Technology

Clean Power Hour

The Clean Power Hour podcast is speeding the clean energy transition. Tim Montague and John Weaver highlight clean energy innovations shaping the next generation of renewable energy sources. We discuss the latest solar PV, battery storage, wind, water, wave, and other low-carbon technologies. We answer the question: How can we decarbonize the economy? We promote the economic opportunity of electrifying everything – transportation, energy, industry, and the built environment. Let’s speed up the clean energy transition together. Join the movement – www.CleanPowerHour.com

Latest Episodes:

Clean Power Hour LIVE | July 6, 2023 Jul 07, 2023

Show notes

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at tim@cleanpowerhour.com or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.
This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. Roof-integrated solar installed at the time of new construction takes 44% less time
2. Rooftop solar was overlooked. Now it’s closing a New England power plant
3. Talk about an Interesting Book: Climate Restoration by Peter Fiekowsk and Carole Douglis
4. Talking about the challenges of deploying solar in the southwest deserts
5. Cars that were normally being used for ride shares - were instead kept plugged in because they were worth more to discharge electricity overnight in the Netherlands
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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com

Promises and Peril - Small Modular Nuclear Reactors with David Kraft, NEIS |Ep149 Jul 04, 2023

Show notes

Today on the Clean Power Hour we are joined by David Kraft, Founder and Director of the Nuclear Energy Information Service (NEIS), as we explore the promises and perils of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) and the nuclear industry.

Nuclear energy is a low-carbon energy source once the power plants are constructed and commissioned. But the siting, permitting, and overall costs of nuclear power are such that nuclear is not going to play a major role in the energy transition. Yet, if you follow the US DOE (Dept of Energy), there is a flood of news and information suggesting that small modular nuclear reactors - so-called ‘next-gen nuclear’ - are absolutely going to be part of the mix of the future grid. What are SMNRs (also called SMRs)? How long does it take to site, permit and build them? And what is the cost of nuclear power compared to wind and solar? These are some of the questions we answer today on the Clean Power Hour.
Nuclear Energy Information Service (NEIS) is a non-profit organization that advocates for sustainable, ecologically sound, and socially just energy solutions. NEIS views nuclear power to have more side effects than benefits. Their founder and Director, David Kraft joins us today to share his thoughts and rationale of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMNRs).
David Kraft is an accomplished public speaker and writer on nuclear topics. He was responsible for creating the “Know Nukes!” series of videos on nuclear topics in cooperation with CAN-TV Chicago; and is a co-founder of the Radiation Monitoring Project, designed to provide training and field monitors to communities contaminated by radioactive substances.
David Kraft delves into the crucial discussions surrounding the safety concerns, waste management, and regulatory considerations associated with SMRs. We also explore the history of the nuclear industry in the US and in Illinois where 40% of grid power comes from nuclear power.

Key Takeaways

What is NEIS (Nuclear Energy Information Service) and what do they do?
What are small modular nuclear reactors?
Why small modular reactors might fall short
Unveiling the perils and potential of nuclear energy

Nuclear Energy Information Service
Follow NEIS
Connect with David Kraft

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Clean Power Hour LIVE | June 29, 2023 | Speeding the Energy Transition Jun 30, 2023

Show notes

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at tim@cleanpowerhour.com or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.
This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. Solar Power Bails Out Texas Grid during Major Heat Wave
2. Texas homeowner contracted with Tesla Energy and using a powerwall, sells electricity for greater than an hour above $4/kWh - peaking over $5/kWh
3. ISO New England, which oversees the six-state power market, concluded after months of research that the region’s power grid has been strengthened by cold-weather sunlight
4. Study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has estimated the EV charging infrastructure needed nationwide to support this sweeping transition to electrified transportation
5. Deno Simulator, a self-powered digital weather station, and the corresponding Digital Twin software package that helps solar asset owners know what they’re ‘supposed’ to be generating.
6. Researchers suggest a lithium-ion pouch battery 2-3X more energy dense than what’s in a Tesla today
7. The price of polysilicon has fallen to about $8/kg
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Ryan Brown, Revolutionizing Battery Storage with Zinc-ion ESS | Ep 148 Jun 27, 2023

Show notes

On this episode of Clean Power Hour, we dive deep into the world of zinc-ion energy storage. Our guest is Ryan Brown, CEO and co-founder of Salient Energy, a Canadian company that is betting on the unique properties of water-based zinc-ion batteries. Zinc is a commodity that is produced at ten times the volume of Lithium in the global economy, so it could play a critical role in helping the US achieve the estimated six terawatt-hours of storage needed for a clean grid by 2050. Water-based Zinc batteries also have no thermal runaway concerns that have plagued Lithium batteries.
If Brown is right, the water-based Zinc-ion chemistry that Salient is pursuing has equal energy density (power footprint), cycle lifetime, and a lower carbon footprint than the Lithium alternative. Salient is going to market with a residential storage solution but has ambitions to tackle the Utility Scale ESS market.

In this episode, we unravel the story behind Ryan Brown's passion for energy storage and how it led to the birth of Salient Energy. We ask, if Zinc is such a good storage medium, why isn’t Elon Musk going after Zinc storage? Listen, and you’ll see that Brown has an astute analysis of Tesla’s business model which explains the all-in approach they are taking to Lithium batteries.
We discuss the factors that influence the choice between Lithium Ion and Zinc batteries. Hopefully, you’ll gain insight into the advantages and key differences between Zinc and Lithium for stationary storage and the immense potential that Zinc batteries hold for a sustainable future.

Discover how battery energy storage is transforming the residential landscape, empowering homeowners to harness clean energy and increase their energy independence.

Key Takeaways:

Ryan Brown's Journey into Energy Storage
The Birth of Salient Energy.
Salient Energy's Vision and Strategy for Disrupting the Battery Storage Market
Why isn’t Elon Musk doing Zinc batteries?
Lithium Ion vs. Zinc: Unraveling the Key Differences
How Zinc Batteries are Unleashing the Potential in Residential Clean Energy
The Future of Battery Energy: Trends and Transformations

Follow Salient Energy on LinkedIn
Connect with Ryan Brown
Salient Energy

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Connect with Tim

Clean Power Hour
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Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

James Oswald - Servicing 3-Phase String Inverters | Ep147 Jun 20, 2023

Show notes

Inverters are the heart of the solar PV plant. With over 10,000 sites across the US, CPS America inverters are busy converting DC solar power to AC grid power - a job that requires sophisticated power electronics and a team of dedicated solar professionals to maintain, upgrade and service those inverters.
Welcome to another episode of the Clean Power Hour! Today's episode features James Oswald, Service Director for Chint Power Systems (CPS America). James joined CPS in 2015 when the US was installing a mere 7 GW of solar a year (compared to 20+ GW/year currently). Join our host, Tim Montague, as he sits down with James to discuss the remarkable growth of the industry and the progress CPS has made, how their product line has changed, and how they approach customer service and servicing their fleet of 3-phase string inverters.
CPS America has emerged as a force in the US solar industry, and this episode reveals some of the factors that have propelled their growth. By continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible, CPS has developed highly efficient and reliable inverters that have revolutionized the solar energy industry.
Throughout the conversation, James provides valuable insights into the company, its approach to 24/7/365 service, and the many career opportunities available at CPS. Whether you're a seasoned professional or early in your solar journey, CPS is hiring for a range of roles including service technicians, engineers, and business developers. CPS welcomes individuals who are passionate about creating a positive impact in the world and the solar industry. The company values people with a strong background in renewable energy, power electronics, and related fields. A dedication to teamwork, problem-solving, and a drive for continuous learning are highly sought-after qualities as well.

Key Takeaways

Who is James Oswald, Service Director, CPS America
Ins and outs of running the Service Dept at CPS America
CPS Flex Gateway - communications and monitoring capabilities
Growth and evolution of the product line at CPS America
Career Opportunities at CPS America - the life of a field technician

CPS America
Connect with James Oswald
Follow CPS America on LinkedIn

Support the show

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Email tim@cleanpowerhour.com

Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Clean Power Hour LIVE! Solar, wind and energy storage news June 15, 2023 Jun 16, 2023

Show notes

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at tim@cleanpowerhour.com or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.
This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. WoodMac and SEIA Q2 Report on Solar Industry - Solar is up 47% YOY
2. Norway Zero Sea is the future of shipping
3. Solar Panels Are Getting Cheaper - good for the energy transition
4. For the first five months of 2023 (through the end of May), utility-scale solar and wind have generated more electricity than coal for the first time, pumping out 252.6 million MWh vs. 249.4 million for coa
5. Germany’s Federal Network Agency has received several zero-subsidy bids across all four offshore wind areas currently under auction
Subscribe: https://bit.ly/cph-sub
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com.

Support the show

Connect with Tim

Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn

Email tim@cleanpowerhour.com

Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Rey Holmes and Sean O'Reilly Solar Roof Shingles: The Future of Energy and Roofing | EP146 Jun 13, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to the latest episode of the Clean Power Hour! In this episode we discuss the future of energy and roofing with GAF Energy and Smartroof Inc. Rey Holmes is a veteran of SolarCity and Tesla where he was Director of Engineering for Energy Products and for the past four years has led the Timberline Solar product team as VP of Product for GAF Energy. Sean O'Reilly is Chief Operating Officer for Smartroof Inc. a regional roofing and solar company based in VA and working across the Mid-Atlantic region and Florida. Solar shingles allow homeowners to generate their own electricity using their roofs.

GAF Energy is the solar division of GAF, the largest roofing materials manufacturer. GAF has pioneered the game-changing Timberline Solar shingle, a nailable shingle that installs largely the same as composite asphalt shingle.

Solar shingles have the potential to transform the roofing and solar industries. We start by exploring the technology behind solar shingles and how they work. We then discuss the advantages of solar shingles over traditional solar panels, including their aesthetic appeal and ease of installation. We also examine the cost of solar shingles and how they compare to traditional roofing materials.

Will solar shingles become the norm in the roofing industry? Tesla has struggled with their solar roof, but the nailable Timberline Solar shingle has the huge advantage of installing with the tools roofers use every day. Now it's just a question of scaling up production and making solar shingles more affordable for homeowners.

If you're interested in sustainable living, and renewable energy, or are considering a solar roofing solution, this episode is a must-watch.

Key Takeaways

How GAF Energy was started
How Solar Roof Shingles are Installed
GAF Energy Timberline Solar Shingle
How homeowners are responding to GAF Energy Timberline Solar Shingle
The difference between Traditional solar roof panels and solar shingles

Connect with Rey Holmes
Connect with Sean O’Reilly
Follow Smart Roof Inc
Follow GAF Energy
GAF Energy
Smart Roof Inc.

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Emily Teitsworth, Honnold Foundation - Bringing Solar to Marginalized Communities | EP 145 Jun 06, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to the latest episode of the Clean Power Hour, where we delve into the world of renewable energy and its incredible impact on our planet. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Emily Teitsworth, Executive Director of the Honnold Foundation, as our special guest. The Honnold Foundation, founded by professional rock climber Alex Honnold, has been expanding clean energy access to the less developed world and rural America since 2012.

In this episode, we explore Honnold’s vision for a future where marginalized communities participate in the practical and environmental & health benefits of solar and battery storage.

We dive deep into the core values of the Honnold Foundation which are “...that small, deliberate steps can help us achieve audacious goals, and we’re here to build a brighter and more equitable world for everyone.” We explore who is eligible for their grants and how they determine the recipients.

Ever wondered why Alex Honnold, the renowned rock climber, started the Honnold Foundation? We have the answer. Uncover the motivation and passion that led Alex to establish this incredible nonprofit organization, dedicated to a sustainable future powered by clean energy.

But the conversation doesn't stop there. We also explore how the Honnold Foundation effectively distributes its grants, supporting a diverse range of solar projects worldwide.

Key Takeaways

How Emily got into Solar
What Honnold Foundation is about
Who is eligible for Honnold Foundation grants
Why Alex Honnold Started the Honnold Foundation
How the foundation distributes the grants

Honnold Foundation
Connect with Emily Teitsworth on LinkedIn
Follow Honnold Foundation on LinkedIn

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Nick Kadlec, CEO, New Mexico Solar Group | EP144 May 30, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to the latest episode of the Clean Power Hour! In this episode, we take a deep dive into the New Mexico distributed solar industry. Join our host, Tim Montague, as he explores the current status of the New Mexico solar market and highlights the innovative efforts of the New Mexico Solar Group with their CEO Nick Kadlec.

Nick Kadlec shares his journey and transition into the solar industry and how he quickly rose to the role of CEO of the NM Solar Group, an employee-owned (ESOP) solar installer based in Albuquerque, NM. Founded by Ryan Wallace in 2015, NM Solar Group has helped over 5000 homeowners own their own energy with solar.

We also delve into the New Mexico solar landscape, exploring the various solar incentives and opportunities available in this promising market. From tax credits to net metering, we uncover the factors that make New Mexico an attractive destination for solar enthusiasts and environmentally conscious individuals.

Ever wondered about the significance of Pearl Certification? Look no further! We break down the meaning and importance of Pearl Certification in the context of the New Mexico solar market.

But that's not all—we also examine the general reception of solar energy in New Mexico. Gain insights into consumer thoughts on different brands and technologies, and discover the advantages and importance of SolarInsure.

Tune in now and become a part of the clean power movement!

Key Takeaways

Nick Kadlec’s solar background
The status of the New Mexico solar market
What New Mexico Solar Group is doing
What makes New Mexico Solar Group different from the competition
Solar Incentives in New Mexico
Meaning and importance of Pearl Certification
The general reception of Solar in New Mexico
Consumer thoughts on different solar brands and technology
The advantages and importance of SolarInsure

Connect with Nick Kadlec on LinkedIn

New Mexico Solar Group

Follow New Mexico Solar Group

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Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

Clean Power Hour LIVE | May 25, 2023 feat Tristan Erion-Lorico with PVEL May 26, 2023

Show notes

Tristan Erion-Lorico with PVEL joins Tim Montague and John Weaver to discuss Solar PVEL's, performance, and reliability test programs. We also discuss the latest in the world of renewable energy.
Stay up to date with the latest developments in the world of clean energy through the Clean Power Hour LIVE, your weekly source for solar, wind, and energy storage news and analysis. Join co-hosts Tim Montague, a seasoned renewable energy expert, and John Weaver, a PV Magazine journalist, as they dissect the latest tools, technologies, and trends driving the energy transition forward. With a strong commitment to decarbonizing the economy and building a safer, healthier future for humanity, this show is a must-watch for any energy professional looking to stay ahead of the game. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, rate and review us on Apple or Spotify, and join us live every Thursday at 12 noon EST / 9 AM Pacific. Contact us at tim@cleanpowerhour.com or visit www.CleanPowerHour.com to learn more.

Support the show

Connect with Tim

Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn

Email tim@cleanpowerhour.com

Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: CleanPowerHour@gmail.com

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