Summary

In this episode of Leading the Charge, hosts Kevin and Tim are joined by Neil Hordle, Business Development Manager at POWR2. With 25 years of experience at leading UK hire companies like GAP Group, Speedy Hire, and Sunbelt, Neil understands first-hand the commercial pressures, customer expectations, and operational demands of delivering temporary power solutions. For years, diesel generators were the standard. However, Neil soon recognized the potential of battery energy storage systems (BESS). He shares stories from the ground: the skeptical customers who became champions, the ROI proof that closed deals, and the unexpected ease of integrating BESS into traditional hire fleets. Neil offers practical insight and a compelling case for why now is the time to embrace the shift to BESS.

This episode is packed with insights for Sustainability and Account Managers looking to reduce emissions, cut costs, and stay competitive. Tune in to hear how one hire industry insider became a clean tech advocate and why the smartest move for your fleet might just be a battery.

Takeaways

• Prove the tech works – Neil shares how offering risk-free BESS trials built trust and helped customers see real-world results before committing.

• Significant cost & carbon cuts – One UK client now saves six figures monthly by replacing around-the-clock diesel generators with a hybrid battery solution.

• Overcoming internal resistance - Shifting from selling unlimited generator hours to battery storage meant challenging existing revenue streams, but ultimately served customer needs better.

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

⁠

======================

GUESTS

Neil Hordle

UK Business Development Manager, POWR2

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-hordle-83616140/

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests onLeading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect theopinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Energy Storage Innovations

01:54 Transitioning from Diesel to Battery Energy Storage

03:54 Customer Reactions and Adoption Challenges

05:30 Proving Value: The Turning Point for Customers

07:33 Training and Knowledge in Energy Storage

09:16 Engaging with the Audience: A Fun Quiz on EnergyStorage

SUMMARY

In this episode, hosts Kevin Sturmer and Tim Doling sit down with Michael Larsen—of Larsen Air Conditioning Hire & co-host of The Rental Journal Podcast—to explore how battery energy storage systems (BESS) are transforming the equipment rental landscape. The conversation dives into the real-world benefits of BESS, especially in remote applications across Australia, where reducing fuel use, service intervals, and operational costs is critical. They also tackle broader topics like energy spill, grid limitations, and the global push for sustainability, all while emphasizing practicality, profitability, and the need for energy literacy in driving real change.

TAKEAWAYS

• Energy spill in Australia highlights the need for storage solutions.
• Practical solutions often take precedence over sustainability discussions.
• The energy grid is struggling to keep up with solar power integration, causing energy ‘spill.’
• The rental industry can turn sustainability into a driver of profitability.
• Simplified logistics of deploying and leveraging BESS drives adoption in remote locations.

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

======================

GUESTS

Michael Larsen

Larsen Air Conditioning Hire & Co-Host of The Rental Journal Podcast

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-larsen-lach/

URLs

https://larsenhire.com.au/

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Sustainable Energy Innovations

02:54 The Role of Battery Energy Storage in Remote Applications

05:58 The Australian Energy Landscape and Its Challenges

08:56 Global Perspectives on Sustainable Energy Transition

11:53 Practical Solutions in the Rental Industry

14:58 Future Trends and Economic Impacts of Sustainability

18:00 Conclusion and Call to Action

Summary

In this episode of Leading the Charge, hosts Kevin and Tim discuss the unexpected acquisition of H&E Rentals by Herc Holdings, a move that has surprised many in the industry. They explore the implications of this acquisition, including market confidence, funding strategies, and potential synergies. The conversation also touches on the global impact of such mergers and future prospects for the rental industry, particularly in the context of the U.S. economy's performance compared to Europe.

Takeaways

• The acquisition of H&E Rentals by Herc Holdings represents the largest merger in rental history, catching many off guard due to Herc’s history of organic growth.
• Confidence in the U.S. economy is high, with this deal valued at $5.2 billion, with 75% in cash and 25% in Herc stock.
• Industry giants will continue to battle as United Rentals has a proven strategy of acquisitions in the U.S. and abroad.
• Evolving global rental market finds U.S. thriving, while European counterparts struggle with lower margins and intense competition.

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

======================

GUESTS

Jeff Eisenberg

Consultant / Principal, Claremont Consulting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-eisenberg-mba/

URLs

Herc Holdings Inc.

https://www.hercrentals.com

https://ir.hercrentals.com/news/news-details/2025/Herc-Holdings-and-HE-Equipment-Services-Enter-into-Definitive-Merger-Agreement/default.aspx

https://ir.hercrentals.com/news/news-details/2025/Herc-Holdings-Confirms-Superior-Proposal-to-Acquire-HE-Equipment-Services/default.aspx

United Rentals

https://www.unitedrentals.com

https://investors.unitedrentals.com/press-releases/press-releases-details/2025/United-Rentals-Inc.-Will-No-Longer-Pursue-the-Acquisition-of-HE-Equipment-Services-Inc/default.aspx

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to the Acquisition Landscape

02:50 Herc's Surprising Acquisition Strategy

10:18 Market Confidence and Future Implications

15:56 Global Impact of the Merger

19:22 Future Prospects in the Rental Industry

Summary

In this episode of 'Leading the Charge,' host Kevin and guest Tim Doling discuss the significant acquisition of H&E Rentals by United Rentals. The conversation delves into the scale and impact of this $4.8 billion merger, which expands United Rentals' fleet and U.S. presence. Industry expert Jeff Eisenberg from Claremont Consulting joins to provide insights on the implications of the acquisition, including increased market share and operational efficiencies. The trio also explores the financial and operational benefits of integrating battery energy storage systems into power solutions, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and cost savings in the current economic landscape.

Takeaways

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

⁠

======================

GUESTS

Jeff Eisenberg

Consultant / Principal, Claremont Consulting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-eisenberg-mba/

URLs

United Rentals

https://www.unitedrentals.com

https://investors.unitedrentals.com/press-releases/press-releases-details/2025/United-Rentals-to-Acquire-HE-Equipment-Services-Inc/default.aspx

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Leading the Charge

01:00 Significant Merger in the Rental Industry

07:02 United Rentals' Strategy and Market Position

11:46 Integration and Operational Efficiency

17:57 Financial Implications of Battery Energy Storage

Summary

In this episode of Leading the Charge, Kevin Sturmer and Tim Doling talk with Avadhut Tayshete, Senior Software Engineer at POWR2. They delve into the intricacies of telemetry for battery energy storage systems, focusing on the role of software, data security, and innovative technologies like blockchain. They discuss how data collection and analysis can optimize energy management, the importance of customization in reporting, and the potential for peer-to-peer energy trading. The conversation highlights the future of energy storage and its integration with third-party systems, providing insights into the evolving landscape of sustainable energy.

Takeaways

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

======================

GUEST

Avadhut Tayshete

Senior Software Engineer, POWR2

https://www.linkedin.com/in/avadhut-tayshete-a22726113/

URLs

WEBINAR link: Unlock Your ADVANTAGE: Smart Energy Management https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3901955002197992795?utm_content=304175469&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-27218999

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on

CHAPTERS

00:00

Introduction to Battery Energy Storage Systems

02:58

The Role of Software in Energy Management

05:51

Data Collection and Security in Energy Systems

09:08

Customization and Reporting Features

11:59

Blockchain and Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading

14:51

Future of Energy Storage and Market Dynamics

17:46

Integration with Third-Party Systems

Summary

Takeaways

Get all the details and more at https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

⁠

======================

GUEST

Dr. Wan Si Tang

Director of Research for Novel Materials & New Energy Forms, ESRI

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wansitang/

URLs

https://ul.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ulresearchinstitutes/

https://benicetoyourdevice.org/

https://techfestlive.com/

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Sustainability and Energy Storage Technology

02:53 Understanding Lithium-Ion Batteries

05:52 Challenges and Innovations in Battery Technology

09:11 Innovations in Battery Materials and Manufacturing

15:12 The Future of Hydrogen and Alternative Energy Sources

18:04 Recycling and Sustainability in Battery Life Cycle

30:04 Impact of Temperature on Battery Performance

31:13 Emerging Technologies: Solid-State Batteries

Summary

In this episode of Leading the Charge, we sit down with Josh Mosko, Vice President of Business Development for CES Power, talking about sustainable power solutions for live events and beyond. We cover the evolution of sustainability in the rental industry, the use of data and technology in optimizing power solutions, and the growing demand for battery-powered equipment. Additionally, we explore the factors that drive the choice between diesel, hydrogen fuel cells, and solar power, and the importance of reliability and redundancy in event power operations. Wrapping up with what’s next for Josh and CES Power.

Takeaways

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

⁠

======================

GUEST

Josh Mosko

Vice President of Business Development, CES Power

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshmosko/

URLs

https://www.CESPower.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ces-power

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

CHAPTERS

00:00

Introduction and Overview

02:54

The Evolution of Sustainability in the Rental Industry

11:30

Optimizing Power Solutions through Data and Technology

18:07

The Growing Demand for Battery-Powered Equipment

21:22

Choosing Between Diesel, Hydrogen Fuel Cells, and Solar Power

28:19

Reliability and Redundancy in Event Power Solutions

Summary

In this episode, Kevin and Tim take a deeper look at the business side of sustainability, hearing from entrepreneurial experts, Damien Glanville and Sandra Brodie. Damien and Sandra are cofounders of Powershift Technologies - Australian clean tech company that supports industries in decarbonizing through emission-free power solutions. They’re partnered with POWR2 to bring the POWRBANK MAX to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands region. We discuss their backgrounds in the energy industry and the market gaps that led to Powershift, including the declining energy grid. Both Damien and Sandra emphasize the importance of providing service excellence and partnering with customers to analyze their data, propose the right solution, deploy the technology, and provide ongoing support. Education is key in the Australian market and proof of the product will be essential for boosting adoption. We also discuss the importance of showing real-world examples and learning from other countries in this continuously evolving marketplace.

Takeaways

If you have a question you'd like answered on Leading the Charge, email us at [email protected].

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

⁠

======================

GUESTS

Damien Glanville

CEO, Powershift

https://www.linkedin.com/in/damienglanville/

Sandra Brodie

Chief Operating Officer, Powershift

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-brodie-a207344a/

URLs

https://www.powershift.tech

https://www.linkedin.com/company/powershift-technologies/

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Overview

01:25

Background of Powershift Technologies

03:12

Damien Glanville's Entrepreneurial Journey

06:32

Sandra Brody's Varied Career Path

07:52

State of the Energy Market and Gaps in Australia

09:13

Lessons from European Market and Partnership with POWR2

10:33

Clear Leader in Battery Technology: The Netherlands

11:30

Opportunities and Challenges in the Australian Market

13:23

Making Financial Sense and Avoiding Reliance on Subsidies

15:38

Modeling Tools and Demonstrating Cost Savings

16:59

Partnership Approach and Supporting Customers

19:47

Leasing Model and Supporting Customers' Success

20:42

Succession Plan for Aging Assets

21:12

Future of Powershift Technologies

23:36

Versatility and Exciting Applications of POWRBANK MAX

27:46

Boosting Adoption and Moving Closer to Net Zero

29:35

Importance of Education and Belief in the Product

31:48

Activity Equals Outcome and Bite Off More Than You Can Chew

33:39

Q&A: Boosting Adoption and Moving Closer to Net Zero

Summary

In this episode, Kevin and Tim dive into sustainable power for the UK Hire industry with Alan Guthrie, founder of the Alan Guthrie On Hire Blog.  He shares stories of hire company selflessness during the pandemic, explores the changes in sustainability and battery energy, and discusses the future of these technologies in the hire industry. He also addresses opportunities for different hire companies when adopting new technologies. Finally, we discuss the role of telematics and data in promoting sustainable equipment. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of sustainability and the hire industry, as well as Alan's plans.

Takeaways

Get all the details and more at ⁠https://www.LeadingTheCharge.io

⁠

======================

GUEST

Alan Guthrie

Founder, the Alan Guthrie On Hire Blog

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-guthrie-1189b3153/

Alan Guthrie On Hire Blog: https://www.alanguthrieonhire.com

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Overview

08:36

The Importance of Service and Personal Contact in the Hire

11:16

Evolution of Battery Energy Storage Systems

14:27

The Need for a Range of Power Options

22:06

Challenges and Opportunities in Achieving Sustainability

26:25

The Future of the Hire Industry

Summary

The episode discusses temporary power at live events and the use of battery energy storage systems. The guests, Neel Vasavada, Sean Jacobs, and Richard Cadena, share their experiences and insights in the field. They talk about the advantages of battery energy storage systems over diesel generators, including reliability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. They share their passion for green energy and live entertainment, the challenges of powering a sustainable concert, the reliability of battery energy storage, and the sizing of the system for optimal performance. The discussion also delves into the challenges of regulations and standards for battery energy storage systems and the need for industry collaboration to shape the codes. The episode concludes with a discussion on future plans and upcoming events for Cadena and Overdrive Energy Solutions.

Takeaways

Get all the details and more at ⁠www.LeadingTheCharge.io⁠.

Lollapalooza images and video courtesy of Overdrive Energy Solutions and Richard Cadena. Used with permission.

======================

GUESTS

Neel Vasavada

Founder, Overdrive Energy Solutions

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neel-vasavada/

https://www.overdrive.rocks

Sean Jacobs

Lead Engineer, Overdrive Energy Solutions

https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanajacobs/

https://www.overdrive.rocks

Richard Cadena

Author, ETCP Certified Entertainment Electrician,

Founder, Academy of Production Technology

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmcadena/

https://www.aptxl.com

LINKS

NFPA – National Fire Protection Association

https://www.nfpa.org

ESTA – Entertainment Services and Technology Association

https://www.esta.org

======================

Company: https://www.POWR2.com

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/powr2

Tim Doling: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdoling

Kevin Sturmer: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-sturmer

DISCLAIMER

Any statements or views expressed by hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2, their partners, or affiliates.

Any statements or views expressed by the hosts or guests on Leading the Charge are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of POWR2.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Temporary Power at Live Events

06:35 Richard Cadena's Experience in Lighting Design and Teaching

13:19 Reliability and Comparison of Battery Energy Storage Systems and Diesel Generators

30:38 Future Plans for Overdrive Energy Solutions and Richard Cadena

38:43 Conclusion and Q&A with Tim