A little gratitude for the holiday season. 🙏
Can solar projects do more than generate clean energy?
How about enhance the health and diversity of local ecosystems?
Sometimes viewed critically for their land use, solar farms can actually offer a unique opportunity to restore habitats and integrate agricultural practices. Lightsource bp, one of the world’s largest utility-scale solar developers, is a pioneer in what they refer to as “responsible solar”; with over 2 GW of projects contracted with farming families, Lightsource is helping to sustain rural livelihoods, revitalize ecosystems, and drive the energy transition through utility-scale solar.
Alyssa Edwards is Senior VP of environmental & External Affairs and Virginia Brown is Director of Ecosystem Services at Lightsource bp. Together, they discuss how Lightsource bp is balancing the scaling of their solar farm operations with the responsibilities of being stewards of vast land areas through their Responsible Solar movement. Nico Johnson and Kerim Baran, of Solar Academy, speak with them to better understand what this holistic view of solar development entails and why Lightsource finds investment in this arena valuable to their development process and goals.
Expect to learn:
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
The commercial and industrial (C&I) solar market, often called the "messy middle," has lagged behind the rapid growth of residential and utility-scale projects. Yet, with vast rooftop spaces on commercial buildings offering significant untapped potential, the opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint and optimize energy costs is more compelling than ever. But the economics of C&I solar are finally, at long last, shifting for the better. With transferable tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act and rising electricity costs,it’s never been a better time for commercial rooftop solar in America. Versiris Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of New Energy Equity, is focused specifically on capturing market opportunity as the C&I sector takes flight.
Nick Kerwin, Senior Vice President, and Rocky Shoemaker, VP of Engineering & Construction, bring 30 years of combined solar expertise to Versiris Energy. Rocky, an electrical engineer and one of New Energy Equity’s first employees, has extensive experience managing complex C&I projects. Nick, who joined in 2021, specializes in solar finance, acquisitions, and distributed generation. Together, they lead Versiris Energy with startup agility and the backing of an established parent company, addressing the unique challenges of the C&I solar market.
Expect to learn:
Hit play to explore how a business idea inside one of the industry’s most successful developers becomes a successful standalone venture, as Rocky and Nick share their intrapreneurial journey of launching Versiris Energy.
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
When Hurricane Helene devastated Asheville and western North Carolina, it left communities with widespread power outages, overwhelmed hospitals, and destroyed critical infrastructure. Months later, many are still navigating the long road to recovery after one of the most severe natural disasters to hit the region. For Nico Johnson, who calls North Carolina home, the storm was an urgent reminder of the escalating intensity and unpredictability of extreme weather.
In the immediate aftermath, organizations like the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) and Footprint Project took decisive action—mobilizing solar microgrids, portable solar generators, and atmospheric water generators to provide relief to those hardest hit.
Matt Abele, Executive Director of NCSEA, and Will Heegaard, Operations Director of Footprint Project, detail their coordinated response. Matt shares how NCSEA rallied local support and resources, while Will recounts deploying renewable technologies ahead of the storm’s landfall to ensure they were ready when disaster struck. Proactive measures—such as staging solar equipment and partnering with local solar companies can save lives, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and pave the way for more sustainable recovery efforts.
Hear how clean energy transformed disaster relief in North Carolina and learn how you can support efforts to build resilient communities prepared for future crises.
Our continued thoughts and prayers to those still recovering from this storm.
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has unlocked unprecedented federal funding for solar energy, promising billions of dollars to transform the industry. But where is this money going, and how can residential solar installers capitalize on the opportunity? Industry experts reveal the strategies and programs that are poised to help drive solar adoption in rural and low-income communities across the country.
Scott Nguyen, Co-founder and CEO of Bodhi, Sean Garren, Chief Program Officer at Vote Solar, and Corey Ramsden, VP of Go Solar Programs at Solar United Neighbors, share their insights on the nuances of these programs, the challenges facing low-income communities, and the innovative financing models that are emerging to make solar more accessible than ever before.
Expect to learn:
Watch 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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
While global climate movements highlight the urgency of the crisis, many are left wondering how to take meaningful, personal action.
Climatize is changing that.
With as little as $10, you can get started today investing in clean energy and get up to a 10% return on an investment that benefits more than your retirement account! (and we’ve got a special code to get you even more benefit - see below)
Renewable energy projects often face significant funding barriers—particularly at the community level, where traditional financial systems fall short. And as an individual, you’re usually required to be an accredited investor to even be considered as an investor in the funds that do help get these assets built.
As an SEC-registered impact investing platform, Climatize allows anyone over 18 to invest directly into renewable energy projects. And with millions of dollars already invested with dozens of solar developers on the platform, Climatize is bridging the gap in clean energy financing in a unique and valuable way.
Will Wiseman, co-founder and CEO of Climatize, made the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for social impact and is regularly cited in mainstream journals for his advocacy and innovation in the sector. With over a decade of experience in solar installation, project management, and financial structuring, Will has also directly contributed to building more than a dozen solar farms. His technical and financial expertise fuels the Climatize mission to make clean energy investments accessible, fill critical funding gaps, and turn everyday individuals into active participants in the energy transition.
Beyond the accolades, I was genuinely impressed with how this young entrepreneur and his co-founder are building their business, quickly, and globally. You’ll be rewarded by sticking through to the end to hear some of his recommendations for building culture that is growth-focused while staying fun and rewarding. It’s inspiring to see how the next generation of clean energy leaders are stepping up to solve real-world problems with a tech and media-savvy approach.
Expect to learn:
Listen now to learn how you can turn small investments into meaningful climate action. Use code NICO25 for $25 toward your first Climatize investment!
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
Each year, we give you an opportunity to join us in supporting a non-profit on Giving Tuesday.
This Giving Tuesday, we are shining a light on not one but three nonprofits using solar to address critical challenges, from disaster recovery to education and global energy access.
These organizations are making an extraordinary difference by leveraging renewable energy to drive change where it’s needed most. If you attended Solar Fight Night this year at RE+, you’ve already helped contribute toward these orgs, but you may not even realize it!
Today, we will introduce you to all three organizataions, give you more detail on their respective missions, and invite you to BOOST the giving by helping us top-off the donation they'll receive from Solar Fight Night!
We can make a difference.
Here are 3 outstanding nonprofits that we believe deserve your time AND your treasure.
You’ll hear from:
Solar Fight Night curator, Daniel Dus, has been the driving force behind what we often call “the Met Gala of the solar industry”. Daniel joins the conversation to help set the stage for what we do and why we chose these 3 specific entities. This unique gathering unites solar industry leaders in an evening of entertainment, but it’s much more than a huge party - the profits raised go directly to these nonprofits. In fact, we’ve generated over $2 million USD to support projects ranging from disaster recovery to education and tribal community empowerment.
Let’s Share the Sun, led by Co-founder and President Bill Jordan, focuses on bringing solar power to underserved communities in under-developed nations like Haiti, Honduras, and Puerto Rico. By providing systems that deliver stability during disasters, such as powering critical medical equipment during hurricanes, the organization is transforming lives and scaling its efforts to reach 200 homes next year.
Contribute directly to Let’s Share the Sun today: https://bit.ly/sharethesun-cast
Climate Action Pathways for Schools (CAPS), led by Executive Director Kirk Ann Taylor and Board Member Laurie Smith, partners with California schools to reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and inspire students to pursue careers in clean energy. Their collaboration with Porterville Unified School District has already secured over $20 million for sustainable projects like HVAC upgrades and solar installations.
Contribute directly to CAPS today: https://bit.ly/Donate-CAPS-cast
And last, but certainly not least,
The Honnold Foundation, led by Executive Director Emily Teitswort and created by [famed rock climber] Alex Honnold, enhances energy resilience globally by bringing solar solutions to vulnerable communities. These projects reduce energy costs and provide reliable power for families and local businesses in off-grid areas.
Contribute directly to The Honnold Foundation today: https://bit.ly/Donate-Honnold-cast
This Giving Tuesday, celebrate how solar energy is changing lives.
Contribute to these powerful initiatives and help bring clean energy and hope to communities in need.
Will you join us?
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
Expanding the clean energy workforce means focusing on more than just filling jobs; it calls for a commitment to equity, diversity, and creating tangible opportunities that drive lasting community benefits.With federal initiatives like Justice 40 driving investments into underserved communities, the challenge lies in creating pathways for high-quality, local jobs that support the clean energy transition. For industry professionals, understanding how to align workforce development with community impact is a pressing priority.
Jen Szaro, CEO of the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), and Paul Douglas, President of JPI Group, share strategies to meet these demands. Jen leverages her extensive expertise in energy program leadership, while Paul highlights JPI Group’s innovative work in workforce development and supply diversity. Together, they explore how data-driven approaches and inclusive practices can ensure that the benefits of clean energy growth reach everyone.
Watch this and other insightful conversations recorded live at the PowerUp Live Podcast Stage at www.suncast.live! And if you’d like to learn more about Jen and AESP, you should listen to her full SunCast episode which published in October!
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
Apprenticeships are the bridge between the clean energy industry's rapid growth and its critical need for a skilled, reliable workforce. With the Inflation Reduction Act setting ambitious compliance standards, innovative solutions like those pioneered by Adaptive Construction Solutions (ACS) are essential for driving project success and empowering the workforce. These programs are designed for more than just filling positions; they build meaningful, long-term careers for veterans, underserved communities, and the next generation of clean energy leaders.
ACS has served many of the largest EPCs in the solar and battery storage industry through their innovative apprenticeship programs to aid in driving compliance and cultivating a more comprehensive focus on workforce development.
Hear from the ACS team and three of their largest customers:
Expect to learn:
Watch 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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
In the home services industry, many contractors deliver high-quality work but struggle to leverage satisfied customers for growth. Yet, we know that more than 50% of leads come from referrals. The challenge lies in post-sale engagement, as gathering referrals and building a strong reputation often falls to busy sales reps or technicians who quickly move on to the next job. Without a systematic approach to harnessing word-of-mouth marketing, businesses miss the opportunity to turn happy customers into brand ambassadors, relying instead on costly acquisition channels like paid advertising.
Landon Taylor, Founder & CEO of Snoball, addresses this gap with a platform that automates referral management, review generation, and reputation building. Snoball empowers businesses to take control of their word-of-mouth marketing and unlock the true potential of their customer base.
Expect to learn:
Don't miss this insightful conversation with Landon Taylor, as he shares his expertise and proven strategies for transforming the way businesses approach customer acquisition and retention.
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
Can someone without a traditional background still make an impact in clean energy?
Aaron Nichols, the Marketing & Advocacy Specialist at Exact Solar, answers that question with a resounding ‘yes’. His journey into the solar industry was anything but traditional (we don’t want to spoil it, but it began with circus performers in Ecuador).
Aaron has written and consulted for some of the biggest names in the solar industry (including Nico himself) and been featured in Business Insider. He divides his time at Exact Solar between pushing for more equitable solar policies and creating the most comprehensive free solar educational resource for homeowners on the internet.
Expect to learn:
⚡ The ‘secret key’ that opened the the door to a clean energy career
⚡Why the solar industry is missing out on top talent (and how we fix it)
⚡ How Aaron went from door-to-door sales to advocating for a more ethical solar industry
⚡ What the solar industry can do to regain the public’s trust
⚡ Why ‘save the planet' marketing doesn’t work for everyone
If you didn’t follow the traditional path and still want to start a clean energy career (even if you have no experience) this is the episode for you.
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/nicomeo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus
Mentioned in this episode:
CPS July 2024 V2
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