761: Unlock Solar Success: Insider Tips from Top EPC Firms - Burns & McDonnell

With exponential growth year over year, there has never been a more pivotal moment than this for battery energy storage in the renewables market. This momentum is driven by cost declines, supportive policy, and the ability for energy storage to stabilize and optimize renewable energy across the grid. Finally, with batteries, we can eliminate the one thing holding renewables back - intermittency! In this discussion, three industry leaders share their expertise around how storage is reshaping energy resilience, accessibility, and grid reliability.  Moderated by Jacob Weinberg, Senior Communications Manager at SEIA, this conversation features:Anne Hoskins, Senior VP of Policy at Generac Power SystemsKavita Ravi, Senior VP of Operations at BlueWave SolarJoan White, Director of Storage and Interconnection Policy at SEIAExpect to learn:How storage is delivering reliable, resilient energy to underserved communitiesThe importance of training in the latest safety codes, including NFPA 855How virtual power plants (VPPs) can aggregate resources to strengthen the gridThe latest on interconnection, value-stacking, and overcoming regulatory barriersWhich states are leading in storage innovation and what’s next for deploymentWatch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live!If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

Resource Labs Network founding member, Lisa Ann Pinkerton of Earthlings 2.0 podcast, hosts a discussion with the DOE’s Becca Jones-Albertus, Director of the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office during the annual RE+ tradeshow to introduce the latest round of winners to our audience!  Thank you, Lisa Ann, for leading this discussion on our live stage! Every year at RE+ (since 2019!) we have been honored to receive the newly-crowned winners of the Solar Prize, so Lisa Ann and Becca helped commemorate the 7th year of this competition from the Department of Energy which accelerates solar innovation, offering startups critical resources to bring their ideas to market.And the winners are…Fram Energy, a winner focused on expanding solar access to rental properties, presented a software solution that addresses the "split incentive" issue between landlords and tenants. Their platform allows landlords or third-party developers to install solar panels on rental buildings and sell the generated power to tenants, tapping into a vast, underserved market in clean energy.Gritt Robotics, the other Grand Prize winner, aims to streamline solar construction with robotics. Their approach automates labor-intensive tasks, like moving and installing solar panels, making solar deployments faster and more efficient. Using AI-powered robots, they enhance productivity and allow the human workforce to focus on complex tasks.Competitions like the American-Made Solar Prize are essential for the solar industry, helping innovative startups enter the market faster by providing vital resources, expert connections, and support through the American-Made Network.To learn more about Resource Labs and check out Lisa Ann’s podcast at www.resourcelabs.co If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

An experienced EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) partner is the backbone for the successful execution of solar projects, turning ambitious plans into reliable, high-performing projects. Burns & McDonnell, a top 5 EPC for solar & storage, brings over a century of engineering experience and a hands-on approach to large-scale solar and storage projects, balancing self-perform capabilities with trusted subcontractor partnerships. Community engagement and thoughtful project planning are just part of the project success puzzle; they innovate with terrain-following technology to adapt to challenging sites and collaborate early with project owners to address constraints, streamline designs, and ensure project goals are met efficiently. Hear from Director of Renewable Sales & Strategy, Adam Bernardi and Senior Electrical Engineer, Grant Reasor as they share insights from their respective roles across the project development cycle. Expect to learn:The techno-economic strategies employed to optimize module selection and meet IRA domestic content requirements, and why it’s not always straightforward.The importance of understanding the owner's project goals and pro forma to drive the best technical solutions.The significance of comprehensive due diligence and upfront identification of site-specific risks to drive project value.How to handle seasonal challenges of performance testing on the frozen tundra of the Upper MidwestWatch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at RE+ over at www.suncast.live!If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

"The new Silicon Valley is going to be about energy." This shift is evident as solar and battery storage combine, pushing renewable energy to achieve firm reliable power. Primergy Solar’s “Gemini” solar-plus-storage project sets the stage for a new era of 24x7 utility-scale solar power delivery. With nearly 700MW of solar capacity and 1400 MWh of battery storage, Gemini can supply up to 30% of Nevada’s power needs at peak, making solar a reliable, on-demand energy source that competes with traditional baseload power. The project’s commitment to sustainability—preserving the desert habitat and minimizing land disturbance—illustrates how renewable energy projects can harmonize technological advancement with ecological responsibility.Adam Larner, COO of Primergy Solar, brings decades of expertise as an electrician, founder, and business owner to his work in renewables. Adam has long championed the logic and promise of sustainable energy, pushing projects that redefine industry norms and the potential of solar-plus-storage. And this interview has been possibly the longest-awaited of any Nico, our host, has pursued! Expect to learn:Why battery storage is the key to making solar competitive with fossil fuels as a reliable power sourceWhy natural gas is a necessary complement to renewables, providing backup power and stability as solar and battery technologies scale upHow Gemini's success has become a unifying moment for the solar industry, inspiring collaboration and a shared sense of purposeTune in to explore how projects like Gemini are redefining renewable energy on a massive scale. And, learn from one of the industry’s most experienced integrators/builders.If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

The growing demand for energy storage has transformed the renewable energy sector, but what are the key steps to successfully executing battery storage projects? TruGrid (formerly SunGrid) specializes in the seamless integration of battery systems into solar projects as an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) provider. Their proactive approach to integration and planning minimizes risks and streamlines commissioning.Chris Finley, Chief Commercial Officer of TruGrid, discusses how EPCs can manage the complexities of battery storage integration. What secrets can we glean? Faster commissioning times, for starters. Drawing on 20 years’ experience and gigawatts of renewable projects in 16 countries, Chris and the TruGrid team have certainly addressed most of the hurdles you’ll face.Expect to learn:How software integration helps streamline battery storage projects.The common pitfalls developers face in commissioning and how to address them.Strategies for EPCs to reduce supply chain risks in battery storage projects.Why developers should bring EPCs into the planning phase earlier to maximize project success.Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage over at www.suncast.live!If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

About a third of global carbon emissions come from transportation, with most generated by private vehicles. Cities face a critical challenge: the “last mile” problem—how to efficiently connect people from transit hubs, like bus and train stations, to their homes or workplaces. When public transit falls short, commuters often turn to cars, increasing traffic, pollution, and emissions. Lime, a leader in micro-mobility, tackles this gap with e-bikes and e-scooters, offering a sustainable alternative for these short, essential urban trips. With over 500 million rides completed—covering more than a billion kilometers—Lime demonstrates how small shifts in behavior can make a big impact on decarbonization.Nico met with Andrew Savage, co-founder and VP of Sustainability of Lime, during a visit to Savage’s hometown of Burlington, VT.  Andrew draws from a career that spans solar energy, policy work, and government relations. Before joining Lime, Savage was a key figure at AllEarth Renewables, helping advance solar energy adoption in Vermont. He also served on political campaigns, advised mayors, and worked closely with Capitol Hill on policy initiatives. His deep expertise in environmental policy gave Savage a unique skillset to help steer Lime’s growth into 280 markets while keeping on pace with the company’s goal of net zero by 2030. Curious how a career can span multiple sectors and still hold a true-north of decarbonizing the grid? Interested to learn how e-mobility is helping us achieve our carbon-free future?Expect to learn:Why early bike-share programs failed—and how Lime’s dockless model offers a better solutionHow Lime recycles batteries and repurposes them for second-life usesWhat carbon-reduction strategies keep Lime on track to meet its 2030 net-zero goalHow Lime uses rider data to help cities redesign streets and improve safetyIf you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn -...

Do you envision that the IRA could be rolled back with a new administration? This question seems to permeate the conversation(s) heard around the industry in the last 6 months.  Chris Sass, host of Insider’s Guide to Energy, sits down with Mona Dajani, Global Co-Chair of Energy, Infrastructure, and Hydrogen at Baker Botts, to explore the intersection of policy and energy markets. Drawing on decades of experience in clean energy transactions, Mona offers a true insider’s perspective on the election cycle, an update on green hydrogen and much more.Sneak peak: “If we're pragmatic about it, I don't see the IRA going away materially… for two reasons…the IRA was enacted as law [and] there's a lot of red states that really have a lot of clean energy projects in their state.” Regardless your political position, you’re aware the 2024 U.S. presidential election outcome could significantly shape the future of renewable energy in America. With candidates proposing vastly different energy policies, the next administration’s decisions will influence the pace of clean energy deployment, tax equity structures, and international investment. Tune-in to learn:How the energy policies of Harris and Trump could impact the renewable energy industryMona’s insights on the future of the IRA (Inflation Reduction Act)The role of hydrogen in decarbonizationThe need for faster regulatory and permitting processes to accelerate renewable energy deploymentHow foreign conflicts impact renewables, from manufacturing to the price of gas and oil.Do your research, listen to the episode, and—most importantly— if you’re a United States citizen, make your voice heard - VOTE!If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

Curious what were the top product insights from RE+ 2024?  Our industry experts scoured the show floor to uncover key solar technology and market trends. Hear firsthand reports from the show floor in this special compilation episode where we are aggregating three different conversations into a compilation episode. Industry experts pick their favorites, make predictions and highlight their favorite energy storage and other home energy solutions.Here’s our roster of experts & influencers:Joe Ordia - Solar SurgeBen Zientara - SolarReviewsRyan Mayfield- Mayfield RenewablesKate Collardson - OmnidianChris Crowell- Solar BuilderAnn Fischer - pv magazine USARyan Kennedy- pv magazine USAJohn Fitzgerald Weaver- Commercial Solar GuyExpect to learnHow platform-based energy management systems are transforming battery solutions and grid integration.The growing role of hybrid inverters in bridging energy storage and solar to create seamless home energy systems.Why software innovations, like Aurora Solar’s obstruction detection, are cutting design time and improving project planning.How domestic manufacturing, tariffs, and policy changes are influencing product development and supply chain strategies.If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus

Building an efficient energy ecosystem requires collaboration, knowledge-sharing, strategic design, and workforce development. It also requires cooperation and community.Professionals across the energy sector are streamlining grid management, advancing EV adoption, and developing demand flexibility programs to enhance efficiency. Achieving this requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to humanize energy solutions.Jen Szaro, President & CEO of the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), brings two decades of experience across research, utilities, and nonprofit leadership. Her career includes roles at the Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) and the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC), where she led early efforts in solar and EV infrastructure. At AESP, she focuses on bridging the knowledge gaps and bringing energy professionals together through collaborative design and impactful programs. The Flex Initiative and the EV Driver Experience (EVDX) are two notable examples, addressing technical challenges while fostering mentorship and professional growth.Expect to learn:Why distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar and storage reduce grid strain & avoid costly upgradesHow demand flexibility outperforms traditional demand response solutionsWhat EV adoption barriers were uncovered through EVDX’s design labsWhere AESP’s Utility Career Map and resource library suggest you should be lookingWhy AESP’s mentorship programs help clean energy professionals thrive & growListen in to explore how Jen, dedicated volunteers, and the AESP team are driving the future of energy services and equipping professionals with the tools and knowledge to lead in the clean energy transition.If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2

One of the major bottlenecks in the renewable energy sector is tied to one of the oldest components of the energy grid and is an essential piece tying FAR More of our energy infrastructure together than most realize - the humble transformer. As more renewable energy projects are deployed, transformer shortages delay projects and create significant challenges for grid expansion.Ben Macias, Chief Revenue Officer at MGM Transformers, brings over a decade of experience in the energy sector. Previously, he led sales at Shoals Technologies, where he was instrumental in that company's tremendous growth story and eventual IPO. Now at MGM, Ben oversees efforts to tackle transformer shortages by expanding production capacity and enhancing efficiency. Ben has a seasoned team focused on solving this industry bottleneck, and this conversation with Nico gives a glimpse into the not-so-sexy-but-necessary world of electromagnetic induction, probably not a topic you thought you’d learn about today! It’s helpful to know that in the many Gigawatts of projects Ben & his team at Shoals helped facilitate, this was always among the most surprising areas of bottlenecks holding projects (and factories, and much more) back from completion.  He and the MGM team, with nearly 50 years’ experience in all types of transformer technology, are focused on fixing this shortcoming and doing it with American-made products.Expect to learn:How MGM is expanding capacity with new facilities in Texas.The difference between wet and dry transformers and their applications.Why transformer technology has remained largely unchanged for decades.The importance of building a dream team to support customers.If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/.Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar.You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors.Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com.Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalusMentioned in this episode:CPS July 2024 V2