The Sounds of Solar is a podcast series produced from the offices of EVS, Inc. in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The podcast is dedicated to those who feel solar energ...
Ep. 45: The Solar Surge: Navigating Change and Opportunity in the Energy Sector
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we invite you to pull up a chair and enjoy an indepth conversation with Alfredo Espinosa, Senior Vice President of Solar Preconstruction at Moss Construction. Alfredo shares his journey from intern to industry leader, revealing how Moss has grown into one of the top solar contractors in the U.S. We dive into the exponential growth of solar, the evolving energy demand driven by AI and data centers, and the role of EPCs in shaping the future. Alfredo discusses Moss’s innovative approach to workforce development, the importance of strong industry partnerships, and their leadership in SEIA advocacy. With insights on solar preconstruction, grid challenges, and repowering opportunities, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of renewable energy. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on building a sustainable energy future!
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Ep. 44: Weird Science: Wild Renewable Energy Sources You Won't Believe Exist!
Hosts Russell Hamilton and Chris Bruhn take a deep dive into some of the most bizarre yet fascinating renewable energy sources. They discuss body heat-powered buildings, urine-powered batteries, and piezoelectric sidewalks that turn footsteps into electricity. The duo also explores the potential of sound energy, heat-harnessing roads, and gyms that generate power from workouts. Along the way, they share personal anecdotes—including Russ’s leap into sprint car racing—and reflect on career growth in renewable energy. With humor, curiosity, and engaging discussions, this episode offers a fresh perspective on unconventional sustainability solutions. Don’t miss this electrifying conversation!
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Ep. 43: From Soil to Structure: Exploring the Role of Geotech Engineering
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, we welcome Eric Johnson, Geotechnical Manager at EVS, for an insightful conversation on the evolving role of geotech in solar energy. Eric shares his journey from residential and commercial projects to leading geotech for large-scale solar, highlighting the increasing project sizes and the unique challenges of soil testing, frost heave, and pile load testing. He discusses groundbreaking advancements in geotech, such as frost-resistant coatings and improved frost analysis methods. Eric also explores the crucial interplay between geotech, civil, and electrical engineering in solar design. With humor and deep expertise, this episode sheds light on why geotech is both an art and a science. Tune in for a compelling look at the foundation of renewable energy projects.
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Ep 42: Drones, LiDAR, and the Future of Solar Survey
Join us as we welcome back Scott Alwin, Survey Manager at EVS as he shares his journey from growing up in a surveying family to leading cutting-edge survey operations in the renewable energy sector. Learn how advancements in LiDAR technology and drone surveying have transformed data collection, improving efficiency and accuracy for large-scale solar projects. Scott dives into the critical role of ALTA surveys, the challenges of massive solar sites, and the future of aerial surveying—hint: it might involve helicopters! This episode is packed with insights on industry trends, surveying best practices, and the importance of embracing technology in renewable energy. Don’t miss this engaging discussion on how survey data drives successful solar development.
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Ep 41: Batteries, Inertia & the Modern Grid: Integration of Renewable Energy
In this episode of Sounds of Solar, host Christoph Bruhn and co-hosts Russell Hamilton and Prahlad Shivshankar sit down with Michael Carlson, EVS' Director of Power Studies, to explore the evolving world of renewable energy. Michael shares insights from his extensive experience in wind, solar, and battery energy storage systems (BESS), discussing the grid's shift from centralized to distributed generation. Key topics include the challenges of interconnection, the role of protection coordination, and the potential of long-duration BESS to transform renewables into firm energy sources. Michael also highlights the need for grid upgrades, innovations in HVDC transmission, and emerging solar technologies. Packed with technical insights and future-forward ideas, this episode is essential for renewable energy professionals and enthusiasts. Tune in and stay informed on the industry’s exciting evolution!
The Sounds of Solar is a podcast series produced from the offices of EVS, Inc. in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The podcast is dedicated to those who feel solar energy will be the world's primary energy source, and we plan to introduce you to the early innovators in the field. This podcast will not shy away from frank talk about the obstacles before us and we hope you'll join us in the discussion. We also hope to help an entire new generation into the field, so our efforts will also be directed at college students with advice on how to achieve your dreams in solar.
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