Plugging In!

What makes New York a solar powerhouse? This episode of Plugging In delves into the state's policies that are fueling the growth of clean energy.
 
Featuring Elena Weissman of Vote Solar, we discuss New York's achievements in distributed generation and the path to a solar-powered future. Explore the critical policy debates, including streamlining permitting, improving interconnection, and expanding access to solar for low-income communities.

Learn how New York is addressing challenges to achieve its ambitious solar goals and what other states can learn from its approach.


Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org

"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines. 

ASAP Act Bill Tracker: https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6570#:~:text=Enacts%20the%20accelerate%20solar%20for%20affordable%20power%20(ASAP)%20act%20to,of%20new%20distributed%20energy%20resources.
 
GAP Fund Act Bill Tracker: https://nyassembly.gov/leg/?bn=S03315&term=2025

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/X/
Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A


Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

Why are some of the reddest states leading the way in renewable energy? This episode of Plugging In explores the economic drivers of climate action, featuring Chelsea Henderson of RepublicEN.

• • Discover how this organization is engaging Republicans in a solutions-oriented conversation about climate change.
  • Learn about the economic opportunities presented by clean energy and the growing recognition of climate change impacts, from extreme weather to home insurance crises.
  • Explore the importance of bipartisan support for durable climate policy and how citizens can advocate for effective change in their communities.

Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org

"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines. 
 
Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/X/
Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A


Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

Join host Barry Wygel and this week's guest Kate Daniel as they explain how community solar can save you money.

• Harness the power of the sun: Learn how community solar allows you to subscribe to a shared solar farm and receive credits on your electricity bill.
• Save money: Discover how community solar can reduce your electric bill.
• Environmental benefits: Explore how community solar helps reduce your carbon footprint and supports the growth of clean energy in your community.
• Eligibility and the subscription process: Learn about the requirements for participating in a community solar program and how to find a project that's right for you.

Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org

"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines. 
 
Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/X/
Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A


Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

Did you know that your bank deposits can be loaned out to companies you might not agree with? This episode of Plugging In dives deep into the surprising ways your finances can impact the environment.   Join host Barry Wygel and "The Sustainable Economist" Tim Nash as they explore:

• The hidden impact of your investments: Discover how your retirement accounts and everyday banking choices can inadvertently support industries you don't agree with.
• Aligning your money with your values: Learn how to identify and invest in companies that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility.
• The power of your banking choices: Discover how choosing a climate-conscious bank can significantly reduce your environmental footprint.
• Simple steps for a greener financial future: Get actionable advice on how to align your investments with your values and make a real difference.

This episode empowers you to take control of your finances and use your money to build a more sustainable future.  

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice.

Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org

"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines.  

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/X/
Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A

Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

In this episode of Plugging In, we check in with New York-based battery manufacturer John Williams, CEO of Viridi. At their Buffalo campus, Viridi makes modular battery packs to be used in battery storage, which he describes as failproof, with zero chance of thermal runaway.

While this solution isn't designed for large grid-scale applications, it could very well serve a sizable percentage of our battery storage needs.   

Also, learn about the amazing nonprofit, Green Force, that Viridi funds, that has led to an 80 percent retention rate among his employees. 
https://www.thegreenforce.org


Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org

"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno.
The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines.

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A
ACE NY Website: https://www.aceny.org

Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

In today's increasingly complex energy landscape, ensuring a reliable and stable power supply is more crucial than ever. This episode of Plugging In speaks about how battery storage has already helped the grid and it’s only just the beginning.Join host Barry Wygel and guest Phil Denara as they discuss:

• How battery storage enhances grid reliability: Discover how these systems help balance supply and demand, prevent blackouts, and improve grid stability during extreme weather events.
• Addressing public concerns: We delve into safety measures and address common misconceptions about battery storage technology.
• Real-world examples: Hear from a industry expert about successful battery storage projects in New York and how they are benefiting communities.

This episode provides valuable insights into the critical role of battery storage in building a more resilient and reliable energy future for all New Yorkers.

Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org

"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno.
The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines.

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A
ACE NY Website: https://www.aceny.org

Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

Ever wonder how the power grid will keep the lights on, even when the sun isn't shining or the wind isn't blowing? The answer is battery energy storage! This episode of Plugging In dives into this exciting technology, explaining:

• What battery energy storage is and why we need it
• How it benefits the grid and environment (cleaner air, lower costs!)
• Different types of battery storage systems
• Safety measures in place to minimize risks
• How these systems look and where you might find them

Join host Barry Wygel and guest Claudia Villar-Leeman, Senior Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs at the New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium, as they explore the world of battery energy storage and its role in building a brighter, cleaner energy future for New York.


Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org "Plugging In" is produced by

Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines.

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A
ACE NY Website: https://www.aceny.org

Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

This episode of Plugging In dives deep with Marguerite Wells, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy in New York, about the surprising challenges she faced while developing a community-owned wind farm.  We'll discuss the importance of stakeholder outreach, the tactics of opposition groups, and the lessons learned that can help future renewable energy projects succeed in New York.


Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org
"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines. 

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A ACE NY Website: https://www.aceny.org 

Have suggestions? We want to hear them!

Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

Host Barry Wygel shares his personal experience with rooftop solar. From initial considerations to installation and beyond, he dives into the costs, benefits, and lessons learned. Discover how solar power can significantly reduce your energy bills and contribute to a greener future. This episode is packed with real-world insights and financial breakdowns, making it a must-listen for anyone
considering solar energy.

Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org "Plugging In" is produced by

Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines.

Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A
ACE NY Website: https://www.aceny.org

Have suggestions? We want to hear them!
Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9

While fishing concerns are often raised in the context of offshore wind projects, this episode of Plugging In: Powering Our Way to a Brighter and Healthier New York explains how offshore wind farms will provide many benefits to the fishing community. Capt. Paul Eidman, a marine environmental consultant joins the podcast to explain the benefits he is already seeing and why he is excited for the future. 

Learn more about clean energy at ACENY.org
"Plugging In" is produced by Barry Wygel and Angela Calcagno. The "Plugging In" theme song was written and performed by Jared Haines. 
 
Find Us On….
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allianceforcleanenergy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACENY
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliance-for-clean-energy-new-york/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ACE_newyork
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6r1_q6x_-HSBx1ZbKh5a0A
ACE NY Website: https://www.aceny.org 

Have suggestions? We want to hear them! Episode Suggestions Box: https://forms.office.com/r/cLnSdchsD9