Renewable Rides

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability, one chain giant has achieved a remarkable feat: Walmart has slashed its emissions to a mere fraction of the USA's annual CO2 output from its supply chains. Today, we delve into the strategy behind this monumental accomplishment and uncover the concept known as Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. Discover how Walmart transformed its sustainability effo...

Howard Thomas, Principal at Thomas & McKinlay Consulting, brings a fresh perspective to the table as he discusses simplifying our approach to the energy transition. With candid insights that challenge traditional norms, Howard emphasizes the necessity of authenticity and critical thinking in driving impactful change.  By addressing the tendency to prioritize easy tasks over crucial ones, Howar...

Today we are talking about how rising supply chain costs are impacting businesses and consumers alike. Inspired by recent revelations from a major restaurant chain, we take a look at the escalating menu prices and their impact on consumer behavior. From California's landmark labor deal to the surge in food and energy prices, we dissect the intricate web of factors driving these cost increases...

As industries increasingly seek reliable power sources independent of the grid, microgrids emerge as a viable alternative. Today we have Steve Pullins, the Chief Technology Officer and SVP of AlphaStruxure, joining the show to shed light on how cutting-edge technologies in the emergence of microgrids are transforming the energy landscape. This discussion explores diverse aspects of microgrids, as...

As we shift towards electrification, where does that leave our current infrastructure? In this episode, we discuss the complexities of energy load growth, grid capacity, and the looming risks for businesses. Listen in as we explain the implications of this explosive load growth, the environmental impact, and crucial considerations for businesses reliant on the grid. You will learn how businesses c...

Designing with utmost efficiency is probably one of the biggest goals out there, especially when it comes to homes, transportation, and industrial equipment. Today we are joined by one of the original drivers of the solar movement to talk about all things innovation and design. Steve Heckeroth is the Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Solectrac, one of the leading providers of electric tracto...

Discover the latest buzz in the electric vehicle (EV) industry with our special guest, Patrick Baker, Sales Executive at VECKTA. In this episode, we will be discussing the landscape of EVs, including groundbreaking trends, game-changing announcements, and Hertz's significant move. We're witnessing more than ever in the EV industry—from an influx of charging infrastructure to a surge in d...

Will Wells, venture partner, investor, advisor, and cancer survivor, joins the show today to share his journey and the transformational experience that inspired the creation of his start-up, Hummingbird Technologies Ltd. In this episode, Will candidly talks about the challenges and lessons learned from his entrepreneurial endeavors, shedding light on the intricacies of raising funds, navigating ex...

Today, we continue our conversation about financing onsite energy solutions with James Coombes, Founder and Director of Painted Rock Capital Group. In this episode, James dives into the intriguing concept of 'earning the asset' while leveraging debt financing. Discover how debt structures differ from traditional mortgages, the nuances of capital leasing, and the most efficient ways to be...

Unlock the keys to effective leadership and driving change in the energy industry with Tony Frencham, Chair and Member of CSIRO's Energy Business Unit Advisory Group. In this episode, Tony shares the power of authentic leadership and the impact of curiosity in navigating challenges. Discover the link between problem statements and purpose, and learn why it's crucial to embrace both succe...

Today we're discussing the transformative energy landscape of 2024, exploring the pivotal shifts that unfolded in 2023 and the upcoming trends we expect to see. This year has been fascinating, especially concerning the Inflation Reduction Act, the role of Healthcare Microgrid Systems, and the misconceptions surrounding batteries. While 2024 is poised to be a breakout year for onsite and distr...

Today we continue our conversation about financing onsite energy solutions with James Coombes, Founder and Director of Painted Rock Capital Group. In this episode, James shares the possibilities within tax credit-based financing and the impact of power purchase agreements (PPAs). James delves into the intricacies of obtaining a PPA, shedding light on the benefits it brings and the importance of up...

Today we discuss the secrets of impactful investing with Craig Jonas, the CEO and Founder of CoPeace PBC. In a world where caring about the future is not just a moral stance but a sound business decision, Craig shares insights into the dual purpose of impact investing – to "do no harm" and, more importantly, to "do good." You can find show notes, resources, and more here: http:...

James Coombes, Founder and Director of Painted Rock Capital Group, returns to the show to explain the tax incentive side of financing energy systems. In this episode, we discuss the Inflation Reduction Act, the financial benefits for businesses investing in on-site energy projects and critical questions that every business owner should consider, from understanding the potential tax credits based o...

Andy Klump, the visionary CEO & Founder of Clean Energy Associates, joins the show to share the incredible journey of how he ventured into the clean energy space and propelled his business into a global force, serving clients in over 75 countries. In this episode, Andy shares the pivotal role of talent acquisition, understanding the importance of hiring the right people to drive innovation and...

Today James Coombes, Founder and Director of Painted Rock Capital Group, joins the show to discuss all things finance. James has a wealth of experience in the realm of financing solar and storage applications for commercial and industrial businesses, and in this episode, he will be sharing how energy systems are financed, the options available, and where to begin. You can find show notes, resource...

In sustainability and the urgent energy transition, Brad Andrews, CEO of SLR Consulting, is a beacon of inspiration. He believes that making a meaningful impact requires understanding where we've been and leveraging the knowledge and skills we've acquired. In this episode, Brad shares his unwavering passion for sustainability, emphasizing the critical role of the sustainable energy indus...

Today Dan is joined by Patrick Baker, Director of Business Development, and Paul Ziessler, Lead Energy Development Analyst, to dive into the intricate world of grid hardening. A term often used internally, grid hardening is essentially the process of fixing our grid infrastructure, which is currently plagued with vulnerabilities. The episode explains the pressing need for this initiative, especial...

Jetson Juopperi, Director of Strategy & Market Intelligence at FuelCell Energy, joins the show today to explore the hydrogen horizon and its pivotal role in the evolving energy landscape. Sharing his personal journey from Florida to New York, Jetson opens up about his transition from working with combustion turbines at General Electric to fuel cells at FuelCell Energy. Listen in to learn why f...

Electricity bills can be perplexing, with costs seemingly rising without explanation. In this episode, we demystify the intricacies of electricity billing, explaining what drives these costs and how you can regain control. Learn the fundamental aspects of electricity measurement, the significance of rate schedules, and how choosing the right rate for your energy use can yield substantial savings....

Today we are joined by Uma Gopaldass, an energy transition expert and Board of Directors member for VECKTA, who also runs her own company, Leading Lotus LLC. In this episode, we dive into Uma's unique journey, exploring how her background and growing up in Singapore influenced her passion for the energy transition. With a critical eye on education, Uma shares her insights on why she believes...

Many people believe that solar panels can serve as a backup power source during grid outages, but the reality is quite different. Today we'll explore common misconceptions surrounding solar energy systems, as well as the safety concerns associated with feeding excess solar energy back into the grid. Our discussion highlights the need for advanced controllers that can disconnect from the grid...

Today we have Calvin Fine, Head of Market Operations at Veckta, and Zac Dobbin, Project Director for Cleantech San Diego, joining the show to share their thoughts on the energy transition. Zac reflects on his personal journey and upbringing, emphasizing the power of networking and stepping out of one's comfort zone. From industry regulations to the role of AI and customer education, this epis...

How can businesses effectively balance sustainability with profitability? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of energy transition, exploring the four key levers that can drive enterprise value and sustainable energy objectives. We dissect the top lever, onsite energy, maximizing generation and storage while optimizing grid interaction. Next, we explore the realm of energy efficiency, fro...

Today we sit down with Nick Firestone, the Chief Operating Officer of Firestone Walker Brewing Company. This renowned brewery has not only embraced the energy transition but also woven it seamlessly into its corporate culture. In this episode, Nick shares the company's commitment to community involvement, the importance of high-quality ingredients in beer production, and their unwavering dedi...