Clean Power Hour

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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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

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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. 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

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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

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 

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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

Welcome to the latest episode of the Clean Power Hour, where we delve into the world of renewable energy and its incredible impact on our planet. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Emily Teitsworth, Executive Director of the Honnold Foundation, as our special guest. The Honnold Foundation, founded by professional rock climber Alex Honnold, has been expanding clean energy access to the less developed world and rural America since 2012. 

In this episode, we explore Honnold’s vision for a future where marginalized communities participate in the practical and environmental & health benefits of solar and battery storage. 

We dive deep into the core values of the Honnold Foundation which are “...that small, deliberate steps can help us achieve audacious goals, and we’re here to build a brighter and more equitable world for everyone.” We explore who is eligible for their grants and how they determine the recipients. 

Ever wondered why Alex Honnold, the renowned rock climber, started the Honnold Foundation? We have the answer. Uncover the motivation and passion that led Alex to establish this incredible nonprofit organization, dedicated to a sustainable future powered by clean energy.

But the conversation doesn't stop there. We also explore how the Honnold Foundation effectively distributes its grants, supporting a diverse range of solar projects worldwide. 

Key Takeaways

1. How Emily got into Solar
2. What Honnold Foundation is about
3. Who is eligible for Honnold Foundation grants
4. Why Alex Honnold Started the Honnold Foundation
5. How the foundation distributes the grants

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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

Welcome to the latest episode of the Clean Power Hour! In this episode, we take a deep dive into the New Mexico distributed solar industry. Join our host, Tim Montague, as he explores the current status of the New Mexico solar market and highlights the innovative efforts of the New Mexico Solar Group with their CEO Nick Kadlec.

Nick Kadlec shares his journey and transition into the solar industry and how he quickly rose to the role of CEO of the NM Solar Group, an employee-owned (ESOP) solar installer based in Albuquerque, NM. Founded by Ryan Wallace in 2015, NM Solar Group has helped over 5000 homeowners own their own energy with solar. 

We also delve into the New Mexico solar landscape, exploring the various solar incentives and opportunities available in this promising market. From tax credits to net metering, we uncover the factors that make New Mexico an attractive destination for solar enthusiasts and environmentally conscious individuals.

Ever wondered about the significance of Pearl Certification? Look no further! We break down the meaning and importance of Pearl Certification in the context of the New Mexico solar market. 

But that's not all—we also examine the general reception of solar energy in New Mexico. Gain insights into consumer thoughts on different brands and technologies, and discover the advantages and importance of SolarInsure. 

Tune in now and become a part of the clean power movement!

Key Takeaways

1. Nick Kadlec’s solar background
2. The status of the New Mexico solar market
3. What New Mexico Solar Group is doing
4. What makes New Mexico Solar Group different from the competition
5. Solar Incentives in New Mexico
6. Meaning and importance of Pearl Certification
7. The general reception of Solar in New Mexico
8. Consumer thoughts on different solar brands and technology
9. The advantages and importance of SolarInsure 

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New Mexico Solar Group

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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

Tristan Erion-Lorico with PVEL joins Tim Montague and John Weaver to discuss Solar PVEL's, performance, and reliability test programs.  We also discuss the latest in the world of renewable energy. 

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.

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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

Welcome to another episode of the Clean Power Hour! In this episode, Tim Montague sits down with Aaron Halimi, founder and president of Renewable Properties, and Dahvi Wilson, former VP Public Affairs at Apex Clean Energy in a live webinar to delve into the fascinating topic of Best Practices for Overcoming NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) when it comes to solar development.

NIMBYism poses a significant challenge to the widespread adoption of solar and wind energy. Aaron Halimi and Dahvi Wilson, both renowned professionals in the field, bring their extensive experience and expertise to the table, shedding light on best practices and strategies to navigate this complex issue.

From aesthetics and land use concerns to environmental and ecological factors, our guests address the multifaceted nature of the opposition and provide invaluable insights on engaging with communities to overcome resistance.

Discover practical tips, communication strategies, and engagement techniques that can help solar developers, policymakers, and community leaders address NIMBYism and ensure a smoother path to solar project implementation. 

Key Takeaways

1. Introduction to Aaron Halimi and Dahvi Wilson 
2. What is NIMBYism
3. The Challenges NIMBYism poses for the widespread adoption of solar energy
4. The impact of NIMBYism on solar projects
5. How to navigate NIMBYism effectively and foster sustainable solar development.

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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. Treasury Issues Guidance on Domestic Content
2. An overview of Citizens for Responsible Solar, who are a fossil fuel front group led by an almost felon
3. An analysis found that solar power projects have seen interconnection costs on connected projects increase 100% over the last decade, while projects that choose not to connect tend to cost almost 400% higher than those that do connect.
4. Wind and solar in Texas saved the state 26% off of the price of electricity in the wholesale market, which was $11 billion in the high gas price market of 2022
5. Solar Reviews found that PV magazine and solar power worlds were the #1 and 2 trade magazines most trusted by solar folk

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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

Welcome to the Clean Power Hour! According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), buildings account for almost 40% of global energy consumption and approximately one-third of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Passive House, also known as Passivhaus, is a building standard that prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability by creating airtight, well-insulated structures with controlled ventilation and minimal energy consumption.

Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague is joined by Zach Semke, Director of Passive House Accelerator. Passive House Accelerator is a multi-channel media company and event producer dedicated to Passive House design and construction. 

Zach Semke is also the co-founder of Shift Zero, an alliance of green building, energy efficiency, and climate action organizations and businesses that have come together around common ground. 

In today’s episode, Tim and Zach explore the topic of Passive House and their role in decarbonizing the environment. Zach shares his personal journey and how he became interested in Passive House and the Built environment. He talks about the challenges of building energy-efficient homes and how the Passive House standard addresses those challenges.

In addition, Zach shares his insights on Passive House and how the Passive House Accelerator connects builders, architects, and developers with the necessary resources and information. 

Key Takeaways

1. How Zach got interested in Passive House and the Built Environment.
2. What is Passive House?
3. How a Passive House is Built
4. Who needs a Passive House?
5. LEED vs. Passive House
6. The story behind Passive House Accelerator

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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