel?
5. What is Black & Veatch's outlook on the feasibility of green hydrogen scaling up affordably?

Patrick Hogan
Black and Veatch
B

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, Hugh McDermott, Senior VP of Sales at ESS Inc., joins Tim Montague for an illuminating conversation on long-duration energy storage.

Hugh has dedicated his entire career to the energy transition. He shares how he went from advising companies on cleantech to developing infrastructure for conventional power, and now innovating at the cutting edge with energy storage.

We dive into the inner workings of ESS's iron flow battery technology. Unlike lithium-ion, iron flow can cycle thousands of times without degradation, uses earth-abundant materials without supply chain issues, and is safer with easier permitting.

Hugh explains how ESS batteries enable multiple use cases and business models on a single project. He highlights groundbreaking deployments like powering electric jetways at Amsterdam's airport.

We discuss ESS's milestone partnerships with utilities like SMUD and industrials like Honeywell, as they scale up gigawatt-hour production in Oregon and ramp to meet unprecedented long-duration storage demand.

Join us for an insightful chat with a renewable energy veteran at the forefront of the iron-flow battery revolution!

Key Takeaways

1. How does an iron flow battery work and what are its components?
2. What are the major benefits of iron flow batteries compared to lithium-ion for long-duration storage?
3. What innovative use cases can iron flow batteries unlock that wasn't possible before?
4. What were some key challenges ESS had to solve to commercialize iron flow technology?
5. How can combining renewables with long-duration storage help decarbonize the grid?
6. How do iron flow batteries compare to lithium-ion regarding safety and sustainability?

Hugh McDermott
ESS Inc
Ess Inc LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour Tim Montague is joined by Tyler Hortin, president and co-founder of Lion Energy. Lion Energy is an American company focused on making smart energy storage solutions to enable buildings and homes to become energy-independent. They manufacture lithium-ion phosphate batteries and battery control systems that can store solar or grid power, provide backup electricity, and optimize energy use.

Tyler Hortin co-founded Lion Energy in order to help buildings become energy-independent with solar and battery storage. He started Lion Energy based on a shortage of quality energy storage products and a belief in the massive opportunity for home and building batteries.

Tim and Tyler discuss the growing need for energy storage to pair with solar systems. They discuss Lion Energy's focus on safe, American-made lithium ion phosphate batteries. Tyler explains how Lion's products like their Sanctuary home battery system can enable resilient off-grid solar+storage and optimize energy use through smart battery management.

Tim and Tyler also explore how Lion is expanding into larger commercial, industrial, and utility-scale storage projects beyond their residential battery roots. They talk about how adding EV charging increases home energy demand and the importance of smart charging with batteries. Tyler outlines the value stack of batteries in places like California where time-of-use rates make solar+storage more affordable.

Overall, they have an in-depth discussion about how Lion Energy's innovative American-engineered battery products are powering the clean energy transition across homes, businesses, and the electrical grid.

Key Takeaways

1. What is Lion Energy's focus and what products do they offer?
2. How can Lion's Sanctuary system enable home solar + storage?
3. How can energy storage create stability in an unstable utility landscape?
4. How does adding EVs impact home energy demand?
5. What is the value stack of batteries in markets like California?

Tyler Hortin
Lion Energy LinkedIn
Lion Energy

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague speaks with Gregor Macdonald, author of Oil Fall (ebook) and The Gregor Letter, a weekly publication about the global energy transition. Gregor provides a big-picture perspective on how wind, solar, batteries, and electric vehicles are disrupting the fossil fuel industry.

Gregor Macdonald became interested in energy and the energy transition after moving to London and seeing oil prices hit historic lows in the late 1990s. This led him to start researching and trading oil, natural gas, and related commodities. After writing about energy markets for years, he launched the popular energy transition newsletter The Gregor Letter, which provides a big picture, global perspective on the shifts from fossil fuels to clean energy informed by economic history and a macro view.

In this episode we discuss the economics driving EV adoption, how legacy automakers have struggled to compete with Tesla, and why the US is lagging behind Europe and China. Gregor explains his view that global oil demand growth has likely peaked, but true declines in emissions will take a concerted effort across electricity, transportation, and industry.

He highlights India's failure to build enough renewables and America's lack of policy on transportation emissions as key problems. We also cover the tremendous economic opportunity of the energy transition, how to ensure a just transition for workers, and the potential role of green hydrogen.

Don't miss this conversation with Gregor Macdonald, an esteemed energy journalist and author renowned for his global perspective on the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.

Key Takeaways

1. What are the differences in how Europe and the US are tackling transportation emissions?
2. What needs to happen for hydrogen production to take off in the future?
3. How did Gregor Macdonald first get interested in energy and the energy transition?
4. What are the challenges for legacy automakers in transitioning to EVs versus Tesla?
5. How can the energy transition be an economic opportunity and wealth-creation event?

The Gregor Letter

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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LG Electronics has re-entered the renewable energy space with a new residential battery storage system called LG Home ESS. Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague is joined by Jim Brown, Senior Account Manager at LG Electronics, to discuss LG's journey into clean energy and the details around their new LG Home battery system.

Jim has been in the solar industry for 14 years, starting in solar manufacturing automation with Swiss company Komax Solar where he worked on machinery to interconnect solar cells. He later joined SunPower for 4.5 years in commercial and residential sales before moving to LG Solar during their solar module days. When LG exited the solar module business, Jim moved to their new energy storage division to help launch their Home ESS product in the US market last year.

The LG Home ESS is an AC-coupled lithium-ion battery system with 7.5kW continuous output, 14.4kWh capacity, and unique self-care features for installers and homeowners. This system includes the Home Battery itself, an inverter, a Smart Energy gateway box, and an automatic transfer switch.

Jim explains how Home ESS fits into LG's home appliances and electronics portfolio, their go-to-market strategy through certified installers, and their LG Pro program for exclusive marketing support. He emphasizes the importance of LG's long history and warranty commitment in giving homeowners confidence.

Tune in to hear more about the LG Home Battery system and LG's journey into clean energy.

If you're an installer interested in learning more about bringing LG battery storage to your customers, visit their website at lg.com/us or contact Jim directly at [email protected].

Key Takeaways

1. How does LG provide sales/technical support to installers offering the Home Battery system?
2. What types of integrated automation can LG provide for homes beyond just solar + storage?
3. Does the LG Home Battery system allow for time-of-use optimization to reduce electricity costs?
4. What connectivity protocols and remote monitoring does LG offer for installers to manage the Home Battery?

LG
Jim Brown

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Chris Thompson, VP of Product at SolarEdge to discuss SolarEdge's innovative approach to solar optimization, Chris' fascinating career journey in clean energy, and how he eventually landed at SolarEdge. 

Chris Thompson has had a lifelong fascination with electrical power systems. He started his career in the 1990s working on uninterruptible power supplies and data center power systems. In the early 2000s, Chris joined a venture capital firm that invested in some of the first solar startups and innovative battery companies like A123.

Chris later joined solar inverter companies like Xantrex and helped push the industry toward module-level electronics and power optimization. After learning the hard lessons of solar evolution, Chris brought his expertise to SolarEdge over 3 years ago. He has helped the company expand its optimized inverter systems to new power classes for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects.

Chris explains how SolarEdge's module-level power electronics regulate voltage and provide valuable module-level data. He also discusses how their highly efficient inverters and optimizers are designed to withstand extreme rooftop temperatures.

We also discuss trends like electric vehicle charging integration and software platforms that connect solar, storage, and building controls.

If you want to understand SolarEdge's unique approach to solar and hear from one of the industry's veterans, don't miss this great episode!

Key Takeaways

1. What is the origin story behind SolarEdge's DC-optimized inverter architecture?
2. How does SolarEdge's system maximize energy harvest and reliability compared to microinverters?
3. How is SolarEdge using module-level data across residential, commercial, and utility solar?
4. How is SolarEdge innovating on safety, such as with connector temperature monitoring?
5. What is SolarEdge's vision for integrated platforms across solar, storage, EVs, and building controls?
6. How does Chris view the evolution of the solar industry over his long career?

Chris Thompson
SolarEdge

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, Bharat Bhut, founder and director of Indian solar panel manufacturer Goldi Solar, joins Tim Montague to discuss the growth of solar manufacturing in India, their expansion in the US, and what the future holds for Goldi Solar.

Bharat grew up in a small village with a family background in agriculture and manufacturing. After getting his MBA in London, Bharat returned to India to start an innovative business rather than join the family diamond business. In 2010, he saw the huge potential in solar and wanted to create a sustainable, long-term enterprise.

Goldi Solar started manufacturing solar panels in India in 2011 and has grown to be one of the leading producers with 4GW capacity. The company makes solar panels for utility, commercial/industrial, agricultural, and residential customers and has been exporting to Europe, Africa, and the US since 2013. Bharat outlines Goldi Solar's ambitions to continue growing, integrating vertically, and expanding into green hydrogen production.

Bharat explains how Goldi Solar focuses on quality at every step - procuring the best materials, controlling the production process, and deploying the latest technologies. This manufacturing excellence differentiates Goldi as it enters the competitive US solar market.

Bharat shares his plans to expand Goldi into a fully vertically integrated clean energy company, from solar panels to cells, wafers, polysilicon, and even green hydrogen production.

We discuss the solar market in India, including government targets of 500GW of renewable energy by 2030 and complete decarbonization by 2070.

Key Takeaways

1. What is the current state of the solar market and industry in India?
2. What solar products does Goldi Solar manufacture and what technologies do they use?
3. How does Goldi Solar differentiate itself and its products in the competitive solar manufacturing industry?
4. What certifications and testing has Goldi Solar gone through to enter the US solar market?
5. How does Goldi Solar control quality in its manufacturing process?

Bharat Bhut
Goldi Solar

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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There are a few tools in the solar installer’s tool belt that are truly indispensable. Helioscope is one of those tools that are game changing especially for commercial solar installers and developers. Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague is joined by Paul Grana, co-founder and GM of Helioscope, to tell the story of Helioscope from inception to acquisition in 2019 by Aurora Solar.

Grana started his clean energy journey in hardware, working for startups like Tigo (see EP120 for more about Tigo). Seeing inefficiencies in solar design workflows inspired him to build Helioscope in 2015.

Helioscope provides solar installers an intuitive cloud-based design platform that reduces design costs by 90%. By streamlining solar design and sales, Helioscope cuts soft costs and accelerates project development. Grana explains how Helioscope optimizes the entire customer journey from proposal to permitting.

In 2019, Helioscope was acquired by Aurora Solar. This happened because Helioscope was being courted by another suitor and Grana noticed that Aurora did a big capital raise which inspired him to reach out and see if they could do a deal which then happened in a matter of weeks.

Now under Aurora, Helioscope continues innovating solar design through merged capabilities. Grana discusses the future integration of the platforms, while maintaining differences where needed. He emphasizes their focus on user needs to determine shared logins, billing and more.

Grana sees huge potential to further reduce costs through software innovation as solar scales exponentially. By making solar design accessible, collaborative and fast, Helioscope aims to deliver solar energy at the terawatt scale.

Key Takeaways

1. How did Paul Grana transition from solar hardware to realizing major software inefficiencies?
2. Why was Helioscope founded and how does it streamline solar design?
3. What are the unique benefits of Helioscope for commercial and residential solar?
4. How did Helioscope come to be acquired by Aurora Solar?
5. What is the future outlook for integration between Helioscope and Aurora while still meeting user needs?

Paul Grana
Helioscope

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Tigercomm, a leading clean economy communications firm. Tim Montague is joined by Tigercomm founder Mike Casey, Senior Vice President, Melissa Baldwin, and Former Vice President, Mark Sokolove (now with Qcells North America) to reflect on the past two decades disrupting polluting industries and accelerating the clean economy.

In this episode, we learn how Mike started Tigercomm to fill gaps he saw while working in the environmental community: the need to advocate for sustainable solutions, deliver effective narratives, and apply professional communications best practices. The name Tigercomm captures their agile, urgent approach needed to drive change.

Melissa and Mark share how they were drawn to this mission-driven work early in their careers. We hear how Tigercomm became a true extension of clients’ teams, gathering insights across many accounts to develop strategic expertise. Highlights include an event with Governor Schwarzenegger and milestones advancing solar, storage, and manufacturing.

After 20 years, Tigercomm continues empowering talented, passionate teams to put polluters out of business. They strive to make clean economy jobs the best, where people can grow and work well for clients advancing solutions. Congratulations to Mike, Melissa, Mark, and the entire Tigercomm team on this impressive journey so far!

 Key Takeaways

1. How did Tigercomm get started and why was it named that?
2. Why do cleantech companies need PR and marketing partners?
3. What were some career highlights for Mike, Melissa, and Mark?
4. How has clean tech and clean economy communications evolved over 20 years?

Mike Casey
Melissa Baldwin
Mark Sokolove
Tigercomm
Tigercomm LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Terabase Energy is revolutionizing large-scale solar construction with a combination of digital platforms and robotics to reduce costs and accelerate deployment. Today on the Clean Power Hour, Terabase Energy CEO Matt Campbell joins Tim Montague to discuss their groundbreaking construction automation system, featuring a unique blend of physical robots and digital technology.

Discover how Terabase's "pop-up factory" is transforming solar construction by eliminating heavy lifting and reducing worker injuries. Robots take charge of unloading and moving panels, while skilled workers focus on finer assembly tasks. The result? A remarkable 25-50% boost in productivity, with a recent pilot installing a staggering 1300 panels in just one day, all thanks to the power of automation.

But that's not all – Terabase's digital platform takes construction management to the next level. It tracks material flow, optimizes construction sequencing, and provides real-time progress updates, bringing unprecedented visibility to construction sites.

Join us as we explore how Terabase Energy is piloting and refining this cutting-edge system in collaboration with industry giants like First Solar. Their plan for large-scale deployment in 2023 promises not only quality and reliability but also a solution to address labor shortages and reduce costs.

In an era where sustainability is paramount, Terabase Energy's innovative construction automation system could be the game-changer the solar industry needs. Don't miss out on the future of solar construction – watch now! 🌞🤖

Key Takeaways

1. What is Terabase Energy's innovative construction automation system?
2. How does Terabase Energy's "pop-up factory" reduce worker injuries?
3. What benefits does the automation provide?
4. What does the digital tracking platform offer for construction management?
5. What are Terabase Energy's plans for the future, and how does their innovation impact the solar industry?

Terabase Energy
Matt Campbell
Terabase Energy LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, inside CPS America's plans to lead the solar industry. The leadership of CPS America, President and GM Bryan Wagner, VP of Products Anton Patton, and Head of Energy Storage Zhehan Yi join Tim Montague to discuss how CPS America is disrupting the solar industry.

CPS provides string inverters, energy storage systems, and a balance of system components for commercial, industrial, and utility-scale solar projects. Their products enable faster project deployment, higher system performance, and increased reliability compared to central inverter solutions.

In this episode, we explore CPS America's latest achievements, a powerful 275kW inverter, a game-changing 350kW inverter, a 5 MWh battery container, and an 800V AC breaker box. Learn how these innovations are revolutionizing project timelines, reducing delivery times, and driving the adoption of utility-scale solar.

CPS' target audience is engineering, procurement, and construction firms (EPCs) as well as project developers and asset owners in the commercial, industrial, and utility solar markets.

One of CPS America's remarkable strengths is customer retention, boasting an impressive 95% repeat customer rate. Explore how their exceptional service team handles field issues with finesse, ensuring customers always have the support they need.

But that's not all! Stay tuned as we uncover CPS America's bold plans for the future, including a disruptive "whale" of a product aimed at displacing central inverters and their crucial role in the energy storage revolution.

Key Takeaways

1. How has CPS America maintained its position as the #1 market share leader in 3-phase string inverters in North America?
2. What new products has CPS America recently launched, and how are they impacting clean energy projects?
3. What is the potential for utility-scale solar, and how is CPS America positioned to address this opportunity?
4. What are CPS America's strengths in customer support?

CPS America
Bryan Wagner
Anton Patton
Zh

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I were joined by Sean White and we discussed,
1. The events at the just concluded 2023 RE+ Convection
2. White House launches clean energy youth workforce program amid labor shortage concerns
3. We talk about the Erthos technology and what it means to the clean energy revolution
4. Companies that were present at the RE+ and the new upcoming technology

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Sunrun is the largest residential solar company in the US and they pioneered ‘solar as a service.’ They are on pace to install 800 MW of solar in 2023. That’s an astounding 10 percent of the US residential solar market.

Today on the Clean Power Hour, solar policy, batteries, and grid flexibility with Amy Heart, Vice President of Policy at Sunrun. Amy Heart has been a pioneer in renewable energy for over 20 years. She got her start volunteering with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) in the late 1990s, helping build the solar industry in the Midwest. After working with MREA and the City of Milwaukee on solar programs, Amy went to law school and 8 years ago joined Sunrun, the nation's largest residential solar and storage provider.

In this episode, Amy discusses Sunrun's mission to make solar energy accessible through financing options like leasing and loans. This allows more homeowners to go solar with little to no upfront costs. With over 800,000 customers (yes, 800,000), Sunrun has deployed a significant amount of the nation's residential solar. Now with the growth of energy storage, Sunrun is rapidly expanding into solar + storage installations.

Amy shares insights into emerging state solar markets like Illinois, Texas, and Florida. She discusses the importance of foundational policies like net metering to provide market stability. Amy also talks about the shift from net metering to the value of solar tariffs and how that impacts the value proposition of storage.

If you are interested in virtual power plants, residential solar, energy storage, or renewable energy policy, be sure to listen to this episode with Sunrun's Amy Heart!

Key Takeaways

1. What impact are changes to net metering policies having on the solar + storage market?
2. Which states are emerging as hot new solar markets and why?
3. How can virtual power plants leverage distributed solar + storage to benefit the grid?
4. How did Sunrun become the leader in residential solar and what is their business model?

Sunrun
Amy Heart
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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How can we build bridges of understanding to bring more people into the clean energy future? Today on the Clean Power Hour, communicating clean energy solutions through a conservative lens with Kayla Ventura, digital communications manager at the Conservative Energy Network.

Kayla Ventura has dedicated her career to clean energy communications. After working in political campaigns, she found her passion in advocating for the conservative approach to renewable energy. As Digital Communications Manager at the Conservative Energy Network, Kayla helps communicate the benefits of clean energy technologies through a conservative lens.

In this episode, Kayla shares insights from her background in speech training and communications. She discusses tailoring messages to different audiences, from energy professionals to local community members. Kayla stresses the importance of slowing down, minimizing filler words, making eye contact, and finding strength in pauses when speaking.

Kayla also provides an inside look into the Conservative Energy Network's mission and her role leading their podcast. The Conservative Energy Podcast tells stories of their state teams advancing renewable energy projects across America. Kayla spotlights leaders like Ed Rivet, a self-proclaimed "energy geek" passionate about Michigan's clean energy transition.

This conversation highlights practical tips to improve our communication and education around renewable energy.

Key Takeaways

1. How can clean energy advocates better tailor their messaging to connect with diverse audiences?
2. What communication tips help eliminate filler words and improve public speaking skills?
3. How is the Conservative Energy Network bringing conservative perspectives to the renewable energy transition?
4. Why is it so important to urgently deploy renewable energy and storage technologies now?

Kayla Ventura
Conservative Energy Network
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Solar module buyers now have a tool to rapidly assess the total financial impacts of their module selection. Anza’s engine calculates the Effective $/Watt for every PV panel option instantly so buyers can compare and select modules based on total value. Anza’s Effective $/W, combined with your risk and technical requirements, leads to the best module choice. Today on the Clean Power Hour, optimizing procurement in the solar and energy storage industry with Mike Hall, CEO of Anza Renewables.

Mike has a long history in the solar industry, starting Borrego Solar with his brother and friend in 2002 when the US solar market was just 1MW annually. He grew Borrego into an EPC and developer, eventually splitting into three businesses: Borrego, New Leaf Energy, and now Anza Renewables which he founded in 2020.

Anza provides a procurement optimization platform using data and technology to help large-scale buyers of solar modules and energy storage maximize project value. The platform aggregates module and battery pricing and technical data to calculate total lifetime value and make optimal procurement decisions.

Tim Montague and Mike discuss how Anza's platform aggregates pricing, technical, and supply data to calculate total lifetime value. Mike explains how antiquated solar and storage procurement processes are and how Anza brings procurement into the 21st century by centralizing 90% of US supply information and providing actionable intelligence to reduce costs and increase profitability.

Early customers have seen significant value, with over 1GW procured through Anza in 2022. This episode gives great insights into the evolution of solar, the importance of procurement, and how Anza is leveraging data to drive the next phase of renewable energy growth.

Key Takeaways

1. How did the US solar market evolve from just 1 MW annually in 2002 to over 30 GW today?
2. How can data and technology help optimize procurement for solar projects?
3. What does Anza's platform do to improve procurement?
4. What results have Anza's early customers seen so far?

Mike Hall
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Anza Renewables

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Today on the Clean Power Hour, we’re joined by Craig Lewis, founder and executive director of the Clean Coalition, to discuss the advent of community-scale microgrids. These microgrids are a great way to provide resiliency to power outages at the scale of tens of thousands of users and typically provide off-grid operation for key infrastructure like hospitals, community centers, and schools.

The Clean Coalition was established in 2009 following the Enron scandal that rocked California grids. “The Clean Coalition has had a significant impact shaping policies and programs that enable the deployment of clean local energy to address climate change and secure economic, environmental, and resilience benefits for communities."

The Coalition has many accomplishments including:

• Designed and implemented Feed-In Tariff (FIT) programs across the United States, from California to Indiana to Vermont, bringing hundreds of megawatts (MW) of local renewable energy online.
• Established precedent-setting interconnection policy in California, which was adopted by federal energy regulators as a new national standard, making it quicker and cheaper to connect clean local energy projects to the grid.
• Issued studies that influenced major decisions under California regulatory bodies to stall and stop construction in Southern California of gas plants in favor of solar+storage solutions.
• Led the creation of California’s innovative Distribution Resources Planning proceeding, which requires the state’s largest utilities to proactively plan for — and deploy — distributed energy resources (DER), such as local renewables and energy storage.
• Shaped New York’s Reforming the Energy Vision proceeding and received one of the first five NY Prize Community Microgrid Competition grants for our Long Island Community Microgrid Project.

Craig provides unique insight into transitioning our energy system. He shares details on the Clean Coalition’s solar microgrid projects across the country.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Can we actually restore Earth's climate to safe pre-industrial conditions? According to scientist and entrepreneur Peter Fiekowsky, the answer is yes. 

Fiekowsky has developed a framework for vetting climate solutions. His meaningful solutions will be 1.Permanent 2.Scalable 3. Financeable and 4. Practical

Then he created a long list of possible solutions and ran them through his framework. What emerged, and is documented in his book Climate Restoration, are four remedies that will surprise and hopefully delight you.

In order to remove 1 trillion tons of pollution from the atmosphere… We need to do these 4 things:

1.  Synthetic limestone manufacture
2. Seaweed permaculture
3. Ocean Iron Fertilization, OIF
4. Enhanced Atmospheric  methane oxidation EAMO

What's fascinating is that over the course of the past two years since he wrote the book he's whittled the list down to just two of these… can you guess which two? I couldn't.

In this episode, Peter Fiekowsky and I break down his framework and explore the four, now two critical solutions that we humans can apply today to remove excess carbon from the atmosphere. Note that his arrived upon solutions largely mimick natural processes, like the explosion of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 which pumped iron dust into the sky and then the ocean.

Fiekowsky argues that most current climate proposals are too incremental. Instead of just stabilizing today's unsafe CO2 levels, we should boldly aim to get back to under 300 ppm like in pre-industrial times. He makes an optimistic case that for around one billion dollars per year, we could launch natural carbon removal processes to hit that target by 2050.

Fiekowsky delves into how public pressure and endorsements from environmental organizations are key to convincing governments and philanthropists to fund climate restoration.

Key Takeaways

1. What are some key permanent, scalable, financeable methods for removing excess carbon from the atmosphere?
2. How exactly does ocean iron fertilization work to draw down carbon?
3. How can public pressure and endorsements help drive governments and philanthropists to fund climate restoration solutions?

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey.

Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. California utility pays $175,000 settlement for false ‘renewable’ advertising
2. Battery cells back under $100/kWh
3. Floating wind farms have had a capacity factor of 54% over the last five years, higher than France’s nuclear fleet last year
4. 3 to 3.5 GW powerline for $8-10 billion breaks ground in New Mexico, to bring the nation’s largest wind farm electricity to California
5. Q Cells signs an agreement for roughly $3 billion spread over ten years for ~16,000 metric tons of polysilicon/year - roughly 4 cents/Wdc if 2.2 grams per watt of solar. Adding on top of that the $3/kg tax credit and the value per watt of poly is 7 cents.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, the silent revolution in central to string inverters for utility-scale solar. In this episode of The Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Anton Patton, Director of Product Management at CPS America, about the grand transition from central to string inverters in utility-scale solar. Visit CPS America at Booth 2521 sands level 2 at RE+ 2023 to learn more about CPS America.

Anton Patton has over 10 years of experience in the solar industry. He started in engineering roles designing commercial and industrial solar systems before joining CPS America 5 years ago. As Director of Product Management and Applications Engineering at CPS America, Anton helps drive innovation and bring new products to market that advance solar PV technology.

CPS America is the leading three-phase string inverter manufacturer in North America having shipped over 6GW of inverters. Their flagship 250kW string inverter is designed for utility-scale solar plants from 2MW to 2GW.

In this episode, Anton provides an inside look at the major transition happening from central inverters to string inverters in utility-scale solar. He explains key differences in architecture and highlights the benefits of string inverters like improved uptime, data granularity, and design flexibility. Anton also discusses new energy storage products CPS is launching for utility and C&I markets.

He provides insights into CPS's collaborative work culture.  Anton invites listeners to visit CPS at SPI to see new products launching like their 350kW string inverter and 800V balance of system equipment aiding the shift to string inverters.

Key Takeaways

1. What are the main factors driving the adoption of string inverters over central inverters for utility-scale solar plants? 
2. How do the system architecture and equipment differ between central inverter and string inverter systems?
3. What new string inverter and balance of system products is CPS America launching?
4. What energy storage solutions is CPS bringing to market for utility and C&I customers?

Connect with Anton Patton

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey.

Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver, Chris Lettman, and I discuss,
1.  A wind turbine blade struck by lightning
2. Tesla receives approval for 2 virtual power plants in Texas
3. Erthos Flat Solar technology and its impact on the energy transition

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Can solar panels laid flat on the ground unlock the next breakthrough in utility-scale solar? Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Jim Tyler, CEO of Erthos, an innovator in ground-mount solar technology.

Erthos offers the least-expensive and highest-performing system architecture for utility-scale solar power on the planet. They have perfected the science of installing solar modules directly on the ground. By maximizing the land coverage ratio and minimizing BOS components, Erthos claims leveled costs 20% lower than conventional trackers.

We dive into the pros and cons of this novel approach. How do flat panels perform in rain, heat, and wind? Can grass grow underneath? Are micro-cracking and degradation concerns?

Jim explains how his extensive background in project development informed the Erthos concept. By simplifying design and standardizing components, costs can be stripped to the bone. We learn about initial skepticism and how new technologies cross the chasm into mainstream use.

With 9 module partners on board and 200+ MW contracted, Erthos appears poised for rapid growth. However, they still face the universal challenge of interconnection delays. We discuss the future of low-cost renewable hydrogen and how distributed hubs can circumvent transmission bottlenecks.

If you are involved in utility-scale solar procurement, development, engineering, or asset management, you don’t want to miss this episode from veteran Jim Tyler and Erthos!

Key Takeaways

1. How does Erthos's ground-mount solar technology work without any racking or tilt?
2. What are the pros and cons of laying solar panels flat on the ground?
3. How do flat panels perform in rain, heat, wind, and other environmental factors?
4. What are the installation labor and O&M advantages of eliminating pile driving and trenching?
5. How has Erthos standardized system design to drive down costs even further?

Erthos
Connect with Jim Tyler on LinkedIn
Follow Erthos on LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey.

Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. NextEra 250 GW pipeline, with almost 150 GW of secured interconnection positions, and over 20 GW of capacity in their construction backlog.
2. Multi-day energy storage increases grid capacity by a factor of ten
3. The new research that shows renewables are more profitable than nuclear power
4. CATL EV battery enabling a 400 km driving range on a 10-minute charge
5. The target of a space debris removal mission appears to have been struck by space debris:

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey.

Energy Storage leaders join us for Creating Cost-Competitive Energy Storage Systems - Aug 24, 10 AM Central. ( Link )

Today on the Clean Power Hour, how Illinois' Public Utility Commission is speeding the energy transition. In this episode, Tim Montague sits down with Carrie Zalewski, former chairman of the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).

Carrie Zalewski served as a utility regulator and an energy attorney with an engineering background with over 15 years of experience in environmental and energy regulation. She has an extensive background in public utility regulation, environmental policy, and compliance, wholesale power issues, and corporate governance.

In this episode, Tim and Carrie delve into the essential functions of the ICC, examining its vital role in overseeing utilities and ensuring a seamless shift to cleaner power sources.

Carrie Zalewski sheds light on how the ICC is breaking down barriers and streamlining interconnection processes for solar projects. Tim and Carrie also delve into the dynamic world of electric vehicle infrastructure expansion in Illinois.

Join us for an engaging discussion that unveils the driving force behind Illinois' sustainable energy transformation.

Key Takeaways

1. The role of the ICC in regulating utilities and overseeing the energy transition in Illinois
2. Tools the ICC has to incentivize utilities to support distributed energy resources like rooftop solar and battery storage
3. How ICC is improving interconnection processes and removing barriers to solar projects
4. The efforts to expand electric vehicle infrastructure in Illinois
5. How ICC is advocating for clean energy and consumers in regional transmission markets

Connect with Carrie Zalewski
Follow Illinois Commerce Commission on LinkedIn
Illinois Commerce Commission

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey.

Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss :
1. Energy Vault completes 25 MW project in China 
2. Limitless ocean-based solar power near the equator due to flat oceans - for instance - Indonesia could generate ~35,000 TWh/yr via floating solar = current global electricity generation 

Energy Storage leaders join us for Creating Cost-Competitive Energy Storage Systems - Aug 24, 10 AM Central.
https://events.reutersevents.com/renenwables/cost-competitivesystems?utm_source=clean%20power%20hour%20social%20post%20wb2

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, inspiring the next generation of women in energy careers with Erin Twamley educator and author of “Everyday Superheroes: Women in Energy Careers”.

Erin Twamley is an award-winning children’s book author and educator (M.Ed.). Through her educational consulting group, STEM Superheroes, Erin leads hands-on encounters for kids and writes publications focused on the topics of science, technology, engineering, or math referred to as STEM. She aims to share the careers, stories, and superpowers of women in STEM to spark interest and build girls’ confidence in STEM.

The book, Everyday Superheroes: Women in Energy Careers, highlights 34 real women working in diverse energy careers from solar installers to wind technicians to power plant operators. It covers fossil fuels, nuclear, renewables, and more to showcase the variety of pathways and roles needed to power society.

Tim and Erin discuss the importance of engaging youth, especially girls, in energy career paths starting from a young age. They talk about the need to move beyond traditional STEM framing and showcase the variety of skills needed, from tradespeople to designers to problem-solvers. Erin explains how the book features women just entering the industry in new roles, those learning via apprenticeships, and more.

This is a great discussion on exciting the next generation of women in energy.

Key Takeaways

1. The lack of energy awareness most kids have beyond flipping a switch
2. Preparing youth for jobs needed to power the future
3. Why do real role models matter more than historical figures in the Clean Energy Transition
4. The leaders and laggards in U.S. technical education
5. The Need for Diversity in renewable energy

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Stem Superheroes

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Special guest Sean White, master PV trainer and host of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast is joining us LIVE from Boulder Colorado at the ASES Conference (American Solar Energy Society).

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Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected]m or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

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Today on the Clean Power Hour making clean energy accessible and affordable for low-to-moderate income families and communities with Andy Posner CEO and Founder, Capital Good Fund.

Capital Good Fund is a non-profit financial institution on a mission to provide affordable financing for renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades to low and moderate-income households. Andy Posner founded Capital Good Fund in February of 2009 while getting his Master of Arts in Environmental Studies at Brown University, where he was studying financing mechanisms for clean energy.

In this episode of The Clean Power Hour, we discuss the challenges many families face in accessing clean energy solutions, including the difficulty in utilizing federal tax credits and the high upfront costs. Posner explains Capital Good Fund's innovative financing models, including 0% interest loans and new leasing programs enabled by the Inflation Reduction Act.

The conversation covers how state policies like net metering along with federal incentives can transform the economics of rooftop solar. Posner also shares his perspective on the installer shortage, permitting delays, and consumer skepticism as barriers to adoption.

Andy shares how his organization, Capital Good Fund, provides financial tools like loans and leases to help underserved populations adopt technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. He explains the various federal and state incentives available, challenges with current policies, and innovative ways nonprofits can utilize tax credits.

Key Takeaways

1. Capital Good Fund's nonprofit model and portfolio of loans to underserved communities
2. Layering federal, state, and local incentives to improve solar economics
3. Challenges securing capital in rising interest rate environment
4. Barriers to clean energy adoption for Low-Income American families 
5. Financing products like long-term, low-interest loans
6. State policy impacts on solar economics

Capital Good Fund
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey: https://forms.gle/qoSVnCWCoLi142PBA

Today on the Clean Power Hour: Best Practices for Improving Solar Asset Performance. In this episode, Tim Montague is joined by Matt Murphy, COO of Greenbacker Capital, Brian Grenko, VP at VDE Americas, and Dan Leary, Founder & CEO of Denowatts.

Brian Grenko focuses on identifying and mitigating technical risks for solar PV and energy storage projects. Matt Murphy excels in optimizing operations, building strong relationships, and driving efficiency. Dan Leary is the CEO and Founder of Denowatts. Denowatts developed the innovative Deno Digital Twin Benchmarking (DTB) technology.

In this episode, our esteemed panel of guests will share their insights on setting realistic performance expectations for solar assets. We'll uncover the key factors that put solar project performance at risk and how to optimize performance while considering real-world conditions.

Furthermore, the panel explores the common challenges faced by solar asset owners and operators in identifying the root causes of underperformance. Our experts will provide valuable tips on troubleshooting and addressing issues promptly.

One of the highlights of this episode is data analytics and its pivotal role in improving solar asset performance. Our guests will explain how data-driven strategies can provide critical intelligence on system health, predictive maintenance, and performance optimization.

KeyTakeaways

1. The difference between fair market value models and operational models for solar assets
2. The need for conservative solar resource assessments that account for climate change
3. Leveraging data analytics and benchmarking to quickly identify and resolve performance issues
4. The extent and causes of solar underperformance in the market
5. Operational best practices like regular maintenance and equipment upgrades

VDE Americas
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Denowatts

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

It's hot, it's smoky, but the clean energy transition must go on! 

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Stay up to date with the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, solar & storage expert, and John Weaver, PV Magazine journalist, as they reflect on the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss:
1. Tesla Range Investigation
2. Largest and most powerful wind turbine is now operational 
3. 2 GW Meyer Burger solar cell factory in Colorado, hints of more coming
4. Solar defends the title as the most popular electricity source in the USA, though there’s nuance. Nuclear power is increasing in popularity.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey: https://forms.gle/qoSVnCWCoLi142PBA

Today on the Clean Power Hour, the renewables industry started with solar thermal (hot water), then small wind, and now PV dominates the scene. Northwind Solar is a worker-owned cooperative in Central Wisconsin that has witnessed these transitions so it’s a treat to have such a storied company on the show.  Our guests are Josh Stolzenburg, founder and CEO, of Northwind Solar, and Jordan Kaiser, design consultant and member-owner.

Josh Stolzenburg shares the origin story of Northwind and how it transitioned to a worker-owned cooperative structure in 2016. He explains how the cooperative model creates incentives for employees to provide quality work and allows the company to distribute profits more equitably.

Jordan joined Northwind in 2013, became a worker-owner a few years later, and now leads the commercial sales division. He discusses his experience joining Northwind and becoming a member-owner. He explains how the cooperative model empowers employees, improves accountability to customers, and makes Northwind more resilient as a business.

Josh and Jordan also share insights into how the cooperative distributes profits, brings in outside investments, and provides tax advantages. They also touch on the value of joining a solar cooperative like Amicus to access bulk-purchasing discounts and share knowledge.

Key Takeaways

1. How and Why in 2015, Josh transitioned Northwind into a worker-owned cooperative
2. The Advantages of being a worker-owned cooperative
3. How does being a worker-owned cooperative help Northwind recruit and retain dedicated employees?
4. In what ways does Northwind's model set them apart in the solar market?
5. How does the cooperative model distribute profits and bring in investments differently than a traditional company?
6. What role do buying cooperatives like Amicus play in providing collective benefits to solar companies?

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey:  https://forms.gle/qoSVnCWCoLi142PBA

The Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

Today on the Clean Power Hour LIVE we have a special guest: Chris Lettman of CL Green Energy Consulting and we'll be doing a deep dive on #solar module pricing, supply chain, tariffs, and IRA implications.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey: https://forms.gle/qoSVnCWCoLi142PBA

In order for us to reach our decarbonization goals, we need to speed the energy transition. The key to doing that is to streamline the pathway to clean energy incentives and benefits. Today on the Clean Power Hour we are joined by Jeff Coleman, CEO and Co-founder of Eli. Eli believes in unblocking innovation at the scale of the problem by partnering with software startups, contractors, nonprofits, government agencies, incentive program administrators, and lenders to streamline access to incentives and financing for both commercial and residential electrification.

Jeff Coleman has an interesting history. He started his journey with Earth Justice in the early 2000s where they won a big court case and got an International court to acknowledge Climate Change as a Human Rights Issue. Five years later he was on the Campaign trail with former president Barack Obama, where he was instrumental in developing the groundbreaking organizing strategy of Barack Obama’s historic presidential campaigns. 

Fast forward to 2016, he joined GRID Alternatives where he was a leader at the intersection of technology, organizing, and social impact. In 2022, Jeff founded One Billion Machines to start exploring how to help scale residential electrification in the U.S. With the knowledge he had acquired from previous startups he started Eli. 

In this episode, he joins Tim Montague to talk about his unique journey to the Clean Energy Industry, what Eli is doing, how Eli is revolutionizing how people access clean energy incentives and benefits, how installers and developers can benefit from using Eli, and much more.

Discover how Eli acts as a comprehensive resource, providing the latest information and tools to navigate the complex landscape of incentives and financing options available for renewable energy projects.

KeyTakeaways

1. Jeff Coleman’s journey to Clean Energy
2. What Eli is and what it does 
3. How Eli is revolutionizing how people access clean energy and electrification incentives and benefits
4. How installers and developers can benefit from using Eli

Eli
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey:  https://forms.gle/qoSVnCWCoLi142PBA

The Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

Thurs July 13, 2023 we welcome our special guest, Cesar Barbosa, Founder & President of NuLife Power Services - we'll be discussing trends in solar plant repowering and decommissioning. We also discuss how and why NULife Power Services was founded. We talk about decommissioning and repowering PV systems. We explain the difference between the two. We dive deeper into the economics of repowering PV systems.

Ceaser and NuLife also answer the most asked question by solar developers and installers we talk about what happens to the decommissioned PV Systems.

This week John Weaver and I also discuss the latest in the world of Clean Energy around the Globe.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Please take our listener survey:  https://forms.gle/qoSVnCWCoLi142PBA

Today on the Clean Power Hour we are joined by John Horton, CEO of CPower as we dive into the world of customer-powered grids and explore the potential of distributed energy resources. CPower is the national leader in distributed energy resource monetization. They are a virtual power plant and act as the bridge between the grid needs and the customer capabilities.

For the last 25 years, John Horton has been the executive manager of various companies in various industries. In 2012, he joined Comverge, a predecessor company of CPower, and then became the CEO of CPower in 2014.

But what exactly are distributed energy resources? Today John joins Tim Montague to discuss the inner workings of CPower, shedding light on their mission, their clientele, and the pivotal role they play in the clean energy landscape.

In this episode, we demystify the concept of distributed energy and learn how CPower expertly harnesses its power, seamlessly integrating it back into the grid when it's needed most. Discover the innovative techniques and technologies they employ to maximize the benefits of distributed energy resources.

But that's not all – we also delve into the significance of companies like CPower, which offer distributed energy resources to other clean energy businesses. Learn about the immense value they bring to the table, fostering collaboration and propelling the growth of the entire clean energy sector.

If you're passionate about clean power, sustainability, and the future of our planet, this episode is a must-watch. Listen in to uncover the secrets behind customer-powered grids, and how you can be part of this process too.

Tune in to this captivating conversation between Tim Montague and John Horton.

KeyTakeaways

1. John Horton’s Journey to the Clean Energy Industry
2. Exploring the Mission and Clientele of CPower
3. How distributed energy works
4. The Value of Companies like CPower in the Clean Energy Ecosystem
5. The Potential of a Customer-Powered Grid

CPower
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. Roof-integrated solar installed at the time of new construction takes 44% less time
2. Rooftop solar was overlooked. Now it’s closing a New England power plant
3. Talk about an Interesting Book: Climate Restoration by Peter Fiekowsk and Carole Douglis
4. Talking about the challenges of deploying solar in the southwest deserts
5. Cars that were normally being used for ride shares - were instead kept plugged in because they were worth more to discharge electricity overnight in the Netherlands

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Today on the Clean Power Hour we are joined by David Kraft, Founder and Director of the Nuclear Energy Information Service (NEIS), as we explore the promises and perils of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) and the nuclear industry.

Nuclear energy is a low-carbon energy source once the power plants are constructed and commissioned. But the siting, permitting, and overall costs of nuclear power are such that nuclear is not going to play a major role in the energy transition. Yet, if you follow the US DOE (Dept of Energy), there is a flood of news and information suggesting that small modular nuclear reactors - so-called ‘next-gen nuclear’ - are absolutely going to be part of the mix of the future grid.  What are SMNRs (also called SMRs)? How long does it take to site, permit and build them? And what is the cost of nuclear power compared to wind and solar? These are some of the questions we answer today on the Clean Power Hour.

Nuclear Energy Information Service (NEIS) is a non-profit organization that advocates for sustainable, ecologically sound, and socially just energy solutions. NEIS views nuclear power to have more side effects than benefits. Their founder and Director, David Kraft joins us today to share his thoughts and rationale of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMNRs).

David Kraft is an accomplished public speaker and writer on nuclear topics. He was responsible for creating the “Know Nukes!” series of videos on nuclear topics in cooperation with CAN-TV Chicago; and is a co-founder of the Radiation Monitoring Project, designed to provide training and field monitors to communities contaminated by radioactive substances.

David Kraft delves into the crucial discussions surrounding the safety concerns, waste management, and regulatory considerations associated with SMRs. We also explore the history of the nuclear industry in the US and in Illinois where 40% of grid power comes from nuclear power.

Key Takeaways

1. What is NEIS (Nuclear Energy Information Service) and what do they do? 
2. What are small modular nuclear reactors?
3. Why small modular reactors might fall short
4. Unveiling the perils and potential of nuclear energy

Nuclear Energy Information Service
Foll

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. Solar Power Bails Out Texas Grid during Major Heat Wave
2. Texas homeowner contracted with Tesla Energy and using a powerwall, sells electricity for greater than an hour above $4/kWh - peaking over $5/kWh
3. ISO New England, which oversees the six-state power market, concluded after months of research that the region’s power grid has been strengthened by cold-weather sunlight
4. Study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has estimated the EV charging infrastructure needed nationwide to support this sweeping transition to electrified transportation
5. Deno Simulator, a self-powered digital weather station, and the corresponding Digital Twin software package that helps solar asset owners know what they’re ‘supposed’ to be generating. 
6. Researchers suggest a lithium-ion pouch battery 2-3X more energy dense than what’s in a Tesla today
7. The price of polysilicon has fallen to about $8/kg

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

On this episode of Clean Power Hour, we dive deep into the world of zinc-ion energy storage. Our guest is Ryan Brown, CEO and co-founder of Salient Energy, a Canadian company that is betting on the unique properties of water-based zinc-ion batteries. Zinc is a commodity that is produced at ten times the volume of Lithium in the global economy, so it could play a critical role in helping the US achieve the estimated six terawatt-hours of storage needed for a clean grid by 2050. Water-based Zinc batteries also have no thermal runaway concerns that have plagued Lithium batteries. 

If Brown is right, the water-based Zinc-ion chemistry that Salient is pursuing has equal energy density (power footprint), cycle lifetime, and a lower carbon footprint than the Lithium alternative. Salient is going to market with a residential storage solution but has ambitions to tackle the Utility Scale ESS market. 

In this episode, we unravel the story behind Ryan Brown's passion for energy storage and how it led to the birth of Salient Energy. We ask, if Zinc is such a good storage medium, why isn’t Elon Musk going after Zinc storage? Listen, and you’ll see that Brown has an astute analysis of Tesla’s business model which explains the all-in approach they are taking to Lithium batteries. 

We discuss the factors that influence the choice between Lithium Ion and Zinc batteries. Hopefully, you’ll gain insight into the advantages and key differences between Zinc and Lithium for stationary storage and the immense potential that Zinc batteries hold for a sustainable future.

Discover how battery energy storage is transforming the residential landscape, empowering homeowners to harness clean energy and increase their energy independence.

Key Takeaways:

1. Ryan Brown's Journey into Energy Storage
2. The Birth of Salient Energy.
3. Salient Energy's Vision and Strategy for Disrupting the Battery Storage Market
4. Why isn’t Elon Musk doing Zinc batteries?
5. Lithium Ion vs. Zinc: Unraveling the Key Differences
6. How Zinc Batteries are Unleashing the Potential in Residential Clean Energy
7. The Future of Battery Energy: Trends and Transformations

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Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
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Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts

The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Inverters are the heart of the solar PV plant. With over 10,000 sites across the US, CPS America inverters are busy converting DC solar power to AC grid power - a job that requires sophisticated power electronics and a team of dedicated solar professionals to maintain, upgrade and service those inverters. 
Welcome to another episode of the Clean Power Hour! Today's episode features James Oswald, Service Director for Chint Power Systems (CPS America). James joined CPS in 2015 when the US was installing a mere 7 GW of solar a year (compared to 20+ GW/year currently). Join our host, Tim Montague, as he sits down with James to discuss the remarkable growth of the industry and the progress CPS has made, how their product line has changed, and how they approach customer service and servicing their fleet of 3-phase string inverters.

CPS America has emerged as a force in the US solar industry, and this episode reveals some of the factors that have propelled their growth. By continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible, CPS has developed highly efficient and reliable inverters that have revolutionized the solar energy industry.

Throughout the conversation, James provides valuable insights into the company, its approach to 24/7/365 service, and the many career opportunities available at CPS. Whether you're a seasoned professional or early in your solar journey, CPS is hiring for a range of roles including service technicians, engineers, and business developers. CPS welcomes individuals who are passionate about creating a positive impact in the world and the solar industry. The company values people with a strong background in renewable energy, power electronics, and related fields. A dedication to teamwork, problem-solving, and a drive for continuous learning are highly sought-after qualities as well. 

Key Takeaways

1. Who is James Oswald, Service Director, CPS America
2. Ins and outs of running the Service Dept at CPS America
3. CPS Flex Gateway - communications and monitoring capabilities
4. Growth and evolution of the product line at CPS America
5. Career Opportunities at CPS America - the life of a field technician

CPS America
Connect with James Oswald

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Clean Power Hour
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Email [email protected]

Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts

The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. WoodMac and SEIA Q2 Report on Solar Industry - Solar is up 47% YOY
2. Norway Zero Sea is the future of shipping 
3. Solar Panels Are Getting Cheaper - good for the energy transition
4. For the first five months of 2023 (through the end of May), utility-scale solar and wind have generated more electricity than coal for the first time, pumping out 252.6 million MWh vs. 249.4 million for coa
5. Germany’s Federal Network Agency has received several zero-subsidy bids across all four offshore wind areas currently under auction

Subscribe: https://bit.ly/cph-sub 

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com.

Support the show

Connect with Tim

Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn

Email [email protected]

Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts

The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/

The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Welcome to the latest episode of the Clean Power Hour! In this episode we discuss the future of energy and roofing with GAF Energy and Smartroof Inc. Rey Holmes is a veteran of SolarCity and Tesla where he was Director of Engineering for Energy Products and for the past four years has led the Timberline Solar product team as VP of Product for GAF Energy. Sean O'Reilly is Chief Operating Officer for Smartroof Inc. a regional roofing and solar company based in VA and working across the Mid-Atlantic region and Florida. Solar shingles allow homeowners to generate their own electricity using their roofs. 

GAF Energy is the solar division of GAF, the largest roofing materials manufacturer. GAF has pioneered the game-changing Timberline Solar shingle, a nailable shingle that installs largely the same as composite asphalt shingle. 

Solar shingles have the potential to transform the roofing and solar industries. We start by exploring the technology behind solar shingles and how they work. We then discuss the advantages of solar shingles over traditional solar panels, including their aesthetic appeal and ease of installation. We also examine the cost of solar shingles and how they compare to traditional roofing materials.

Will solar shingles become the norm in the roofing industry? Tesla has struggled with their solar roof, but the nailable Timberline Solar shingle has the huge advantage of installing with the tools roofers use every day. Now it's just a question of scaling up production and making solar shingles more affordable for homeowners.

If you're interested in sustainable living, and renewable energy, or are considering a solar roofing solution, this episode is a must-watch. 

Key Takeaways

1. How GAF Energy was started
2. How Solar Roof Shingles are Installed
3. GAF Energy Timberline Solar Shingle
4. How homeowners are responding to GAF Energy Timberline Solar Shingle
5. The difference between Traditional solar roof panels and solar shingles