Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage Podcast

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

Dr. Laura A. Ward is a leading contributor to the global shift from inertia-dominated, mechanically driven power systems to inverter-based, high-renewable smart grids. She bridges advanced power electronics theory with practical, data-driven roadmapping to deploy resilient microgrids at scale.   As the global grid pivots away from fossil generation, the industry is confronting a core question: how do we maintain stability without the physical inertia of synchronous machines? In this RE+ episode, host Sean White speaks with Dr. Laura A. Ward—IEEE Senior Member and Energy Innovator Fellow at the DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), mentored by Thomas Bartholomew in the Clean Energy Division—about the transition from inertia-based power systems to “virtual” stability enabled by inverter-based resources and smart-grid controls.  Dr. Ward breaks down the high-stakes engineering behind Grid Forming (GFM) inverters, the technical bridge that allows renewable energy to go from simply "following" the grid to actively "forming" it. Whether you are curious about the physics of droop coefficients or the policy hurdles of DC grid modernization, this conversation provides a masterclass in building a resilient, decarbonized future. Key Insights Include:   - The Physics of Stability: Why losing traditional synchronous machines creates a "stability gap" and how inverters fill it.   - GFM vs. GFL: A deep dive into the technical advantages of Grid Forming over Grid Following technology.   - Urban Infrastructure: Adopting and applying 21st-century standards (like IEEE 1547) to complex, high-density city grids.   - Microgrid Resiliency: How autonomous control allows local grids to survive during wider system outages. Dr. Ward’s work is anchored in her unique ability to provide insights and influence decision-making through recommendations on best practices. While many focus on either the adoption of IEEE 1547-2018 or the scalability analysis of Grid-Forming inverters using software—work she did under the supervision of Dr. Stephen Bayne at Texas Tech University—Dr. Ward has unified them through the validation of the scalable Self-synchronized Universal Droop Controller (SSUDC), providing a mathematical and practical foundation for a carbon-neutral grid. Dr. Ward’s influence is solidified by her rigorous data-driven approach, featured in major repositories and journals:   - OSTI Office of Scientific and Technical Information (Department of Energy): Modeling and Evaluation of Microgrids with Grid-Forming Inverter Technology (Focus on SSUDC algorithms). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su16052148    - Technical Roadmaps: Authoring the transition strategies for DOEE and utilities moving from 20th-century synchronous machine reliance to 21st-century power electronics. ArcGIS StoryMap technical report:https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/cca0d8ca348c452787e70759035aaa97   Connect with Dr. Ward: Professional: www.linkedin.com/in/drlaura-ward Research: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4550-1581   Public Engagement: @stem.laurandre (Instagram)    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