Sean welcomes Ben Batchelder, Multi-Family Engineering Manager at Aspen Power, for an in-depth conversation about the solar energy industry. They discuss Ben’s career journey, from his early days at Sunlight and Power to his current role. Topics include the evolution of solar technology, the distinction between residential and commercial solar projects, the significance of energy storage, and innovative solutions in the field. Ben also shares fascinating experiences from his time working in Antarctica and highlights the importance of designing for the long term in solar energy projects.

 

Topics covered:

SLP = Sunlight and Power www.sunlightandpower.com

C&I = Commercial and Industrial

SatCon Technology Corp

SNEC www.snec-pv.com

SolarEdge www.solaredge.com/us

UL 3741, Rapid Shutdown, and Firefighter Safety

Legacy Systems

Power Garden

Sean’s Solar Training Center

Recycling old modules

Solar thermal vs. PV

Decline of solar hot water

Pool thermal systems

Ben’s experience in Antarctica

Life at McMurdo Station

Shift to large-scale PV

NEM 3.0 and electricity rates

Demand charges and storage

Energy monitoring strategies

PPAs and system ownership

Site visits and real-world issues

Bad solar practices in the industry

Aspen Power Solar Long-term design mindset

Find out more on:

Aspen Power Solar Website: www.aspenpower.com

Episode with Michael Shonka: www.podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/michael-shonka-solar-thermal-and-solar-in-the-80s/id1441958371?i=1000708495417

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean