In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Stephen San Juan of Rise Renewable Energy — a company dedicated to developing, training, and supporting the technicians who keep this industry moving.

This conversation dives deep into the growing demand for medium voltage (MV) and high voltage (HV) expertise as renewable energy systems continue to scale. Stephen shares real-world insights on why the industry must evolve its training standards to match the complexity and risk of today’s infrastructure.

We also tackle a critical operational question: Is one technician ever enough on-site? From efficiency to safety, we break down the challenges and risks of solo work versus having a second set of eyes — and how that decision can directly impact outcomes in the field.

Safety takes center stage as we explore how injuries can be prevented through stronger training, better procedures, and a culture built around proactive risk management. One of the biggest takeaways? PPE is not your first line of defense — it’s your last. The real protection comes from planning, communication, and doing the job right before hazards ever escalate.

If you’re in the field, leading a team, or shaping training programs, this episode delivers practical insight into what it takes to build a safer, more capable renewable energy workforce. ⚡