The Solar PVcast

In this episode of Solar PVcast, join us for a fascinating conversation with Phil Audet, the visionary owner of Arbru Canada's first completely off-grid solar-powered brewery located in Mallorytown, Ontario. Phil shares his journey, intertwining his background in solar energy with his passion for craft beer. We delve into the challenges and triumphs of running an off-grid brewery, where every day brings new lessons and experiences. From discussing the intricacies of his solar setup and energy storage solutions to embracing the synergy between brewing and nature, Phil provides insight into the sustainable ethos driving his brewery's success. Plus, discover how they turned a solar eclipse into a community event, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and creating unforgettable experiences. Tune in to learn how innovation, resilience, and a deep connection with the environment shape the story of this pioneering venture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we sit down with Lee Walston, landscape ecologist and environmental scientist from the Argonne National Laboratory, and discuss the transformative effects of solar energy facilities on local ecosystems. Lee shares insights from a groundbreaking 5-year field study examining vegetation establishment and insect community responses in newly established solar farm habitats. Throughout the study, Lee and his team observed remarkable increases in habitat and biodiversity metrics, with flourishing vegetation and thriving insect populations. From enhanced pollination services to natural pest control, the synergies between solar energy and ecosystem restoration offer promising solutions for sustainable land use practices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for an engaging conversation as we explore the groundbreaking initiatives of the Village of Stirling, Alberta, the first net zero village in Canada. In this episode, we sit down with Chief Administrative officer, Scott Donselaar to delve into how Stirling utilizes multiple solar arrays to power its municipal buildings, street lights, and more. Explore the pioneering approaches adopted by this visionary small village to attain sustainability, financial stability, and fiscal certainty, all while leading the charge towards a more environmentally friendly tomorrow. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Solar PVcast, Chris sits down with Ed Rottmann, CEO of the Chroma Energy Group, for an insightful discussion on the solar industry from a Tennessee perspective. The conversation delves into Rottmann's journey to renewables, how solar plays a vital role in the Tennessee energy landscape, and the company's focus on utility-scale solar projects. Government support is also touched on as Rottmann shares insights into the growth of the industry in America and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. From contrasting the solar landscapes between America and Canada, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the solar industry through the lens of a Tennessee-based company. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Stephen Thomas, the Clean Energy Manager at the David Suzuki Foundation, to delve into his passion for sustainability and renewable energy. Stephen gives us an insider's perspective on the foundation's mission, sharing its core values and commitment to transitioning Canada to 100% zero-emissions electricity by 2035. We explore the pivotal role solar energy plays in achieving this ambitious goal and how every individual can contribute to a cleaner, greener future. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired to join the movement toward a more sustainable world! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Perovskite technology, a groundbreaking advancement in solar energy. Joining us is the esteemed Dr. Sahar Sam, Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of Solaires, a pioneering company at the forefront of this innovative field. Dr. Sahar Sam sheds light on how this technology is reshaping the solar landscape, offering insights into its adaptability, challenges and practical applications. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Solar PVcast, we delve into the imminent conclusion of the Canadian Federal Government's Greener Homes Rebate, set to expire in March 2024. Our guest, Daniel Giam, Owner and Energy Advisor at GETS Energy, provides invaluable insights into the intricacies of this pivotal development, the need-to-know information and the critical details of the timeline. Daniel also shares his expertise on what might come after the rebate, offering valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of government incentives and the broader context of sustainable energy in Canada. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We sit down with Karen Jawl, the visionary Director of Jawl Properties, a leading developer on Vancouver Island. Discover how Karen and her team are taking on the sustainable revolution in commercial building practices and embracing the future of construction with a focus on solar power. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this informative episode of the Solar PVcast, we delve into the essential topic of preparing your solar panels, solar system, and energy storage for the challenging Canadian winter. Our guest, Steve Unger, a seasoned Senior Project Engineer at Shift, provides valuable insights and expert advice on the do's and don'ts of winterizing your renewable energy system as well as gives tips on how to maximize that solar energy production! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into the world of off-grid adventure tourism with Kyle Girgan, the Sustainability and Development Coordinator for Horne Lake Caves (Hidden Realm Adventures Inc.). Kyle shares their remarkable journey of harnessing the power of solar energy and energy storage to revolutionize their operations. Their solar array and energy storage system have not only propelled them toward financial savings but also transformed their approach to environmental sustainability. Kyle discusses their substantial reduction in annual generator fuel expenses, and how the harmony of nature and the absence of constant generator noise contribute to a more peaceful and immersive experience for their adventure-seeking visitors. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Dale and Sara Elford, two remarkable individuals who have turned their dream of achieving complete self-sustainability off-grid into a reality. They share their inspiring journey, highlighting how solar energy has been the key to unlocking a "normal" life off the grid on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Join us as we delve into the challenges they've faced, the surprises they've encountered, the invaluable advice they have to offer, and the profound realizations that have enriched their unique lifestyle. Discover how with determination and renewable power, living off the grid is not only possible but also filled with hope and opportunity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us in this illuminating episode of "The Solar PVcast" as we sit down with Jeff Shields, a passionate advocate for solar energy in Canada. Jeff has been harnessing the power of the sun for a full year, and he's here to share his insights, experiences, and the excitement of his solar energy journey. If you're interested in the financial, practical and eco-friendly benefits of solar energy in the Canadian context, this episode is for you! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Karen Karsten, a recent client of Shift, who has made the transition to solar energy. Dr. Karsten's insights around her system, and advice, provide a valuable guide for anyone considering solar energy and searching for an installer who values openness and clarity in the process, particularly in understanding and managing "Expected Losses" in a solar system. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we look at the recent moratorium wreaking havoc on Alberta's solar industry. Joining us is Heather MacKenzie, Executive of Solar Alberta, who provides incredible insight into the moratorium's implications now and down the road. We discuss the reasons put forth by the government to justify this decision, ranging from economic considerations to energy grid stability. As well, Heather, drawing on her expertise, also offers her perspective on the true motivations underpinning the moratorium. So, what is going on in Alberta? Let's find out. The Solar PVcast is powered by Shift See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we breakdown the exciting developments in Nova Scotia's solar energy landscape. Nova Scotia has introduced a remarkable policy shift, now allowing net-metering applications for commercial projects up to 100 kW, with plans to expand it further to encompass projects up to 1 MW. Our guest, Roby Douglas, a board member of Solar Nova Scotia, provides us with an insightful discussion on the recent strides in net-metering and Solar Nova Scotia's role in the recent news. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the rapid adoption of solar power, the need for responsible and effective solar panel disposal has never been more critical. In this episode, we delve into the groundbreaking expansion of solar panel recycling by the Alberta Recycling Management Authorities (ARMA). We are joined by Director of Operations, Che-Wei Chung, who provides insights into the pilot program’s inception, achievements, challenges, and the valuable lessons ARMA has learned along the way. This program, offered free to Alberta residents, paves the way for Alberta to become a national leader in recycling solar panels! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast episode, we delve into the transformative work of the global non-profit organization, Student Energy, and explore how they are empowering the next generation of leaders to accelerate the transition to a sustainable and equitable energy future. Our guest for this episode is Shakti Ramkumar, the Senior Director of Policy and Communications at Student Energy. Shakti shed's light into the organization's initiatives, strategies, and the positive impact they have on young leaders worldwide. With a vast network of 50,000 young people from over 120 countries, Student Energy is creating a platform for students to engage with and influence energy policies, technologies, practices and has become a driving force in cultivating a new generation of change-makers in the energy sector. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lyndsey Smith, co-owner of the Shady Creek Lamb Company in Ontario, joined our podcast to share her pioneering story of merging their sheep farm with a local solar farm, creating a symbiotic relationship between electricity generation and agriculture. This extraordinary alliance has yielded numerous incredible benefits for both parties involved, and no doubt, has made the sheep much happier! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Giam, Owner, and Energy Advisor at GETS Energy, once again joins the podcast to address the misinformation surrounding Canada's Federal Government's Greener Homes Program. Daniel provides clarity on various aspects of the program, including current wait times, program benefits, and his opinion on how long the incentives will remain available to Canadians. The Solar PVcast is powered by Shift. For all your solar and energy storage needs, visit Shift.ca See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we chatted with Dan MacKay, the secretary and board member of Solar Nova Scotia, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating the adoption of solar energy in Nova Scotia. Dan shares his personal journey of how he became involved with solar energy, his passion for sustainable living and discusses how Solar Nova Scotia has become a driving force in the solar energy revolution within the province. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.