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Sean White teaches solar and storage classes and seminars around the world and inside your home (online). He is known for helping people get NABCEP certified. This podcast contains an assortment of topics, with an emphasis on solar and storage technical knowledge. Up your game! Catch a photon! Save the planet! Learn more and go to www.solarSEAN.com
Episodes
Wednesday Oct 08, 2025
Wednesday Oct 08, 2025
Host Sean White talks with Ovanova co-founder Lester Crafton about the future of energy resilience and microgrids. Discover how portable energy trailers, solar, batteries, and EVs are transforming disaster response and community power. Learn why energy storage, cybersecurity, and local solutions matter more than ever. Real stories, technical insights, and a vision for a smarter, more resilient energy future, all in one episode.
Topics Covered
Ovanova www.ovanova.co
National Energy Emergency
EV = Electric Vehicle
Manufacturing
Energy Resilience
Microgrid
ESS = Energy Storage System
Inverter
PET = Portable Energy Technology
PET = Portable Energy Trailer
NEC = National Electrical Code
Generator
Internal Combustion Engine
Net metering
Battery Backup
Solar without Storage
Batteries
Bidirectional Electric Vehicle
Sigenergy
Voltage Architecture
EV Charging
Bitcoin Mining
Bitcoin Miner
Bitcoin Heating
Liquid Cooled Bitcoin Miner
Prepper
Solar Prepper
John Wiles
Wildfires
Electric Trailer
Hurricane Helene
Solar Trailers
EG4 Electronics
Hacking
Interconnection Agreement
NEC Article 624
Reactive Power
Power Factor
Utility
Dispatchable Energy Storage
Reach out to Lester Crafton here:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lestercrafton
Website: www.ovanova.co
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ovanovasolar
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
In this episode, Sean White revisits the foundation of the podcast by reading and analyzing Article 690 of the newly released 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC). The session provides a detailed walkthrough of the article, discussing its application, key updates, and specific requirements for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems. The podcast covers various sections, including general and specific equipment requirements, wiring methods, grounding and bonding, and rapid shutdown protocols for PV systems. The episode also includes historical context, teaching experiences, and insights into the evolution of the NEC. Listeners can supplement their learning by taking advanced PV or energy storage classes offered by the host and co-author Bill Brooks.
Topics Covered:
NEC Article 690: Scope and System Types
690.2 Listing Requirements for PV Equipment
690.4 General Requirements for PV Systems
690.7 Maximum DC Voltage Calculations
690.8 Circuit Sizing and Equipment
690.9 Overcurrent Protection in PV Systems
690.12 Rapid Shutdown of PV Systems
690.13 Disconnecting Means for PV Systems
690.31 Wiring Methods and Materials
690.31(B) Identification and Grouping of Conductors
690.31 (C) Wires and Cables
690.32 Component Interconnections
690 Part V Grounding and Bonding
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at
Friday Oct 03, 2025
Friday Oct 03, 2025
In this lively episode, Sean White and special guest Shawn O'Brien, the CEO of NABCEP, discuss exciting updates and happenings in the solar energy world. They dive into the details of the upcoming NABCEP conference in Milwaukee, including its St. Patrick’s Day theme, technical sessions, and networking opportunities. Shawn O'Brien provides insights into new certifications and exams on the horizon, including the PV associate and Spanish language options. Tune in for a blend of fun and informative content straight from the Power Up Live Pro studio, presented by Terra Hive, with gratitude to RE Plus and Suncast Media.
Topics covered:
NABCEP Conference
Milwaukee Baird Center
St. Patrick’s Day
NABCEP Carribean
Subject Matter Experts
Live Online Proctoring
Energy Center, North Carolina
Mark Mrohs
Interplay Learning
Online Training
Online Simulation
New PV Associate Exam
JTA = Job Task Analysis
Operation and Maintenance Associate Technician
Amicus O&M Cooperative
Heatspring
Energy Storage Installation Professional
Spanish version of exam
PV Installation Professional
PV Design Specialist
PV Commissioner Maintenance Specialist
PV Installation Specialist
Operation Maintenance Associate Technician
French Translation
NABCEP Conference Registration Opens
NYSERDA = New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
Grants
San Francisco Comedy College
Curtis Matthew
PV and NEC Book by Sean White and Bill Brooks
Reach out with Shawn O’Brien here:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shawnwobrien/
Website: www.nabcep.org/
Previous Podcast with Shawn O’Brien:
NABCEP and Job Security featuring Shawn O’Brien President and CEO of NABCEP
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
In this episode, Sean White talks with Brooklynite Neil Hurlock about his path to earning the NABCEP PV Associate certification. They cover his classroom experience, the role of mentorship, and what it’s like starting out in solar at a young age. Along the way, Neil shares a bit of New York perspective and the motivation that keeps him moving forward in the clean energy field.
Topics covered:
Neil’s path to solar certification
Apex Technical School experience
NABCEP PV Associate exam preparation and strategies
The role of mentorship and teaching in clean energy
Building community and connections
The importance of studying and self-motivation
New York City culture and traditions (including chopped cheese!)
The future of solar and clean energy innovation
Overcoming challenges and adapting to change
Public transportation, urban life, and sustainability
The impact of technology on daily life
Opportunities in the solar industry for new generations
The value of credentials and ongoing education
Policy, tax credits, and industry trends
Personal growth, mindset, and positive thinking
Reach out to Neil Hurlock Here:
NABCEP Professional Directory: www.directories.nabcep.org
Sunday Sep 28, 2025
Sunday Sep 28, 2025
The American Solar and Energy Society (ASES) has a new editor in chief Jacob Yang. Jacob brings fresh ideas and enthusiasm to solar today, learn how you can write articles and get involved with ASES, Jacob Knows all the answers.
Note: This podcast was recorded during Jacob Yang's time as Editor-in-Chief of Solar Today.
Topics covered:
ASES = American Solar and Energy Society
SBSP = Space Based Solar Power
Solar Today Magazine
Minnesota
Prairie Home Companion
Solar Educating
Cesar Barbosa
RE+
ASES Conference
National Solar Tour
NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association
ASES Membership
Podcast with Cesar Barbosa
Reach out to Jacob Yang here:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjuancarlosyang
Email: jlundy@ases.org
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean
Friday Sep 26, 2025
Friday Sep 26, 2025
In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage podcast, Sean welcomes the legendary Bill Brooks for an engaging conversation. They discuss their recent class, reminisce about their friend John “Gino” Espino, and his unexpected passing, sharing reflections on friendship and the impact John had on the solar industry. They also humorously tackle the topic of 'cancel culture' with the 'John Gino Espino Uncancelled Award.' The episode wraps up with insights into the new 2026 NEC and 2029 National Electrical Codes, making it a mix of heartfelt memories, industry insights, and lighthearted banter.
Topics Covered
John “Gino” Espino
SPI = now RE+
Sean and Bill Brooks Class
North Dakota
Alaska
RE+ Alaska
NEP
Racking
Sailing
Cancelled
Dave Chappelle
John Espino Uncancelled Award in RE+
Comedy
23 Me Test
Birthright Citizenship
2026 NEC
Proposals for 2029 Code
Get to know John “Gino” Espino here:
John “Gino” Espino LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnespino/
Go Fund Me
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-carole-and-sons-after-johns-passing
Reach out to Bill Brooks here:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bill-brooks-6782616/
Website: www.brooksolar.com
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at
Sunday Sep 21, 2025
Sunday Sep 21, 2025
Join Sean White as he talks with Guy Vandendungen, CTO of Perpetuum Energy, about the latest trends in solar and energy storage across Europe. They discuss real-world challenges like negative energy pricing, grid constraints, battery technology, and the future of decarbonization for industry. Whether you’re in the solar business or just curious about how Europe is leading the energy transition, this episode is packed with practical insights and global perspectives.
Topics covered:
PerPetum Energy www.perpetumenergy.com
SNEC
Global Energy Storage and Battery Council
Guy’s Career Background
Energy Transition
Wind Energy
Solar Prices
Levelized Cost of Energy
Negative Pricing in Europe
Grid
European Union and European Economic Area
European Market
US Market
ESS = Energy Storage System
AFRR = Automatic Frequency Restoration Reserve
Solar and Energy Storage Market
Battery
Frequency Regulation
Solar in China
European organizations for transmission system operators
Grid Underutilization
Bifacial PV
Vertical PV
Solar Panel as Fence
Solar Price Decrease
Solar Industry Evolution
EV = Electric Vehicle
Vehicle to Grid
Vehicle to Home
Decarbonization as a Service
Carbon Market
ETS = Emission Trade System
Cooperation Across Borders
Nuclear Energy
Oil and Gas
Electric Planes and Helicopter
Reach out to Guy Vandendungen here:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/guyvandendungen/
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean
Friday Sep 19, 2025
Friday Sep 19, 2025
In this episode Sean is joined by Gil Hough, Executive Director of the Tennessee Solar & Storage Association. Broadcasting live from the Power Up Live Pro Studio at RE+, Sean and Gil explore the unique landscape of solar and storage in the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) region. Gil shares the history and structure of TVA, the challenges and opportunities in the seven-state territory, and the rapid growth of solar and storage in Tennessee. The conversation covers TVA’s integrated resource planning and the upcoming Tennessee Solar + Storage Conference.
Topics Covered:
The New Deal
TVA = Tennessee Valley Authority
TVA’s seven-state territory
Tennessee Solar + Storage Conference
TVA’s (IRP) Integrated Resource Plan
Solar and storage market growth
2025 Tennessee Valley Solar + Storage Conference (October 28-30, 2025)
LPCs = Local Power Companies
FERC = Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
TVA’s River management
SEIA = Solar Energy Industries Association
SEPA = Smart Electric Power Alliance
TenneSEIA = Tennessee Solar Energy Industries Association
501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) organizations
NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association
Nonprofit vs. business association roles
Lobbying and policy advocacy
Reach out to Gil Hough and TenneSEIA here:
Website: www.tenneseiasolar.com
Conference registration: www.tenneseiasolar.com/conference
Register for my Tenneseia class here 👇🏻
www.tenneseiasolar.com/conference
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at:
Thursday Sep 18, 2025
Thursday Sep 18, 2025
Host Sean White talks with solar engineer and educator Mike Nowicki about utility-scale solar projects, the ins and outs of professional engineering licenses, and the evolution of industry codes. They dive into PE registration, project design, and Mike’s experience teaching future engineers. A must-listen for anyone interested in the real-world challenges and opportunities in solar energy.
Topics covered:
ACP = American Clean Power
Utility Scale Solar
Burns & Mcdonnell www.burnsmcd.com
EPC = Engineering, Procurement, and Construction
ESS = Energy Storage System
ESOP = Employee Stock Ownership Program
Solar Engineer
PE = Professional Engineer
NCEES = National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
Certifications
Licenses
NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners
NEC = National Electrical Code
CMP = Code Making Panel
NREL = National Renewable Energy Laboratory
RE+ Conference
PV and the NEC (Sean & Bill’s Book)
Solar Power International = SPI
Solar Professional Magazine
Rapid Shutdown
SSIF + Solar and Storage Industry Forum
SEIA = Solar Energy Industries Association
UL 3741
Clipping
Battery
DC Coupling
AC Coupling
Union Labor
UBC = United Brotherhood of Carpenters
IBEW = International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Backtracking
Trackers
Next Trackers
Wayne State University
Grid
Short Circuit
Fault
Utility
Reach out to Mike Nowicki Here:
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-p-nowicki
Burns & Mcdonnell: www.burnsmcd.com
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean
Wednesday Sep 17, 2025
Wednesday Sep 17, 2025
In this episode of the Sean White Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, Sean White interviews Ryan Jones, a NABCEP-certified solar professional who transitioned from the U.S. to a thriving career in Europe. The discussion covers Ryan's early experiences in the solar industry, his job at the now-defunct Lyra solar company, and his journey to living in Spain. They explore the challenges and rewards of working internationally, including visa issues, tax considerations, and the different electrical codes and standards. Ryan shares insights on becoming a digital nomad in the solar industry, the evolution of the European solar market with feed-in tariffs, and the drastic growth of solar capacity from 2007 to today. The episode offers valuable advice for anyone looking to take their solar career global.
Topics Covered:
NABCEP
PV Installer Exam = PV Installer Professional Exam
Solyndra
Solar Tubes
Solar Power International = RE+
Stephen Colbert
GCR
Crystalline Silicon on tubes
CIGS = Copper Indium Gallium Diselenide
Solar Coaster
Hans Josef-Fell
Feed-in Tariff
DC Power = Soligent
Polar Bear Effect
Digital Nomad
Fully Remote Work
Tax Implications
NEC
International Electro Technical Commission = IEC
International Electro Technical Commission = IEC
UL9540
Working Visa
Malaga, Spain
Gold Coast
Intersolar
Reach out to Ryan Jones here:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-jones-9426a211/
Website: www.recurrentenergy.com/
Hans-Josef Fell Podcast Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hans-josef-fell-started-the-feed-in-tariff-the/id1441958371?i=1000715753971
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at: