Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage Podcast

Join host Sean White as he interviews William Grant, co-founder of Sun Collectors, for an inspiring deep dive into the world of solar energy. Discover William’s journey from electrical engineer to solar entrepreneur, the challenges and rewards of building a business in Illinois, and the impact of the SREC program. The conversation covers technical insights, ethical business practices, and the importance of community and second chances. With personal stories of overcoming adversity and a commitment to making solar accessible and reputable, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in renewable energy, entrepreneurship, and positive change.   Topics Covered Sun Collectors www.suncollectors.solar William’s Background SREC = Solar Renewable Energy Certificate Tax Credit Incentives Lease Solar Coaster PPA = Power Purchase Agreement Illinois Peoria Unions   Reach out to William Grant here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/william-grant Sun Collectors: www.suncollectors.solar   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Discover how Brooklyn Solar Works is transforming New York City rooftops with innovative solar canopies. Host Sean White chats with co-founders T.R. Ludwig and Gaelen McKee about the challenges and breakthroughs of installing solar in dense urban environments. Learn how their unique canopy designs overcome space, code, and engineering hurdles, turning underused rooftops into sustainable, usable spaces. From technical insights to humorous anecdotes, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the future of urban solar, the growth of a pioneering company, and the exciting possibilities for clean energy in cities everywhere.   Topics Covered Brooklyn Solar Works www.brooklynsolarworks.com Solar Canopy Solar Carport Burj Khalifa Solar in New York City Codes and Jurisdictions Racking Post and Truss Designs   Previous Podcast with T.R. Ludwig Apple YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean   Reach out to T.R. Ludwig and Gaelen McKee here: T.R Ludwig LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/trludwig Gaelen McKee LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gaelen-mckee Brooklyn Solar Works: www.brooklynsolarworks.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Discover the story of Johnny Weiss, the visionary who transformed solar education and empowered a global clean energy movement. Join host Sean White and guest Jeff Spies as they share personal stories, industry insights, and the lasting impact of Solar Energy International. Learn how one man’s passion for teaching sparked a revolution, inspired thousands, and continues to light the way for a sustainable future. Whether you’re a solar pro or just curious about renewable energy, this episode will leave you inspired by the power of community, education, and one remarkable legacy.   Topics Covered Johnny Weiss Solar Pioneer SEI = Solar Energy International SEI Mini Documentary of Johnny Weiss www.youtube.com Claudia Wentworth Award Mark Mrohs Bill Brooks Solar Training Podcast with Johnny Weiss Apple YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean Podcast with Mark Mrohs Apple YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean Johnny Weiss Initiative Solar Maintenance Fossil Fuel Greenhouse Gas Solar Roots – the Pioneers of PV   Reach out to Jeff Spies here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-spies   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

In this episode, Sean White welcomes Bernadette Del Chiaro, a prominent figure in the solar industry. Bernadette discusses her current role as the Senior Vice President of the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and her extensive background in the field, including her tenure as the executive director of the California Solar and Storage Association. The conversation dives into EWG's mission and Bernadette's recent projects, including a lawsuit against the California Public Utilities Commission over net metering policies and promoting balcony solar systems. The episode highlights the importance of distributed generation, rooftop solar, and the legal and policy challenges facing the solar industry in California. Sean and Bernadette also touch on the political influence of investor-owned utilities and the future of energy policy.   Topics Covered: CALSSA = California Solar and Storage Association Distributed generation EWG = Environmental Working Group Public Utilities Commission and California Net-Metering Balcony Solar Plug-in and play systems Neighborhood sharing program Lawsuit Load growth Million Solar Roof Initiative 2006   Reach out to Bernadette Del Chiaro here: LinkedIn:   www.linkedin.com/in/bernadette-del-chiaro-7598706/  Email:  bernadette@ewg.org   Website: www.ewg.org Rooftop Solar Defense Fund Campaign: www.act.ewg.org/a/ewg-solar   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/30hrpv

Join us as we explore the future of energy storage with Antonio Baclig, CEO of Inlyte Energy. Discover how reinventing batteries—especially sodium-based technology—could transform the grid, make renewable energy more reliable, and reduce dependence on global supply chains. We break down battery basics, discuss the challenges and opportunities in battery innovation, and touch on the broader impact for climate and society. Whether you’re an energy enthusiast or just curious about what powers tomorrow, this episode offers fresh insights and inspiration for anyone interested in the next big leap in clean energy.   Topics Covered Inlyte Energy www.inlyteenergy.com Battery Solid State Battery Battery Chemistry Antonio’s Career Background ESS = Energy Storage System Chemistry Sodium Metal Battery Grid Storage Anodes & Cathodes Alkaline Batteries Three Electrode Batteries Quantum Mechanics Intercolation Dendrites Batteries for Airplane EV Charging = Electric Vehicle Charging Electrochemical Potential Nominal Volt Chemical Bonds Bill Gates’ Three Tough Truths About Climate Change Global Climate   Reach out to Antonio Baclig here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-baclig Inlyte Energy: www.inlyteenergy.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Celebrate a century of innovation with “100 Years of Energy.” Host Sean White interviews Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at Trojan Battery Company, to uncover how Trojan evolved from a lead-acid battery pioneer to a leader in lithium technology. Discover real-world stories from off-grid Alaska to global markets, the secrets behind batteries that last decades, and how customer feedback drives Trojan’s innovation. Whether you’re into energy, technology, or inspiring business journeys, this episode offers powerful insights into the past, present, and future of energy storage.   Topics Covered C&D Trojan www.cdtrojan.com ESS = Energy Storage System Battery LSEV = Low Speed Electric Vehicle EV = Electric Vehicle Trojan Batteries Lead-Acid VS Lithium ion Battery Longevity NEC = National Electrical Code Float Charge Off Grid   Reach out to Laurie Oswald here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ldoswald C&D Trojan www.cdtrojan.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Discover how solar power is changing the game for cities, businesses, and your wallet. Host Sean White sits down with Michael Chanin, CEO of Cherry Street Energy, to reveal the secrets behind affordable, no-upfront-cost solar electricity. From the company’s unique origin story to real talk about industry myths, workforce training, and building a legacy business, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and practical advice. Whether you’re a solar skeptic or a clean energy fan, you’ll learn how the future of power is being built, one community at a time. Tune in and get energized!   Topics Covered Cherry Street Energy www.cherrystreet.com Heatspring www.heatspring.com/instructors/sean-white NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners  www.nabcep.org Marketplace Education IREC = Interstate Renewable Energy Council Unethical Solar Salespeople Supply and Demand Utility Coal Fossil Fuel Solar Coaster Combustion Car EV = Electric Vehicle HVAC = Heating, Ventilation, And Air Conditioning   Reach out to Michael Chanin here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michaelchanin Website: www.cherrystreet.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Join host Sean White as he interviews Dr. Laura Ward, a leading expert in power electronics, on the evolution of electrical grids from traditional synchronous machines to advanced smart grids. This episode explores the critical role of grid forming inverters in stabilizing renewable energy systems, their technical advantages, and real-world applications in microgrids and urban infrastructure. Dr. Ward shares insights from her research and professional experience, offering a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in modernizing the grid for a sustainable, resilient energy future. Ideal for professionals and enthusiasts in energy, engineering, and policy.   Topics Covered Grid Forming Inverter Grid Following Inverter Synchronous Machines Droop Coefficients Ancillary Services Microgrid Grid Grid Forming Inverter Policy   Reach out to Laura Ward here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drlaura-ward Instagram: www.instagram.com/stem.laurandre   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Join host Sean White as he interviews Mark Jacobs, a renewable energy marketing expert, about creative ways to make solar energy and electric vehicles part of mainstream American culture. Discover the story behind a unique solar-themed jigsaw puzzle, learn about the EV Math campaign helping rural communities save money with electric vehicles, and hear how Twende Solar brings clean energy to underserved areas worldwide. With engaging stories, humor, and practical insights, this episode highlights the power of creativity and community in driving the clean energy transition. Perfect for anyone interested in sustainability, innovation, and positive social impact.   Topics Covered Solar Marketing Jigsaw Puzzle Twende Solar www.twendesolar.org EV = Electric Vehicle EV Math Range Anxiety Free Supercharging for Life Rural Community AI = Artificial Intelligence Artificial Smoke and Sound for Electric Vehicles Self-Reliance and Independence Creative Marketing Portland Puzzle Company   Reach out to Mark Jacobs here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/markjacobs   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Join jokester Sean White as he interviews Aaron Nichols, research and policy specialist at Exact Solar and creator of "This Week in Solar." Discover Aaron’s unique journey from teaching and traveling to working in solar and learn how he’s making solar news accessible through engaging communication. The episode covers the evolution of solar industry messaging, strategies for reaching diverse audiences, and the importance of storytelling in marketing and public outreach. Whether you’re a solar professional or just curious about the industry, this episode offers practical insights, real-world experiences, and a fresh perspective on solar news and careers.   Topics Covered Grid Alternatives Aaron’s Career Cougars Circus girls This Week in Solar www.exactsolar.substack.com/podcast Podcast Public Speaking Stage Fright Exact Solar www.exactsolar.com Infinite Solar NEC = National Electrical Code EPC = Engineering Procurement and Construction Circus Copywriting Writing Burning Man Suncast Communication Strategies Utility   Reach out to Aaron Nichols here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-nichols Exact Solar: www.exactsolar.com This Week in Solar Substack: www.exactsolar.substack.com/podcast This Week in Solar YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ThisWeekInSolar   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Join host Sean White and solar industry leader Nabih Cherradi for an expert discussion on the explosive growth of solar manufacturing, global market dynamics, and the future of clean energy. Recorded live at RE+, this episode explores why solar keeps beating projections, the role of policy and innovation, and offers practical advice for new entrants. Discover why the future of solar is brighter than ever!   Topics Covered Desert Technologies www.desert-technologies.com Solar in Antarctica Policies Solar in the Past Feed-in Tariff Supply and Demand Solar Market Incentives Factory Polysilicon Investment What Creates Jobs in the Solar Industry Module Manufacturing CapEx Workforce Sustainable Jobs Africa Workforce and Market Potential Podcast in SNEC Conference Apple podcast YouTube Spotify Pandora Podbean   Reach out to Nabih Cherradi here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nabih-cherradi Website: www.desert-technologies.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Join host Sean White as he interviews Dr. David Renee and Dr. Paulette Middleton, leaders in atmospheric science and renewable energy. Explore the evolution of solar energy, the impact of organizations like ISES and ASES, and the transition from fossil fuels to renewables. This episode highlights the importance of community, workforce development, and effective communication in advancing sustainable energy. Gain professional insights and historical context on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of solar and renewable energy worldwide.   Topics Covered ISES = International Solar Energy Society www.ises.org ASES = American Solar Energy Society www.ases.org NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association www.norcalsolar.org Atmospheric Sciences Climate David’s Career NREL = National Renewable Energy Laboratory Early Days in Solar Industry Wind Energy SERI = Solar Energy Research Institute President Jimmy Carter CALSA = California Storage Association IRENA = International Renewable Energy Agency COP Conference Fossil Fuel Solar Today Magazine www.ases.org/solartoday Workforce Development Oil and Gas Industry Utility Off Grid Panorama Pathways www.panoramapathways.net Aspen Hill Films   Reach out to David & Paulette here: David’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dave-renne Paulette’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/paulette-middleton Panorama Pathways: www.panoramapathways.net   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

In this episode, Sean White welcomes Khanti Munro, Senior Product Manager at ConnectDER, to talk about meter socket adapters (MSAs) and their role in the evolving world of distributed energy resources (DERs). Khanti shares his journey in the solar industry, his mentorship under industry legend Johnny Weiss, and his hands-on experience with solar installations and product innovation   Topics Covered: Introducing ConnectDER MSA = Meter Socket Adapter MBA = Meter Base Adapter DER = Distributed Energy Resources EV = Electric Vehicle California Rule 21 Rule 31 UL 1741 UL 414 UL 3141 ESS = Energy Storage Systems Supply Side Connection MSA, EV MSA with load management, Islander for whole-house backup RTFM = Read the F_N Manual Integration of MSAs with inverters and storage systems from SolarEdge, Franklin, Lunar, and EcoFlow The challenges and rewards of product development and patenting in the solar industry Practical advice for installers Stories from the field, including working with Bernie Sanders   Reach out to Khanti Munro here: Email: kmunro@connectder.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/khantimunro Website: www.connectder.com   Check out the latest Greg Smith’s podcast here: www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/greg-smith-the-snarky-solar-guy-and-best-selling-author   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvsi

Join host Sean White and Inlyte Energy CEO Antonio Baclig as they discuss the science, innovation, and commercial potential of sodium metal chloride batteries. Learn how these safe, abundant, and recyclable batteries could transform grid-scale energy storage and support the transition to sustainable power. This episode offers valuable insights for professionals and enthusiasts interested in renewable energy, battery technology, and the future of large-scale energy solutions.   Topics Covered Inlyte Energy www.inlyteenergy.com Sodium Metal Chloride ESS = Energy Storage System Batteries Iron Silicon Lithium Hydrogen Sodium Potassium Science Engineering Ceramic Membrane Beta Lumina Sodium Metal Lithium Ion & Lithium Metal Anode & Cathode Dendrites Liquid Metal Sodium Sulfur Battery British Rail Vehicle Battery Yi Cui Amprius Silicon-Based Anode NMC = Nickel Manganese Cobalt EV = Electric Vehicles Manufacturing Ceramic Separator   Reach out to Antonio Baclig here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com Website: www.inlyteenergy.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at  www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

How is solar power changing the way we charge electric vehicles? Join host Sean White and Tom McCalmont, CEO of Paired Power, as they reveal the latest breakthroughs in solar-powered EV charging, microgrids, and clean energy innovation. Discover how deployable solar solutions and vehicle-to-grid technology are making EV charging smarter, more reliable, and accessible for everyone. With 25 years of industry experience, Tom shares real-world stories and a positive vision for the future. If you care about clean energy or electric vehicles, this episode will show you why EV charging will never be the same again!   Topics Covered McCalmont Engineering ReGrid Power Real Goods Solar ESS = Energy Storage System Micro Grid EV = Electric Vehicle EV Charging 20% Solar Vehicle Paint Paired Power www.pairedpower.com Micro Grid EV Charging V2G = Vehicle to Grid V2X = Vehicle to Everything Battery Grid PairPHNXX PairTree PairFleet Pairiscope EV Charger Reliability Broken EV Chargers CALSSA = California Solar & Storage Association   Reach out to Tom McCalmont here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mccalmont Website: www.pairedpower.com   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MCd3-kJNa_s   In this episode, Sean White is joined by Jeff Spies and Deep Patel for a hands-on unboxing and deep dive into vintage Arco Solar modules from the early 1980s. The team shares the history, technology, and quirks of these classic solar panels, sharing stories and technical insights along the way. Key Topics Covered: The origins of Arco Solar Module Differences between various Arco models (M51, 16-2000, 16-2300) Carrizo Solar Power Plant Cell degradation Reason of encapsulant browning Evolution of module design. The importance of cell count for charging 12V lead-acid batteries and the move from 33 to 36 cells. Unboxing and examining the modules’ physical features, including junction boxes, grounding, and serial numbers. Reach out to Jeff Spies here: Email: jeff.spies@planetplansets.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-spies Website: www.planetplansets.com   Reach out to Deep Patel here: Email: dpatel@gogreensolar.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/deeppatel Website: www.gogreensolar.com   Check out the podcast with Don Bilinski here: • Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/arco-solar-with-don-bilinski-remembering-russ-campbell/id1441958371?i=1000736949407   • YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nurs9Ucszro   • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3K1MTsZRImkuBXnirG17V6?si=PeV-q4L9SEGUc2R-Ge_RPw&nd=1&dlsi=4f52b0250ec64be2    • Pandora:  https://www.pandora.com/podcast/sean-whites-solar-and-energy-storage-podcast/arco-solar-with-don-bilinski-remembering-russ-campbell/PE:1320680210?part=ug-desktop&corr=95823540019819880   • Podbean: https://whitehousesolar.podbean.com/e/arco-solar-with-don-bilinski-and-russ-cambell/     Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvsi

In this episode, Sean White sits down with CJ Colavito, General Manager of Integrated Project Teams at Standard Solar. They dive deep into the world of distributed generation, community solar, and the evolving landscape of solar policy in the United States. The conversation also touches on industry anecdotes, the impact of policy on solar markets, and the future of solar technology and supply chains.   Topics Covered: Standard Solar’s story CNI = Commercial and Industrial Growth of distributed generation and community solar Policy impacts in California and Texas Utility-scale vs. distributed generation FEOC = Foreign Entity of Concern policy Advances in solar module efficiency U.S. and China solar manufacturing The role of quality and engineering in project longevity   Reach out to CJ Colavito here: Website: www.standardsolar.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cjcolavito   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at: www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/30hrpv

Join host Sean White as he interviews Peter Gruenbaum, an energy software engineer and instructor, about the real-world role of software in battery systems and modern energy markets. Discover how batteries are managed, how software enables market participation, and why understanding these systems is crucial for the future of renewable energy. Perfect for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, energy storage, and education.   Topics Covered SDK Bridge www.sdkbridge.com Software Engineering Batteries Richard Swanson Swanson’s Law Moore’s Law Physics Software Peter’s Career Boeing www.boeing.com Spectro Lab www.spectrolab.com Multi-Junction Concentrated Solar Gallium Antimonide Permafrost ISO = Independent Service Operator ERCOT = Electric Reliability Council of Texas ESS = Energy Storage System VPP = Virtual Power Plant Frequency Response Energy Market Demand Charge Peak Shaving AI = Artificial Intelligence Coding Programming Peter Gruenbaum’s Heatspring Class www.heatspring.com/courses/introduction-to-software-for-battery-systems   Reach out to Peter Gruenbaum here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pgruenbaum   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

In this episode, Sean White had a fun chat with Don Bilinski, the Enterprise Business Development Manager at Kinect Solar. They recount a serendipitous meeting at a solar conference and delve into the fascinating history of solar modules. Don shares anecdotes about industry pioneer Russ Campbell, who significantly contributed to the development of early solar modules, right down to the quirky design of junction boxes inspired by a Dodge Dart gas cap. They also discuss the evolution of solar technology from its infancy at Bell Labs to the large-scale utility projects of today, highlighting milestones and challenges in the journey. Don reveals an exciting upcoming unboxing of vintage Arco solar modules, stored for nearly 40 years. This episode is a treasure trove of solar history, technological evolution, and engaging stories from industry veterans.   Topics Covered: Arco Solar Modules Bell Labs Silicon coating Plexiglass Russ Campbell Crystalline Silicon Solar Module 1954 Solar World Lauren Carson Johnny Carson Solar Universe IPPs = Independent Power Producer EPCs = Coda Energy Utility Scale JBox M51 Dodge Dart gas cap Paul Fenn Community Choice Aggregation Fidelity Roof Company Schüco Solar Women in Solar   Reach out to Don Bilinski LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/don-bilinski-ab288158/ Website: www.kinectsolar.com/    Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pva

In this episode Sean is joined by Scott Rosenberg, CEO and co-founder of 257. They discuss the origins of 257, named after the historic site of Thomas Edison’s first power plant and dive into the future of residential electrification. Scott shares how 257 uses AI and data science to profile every home in the U.S., helping energy providers and installers identify which homes are ready for solar, storage, heat pumps, and other upgrades. Sean and Scott also touch on the role of electric vehicles as distributed energy storage, the importance of policy and utility planning, and the need for dynamic, responsive grids. Scott introduces the “Pink” platform, a chat-based tool for residential energy intelligence, and shares insights on industry trends and the evolving solar landscape.   Topics Covered: Story behind 257 AI and data-driven residential electrification Customer acquisition in solar and storage Electric Vehicles and Energy Storage Utility and Policy Challenges The “Pink” platform for energy intelligence Industry trends in solar and storage The impact of policy on solar adoption   Reach out to Scott Rossenberg here: Website: www.257.co   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at: www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/ESIP