The Solar PVcast

On this episode of The Solar PVcast , Chris chats with Western University PhD researcher Koami Soulemane Hayibo about his hands-on research into floatovoltaics — floating solar PV systems. Koami shares insights from a year-long project exploring how floating solar is implemented, what makes it different from traditional ground or rooftop systems, what about the ducks, and why water-based sol...

BC Hydro's transition to Net Billing is now official, with the new program launching July 1. In this episode, we sit down with Steve Unger, Lead, Microgrid Development at Shift, to recap the journey to get here, explain how Net Billing works, why BC Hydro made the change, and tackle the question many solar homeowners are asking: Should you keep the $5,000 rebate or pay it back to stay on Net Meter...

This week on the Solar PVcast, we sit down with Jonathan Maile , CEO of Skyblue Products , to explore the exciting world of balcony solar and what it could mean for the future of energy in Canada. From plug-and-play systems already transforming homes around the world to the policies and regulations still holding Canada back, we unpack where balcony solar currently stands — especially he...

We sit down with Michael Quast , CEO of Passive House Canada , for a conversation that blends deep insight with plenty of laughs. We explore his journey into the role, the organization’s mission, and the upcoming conference shaping the industry. Along the way, we dig into the realities of Passive House adoption in Canada—politics, barriers, and momentum—while keeping things light...

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Gander from Relay Education to explore what it really takes to educate the next generation about renewable energy. Ryan shares his journey, the evolution of energy awareness in schools and communities, and how Relay Education is making complex topics engaging and accessible. From hands-on experiments to surprising insights about whether kids or adults are mor...

Join us for a conversation with Steve Arnold — serial entrepreneur, innovator, and the creative mind behind Canada’s most unforgettable sustainable experiences. From co‑founding Ride Solar — the team behind North America’s largest fully solar‑powered tour boat and solar‑electric party bike experiences — to dreaming up the world’s only rotating ocean‑view vacatio...

Join us as we sit down with Catherine Jeffery , a policy analyst at Clean Energy Canada , to explore the world of clean energy policy. Catherine shares what her role involves, the organization’s mission and goals, and her perspective on Canada’s transition to renewables. From how she got started in the field to why she loves the work she does, this conversation shines a light on the pe...

What happens when one podcast meets another? We chat with David Dodge of Green Energy Futures about how he got started, the stories that stuck with him, and how the clean energy space has changed over time. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at podcasting, storytelling, and the future of green energy. Powered by Shift & hosted by Chris Palliser , The Solar PVcast is a podcast exploring solar...

Thinking about going solar? Start here. In this rapid-fire episode, we answer the 15 most asked solar questions in under 10 minutes — from costs and savings to net billing, batteries, winter performance, and outages. No fluff, no jargon — just clear, practical answers. If solar’s on your mind, this episode will get you halfway there. Powered by Shift & hosted by Chris Pallise...

What does it really mean to build an energy-positive home — and is it actually affordable? In this episode, we sit down with Stéphane Doise , founder of CORE We Care , to explore how passive design, solar energy, and thoughtful construction can create homes that are healthier, more efficient, and truly future-proof. We unpack the key differences between North American and European bui...

What happens when you pair clean driving with clean energy? Julian Sale ( Motorize EV ) and Glenn Garry ( Victoria EV Association ) sit down to talk EV myths, shifting global trade news, and why charging your vehicle with sunshine might be the smartest move you can make. Solar and EVs aren’t just compatible—they’re unstoppable. Recorded before the EV news or Rebates from Feb 4th,...

The conversation delves into the proposed transition from net metering to net billing in British Columbia, exploring the implications for solar energy users and the role of the BC Utilities Commission . Steve Unger , an intervener in the process, discusses the complexities of the rate application, the various stakeholders involved, and the recent revelation of a significant math error by BC Hydro...

Recorded live at the Solar Nova Scotia's Solar Summit in Halifax, this episode features a wide-ranging conversation with Phil McKay from the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) . We discuss CanREA’s goals, what’s coming next for the organization, and the current state of solar in Canada. It’s an energizing, forward-looking discussion about collaboration, momentum, and...

Join us for another episode of The Solar PVcast, recorded live from Solar Nova Scotia's Atlantic Canada Solar Summit! Tune in to hear Rob Milliken , VP of Business Development at Charge Solar share his experience, industry insights, and what’s ahead for solar in Canada!     Catch the episode through our link in bio! Powered by Shift & hosted by Chris Palliser, The Solar PVcast...

It’s another episode of The Solar PVcast, powered by Shift , recorded live at Solar Nova Scotia's Atlantic Canada Solar Summit in Halifax!  Tune in for an exciting and insightful conversation with Lian Si from Longi Solar , taking a closer look at Back Contact (BC) panel technology. This standout technology improves efficiency, enhances aesthetic design, and sets a new standard for sola...

The Solar PVcast, powered by Shift , was live on location at Solar Nova Scotia's Atlantic Canada Solar Summit in Halifax! Check out this fun and inspiring conversation with August Holder , an environmental engineering student at Dalhousie University and a member of the Dalhousie Solar Car Team. Their team is building and racing a solar-powered car from the ground up — an ambitious project fi...

In this episode of The Solar PVcast , host Chris Palliser is joined by renowned climate scientist, former Green Party leader, and former BC MLA Dr. Andrew Weaver . Now a proud solar user himself, Dr. Weaver shares what inspired him to make the switch, the new conversations he's having with neighbours, and what he loves most about generating his own clean power. We also look back on his impactful p...

In this episode, we explore the power of agrivoltaics with Jason Bradley from Sun Cycle Farms . By harnessing the principles of bio-mimicry, Sun Cycle is revolutionizing sustainable farming—blending solar energy with agriculture to create a more efficient and resilient system. We discuss the farm’s origins, its innovative approach, and the incredible benefits of integrating solar with...

In this episode, we sit down with David Brushett , Chair of Solar Nova Scotia , to explore the past, present, and future of solar energy in the province. We discuss some of the big wins Solar Nova Scotia has achieved in moving the industry forward and how they’ve become a trusted voice—even advising the provincial government on solar policy. Dave also shares how his passion for renewab...

Meet Michelle Frost, the proud owner of Central Vancouver Island’s first net-zero home. In this episode of The Solar PVcast , Michelle shares her journey of custom-building a self-sustaining, solar-powered home. We discuss the challenges, rewards, and real value of going net-zero, while busting myths and looking ahead to the future of resilient, energy-efficient homes. Whether you’re c...

In this episode, I sit down with Zac Jolliffe from VCT Group in Ontario to explore the business case for solar and the incredible incentives available. We dive into their innovative Solar Carports—designed with quality materials, EV chargers, rainwater harvesting, and, of course, clean energy generation. A smart, made-in-Canada solution that just makes sense! See omnystudio.com/listener for...

In this episode, I chat with Steve Unger, Lead Microgrid Developer at Shift, about why batteries are like living, breathing beings—they need care! We dive into how temperature impacts performance, the importance of State of Charge (SOC), and the difference between open-loop and closed-loop systems. Plus, Steve shares top battery maintenance tips for solar and energy storage users, and we hav...

In this episode, I chat with Jessica Scott from Nova Scotia's Department of Natural Resources and Renewables . We explore the state of solar and renewable energy in Atlantic Canada, discuss government initiatives driving clean energy growth, and uncover what makes Nova Scotia a leader in the region's transition to sustainability. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this live episode from the Atlantic Canada Solar Summit, we chat with Melanie Roy from Women in Renewable Energy (WIRE) . Melanie shares WIRE’s mission, goals, and programs designed to empower women in the renewable energy sector. Learn how to become a member and discover the amazing work they’re doing to foster inclusivity and growth! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informa...

In this Solar Bite, Steve Unger, Lead of Microgrid Development, breaks down roof pitch and its role in solar installations. Learn how 5/12 and 4/12 roof pitches are measured and why these angles matter when maximizing solar energy performance. Short, sweet, and perfectly pitched for solar success! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.