Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage Podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Mick McDaniel the Vice President and General Manager of Bila Solar to explore the operations at the Bila Solar Factory in Indianapolis. Mick provides an in-depth look into how the factory produces lightweight, flexible solar modules using domestic materials and traditional framed PV modules. He also discusses Bila Solar’s collaboration with ES Foundry, shedding light on the innovative practices taking place within the factory.

 

Topics covered:

Solar manufacturing factory in Indianapolis

Sean’s visit to the Bila Solar Factory

Joel Walsman and his contributions to the solar industry

Beginning of Bila Solar’s and partnership with ES Foundry

Bila Solar’s lightweight, flexible solar panels using aerospace polymer

Installation methods using adhesives on metal and membrane roofs

Relevance to rapid shutdown compliance and UL 3741 certification

Mention of traditional framed modules production alongside flexible panels

Lack of U.S. suppliers for thin, hardened solar glass

Importance of building a reliable U.S. supply chain under the IRA

Challenges importing equipment from China

Post-COVID delays in building and manufacturing permits

Comparison of old vs. modern solar factories

Clarification on “gigawatt” factory capacity

Sean’s Journey into the Solar Industry

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) Law: Paul Fenn’s Role and Its Impact

Early solar industry figures: Stuart Wentworth, Bill Brooks, Ward Bower

Development of early solar inverters and U.S. code challenges

Ward Bower’s pioneering work on the modern grid-tie inverter at Sandia National Laboratories

Challenges with balcony solar installations and code requirements in the U.S. vs. Germany

Durability of flexibility solar modules

 

Find out more on:

Bila Solar Website: www.bilasolar.com

 

Click here to listen to the podcast with Sean, Bill Brooks, and Ward Bower

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, special guest Jacob Benzaquen shares his journey in the solar industry, highlighting how obtaining a NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) certification has significantly enhanced his career from kilowatts to megawatts. Sean and Jacob engage in a lively discussion covering Jacob's transition from residential to community solar, the importance of understanding solar regulations and codes, and the exciting prospects for larger commercial solar projects. They also dive into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, sustainable energy technologies, and the impact of ethical practices in the solar industry. Join us for an insightful and motivating conversation about the future of solar energy and career growth in this dynamic field.

 

Topics covered:

NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners

PV Design Specialist

Sean’s PVDS exam prep class www.solarSEAN.com/PVDS

Community Solar

Virtual Net-metering

CCA = Community Choice Aggregation

Net-metering

Solar DIY

Off Grid

Tesla Powershare

EV = Electric Vehicle

EV Charging

Nissan Leaf

DC Fast Charging

Supercharge

CHAdeMO

Fermata Energy www.fermataenergy.com

Bidirectional Inverter

Battery

Bidirectional Charger

Tesla 1 Charger

J1772 / J plug

Charger Adaptors

Tesla Model S

Protest

Solar Bros

Door to Door Salespeople

Up in the Air

Liquidating

Pacific Lumber

Bay Area Coalition for Headwaters www.headwaterspreserve.org

Yuval Noah Harari

 

Reach out to Jacob Benzaquen Here:

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-benzaquen

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, Sean speaks with Emmitt Muckles, a NABCEP Board Member, consumer advocate and host of the Billionaire Lifestyle Podcast. They discuss their unique history, the importance of consumer education in the solar industry, and efforts to combat scams and misinformation. Emmitt shares insights on proper installation, the role of fractional training, and his mission to ensure consumers are well-informed. Tune in for a blend of industry expertise and engaging anecdotes!

 

Topics covered:

GELT = Green Energy Leadership Training

$1 Houses in Detroit

Tax

Fronius www.fronius.com

Inverter

Training

Sunrun

Transformers

Car Amplifiers

Fractional Training

SnapNrack www.snapnrack.com

Chicago’s own Code Book

Henry Ford

Thomas Edison

Nicola Tesla

Electrocuting Elephants

Arc Flash

ESS = Energy Storage System

The Billionaire Lifestyle Podcast www.open.spotify.com

Bitcoin

Jefferson Electric www.jeffersonelectric.com

Joel Walsman www.linkedin.com/in/joel-walsman

Joel Walsman’s Youtube Channel www.youtube.com/@ElectricProAcademy

Agricultural Solar

Carpenters Union

Millwrights

NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners

Dam

IREC = Interstate Renewable Energy Council

CEU = Continuing Education Units

NEC = National Electrical Code = NFPA 70

IFC = International Fire Code

IRC = International Residential Code

Rapid Shutdown

NFPA

Tesla

EV = Electric Vehicle

EV Charging

Sue Pratt

CT = Current Transformer

Intersolar

Midwest Solar Expo

States of Beam

The Eleven Nations of America www.businessinsider.com

Solar Bros

NorCal Solar = Northern California Solar Energy Association

Door to Door Salespeople

Tariff

Solar Generators

Battery

Nissan Leaf

AI = Artificial Intelligence

E-Bike = Electric Bicycle

SNEC

PVIP Photovoltaic Installation Professional

 

Reach out to Emmitt Muckles Here:

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/emmittmuckles

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

 

Richard Walker, a returning citizen (formerly incarcerated) became a motivational speaker in prisons after he was released. He has helped people get their rights back after being released, including the right to vote and the right to run for office.

 

Richard operates a non-profit organization Bridging the Gap of Virginia www.btgva.org that helps people, including returning citizens, get solar training, get NABCEP credentials and get jobs. His organization relies upon grants and donations, so please help him in his important work.

 

Richard has an interesting story. When he got his right to vote back, he also got the right to run for public office, so he has ran a few times, just like Sean White has run for office 3 times. Here is Sean’s old candidate website: www.seanwhite.org.

 

Topics covered:

Richard’s Family History

Sean & Richard’s Classes

Dominion Energy

Dominion Energy Pipeline

Grants

Micro Grid

Community Solar

Fossil Fuels

Bridging The Gap in Virginia www.btgva.org

Returning Citizens

NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners www.nabcep.org

Thriving Communities Grant

Losing and Restoring Rights

Alysa Liu figure skater World Champion!

 

Find out if your rights were restored:

www.restore.virginia.gov

 

Reach out to Richard Walker Here:

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/richard-walker

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, solar expert Michael Shonka is featured as the special guest. Broadcasting from Nebraska, Shonka shares his extensive experience in the solar industry, dating back to 1983. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the historical evolution of solar thermal systems, the impacts of past governmental incentives, and the differences in energy markets across regions. Shonka also discusses contemporary issues such as unethical solar sales practices and the importance of community solar projects. The episode provides valuable insights for both seasoned solar professionals and newcomers interested in solar thermal technology.

 

Topics covered:

Solar in the 80’s

Solar Hot Water

Tax Credit

Solar Thermal

Arco Solar

Digital Differential Controller

Solar Air System                                                        

Nuclear Energy

Unethical & Ethical Solar Sales

Bad Actors in the Industry

“Solar Bros”

North Facing System

Educating Consumers

Hydronic Heating

Radiant Floor Heating

Atmospheric Tank

Pressurized Tank

Buffer Tank

Avoiding Orphan Systems

Home Power Magazine

Solar Pro Magazine

Build it Solar www.builditsolar.com

Heat Exchangers

 

Reach out to Michael Shonka Here:

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/michael-shonka-6833b3

Website: www.solaromaha.com

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

Jared Scott discusses AeroSeal’s cutting-edge duct and building sealing technology, highlighting its role in improving energy efficiency, reducing air changes per hour (ACH), and enhancing indoor air quality. He explores the benefits for both new and existing buildings, as well as how AeroSeal’s innovations help solar companies improve customer retention and reduce cancellations. Tune in to learn about AeroSeal’s product advancements, its impact on sealing attics and crawlspaces, and its growing presence in the renewable energy industry.

 

Topics covered:

AeroSeal’s duct and building sealing technology

Reducing Air Changes per Hour (ACH) for Efficiency

Comparison with Traditional Sealing Methods

Sean’s Renewable Energy Training Center Project

Sealing Attics, Crawlspaces, and More

Using Fog to Detect Air Leaks

Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) & Ventilation

Compact AeroSeal Equipment Innovation

AeroSeal Crews Availability

How AeroSeal Helps Solar Companies Retain Customers

Importance of proper air sealing in energy efficiency

 

Find out more on:

Aeroseal Website: www.aeroseal.com

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, Sean speaks with Qun Wang and Jenny Tong from SNEC about the upcoming SNEC conference in Shanghai, scheduled for June 11-13, 2025. They discuss the sheer scale of the event, which is expected to attract up to 700,000 attendees, making it the world's largest solar storage and renewable energy exposition. The trio dives into different aspects of SNEC, including scientific and industrial applications, international collaborations, and the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector in China. They also touch on practical logistics for international attendees and share personal experiences from previous conferences. An insightful episode for anyone interested in the latest advancements and future prospects in solar energy. It is not too late to go to SNEC.

 

American’s can go to China without a visa for 10 days as long as they transit through another country, which is how Sean is going.

 

Sean will have a stage at SNEC where he will be teaching solar and storage classes for 2 days at no cost, and additionally he will be podcasting. If you are going to be at SNEC and want to be interviewed on Sean’s podcast, please let us know.

 

Topics covered:

Overview of SNEC

Sean’s Involvement on SNEC

History and Growth of SNEC

Traveling to China with a 240-Hour Transit Visa

Shanghai Transportation

Cultural Exchange

Scientific Conferences features top solar scientists like Martin Green and AKI Weber

SNEC’s collaboration with Re+

U.S. solar market challenges

Tariffs on renewable energy

Manufacturing challenges in the US

Cost and growth of solar energy

Utility-Scale Solar Projects

Sean White’s staff going to SNEC for team building

Sean White bringing his mom to SNEC for Mother’s day!

 

Listen to Sean’s conversation with Madam Mi and Jenny here👇🏻

SNEC ES+ with Madame Mi and Jenny Tong (ES=Energy Storage)

SNEC Website: www.SNEC.org

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

Industry podcasters and a print media representative shared insights on the evolving energy landscape. They discussed innovative technologies like module-level storage and lightweight solar, the current uncertain industry sentiment, and emerging opportunities in battery storage and solar servicing amidst economic shifts.

Topics covered:

• New solar and storage technologies, including module-level batteries and lightweight modules, garnered attention for their innovative approaches.
• The industry is experiencing uncertainty and restructuring alongside emerging opportunities in service and battery sectors.‍
• Policy shifts and economic conditions are creating both challenges and driving the need for adaptation.

Reach out the Nico Johnson and other guests here:

Nico Johnson LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus/

SunCast Media LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/suncast-media/

SunCast Media Website: www.suncast.media/

Chris Crowell LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chris-crowell-b065729/

Solar Builder Magazine Website: www.solarbuildermag.com/

Joe Ordia LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joeordia/

Solar Surge Website: www.solarsurge.net/

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

In this episode of Sean White's Solar and Energy Storage Podcast, Sean welcomes Alex Rodriguez, the Senior Manager of Learning and Development at Signature Solar. Together, they dive into a light-hearted and insightful conversation about the evolving field of solar energy, DIY solar projects, and the innovative products offered by Signature Solar. They explore topics ranging from the company's STEP program, which incentivizes career growth within the solar industry, to Alex's experiences with various solar products and customer projects. Additionally, Sean shares his unique experiences attending international climate conferences, underscoring the global significance of renewable energy. Whether you're a solar enthusiast or a professional in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and engaging stories.

 

Topics covered:

Signature Solar www.signaturesolar.com

Sulfur Springs

Cattle Gas

NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners

Signature Solar Reward for Getting NABCEP Certifications

Solar DIY = Solar Do It Yourself

Mini Split

Rapid Shutdown

UL 3741

EG4 = Energy Generation for Everyone www.eg4electronics.com

Victron Energy

Shore Power

Different Types of Transformers

Grid

Grounding and Bonding

Growatt www.growatt.com

Hybrid Inverter

Soulace www.soulace.com

SNEC

COP Conference = Conference of the Parties

NorCal Solar = the Northern California Solar Energy Association

Protesting

NREL = National Renewable Energy Labs

 

Reach out Alex Rodriguez here:

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercrodriguez/ 

Signature Solar Website: www.signaturesolar.com

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean

Nico Johnson interviews Sean on the stage at InterSolar North America in San Diego. This podcast is reposted courtesy of Suncast. 

Sean White and Nico Johnson discuss the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and its significance in the solar industry. They emphasize how NABCEP certification enhances resilience, career value, and company success, especially during times of uncertainty. The benefits of attending the NABCEP conference for networking and technical knowledge are also highlighted. 

 

Topics covered: 

NABCEP certifications. 

Certification provides resilience and value for individuals and companies amidst industry fluctuations. 

The NABCEP conference offers networking, technical learning, and a unique community feel. 

 

See the original posting of this episode at www.suncast.media/guest/day-2-session-6-why-is-getting-nabcep-certified-even-more-important-with-the-new-administration

 

Reach out Nico Johnson and SunCast Media here:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/suncast-media/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/suncast/posts/?feedView=all

SunCast Media Website: www.suncast.media/

Intersolar Website: www.intersolar.us/

 

Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at www.heatspring.com/sean