The Solar Journey Podcast https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com Host Torsten Brammer wants to investigate the question; “What does it take to get solar to the next level?”. On the podcast he interviews industry experts, discussing their journey in the solar industry and opinions on current topics and events. Wed, 11 Dec 2024 13:44:59 +0100 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en de Copyright 2020 - All rights reserved. Technology 1440 episodic I am Dr. Torsten Brammer, and I want to investigate the question; “What does it take to get solar to the next level?” To me, ”solar” means all truly, clean energy technologies. The Solar Journey is the title of my podcast, blog, and vlog series in which I highlight the opinions of experts in the industry. Hopefully, the podcast inspire you to get into the solar business and to join this global movement of decentralized and carbon-free power. Dr. Torsten Brammer Dr. Torsten Brammer No true https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/8981471/TSJ_MainThumbnail_vj8p3k.jpg The Solar Journey Podcast https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com 144 144 S210: "Inside the Hydrogen Bubble" with Klemens Ilse of Fraunhofer IMWS S210: "Inside the Hydrogen Bubble" with Klemens Ilse of Fraunhofer IMWS https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s210-inside-the-hydrogen-bubble-with-klemens-ilse-of-fraunhofer-imws/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s210-inside-the-hydrogen-bubble-with-klemens-ilse-of-fraunhofer-imws/#comments Wed, 11 Dec 2024 13:44:59 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/8771bca5-16b7-3c8b-8083-995c9d51a4d8 In the final episode of Season 2 of The Solar Journey, Torsten tackles one of the most debated areas of energy transition technology: green hydrogen production and usage. Putting the hydrogen-hype under a microscope, this episode taps the knowledge of a global expert in the field who, somewhat surprisingly, has some inconvenient truths to share.

Joining Torsten is Dr. Klemens Ilse, a physicist and materials diagnostics expert at the Fraunhofer Institute, where he leads research on materials for green hydrogen production. As Deputy Director of the Fraunhofer Innovation Platform for Hydrogen Energy at Kentech in South Korea, Klemens offers a truly global perspective on the future of green hydrogen production and storage.

With a background in photovoltaics, including award-winning research on PV soiling in desert climates, Klemens now applies his skills to the cutting edge of hydrogen technology. In this episode, he unpacks the colorful world of hydrogen—blue, green, grey, and beyond—while providing an honest take on its opportunities and challenges.

"Green hydrogen is often called the Swiss army knife of the energy transition," says Klemens, "but you wouldn't use a Swiss army knife for everything. It should be reserved for cases where no better tool is available." He highlights where hydrogen can make the biggest impact—hard-to-decarbonize sectors like steelmaking—and outlines the challenge posed by inefficient production and transportation.

Beyond the science, Klemens delves into the economics and policy of hydrogen. From Europe’s regulatory push to scale green hydrogen, to the bottlenecks of rare materials like iridium, this conversation sheds light on the forces shaping hydrogen’s role in a net-zero future.

As the closing episode of Season 2, and featuring such a hotly debated subject, this one is not to be missed. A bold exploration of hydrogen's potential and pitfalls, offering clear-eyed analysis and a roadmap for its role in the clean energy future. PLUS – it’s a double-header Espresso segment, with Lisa Hirvonen from Italian-Chinese manufacturer FuturaSun joining to share her views from the recent PV Module Tech event in Malaga, Spain. And fan favorite Radovan Kopeček from the ISC Konstanz checks in again, fresh back from his whirlwind East Asian excursion, with dispatches from conferences in both Japan and China.

]]> In the final episode of Season 2 of The Solar Journey, Torsten tackles one of the most debated areas of energy transition technology: green hydrogen production and usage. Putting the hydrogen-hype under a microscope, this episode taps the knowledge of a global expert in the field who, somewhat surprisingly, has some inconvenient truths to share.

Joining Torsten is Dr. Klemens Ilse, a physicist and materials diagnostics expert at the Fraunhofer Institute, where he leads research on materials for green hydrogen production. As Deputy Director of the Fraunhofer Innovation Platform for Hydrogen Energy at Kentech in South Korea, Klemens offers a truly global perspective on the future of green hydrogen production and storage.

With a background in photovoltaics, including award-winning research on PV soiling in desert climates, Klemens now applies his skills to the cutting edge of hydrogen technology. In this episode, he unpacks the colorful world of hydrogen—blue, green, grey, and beyond—while providing an honest take on its opportunities and challenges.

"Green hydrogen is often called the Swiss army knife of the energy transition," says Klemens, "but you wouldn't use a Swiss army knife for everything. It should be reserved for cases where no better tool is available." He highlights where hydrogen can make the biggest impact—hard-to-decarbonize sectors like steelmaking—and outlines the challenge posed by inefficient production and transportation.

Beyond the science, Klemens delves into the economics and policy of hydrogen. From Europe’s regulatory push to scale green hydrogen, to the bottlenecks of rare materials like iridium, this conversation sheds light on the forces shaping hydrogen’s role in a net-zero future.

As the closing episode of Season 2, and featuring such a hotly debated subject, this one is not to be missed. A bold exploration of hydrogen's potential and pitfalls, offering clear-eyed analysis and a roadmap for its role in the clean energy future.

PLUS – it’s a double-header Espresso segment, with Lisa Hirvonen from Italian-Chinese manufacturer FuturaSun joining to share her views from the recent PV Module Tech event in Malaga, Spain. And fan favorite Radovan Kopeček from the ISC Konstanz checks in again, fresh back from his whirlwind East Asian excursion, with dispatches from conferences in both Japan and China.

]]> Klemens Ilse of Fraunhofer IMWS shares bold insights on the promise, and pitfalls, of green hydrogen’s role in the clean energy transition. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3905 2 10 full S210: "Inside the Hydrogen Bubble" with Klemens Ilse of Fraunhofer IMWS S209: "Mind the Gap" with Christian Langen
& Tobias Schütt of Cleantech Bridge S209: "Mind the Gap" with Christian Langen
& Tobias Schütt of Cleantech Bridge https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s209-mind-the-gap-with-christian%c2%a0langen%e2%80%a8-tobias-schutt-of-cleantech-bridge/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s209-mind-the-gap-with-christian%c2%a0langen%e2%80%a8-tobias-schutt-of-cleantech-bridge/#comments Thu, 28 Nov 2024 13:24:21 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/f9697f53-e35f-3fd6-905a-76c854ab1e40 In the penultimate episode of season two, we've got a double header for you! Torsten reconnects with returning guests Christian Langen and Tobias Schütt, co-founders of Cleantech Bridge, a startup bridging the gap between venture capital and infrastructure funding for the rollout of innovative clean technologies. With decades of combined experience in the solar and energy storage industries, Christian and Tobias are tackling one of the most pressing challenges in renewable energy: scaling successful startups when traditional funding sources fall short. From their early days at Conergy to launching impactful ventures like DZ4, Christian and Tobias share insights into navigating the "first of a kind" financing problems that can derail even the most promising companies. They delve into why SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) are key for asset-heavy business models and how entrepreneurial investors, like family offices, can unlock opportunities where conventional investors hesitate. A resounding endorsement of the potential of renewables and solar in particular, Christian declares, “Solar is the cheapest source, together with wind and storage – it's exploding.” Meanwhile, Tobias emphasizes, “The risk is that the success of solar is so high it jeopardizes future successes. And the solution for that is more storage.” An engaging overview of the challenges and opportunities of financing cleantech at scale, this episode is packed with insightful explainers and pearls of wisdom from two seasoned industry players – who admit that even with 20 years of experience, they "are still at the beginning of this all." PLUS On this week’s Espresso, Torsten continues to gather perspectives from the U.S., where solar manufacturing keeps growing. Martin Pochtaruk, founder and CEO of Canadian-American module maker Heliene, runs the numbers of what it costs to establish both PV cell and module manufacturing in North America and provides an update on efforts to set up a solar supply chain there.

]]> In the penultimate episode of season two, we've got a double header for you! Torsten reconnects with returning guests Christian Langen and Tobias Schütt, co-founders of Cleantech Bridge, a startup bridging the gap between venture capital and infrastructure funding for the rollout of innovative clean technologies. With decades of combined experience in the solar and energy storage industries, Christian and Tobias are tackling one of the most pressing challenges in renewable energy: scaling successful startups when traditional funding sources fall short.

From their early days at Conergy to launching impactful ventures like DZ4, Christian and Tobias share insights into navigating the "first of a kind" financing problems that can derail even the most promising companies. They delve into why SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) are key for asset-heavy business models and how entrepreneurial investors, like family offices, can unlock opportunities where conventional investors hesitate.

A resounding endorsement of the potential of renewables and solar in particular, Christian declares, “Solar is the cheapest source, together with wind and storage – it's exploding.” Meanwhile, Tobias emphasizes, “The risk is that the success of solar is so high it jeopardizes future successes. And the solution for that is more storage.”

An engaging overview of the challenges and opportunities of financing cleantech at scale, this episode is packed with insightful explainers and pearls of wisdom from two seasoned industry players – who admit that even with 20 years of experience, they "are still at the beginning of this all."

PLUS On this week’s Espresso, Torsten continues to gather perspectives from the U.S., where solar manufacturing keeps growing. Martin Pochtaruk, founder and CEO of Canadian-American module maker Heliene, runs the numbers of what it costs to establish both PV cell and module manufacturing in North America and provides an update on efforts to set up a solar supply chain there.

]]> Returning guests Christian Langen and Tobias Schütt of Cleantech Bridge dive into the funding challenges of scaling green startups. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 2878 2 9 full S209: "Mind the Gap" with Christian Langen
& Tobias Schütt of Cleantech Bridge S208: "TOPCon of the Class" with Oliver Schultz-Wittmann of Holosolis S208: "TOPCon of the Class" with Oliver Schultz-Wittmann of Holosolis https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s208-topcon-of-the-class-with-oliver-schultz-wittmann-of-holosolis/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s208-topcon-of-the-class-with-oliver-schultz-wittmann-of-holosolis/#comments Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:47:11 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/a446ee1b-f0cc-3422-9b4b-0250cbcd3d0a This week on The Solar Journey, Torsten speaks with Oliver Schulz-Wittmann, CTO of Holosolis, a veteran of the solar technological development. With a career spanning innovative startups, major R&D projects, and important roles in solar manufacturing, Oliver has seen a lot!

From humble beginnings analyzing samples for radioactivity post-Chernobyl during his time in civil service, Oliver is currently leading plans to establish a 5 GW solar cell and module manufacturing facility in France. He shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in scaling European solar production and also dives into the evolving role of intellectual property in the solar industry, as well as why he believes nuclear energy cannot compete with the speed, cost, and scalability of renewables.

Drawing from his extensive experience in navigating technological development, market shifts, and startup environments, he reflects, "Just focus on the things you can do. And when you have something, if there's value in it, there will be a way to apply it, to use it. So don't get distracted from all the noise around you."

An inspiring listen for anyone interested in scaling businesses or driving change in renewable energy manufacturing – this conversation is brimming with thoughts on innovation, perseverance, and the future of clean energy in Europe and beyond. PLUS on this week’s Espresso, Torsten touches base with a solar module maker that is trying to make it in America. Sirius PV is currently ramping a factory in Texas, and CEO Ercan Kalafat provides an update on the company’s progress.

]]> This week on The Solar Journey, Torsten speaks with Oliver Schulz-Wittmann, CTO of Holosolis, a veteran of the solar technological development. With a career spanning innovative startups, major R&D projects, and important roles in solar manufacturing, Oliver has seen a lot!

From humble beginnings analyzing samples for radioactivity post-Chernobyl during his time in civil service, Oliver is currently leading plans to establish a 5 GW solar cell and module manufacturing facility in France. He shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in scaling European solar production and also dives into the evolving role of intellectual property in the solar industry, as well as why he believes nuclear energy cannot compete with the speed, cost, and scalability of renewables.

Drawing from his extensive experience in navigating technological development, market shifts, and startup environments, he reflects, "Just focus on the things you can do. And when you have something, if there's value in it, there will be a way to apply it, to use it. So don't get distracted from all the noise around you."

An inspiring listen for anyone interested in scaling businesses or driving change in renewable energy manufacturing – this conversation is brimming with thoughts on innovation, perseverance, and the future of clean energy in Europe and beyond.

PLUS on this week’s Espresso, Torsten touches base with a solar module maker that is trying to make it in America. Sirius PV is currently ramping a factory in Texas, and CEO Ercan Kalafat provides an update on the company’s progress.

]]> Oliver Schulz-Wittmann talks entrepreneurial ups and downs, from TOPCon’s early days to the challenges of EU solar manufacturing today. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3009 2 8 full S208: "TOPCon of the Class" with Oliver Schultz-Wittmann of Holosolis S207: "Starting Up Solar" with Karolina Attspodina of WeDoSolar S207: "Starting Up Solar" with Karolina Attspodina of WeDoSolar https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s207-starting-up-solar-with-karolina-attspodina-of-wedosolar/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s207-starting-up-solar-with-karolina-attspodina-of-wedosolar/#comments Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:23:04 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/336193c7-c521-3ca9-ac08-d82aed0a91a9 This week on The Solar Journey, Torsten sits down with Karolina Attspodina, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of WeDoSolar. Karolina’s journey into the solar industry was informed by the desire to expand the boundaries of PV applications – giving apartment dwellers and renters the chance to benefit from the technology. 

Her company, WeDoSolar, specializes in smart balcony solar systems. And she has plenty of advice for clean technology entrepreneurs. 

As Karolina explains, "When you’re building a company, it's all about being fast, having the right team, and not being afraid to try new things." With her keen focus on simplifying tech for consumers, Karolina aims to transform urban solar adoption and redefine how we think about decentralized, accessible energy.

This week’s episode is packed with startup insights, helpful resources, and Karolina’s take on the power of mindset in business. We hope this episode inspires some listeners to start a climate tech business and begin their own solar journey!

PLUS in our Espresso segment – last week’s U.S. presidential election is still front of mind for many with questions abounding as to the impact a second Trump administration will have on solar, wind, and battery energy storage. Stephen Lacey, the co-founder of Latitude Media, joins Torsten to provide some insights into the complex picture.

]]> This week on The Solar Journey, Torsten sits down with Karolina Attspodina, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of WeDoSolar. Karolina’s journey into the solar industry was informed by the desire to expand the boundaries of PV applications – giving apartment dwellers and renters the chance to benefit from the technology. 

Her company, WeDoSolar, specializes in smart balcony solar systems. And she has plenty of advice for clean technology entrepreneurs. 

As Karolina explains, "When you’re building a company, it's all about being fast, having the right team, and not being afraid to try new things." With her keen focus on simplifying tech for consumers, Karolina aims to transform urban solar adoption and redefine how we think about decentralized, accessible energy.

This week’s episode is packed with startup insights, helpful resources, and Karolina’s take on the power of mindset in business. We hope this episode inspires some listeners to start a climate tech business and begin their own solar journey!

PLUS in our Espresso segment – last week’s U.S. presidential election is still front of mind for many with questions abounding as to the impact a second Trump administration will have on solar, wind, and battery energy storage. Stephen Lacey, the co-founder of Latitude Media, joins Torsten to provide some insights into the complex picture.

]]> Entrepreneur Karolina Attspodina of solar startup WeDoSolar shares her bold vision for transforming urban solar and building accessible, consumer-driven energy. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3206 2 7 full S207: "Starting Up Solar" with Karolina Attspodina of WeDoSolar S206: "Straight Shooter" with Andrew Blakers of ANU S206: "Straight Shooter" with Andrew Blakers of ANU https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s206-straight-shooter-with-andrew-blakers/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s206-straight-shooter-with-andrew-blakers/#comments Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:30:28 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/50228704-12d7-3ff4-8111-9c22a1ca3a55 In the first episode back after our mid-season break, Torsten reconnects with Andrew Blakers, who he studied under at the Australian National University back in the nineties.

Andrew is a true trailblazer in renewable energy and a developer and fierce advocate for solar technology. This episode explores Andrew’s journey from a student of physics at UNSW to renewable energy visionary.

With a blend of both sunny optimism and biting realism, Andrew offers insights into the challenges and opportunities in the global renewable energy transition, including advocating for the adoption of pumped hydro energy storage, which he believes has vast potential. As he explains, “We are going to end up with a much more reliable energy system that’s also cheaper and has zero emissions.” His perspective sheds light on why a distributed clean energy network represents a "quiet revolution" of the energy system in countries like Australia.

Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode to hear Andrew’s hot takes on topics ranging from grid stability to the misconceptions surrounding hydrogen and nuclear power. PLUS In this week's Espresso segment, homegrown Australian renewable energy journalist and content creator Jonathan Gifford joins us with insights from the country's biggest renewable energy event: All Energy Australia 2024. 

]]> In the first episode back after our mid-season break, Torsten reconnects with Andrew Blakers, who he studied under at the Australian National University back in the nineties.

Andrew is a true trailblazer in renewable energy and a developer and fierce advocate for solar technology. This episode explores Andrew’s journey from a student of physics at UNSW to renewable energy visionary.

With a blend of both sunny optimism and biting realism, Andrew offers insights into the challenges and opportunities in the global renewable energy transition, including advocating for the adoption of pumped hydro energy storage, which he believes has vast potential. As he explains, “We are going to end up with a much more reliable energy system that’s also cheaper and has zero emissions.” His perspective sheds light on why a distributed clean energy network represents a "quiet revolution" of the energy system in countries like Australia.

Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode to hear Andrew’s hot takes on topics ranging from grid stability to the misconceptions surrounding hydrogen and nuclear power.

PLUS In this week's Espresso segment, homegrown Australian renewable energy journalist and content creator Jonathan Gifford joins us with insights from the country's biggest renewable energy event: All Energy Australia 2024. 

]]> Fierce advocate for solar technology Andrew Blakers shares his hot takes on the path to a 100% renewable energy future. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 2536 2 6 full S206: "Straight Shooter" with Andrew Blakers of ANU S205: "Going Big, Offgrid" with Ndiarka Mbodji of Kowry Energy S205: "Going Big, Offgrid" with Ndiarka Mbodji of Kowry Energy https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s205-going-big-offgrid-with-ndiarka-mbodji/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s205-going-big-offgrid-with-ndiarka-mbodji/#comments Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:57:25 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/1f9ff664-057b-3f80-8a49-86a5029d8a43 This week's episode of The Solar Journey takes us to sub-Saharan Africa with Ndiarka Mbodji, CEO and founder of Kowry Energy, as the company rolls out sustainable energy solutions across the continent.

Ndiarka's background in chemistry and business management, plus a 15 year tenure in the corporate world at Rolls-Royce, led her to excel in operational roles. But it was her deep connection to Senegal, and her goal of helping the people there gain economic sovereignty, that led to her career shift to renewable energy. She shares how her experiences of going back and forth between Europe and Africa sparked a realization about the vast disparity in energy access—and why the future of development in Africa lies in affordable, reliable power.

With Kowry Energy, Ndiarka envisions energy as the "new currency for economic development," linking Africa's prosperous past with its bright future. “The number one thing you need is energy,” she emphasizes, discussing her company’s mission to foster economic sovereignty for rural communities through reliable, scalable off-grid solutions.

Throughout the conversation, Ndiarka touches on the challenges and opportunities of running a startup in a market as complex as Africa, how her corporate experience shaped her approach to leadership, and the critical role of quality in delivering long-term impact. PLUS, in the Espresso segment Radovan Kopecek touches base to discuss the latest in manufacturing news from India and Europe, along with the IP disputes that are increasingly entangling TOPCon manufacturers.

]]> This week's episode of The Solar Journey takes us to sub-Saharan Africa with Ndiarka Mbodji, CEO and founder of Kowry Energy, as the company rolls out sustainable energy solutions across the continent.

Ndiarka's background in chemistry and business management, plus a 15 year tenure in the corporate world at Rolls-Royce, led her to excel in operational roles. But it was her deep connection to Senegal, and her goal of helping the people there gain economic sovereignty, that led to her career shift to renewable energy. She shares how her experiences of going back and forth between Europe and Africa sparked a realization about the vast disparity in energy access—and why the future of development in Africa lies in affordable, reliable power.

With Kowry Energy, Ndiarka envisions energy as the "new currency for economic development," linking Africa's prosperous past with its bright future. “The number one thing you need is energy,” she emphasizes, discussing her company’s mission to foster economic sovereignty for rural communities through reliable, scalable off-grid solutions.

Throughout the conversation, Ndiarka touches on the challenges and opportunities of running a startup in a market as complex as Africa, how her corporate experience shaped her approach to leadership, and the critical role of quality in delivering long-term impact.

PLUS, in the Espresso segment Radovan Kopecek touches base to discuss the latest in manufacturing news from India and Europe, along with the IP disputes that are increasingly entangling TOPCon manufacturers.

]]> Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3165 25 full S205: "Going Big, Offgrid" with Ndiarka Mbodji of Kowry Energy S204: "PV Papa" with Martin Green of UNSW S204: "PV Papa" with Martin Green of UNSW https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s204-pv-papa-with-martin-green-of-unsw/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s204-pv-papa-with-martin-green-of-unsw/#comments Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:20:10 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/289ad7e8-2db2-3288-a4fe-1c6bababde91 This week Torsten sits down with one of the most influential voices in the solar research community, Martin Green, aka “the father of modern PV,” for a retrospective look at the early history and rapid progress of solar technology.

Martin’s groundbreaking work has shaped the industry as we know it, and his story is one of innovation and grasping opportunities as they arose. His early interest in microelectronics in Australia in the 1960s led to developing world-record-setting solar cells in the 80s. Humble despite these amazing achievements, Martin jokes, “One of my colleagues used to say I was famous in my own lunch box.” But with a ferry in Sydney Harbor set to be named after him, his impact is undeniable.

Martin details his pioneering work with what is now known as TOPCon and with PERC technology – both major breakthroughs in solar cell architecture. Although going against conventional wisdom and in a constant battle to secure funding, his team persevered. His thoughts on the naysayers? “We were told at the time we'd never make it into production. So, yeah, don't listen to the advice that you get given."

Looking ahead, Martin sees potential for even lower solar costs. "We might be looking at a future where solar is not just cheap, but insanely cheap." An icon in the field, his story is a must-listen for anyone curious about how solar became a leading solution in the fight against climate change. PLUS On the Espresso segment this week, Torsten touches base with another Aussie solar innovator, James Allston from Orkestra Technologies. James is currently in Europe, setting the stage for the expansion of his software startup, and he provides some key takeaways from the recent Solar & Storage Live event in the UK.

]]> This week Torsten sits down with one of the most influential voices in the solar research community, Martin Green, aka “the father of modern PV,” for a retrospective look at the early history and rapid progress of solar technology.

Martin’s groundbreaking work has shaped the industry as we know it, and his story is one of innovation and grasping opportunities as they arose. His early interest in microelectronics in Australia in the 1960s led to developing world-record-setting solar cells in the 80s. Humble despite these amazing achievements, Martin jokes, “One of my colleagues used to say I was famous in my own lunch box.” But with a ferry in Sydney Harbor set to be named after him, his impact is undeniable.

Martin details his pioneering work with what is now known as TOPCon and with PERC technology – both major breakthroughs in solar cell architecture. Although going against conventional wisdom and in a constant battle to secure funding, his team persevered. His thoughts on the naysayers? “We were told at the time we'd never make it into production. So, yeah, don't listen to the advice that you get given."

Looking ahead, Martin sees potential for even lower solar costs. "We might be looking at a future where solar is not just cheap, but insanely cheap." An icon in the field, his story is a must-listen for anyone curious about how solar became a leading solution in the fight against climate change.

PLUS On the Espresso segment this week, Torsten touches base with another Aussie solar innovator, James Allston from Orkestra Technologies. James is currently in Europe, setting the stage for the expansion of his software startup, and he provides some key takeaways from the recent Solar & Storage Live event in the UK.

]]> Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3337 24 full S204: "PV Papa" with Martin Green of UNSW S203: "Don't Call it a Comeback" with Gunter Erfurt S203: "Don't Call it a Comeback" with Gunter Erfurt https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s203-dont-call-it-a-comeback-with-gunter-erfurt/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s203-dont-call-it-a-comeback-with-gunter-erfurt/#comments Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:38:35 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/48bd62e0-b7a0-39ad-b15c-d7afd41f223e In a special extended episode of The Solar Journey, Torsten Brammer speaks with influential industry voice, Gunter Erfurt, former CEO of Meyer Burger Technology AG, in his first interview since parting ways with the European manufacturing giant.

From his beginnings as a student of physics to one of the most well-known faces in Europe's solar manufacturing segment, Gunter's solar journey has taken him to unexpected places. He opens up about Meyer Burger’s bold pivot to solar cell and module production, how policy delay and eventual inaction represents a missed opportunity for Europe, and his vision for the future of solar manufacturing (spoiler: he's still hopeful).

Despite his persistent optimism, he doesn’t shy away from discussing the tough lessons learned, how younger German solar companies opposed pro-manufacturing policies, and why China’s solar dominance represents a risk to global energy security.

Informed and insightful, Gunter does not take a backwards step in defending the strategic decision to transition Meyer Burger's business toward making modules. "I decided let's go for it, and I have never regretted it."

PLUS: On this week's Espresso, Torsten speaks with Ivona Kafedjiska, a PV research strategy and policy consultant with the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, on the sidelines of the EU PVSEC event. She shares some of her key takeaways from the leading European academic conference for clean technology and gives her view on why hopes for a revival of solar manufacturing on the continent may not be lost.

]]> In a special extended episode of The Solar Journey, Torsten Brammer speaks with influential industry voice, Gunter Erfurt, former CEO of Meyer Burger Technology AG, in his first interview since parting ways with the European manufacturing giant.

From his beginnings as a student of physics to one of the most well-known faces in Europe's solar manufacturing segment, Gunter's solar journey has taken him to unexpected places. He opens up about Meyer Burger’s bold pivot to solar cell and module production, how policy delay and eventual inaction represents a missed opportunity for Europe, and his vision for the future of solar manufacturing (spoiler: he's still hopeful).

Despite his persistent optimism, he doesn’t shy away from discussing the tough lessons learned, how younger German solar companies opposed pro-manufacturing policies, and why China’s solar dominance represents a risk to global energy security.

Informed and insightful, Gunter does not take a backwards step in defending the strategic decision to transition Meyer Burger's business toward making modules. "I decided let's go for it, and I have never regretted it."

PLUS: On this week's Espresso, Torsten speaks with Ivona Kafedjiska, a PV research strategy and policy consultant with the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, on the sidelines of the EU PVSEC event. She shares some of her key takeaways from the leading European academic conference for clean technology and gives her view on why hopes for a revival of solar manufacturing on the continent may not be lost.

]]> Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3916 23 full S203: "Don't Call it a Comeback" with Gunter Erfurt S202: "Data Decoded" with Jenny Chase of BloombergNEF S202: "Data Decoded" with Jenny Chase of BloombergNEF https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s202-data-decoded-with-jenny-chase-of-bloombergnef/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/s202-data-decoded-with-jenny-chase-of-bloombergnef/#comments Tue, 24 Sep 2024 15:01:47 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/db695b4b-f96a-3a41-9bd8-f4a797bd9354 In our second episode of the season, Torsten is joined at The smarter E in Munich by trailblazing solar analyst Jenny Chase, who was the first member of the BloombergNEF solar analyst team. Jenny, who has spent over 17 years shaping solar market intelligence, shares her journey from studying physics at Cambridge University to leading one of the world’s top sources for solar data and analysis.

Jenny walks us through the early days of solar, back when the price of polysilicon was astronomical and when installing half a terawatt of PV in one year (as we are on track to do in 2024) would've been unthinkable. She reflects on how solar has evolved to become an essential driver of the global energy transition and discusses the many challenges of analyzing an ever-changing and rapidly evolving market.

An extremely engaging conversation, sprinkled with her signature wit and no-nonsense approach, Jenny speaks to the joys of building a team, the perils of management, and the importance of doing what you love (which may or may not include tending to a flock of multi-generational geese).

PLUS: On the Espresso segment, Sven Albersmeier-Braun reports from the new Solar & Storage Live Zürich event. Sven is from upstart Chinese power electronics and battery supplier Sigenergy, and he describes how the residential battery market in Switzerland is undergoing a transition, as fears of power shortages begin to fade.

]]> In our second episode of the season, Torsten is joined at The smarter E in Munich by trailblazing solar analyst Jenny Chase, who was the first member of the BloombergNEF solar analyst team. Jenny, who has spent over 17 years shaping solar market intelligence, shares her journey from studying physics at Cambridge University to leading one of the world’s top sources for solar data and analysis.

Jenny walks us through the early days of solar, back when the price of polysilicon was astronomical and when installing half a terawatt of PV in one year (as we are on track to do in 2024) would've been unthinkable. She reflects on how solar has evolved to become an essential driver of the global energy transition and discusses the many challenges of analyzing an ever-changing and rapidly evolving market.

An extremely engaging conversation, sprinkled with her signature wit and no-nonsense approach, Jenny speaks to the joys of building a team, the perils of management, and the importance of doing what you love (which may or may not include tending to a flock of multi-generational geese).

PLUS: On the Espresso segment, Sven Albersmeier-Braun reports from the new Solar & Storage Live Zürich event. Sven is from upstart Chinese power electronics and battery supplier Sigenergy, and he describes how the residential battery market in Switzerland is undergoing a transition, as fears of power shortages begin to fade.


]]> Jenny Chase, founder of BloombergNEF’s Solar Analyst Team, delivers some home truths about solar manufacturing and the future of energy. The Solar Journey true No 2808 2 2 full S202: "Data Decoded" with Jenny Chase of BloombergNEF S201: "California Dreamin'" with Howard Wenger of Nextracker S201: "California Dreamin'" with Howard Wenger of Nextracker https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/the-solar-journey-s201-california-dreamin-with-howard-wenger-of-nextracker/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/the-solar-journey-s201-california-dreamin-with-howard-wenger-of-nextracker/#comments Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:15:28 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/fabdf95a-6f27-3041-bc9e-336df05d0c7b We're kicking off Season 2 of The Solar Journey with solar industry leader Howard Wenger, President of Nextracker! In this episode, host Dr. Torsten Brammer dives deep into Howard's incredible 40-year journey, from waiting in gas lines during the 1970's oil crisis to leading one of the world's most innovative solar tracker companies. Howard shares how he fell in love with photovoltaics (spoiler: he may bleed silicon!) and never looked back. He walks us through the early days of solar, when costs were sky-high, and people thought he was chasing a pipe dream. Fast forward to today, and Nextracker is celebrating 100 gigawatts of solar trackers shipped. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what drives Nextracker's success and hear Howard's insights on what it will take to push solar energy and clean tech to the next level. PLUS: On the Espresso segment, Radovan Kopecek from ISC Konstanz joins us live from Anaheim, California – from the RE+ trade show and conference. He provides an update on solar manufacturing in the US and how intellectual property issues are creating challenges for prospective cell producers in the country. He also hints at an opportunity for non-Chinese cell makers that may present a profitable sales channel in the currently challenging market situation.

]]> We're kicking off Season 2 of The Solar Journey with solar industry leader Howard Wenger, President of Nextracker!
In this episode, host Dr. Torsten Brammer dives deep into Howard's incredible 40-year journey, from waiting in gas lines during the 1970's oil crisis to leading one of the world's most innovative solar tracker companies. Howard shares how he fell in love with photovoltaics (spoiler: he may bleed silicon!) and never looked back. He walks us through the early days of solar, when costs were sky-high, and people thought he was chasing a pipe dream.
Fast forward to today, and Nextracker is celebrating 100 gigawatts of solar trackers shipped. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what drives Nextracker's success and hear Howard's insights on what it will take to push solar energy and clean tech to the next level.
PLUS: On the Espresso segment, Radovan Kopecek from ISC Konstanz joins us live from Anaheim, California – from the RE+ trade show and conference. He provides an update on solar manufacturing in the US and how intellectual property issues are creating challenges for prospective cell producers in the country. He also hints at an opportunity for non-Chinese cell makers that may present a profitable sales channel in the currently challenging market situation.

]]> In the Season 2 premiere of The Solar Journey, Howard Wenger, President of Nextracker, shares his decades-long solar journey—from the 1970’s oil crisis to leading a company that’s shipped 100 gigawatts of solar trackers—offering insights into the evolution of solar technology and what’s next for clean energy. Dr. Torsten Brammer false No 3288 2 1 full S201: "California Dreamin'" with Howard Wenger of Nextracker Episode #022 Christian Langen Episode #022 Christian Langen https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-022-christian-langen/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-022-christian-langen/#comments Wed, 31 May 2023 20:43:08 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/404a3216-4694-39a4-95c3-0f373667e194 In episode #022 of The Solar Journey, Dr. Torsten Brammer talks with Christian Langen Founder and Senior Advisor of Dynago. Christian has been active in leading solar businesses for about 20 years, from manufacturing wafers, cells, and modules with Sovello, building solar systems, and selling components with Conergy to selling inverters worldwide as Executive VP for SMA. For 10 years, he has been helping entrepreneurs and leaders in the industry as an independent advisor and board director. He is the chairman of Oxford PV, the Perovskite pioneer, and he helps entrepreneurs and investors buy and build businesses in the cleantech space. He calls himself a “free radical” and is a frequent contributor on LinkedIn and at industry events.

Connect with Chrisitan Langen on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey WEBSITE, on the BLOG page, under INTERVIEWS **

]]> In episode #022 of The Solar Journey, Dr. Torsten Brammer talks with Christian Langen Founder and Senior Advisor of Dynago. Christian has been active in leading solar businesses for about 20 years, from manufacturing wafers, cells, and modules with Sovello, building solar systems, and selling components with Conergy to selling inverters worldwide as Executive VP for SMA. For 10 years, he has been helping entrepreneurs and leaders in the industry as an independent advisor and board director. He is the chairman of Oxford PV, the Perovskite pioneer, and he helps entrepreneurs and investors buy and build businesses in the cleantech space. He calls himself a “free radical” and is a frequent contributor on LinkedIn and at industry events.

Connect with Chrisitan Langen on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey WEBSITE, on the BLOG page, under INTERVIEWS **

]]> In episode #022 of The Solar Journey, Dr. Torsten Brammer talks with Christian Langen Founder and Senior Advisor of Dynago. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3716 22 full Episode #022 Christian Langen Episode #021 Tim Meyer Episode #021 Tim Meyer https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-021-tim-meyer/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-021-tim-meyer/#comments Tue, 21 Feb 2023 06:33:36 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/759acde5-09b8-3e54-bfa2-316707e5b060 In this episode, Torsten Brammer talks to Tim Meyer, the owner of 3Epunkt, a consultancy for renewable solutions with renewable energy & sector coupling. Tim has more than 27 years of technology and management experience in the renewable energy and energy industry. Together with Torsten, he takes a closer look at our current situation in the European Energy market – specifically Germany. What challenges are we facing right now? How did we cope with the energy crisis so far? And what does it take to accelerate the renewable energy market to the next level?

#klimaschutz, #energiewende, #energiewirtschaft, #renewables

Connect with Dr. Tim Meyer on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey WEBSITE, on the BLOG page, under INTERVIEWS **

]]> In this episode, Torsten Brammer talks to Tim Meyer, the owner of 3Epunkt, a consultancy for renewable solutions with renewable energy & sector coupling. Tim has more than 27 years of technology and management experience in the renewable energy and energy industry. Together with Torsten, he takes a closer look at our current situation in the European Energy market – specifically Germany. What challenges are we facing right now? How did we cope with the energy crisis so far? And what does it take to accelerate the renewable energy market to the next level?

#klimaschutz, #energiewende, #energiewirtschaft, #renewables

Connect with Dr. Tim Meyer on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey WEBSITE, on the BLOG page, under INTERVIEWS **

]]> In this episode, Torsten Brammer talks to Tim Meyer, the owner of 3Epunkt, a consultancy for renewable solutions with renewable energy & sector coupling. Dr. Torsten Brammer false No 3541 21 full Episode #021 Tim Meyer Episode #020 Dr. Volker Quaschning Episode #020 Dr. Volker Quaschning https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-020-dr-volker-quaschning/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-020-dr-volker-quaschning/#comments Wed, 25 Jan 2023 23:59:00 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/18c57347-1827-3e29-a8f5-9fc010008067 In this episode, Dr. Torsten Brammer talks to Dr. Volker Quaschning, a professor of renewable energy systems at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin. Moreover, Volker is a co-founder of Scientists for Future, the author of multiple books, and a successful podcaster and YouTuber for renewable energy topics.

So this talk is about the dedication to make information about renewable energy and climate change transparent and assessable for all people, also beyond lecture halls. Learn more about the big challenges we are facing, why it seems so hard for human mankind to adopt a sustainable lifestyle, and how grassroots organizations work.

Connect with Dr. Volker Quaschning on LinkedIn & Twitter.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey WEBSITE, on the BLOG page, under INTERVIEWS **

]]> In this episode, Dr. Torsten Brammer talks to Dr. Volker Quaschning, a professor of renewable energy systems at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin. Moreover, Volker is a co-founder of Scientists for Future, the author of multiple books, and a successful podcaster and YouTuber for renewable energy topics.

So this talk is about the dedication to make information about renewable energy and climate change transparent and assessable for all people, also beyond lecture halls. Learn more about the big challenges we are facing, why it seems so hard for human mankind to adopt a sustainable lifestyle, and how grassroots organizations work.

Connect with Dr. Volker Quaschning on LinkedIn & Twitter.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey WEBSITE, on the BLOG page, under INTERVIEWS **

]]> In this episode, Dr. Torsten Brammer talks to Dr. Volker Quaschning, a professor of renewable energy systems at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin. Moreover, Volker is a co-founder of Scientists for Future, the author of multiple books, and a successful podcaster and YouTuber for renewable energy topics. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 2941 20 full Episode #020 Dr. Volker Quaschning Episode #019 - Africa GreenTec (Torsten Schreiber & Kady Tounkara) Episode #019 - Africa GreenTec (Torsten Schreiber & Kady Tounkara) https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-019-africa-greentec-torsten-schreiber-kady-tounkara/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-019-africa-greentec-torsten-schreiber-kady-tounkara/#comments Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:00:00 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/73a8d991-f8aa-3d7f-91f7-53974f1de2b4 This episode is truly inspiring ☀️. Renewable energy can really make a difference in the world and improve living conditions and perspectives of whole communities. Africa GreenTec, empowers people to achieve more self-determination and growth through sustainable energy solutions. But it is easier said than done because electricity works differently in other countries. It is not only about access, but also about the quality of electricity, which requires tailored solutions.

Torsten Brammer wants to know, how it works exactly, so he talks to Torsten Schreiber, LinkedIn Top Voice 2022 for #sustainability and Founder/ CEO of Africa GreenTec. They are joined by Kady Tounkara, Brand Communication Director at AGT, former Olympian and Professional Basketball Player, and Chairperson of the World Anti-Doping Education committee.

Don't miss this enlightening talk!

Connect with Africa GreenTec on LinkedIn.

]]> This episode is truly inspiring ☀️. Renewable energy can really make a difference in the world and improve living conditions and perspectives of whole communities. Africa GreenTec, empowers people to achieve more self-determination and growth through sustainable energy solutions. But it is easier said than done because electricity works differently in other countries. It is not only about access, but also about the quality of electricity, which requires tailored solutions.

Torsten Brammer wants to know, how it works exactly, so he talks to Torsten Schreiber, LinkedIn Top Voice 2022 for #sustainability and Founder/ CEO of Africa GreenTec. They are joined by Kady Tounkara, Brand Communication Director at AGT, former Olympian and Professional Basketball Player, and Chairperson of the World Anti-Doping Education committee.

Don't miss this enlightening talk!

Connect with Africa GreenTec on LinkedIn.

]]> This episode is truly inspiring ☀️. Renewable energy can really make a difference in the world and improve living conditions and perspectives of whole communities. Africa GreenTec, empowers people to achieve more self-determination and growth through sustainable energy solutions. But it is easier said than done because electricity works differently in other countries. It is not only about access, but also about the quality of electricity, which requires tailored solutions. Dr. Torsten Brammer false No 3841 19 full Episode #019 - Africa GreenTec (Torsten Schreiber & Kady Tounkara) Episode #018 - Jörg Althaus Episode #018 - Jörg Althaus https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-018-jorg-althaus/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-018-jorg-althaus/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2022 00:01:00 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/0c2a6a8e-7ea2-3f0f-8082-5063bf0f66fc In this episode, Torsten Brammer talks to a pioneer in the field of quality insurance for PV power plants. Jörg Althaus is the Director of Engineering Services, QA, and ESG at Clean Energy Associates. CEA provides engineering and technical support services for #PV and battery storage. Before his current position, Jörg held various positions at TÜV Rheinland, a leading Testing, Inspection, Certification body in the solar industry.

You should listen to this podcast episode if you...

👉 ... want to gain insights about quality insurance in the fab and on the field

👉 ... want to know how reliable reliability tests really are

👉 ... are curious about the predictability of failure

👉 ... are wondering if fire guards would extinguish the fire in your house even if it has a rooftop installation 🚒 🔥

Connect with Jörg Althaus on LinkedIn.

]]> In this episode, Torsten Brammer talks to a pioneer in the field of quality insurance for PV power plants. Jörg Althaus is the Director of Engineering Services, QA, and ESG at Clean Energy Associates. CEA provides engineering and technical support services for #PV and battery storage. Before his current position, Jörg held various positions at TÜV Rheinland, a leading Testing, Inspection, Certification body in the solar industry.

You should listen to this podcast episode if you...

👉 ... want to gain insights about quality insurance in the fab and on the field

👉 ... want to know how reliable reliability tests really are

👉 ... are curious about the predictability of failure

👉 ... are wondering if fire guards would extinguish the fire in your house even if it has a rooftop installation 🚒 🔥

Connect with Jörg Althaus on LinkedIn.

]]> In this episode, Torsten Brammer talks to a pioneer in the field of quality insurance for PV power plants, Jörg Althaus. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3541 18 full Episode #018 - Jörg Althaus Episode #017 - Jürgen Sutterlüti Episode #017 - Jürgen Sutterlüti https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-017-jurgen-sutterluti/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-017-jurgen-sutterluti/#comments Thu, 08 Dec 2022 05:27:13 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/9b535901-68a8-3889-9144-8cf72607bb9f LinkedIn and Twitter. ]]> LinkedIn and Twitter. ]]> In episode #017 Torsten Brammer and Jürgen Sutterlüti talk about the optimization of solar power plants by using Edge computing and cloud-based processing. Jürgen Sutterlüti is responsible for the energy business segment and cloud platform development at Gantner Instruments, a global leader in modular and flexible data acquisition systems. He gives an overview of the key challenges in operating solar power plants and describes how they can collect and utilize their data in the most effective way. Learn more about what Edge computing really means and what else is required to take solar to the next level 🚀. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 4069 17 full Episode #017 - Jürgen Sutterlüti Episode #016 - Charles Gay Episode #016 - Charles Gay https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-016-charles-gay/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-016-charles-gay/#comments Fri, 05 Aug 2022 06:53:25 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/21524d7f-c00b-389e-8be8-3f7c72ac55fa In episode #016 of The Solar Journey Podcast, Dr. Torsten Brammer Speaks with Dr. Charles Gay. Charlie Gay is a pioneer in the PV manufacturing industry with over 45 years of solar experience.

He served most of his career in the private sector as leader at ARCO Solar, Siemens Solar Industries, ASE Americas, and Applied Materials. Dr. Gay also led the Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) for the U.S. Department of Energy and served as Director of the National Renewable Energy Lab.

He is co-founder of the Greenstar Foundation, an organization that develops multi-function solar-powered community centers in isolated villages throughout the developing world. As President of Galaxy Energy, Dr. Gay is transforming the automotive, aerospace, construction, pharmaceutical, energy generation, and storage industries. Charlie holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of California, Riverside. He was elected to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering in 2013.

Connect with Charles Gay on LinkedIn.

]]> In episode #016 of The Solar Journey Podcast, Dr. Torsten Brammer Speaks with Dr. Charles Gay. Charlie Gay is a pioneer in the PV manufacturing industry with over 45 years of solar experience.

He served most of his career in the private sector as leader at ARCO Solar, Siemens Solar Industries, ASE Americas, and Applied Materials. Dr. Gay also led the Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) for the U.S. Department of Energy and served as Director of the National Renewable Energy Lab.

He is co-founder of the Greenstar Foundation, an organization that develops multi-function solar-powered community centers in isolated villages throughout the developing world. As President of Galaxy Energy, Dr. Gay is transforming the automotive, aerospace, construction, pharmaceutical, energy generation, and storage industries. Charlie holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of California, Riverside. He was elected to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering in 2013.

Connect with Charles Gay on LinkedIn.

]]> In episode #016 of The Solar Journey Podcast, Dr. Torsten Brammer Speaks with Dr. Charles Gay. Charlie Gay is a pioneer in the PV manufacturing industry with over 45 years of solar experience. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 4567 16 full Episode #016 - Charles Gay Episode #015 - Mario Schirru Episode #015 - Mario Schirru https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-015-mario-schirru/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-015-mario-schirru/#comments Thu, 30 Jun 2022 08:29:02 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/5eec10c9-e4ff-356d-b07a-6cecea6e4d83 In episode #015 of The Solar Journey podcast, Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with Mario Schirru. Mario Schirru has been in the renewable energy business since 2008 when he started his career as a Project Developer for GEO mbH. Five years later, he moved to Germany and started working as an Investment Manager for Capital Stage AG, now Encavis AG.

In 2015 he was appointed Investment Director and took over the responsibility for the company's investment activities. Finally, in 2019, he became responsible for the Operations Team. Mario holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Master’s degree in Control Engineering (both from the University of Pisa), and an MBA from Mannheim Business School.

Connect with Mario Schirru on LinkedIn. 

]]> In episode #015 of The Solar Journey podcast, Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with Mario Schirru. Mario Schirru has been in the renewable energy business since 2008 when he started his career as a Project Developer for GEO mbH. Five years later, he moved to Germany and started working as an Investment Manager for Capital Stage AG, now Encavis AG.

In 2015 he was appointed Investment Director and took over the responsibility for the company's investment activities. Finally, in 2019, he became responsible for the Operations Team. Mario holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Master’s degree in Control Engineering (both from the University of Pisa), and an MBA from Mannheim Business School.

Connect with Mario Schirru on LinkedIn. 

]]> In episode #015 of The Solar Journey podcast, Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with Mario Schirru, COO of Encavis AG. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 4559 15 full Episode #015 - Mario Schirru Episode #014 - Torsten Brammer At The University Of Freiburg Episode #014 - Torsten Brammer At The University Of Freiburg https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-014-torsten-brammer-at-the-university-freiburg/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-014-torsten-brammer-at-the-university-freiburg/#comments Thu, 12 May 2022 02:25:54 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/bc2ddbaa-b284-3171-af67-08656c325e5d In episode #014 Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with the University of Freiburg located in Fahnenbergplatz, Germany.

Dr. Brammer is the host and founder of The Solar Journey Podcast, and currently serves as the CEO of WAVELABS Solar Metrology Systems GmbH, and CEO for Photovoltaic Research and Consulting.

With the University of Freiburg, Dr. Brammer discusses his personal solar journey and what he's learned as the show's host (from other solar experts). Tune in to hear more. 

Connect with Dr. Torsten Brammer on LinkedIn. 

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> In episode #014 Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with the University of Freiburg located in Fahnenbergplatz, Germany.

Dr. Brammer is the host and founder of The Solar Journey Podcast, and currently serves as the CEO of WAVELABS Solar Metrology Systems GmbH, and CEO for Photovoltaic Research and Consulting.

With the University of Freiburg, Dr. Brammer discusses his personal solar journey and what he's learned as the show's host (from other solar experts). Tune in to hear more. 

Connect with Dr. Torsten Brammer on LinkedIn. 

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> In episode #014 Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with the University Freiburg about his personal solar journey and what he’s learned as the show’s host (from other solar experts). Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 2728 14 full Episode #014 - Torsten Brammer At The University Of Freiburg Episode #013 - Dr. Pierre Verlinden Episode #013 - Dr. Pierre Verlinden https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-013-dr-pierre-verlinden/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-013-dr-pierre-verlinden/#comments Fri, 22 Apr 2022 08:01:07 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/55427029-999c-31d6-96b6-80afa90637a9 In episode #013 Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with Dr. Pierre Verlinden. Dr. Verlinden is a photovoltaic (PV) scientist with 40 years of experience in high-efficiency silicon solar cell technology, IBC silicon cells, Concentrator photovoltaic (CPV), multi-junction III-V solar cells, detectors, optoelectronic and power devices.

The founder and managing director of Amrock, he specializes in design, process development and integration, modeling and characterization. His experience also includes the transfer of PV technology from University to Manufacturing, and the design and construction of PV manufacturing plants.

Dr. Brammer and Dr. Verlinden discuss the key milestones in PV-tech, sustainability in PV, recruitment, and what it takes to get solar to the next level. Tune in to hear all about what Dr. Verlinden is doing in the solar industry and more.

Connect with Pierre Verlinden on LinkedIn. 

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> In episode #013 Dr. Torsten Brammer speaks with Dr. Pierre Verlinden. Dr. Verlinden is a photovoltaic (PV) scientist with 40 years of experience in high-efficiency silicon solar cell technology, IBC silicon cells, Concentrator photovoltaic (CPV), multi-junction III-V solar cells, detectors, optoelectronic and power devices.

The founder and managing director of Amrock, he specializes in design, process development and integration, modeling and characterization. His experience also includes the transfer of PV technology from University to Manufacturing, and the design and construction of PV manufacturing plants.

Dr. Brammer and Dr. Verlinden discuss the key milestones in PV-tech, sustainability in PV, recruitment, and what it takes to get solar to the next level. Tune in to hear all about what Dr. Verlinden is doing in the solar industry and more.

Connect with Pierre Verlinden on LinkedIn. 

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> Dr. Brammer and Dr. Verlinden discuss the key milestones in PV-tech, sustainability in PV, recruitment, and what it takes to get solar to the next level. Tune in to hear all about what Dr. Verlinden is doing in the solar industry and more. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3672 13 full Episode #013 - Dr. Pierre Verlinden Episode #012 - Konrad Perényi & Steffen Mangold of Solytic Episode #012 - Konrad Perényi & Steffen Mangold of Solytic https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-012-konrad-perenyi-steffen-mangold-of-solytic/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-012-konrad-perenyi-steffen-mangold-of-solytic/#comments Thu, 07 Apr 2022 06:54:22 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/a52b007c-1f3c-3510-91ef-b12454f0875b Another new episode this way comes with double the power. This week Dr. Brammer is joined by Konrad Perényi and Steffen Mangold of Solytic. Solytic is a digital platform used to maximize solar performance to save costs, drive profits, and extend life cycles. Its mission is to automate top performance for solar PV.

Konrad Perényi and Steffen Mangold are two of the four founders and focus on the marketing place/marketing, and tech/product respectively. Started in 2009, Solytic has come a long way since its humble beginnings and continues to change the world. Tune in to hear more about the company and what they're doing to advance solar.

Connect with Konrad and Steffen on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

 

]]> Another new episode this way comes with double the power. This week Dr. Brammer is joined by Konrad Perényi and Steffen Mangold of Solytic. Solytic is a digital platform used to maximize solar performance to save costs, drive profits, and extend life cycles. Its mission is to automate top performance for solar PV.

Konrad Perényi and Steffen Mangold are two of the four founders and focus on the marketing place/marketing, and tech/product respectively. Started in 2009, Solytic has come a long way since its humble beginnings and continues to change the world. Tune in to hear more about the company and what they're doing to advance solar.

Connect with Konrad and Steffen on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

 

]]> Another new episode this way comes with double the power. This week Dr. Brammer is joined by Konrad Perényi and Steffen Mangold of Solytic. Solytic is a digital platform used to maximize solar performance to save costs, drive profits, and extend life cycles. Its mission is to automate top performance for solar PV. Dr. Torsten Brammer true No 3715 12 full Episode #012 - Konrad Perényi & Steffen Mangold of Solytic Episode #011 - Andreas Bentzen Episode #011 - Andreas Bentzen https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-011-andreas-bentzen/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-011-andreas-bentzen/#comments Fri, 25 Mar 2022 07:43:52 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/0ac1fdb1-622b-3ff2-8377-ae0f96437994 The hits keep on coming with another episode of The Solar Journey with Dr. Torsten Brammer. In episode #11 Dr. Brammer speaks with Andreas Bentzen of Otovo. Based in Oslo, Norway, Andreas acts as CTO and Co-Founder of Otovo, and Owner and Founder of Beacon. Andreas received his Master of Science in Physical Electronics at NTNU and his Ph.D. in Physics at UiO. In this episode, Torsten and Andreas discuss key pressure points in solar, how Otovo qualifies suppliers, and what it takes to get solar to the next level. Connect with Andreas on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> The hits keep on coming with another episode of The Solar Journey with Dr. Torsten Brammer. In episode #11 Dr. Brammer speaks with Andreas Bentzen of Otovo. Based in Oslo, Norway, Andreas acts as CTO and Co-Founder of Otovo, and Owner and Founder of Beacon. Andreas received his Master of Science in Physical Electronics at NTNU and his Ph.D. in Physics at UiO. In this episode, Torsten and Andreas discuss key pressure points in solar, how Otovo qualifies suppliers, and what it takes to get solar to the next level. Connect with Andreas on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> The hits keep on coming with another episode of The Solar Journey with Dr. Torsten Brammer. In episode #11 Dr. Brammer speaks with Andreas Bentzen of Otovo. Torsten Brammer true No 2806 11 full Episode #011 - Andreas Bentzen Episode #010 - Radovan Kopecek Episode #010 - Radovan Kopecek https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-010-radovan-kopecek/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-010-radovan-kopecek/#comments Wed, 09 Mar 2022 05:29:11 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/db180936-ed81-37fc-aa13-6c219055b5a7 We're back with another episode of The Solar Journey podcast with Torsten Brammer! This week, in episode #010, Torsten speaks with Radovan Kopecek, Co-founder and Director of ISC Konstanz.

Dr. Radovan Kopecek, born in Brno (former Czechoslovakia), obtained his Diploma in Physics at the University of Stuttgart in 1998 in the field of Superconductive Fullerides. In addition, he studied for one year at Portland State University (Oregon, USA) where he obtained a Master of Science degree in 1995. During his studies, he worked at the Max-Planck-Institut (MPI) and at the Institute of Physical Electronics (IPE) in Stuttgart as a research assistant in the field of crystalline Si for PV applications. He joined Professor Ernst Bucher´s group in 1998 for his Ph.D. dissertation, which he completed in November 2002 in the field of Thin-Film Silicon Solar Cells.

One of the founders of ISC Konstanz Dr. Kopecek is working as a full-time manager and researcher since January 2007 and is currently the leader of the advanced solar cells department dealing with novel cell technologies. He is responsible for several European and national research projects. Since 2017 he is a board member of EUREC and from 2018 on a founding member of AtaMoS-TeC in Chile.

The overall goal is to turn Germany´s energy supply to 100% solar and other renewable energy resources until 2030 and to assist other countries with the same goal. 70TW PV till 2050 is possible.

Connect with Radovan on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> We're back with another episode of The Solar Journey podcast with Torsten Brammer! This week, in episode #010, Torsten speaks with Radovan Kopecek, Co-founder and Director of ISC Konstanz.

Dr. Radovan Kopecek, born in Brno (former Czechoslovakia), obtained his Diploma in Physics at the University of Stuttgart in 1998 in the field of Superconductive Fullerides. In addition, he studied for one year at Portland State University (Oregon, USA) where he obtained a Master of Science degree in 1995. During his studies, he worked at the Max-Planck-Institut (MPI) and at the Institute of Physical Electronics (IPE) in Stuttgart as a research assistant in the field of crystalline Si for PV applications. He joined Professor Ernst Bucher´s group in 1998 for his Ph.D. dissertation, which he completed in November 2002 in the field of Thin-Film Silicon Solar Cells.

One of the founders of ISC Konstanz Dr. Kopecek is working as a full-time manager and researcher since January 2007 and is currently the leader of the advanced solar cells department dealing with novel cell technologies. He is responsible for several European and national research projects. Since 2017 he is a board member of EUREC and from 2018 on a founding member of AtaMoS-TeC in Chile.

The overall goal is to turn Germany´s energy supply to 100% solar and other renewable energy resources until 2030 and to assist other countries with the same goal. 70TW PV till 2050 is possible.

Connect with Radovan on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> We’re back with another episode of The Solar Journey podcast with Torsten Brammer! This week, in episode #010, Torsten speaks with Radovan Kopecek, Co-founder and Director of ISC Konstanz. Torsten Brammer true No 2444 10 full Episode #010 - Radovan Kopecek Episode #009 - Tobias Schuett Episode #009 - Tobias Schuett https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/tobias-shuett-009/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/tobias-shuett-009/#comments Fri, 16 Apr 2021 05:56:09 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/dd358d4f-7003-3168-8c32-62fc8f8c1fc7 We were very fortunate on Episode #009 of The Solar Journey Podcast, to host Tobias Schuett, CEO of German company DZ-4.

DZ-4 is Germany’s first distributed utility company that sells solar PV energy to residential homeowners in a “behind the meter” concept.

Tobias is a true entrepreneur and solar PV passionate with a proven track record of successfully developing, executing, and growing new business opportunities. In his roles, he's been able to push the limits of what has been considered financeable (be it large-scale solar PV projects, a start-up with a complex business model, or portfolios of residential solar PV systems). All his activities correlate with his core values: reliability, common sense, solutions-driven, sustainability, partnerships.

Connect with Tobias on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> We were very fortunate on Episode #009 of The Solar Journey Podcast, to host Tobias Schuett, CEO of German company DZ-4.

DZ-4 is Germany’s first distributed utility company that sells solar PV energy to residential homeowners in a “behind the meter” concept.

Tobias is a true entrepreneur and solar PV passionate with a proven track record of successfully developing, executing, and growing new business opportunities. In his roles, he's been able to push the limits of what has been considered financeable (be it large-scale solar PV projects, a start-up with a complex business model, or portfolios of residential solar PV systems). All his activities correlate with his core values: reliability, common sense, solutions-driven, sustainability, partnerships.

Connect with Tobias on LinkedIn.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> We were very fortunate on Episode #009 of The Solar Journey Podcast, to host Tobias Schuett, CEO of German company DZ-4. Torsten Brammer true No 3115 9 full Episode #009 - Tobias Schuett Episode #008 - Harald Överholm Episode #008 - Harald Överholm https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/harald-overholm-008/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/harald-overholm-008/#comments Fri, 16 Apr 2021 05:45:34 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/047c2057-6e3b-3fac-b321-8abf1c6e9267 On Episode #008 of The Solar Journey Podcast, we're honored to host Harald Överholm, founder (and CEO) of Swedish solar company Alight.

Founded in 2013, Alight (previously Eneo) is the leading solar Power Purchase Agreement provider in the Nordics. Alight is committed to helping large corporations save money and do good, now and in the long term, through sustainable solar technology.

Harald Överholm is based in Stockholm and has a Ph.D. from Cambridge, where he focused on market development of the US solar PPA market. He's a solar energy believer with 10+ years of experience. Building the solar corporate PPA market in the EU, helping businesses across Europe switch to solar and pay less for energy (than they pay their utility) while displacing fossil energy is his main game.

Connect with Harald on Linkedin.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> On Episode #008 of The Solar Journey Podcast, we're honored to host Harald Överholm, founder (and CEO) of Swedish solar company Alight.

Founded in 2013, Alight (previously Eneo) is the leading solar Power Purchase Agreement provider in the Nordics. Alight is committed to helping large corporations save money and do good, now and in the long term, through sustainable solar technology.

Harald Överholm is based in Stockholm and has a Ph.D. from Cambridge, where he focused on market development of the US solar PPA market. He's a solar energy believer with 10+ years of experience. Building the solar corporate PPA market in the EU, helping businesses across Europe switch to solar and pay less for energy (than they pay their utility) while displacing fossil energy is his main game.

Connect with Harald on Linkedin.

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> On Episode #008 of The Solar Journey Podcast, we’re honored to host Harald Överholm, founder (and CEO) of Swedish solar company Alight. Torsten Brammer true No 4131 8 full Episode #008 - Harald Överholm Episode #007 - Alexandra Münzer Episode #007 - Alexandra Münzer https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/alexandra-munzer-007/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/alexandra-munzer-007/#comments Thu, 05 Nov 2020 08:01:55 +0100 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/4edc74e4-3e6c-3db3-9f40-0334b63e47f0 Episode #007 of The Solar Journey Podcast is a little different than our previous episodes. Our honored guest is Alexandra Münzer. She was introduced to us as the “Mother of European Guarantees of Origin,” and we used the opportunity to take a deep dive into a very complex topic: The scope and application of the Guarantees of Origin (GOs) System (also known as green certificates) in Europe.

We peppered Alexandra with questions about the purpose, practical application, and possible shortcomings of the GO-System. This system is at the heart of Europe’s goal to become the first carbon-neutral continent by 2050.

We learned a lot and are excited to share these fundamental insights with our listeners.

Alexandra Münzer is the Managing Director of Greenfact. Greenfact is a market intelligence and price transparency service in the renewable energy industry. She holds a Ph.D. in physics with a special focus on semiconductor sensors, from TU-München. Alexandra was born in Austria, studied in Germany, and now lives in beautiful Oslo, Norway.

Connect with Alexandra on Linkedin.

Show notes

(Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey):

- [00:04] Alexandra's big move from Germany to Norway

- [00:12] Explaining green certificates as if speaking to a child

- [00:18] The GO and its international counterparts

- [00:21] How the GOs are traded

- [00:36] Oversupply of GOs on an annual basis

- [00:42] Market pricing of different green electricities across Europe

- [00:56] The three different scopes of carbon emissions of corporations

- [01:04] Who are typical customers of Greenfact?

- [01:08] What can individuals do to be more conscious in their power choices?

- [01:10] How do you see the future of renewable energy playing out?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> Episode #007 of The Solar Journey Podcast is a little different than our previous episodes. Our honored guest is Alexandra Münzer. She was introduced to us as the “Mother of European Guarantees of Origin,” and we used the opportunity to take a deep dive into a very complex topic: The scope and application of the Guarantees of Origin (GOs) System (also known as green certificates) in Europe.

We peppered Alexandra with questions about the purpose, practical application, and possible shortcomings of the GO-System. This system is at the heart of Europe’s goal to become the first carbon-neutral continent by 2050.

We learned a lot and are excited to share these fundamental insights with our listeners.

Alexandra Münzer is the Managing Director of Greenfact. Greenfact is a market intelligence and price transparency service in the renewable energy industry. She holds a Ph.D. in physics with a special focus on semiconductor sensors, from TU-München. Alexandra was born in Austria, studied in Germany, and now lives in beautiful Oslo, Norway.

Connect with Alexandra on Linkedin.

Show notes

(Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey):

- [00:04] Alexandra's big move from Germany to Norway

- [00:12] Explaining green certificates as if speaking to a child

- [00:18] The GO and its international counterparts

- [00:21] How the GOs are traded

- [00:36] Oversupply of GOs on an annual basis

- [00:42] Market pricing of different green electricities across Europe

- [00:56] The three different scopes of carbon emissions of corporations

- [01:04] Who are typical customers of Greenfact?

- [01:08] What can individuals do to be more conscious in their power choices?

- [01:10] How do you see the future of renewable energy playing out?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> Episode #007 of The Solar Journey Podcast is a little different than our previous episodes. Our honored guest is Alexandra Münzer. Torsten Brammer true No 4273 7 full Episode #007 - Alexandra Münzer Episode #006 - Jonas Corné Episode #006 - Jonas Corné https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-006-jonas-corne/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-006-jonas-corne/#comments Thu, 24 Sep 2020 06:02:42 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/f5201c2b-7e86-3a54-a8bc-823b6db0e71a In this episode, we had the immense pleasure to talk to Jonas Corné from Sweden. He is immensely bullish on renewable energy for many reasons that he shared with us.

After getting an excellent education at ETH Zurich and even an executive program at Stanford University, Jonas has started a string of companies. All of his business ideas were in the tech space. As these things go, not all of them survived, but that is a really good thing for us, because with his latest venture, Greenbyte Jonas and his team of around 80 people are now fighting climate change with code!

Jonas is the CEO and founder of Greenbyte, which launched its first product in 2010. Greenbyte is a data aggregator and management hub for the optimization and yield forecasting for different kinds of renewable energy.

Connect with Jonas on LinkedIn.

Show notes

(Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey):

- What are the two most important ingredients in starting a business? [00:05:14]

- What is the founding story of Greenbyte? [00:08:00]

- How does Greenbyte create value for its customers? [00:14:05]

- Which way will Greenbyte develop their product? [00:22:18]

- Who will dominate the future of the renewable energy sector? [00:27:41]

- What appears to be the biggest advantage for a business in the race to acquire solar assets? [00:30:41]

- Why is Jonas super optimistic and bullish on renewable energy? [00:40:00]

- How do capitalism, sustainable energy, and mispriced external risks play together? [00:42:14]

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> In this episode, we had the immense pleasure to talk to Jonas Corné from Sweden. He is immensely bullish on renewable energy for many reasons that he shared with us.

After getting an excellent education at ETH Zurich and even an executive program at Stanford University, Jonas has started a string of companies. All of his business ideas were in the tech space. As these things go, not all of them survived, but that is a really good thing for us, because with his latest venture, Greenbyte Jonas and his team of around 80 people are now fighting climate change with code!

Jonas is the CEO and founder of Greenbyte, which launched its first product in 2010. Greenbyte is a data aggregator and management hub for the optimization and yield forecasting for different kinds of renewable energy.

Connect with Jonas on LinkedIn.

Show notes

(Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey):

- What are the two most important ingredients in starting a business? [00:05:14]

- What is the founding story of Greenbyte? [00:08:00]

- How does Greenbyte create value for its customers? [00:14:05]

- Which way will Greenbyte develop their product? [00:22:18]

- Who will dominate the future of the renewable energy sector? [00:27:41]

- What appears to be the biggest advantage for a business in the race to acquire solar assets? [00:30:41]

- Why is Jonas super optimistic and bullish on renewable energy? [00:40:00]

- How do capitalism, sustainable energy, and mispriced external risks play together? [00:42:14]

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website, on the blog page, under interviews **

]]> In this episode, we had the immense pleasure to talk to Jonas Corné from Sweden. He is immensely bullish on renewable energy for many reasons that he shared with us. After getting an excellent education at ETH Zurich and even an executive program at Stanford University, Jonas has started a string of companies. All of his business ideas were in the tech space. As these things go, not all of them survived, but that is a really good thing for us, because with his latest venture, Greenbyte Jonas and his team of around 80 people are now fighting climate change with code! Jonas is the CEO and founder of Greenbyte, which launched its first product in 2010. Greenbyte is a data aggregator and management hub for the optimization and yield forecasting for different kinds of renewable energy. Torsten Brammer false No 3082 6 full Episode #006 - Jonas Corné Episode #005 - Luca Pedretti Episode #005 - Luca Pedretti https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-005-luca-pedretti/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-005-luca-pedretti/#comments Tue, 11 Aug 2020 00:18:35 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/cd616ec3-57b7-357e-a44d-09f352f912f4 In this episode, we had a chat with Swiss national Luca Pedretti. Luca has a vast background as an energy trader and held various positions at EGL and Axpo. One of his first tasks working for a utility was to assist in negotiating a PPA for the first 100 Megawatt wind park in Poland. It was then that he realized that PPA's are going to become the driving force for furthering investments in renewable energy.

Luca has dedicated his career to the development and negotiation of PPAs and has been riding the PPA boom in the last couple of years. 

Luca is the co-founder and COO of Pexapark, the Swiss fintech startup. They specialize in providing risk management and energy trading expertise as well as software tools to the energy investment market. 

Connect with Luca on LinkedIn.

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey

- Why did Luca dedicate his career to the creation of PPA's?

- How is it that PPA's are a critical requirement in obtaining project financing of a renewable asset?

- What is the critical difference in the EEG feed-in tariff and certificate-based systems in other countries?

- How does the core business model of Pexapark works?

- What are the biggest challenges in the energy investment market?

- What are the factors influencing the electricity price in a PPA?

- What are the risks in a PPA transaction and how do they interact?

- What's a surprising side effect of the advent of PPA's?

- What is the required change in thinking to achieve a world that is power with 100% renewable energy?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> In this episode, we had a chat with Swiss national Luca Pedretti. Luca has a vast background as an energy trader and held various positions at EGL and Axpo. One of his first tasks working for a utility was to assist in negotiating a PPA for the first 100 Megawatt wind park in Poland. It was then that he realized that PPA's are going to become the driving force for furthering investments in renewable energy.

Luca has dedicated his career to the development and negotiation of PPAs and has been riding the PPA boom in the last couple of years. 

Luca is the co-founder and COO of Pexapark, the Swiss fintech startup. They specialize in providing risk management and energy trading expertise as well as software tools to the energy investment market. 

Connect with Luca on LinkedIn.

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey

- Why did Luca dedicate his career to the creation of PPA's?

- How is it that PPA's are a critical requirement in obtaining project financing of a renewable asset?

- What is the critical difference in the EEG feed-in tariff and certificate-based systems in other countries?

- How does the core business model of Pexapark works?

- What are the biggest challenges in the energy investment market?

- What are the factors influencing the electricity price in a PPA?

- What are the risks in a PPA transaction and how do they interact?

- What's a surprising side effect of the advent of PPA's?

- What is the required change in thinking to achieve a world that is power with 100% renewable energy?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> In this episode, we had a chat with Swiss national Luca Pedretti. Luca has a vast background as an energy trader and held various positions at EGL and Axpo. One of his first tasks working for a utility was to assist in negotiating a PPA for the first 100 Megawatt wind park in Poland. It was then that he realized that PPA's are going to become the driving force for furthering investments in renewable energy. Luca has dedicated his career to the development and negotiation of PPAs and has been riding the PPA boom in the last couple of years.  Luca is the co-founder and COO of Pexapark, the Swiss fintech startup. They specialize in providing risk management and energy trading expertise as well as software tools to the energy investment market. Torsten Brammer false No 3026 4 full Episode #005 - Luca Pedretti Episode #004 - Christian Breyer Episode #004 - Christian Breyer https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-004-christian-breyer/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-004-christian-breyer/#comments Tue, 11 Aug 2020 00:17:34 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/d25c6091-8e61-344c-b729-e161ff154240 Our guest in episode #004 of The Solar Journey is Christian Breyer. Christian is a professor of solar economy at the renowned finlandian LUT University. Prior to engaging in world-changing research, and publishing more than 250 scientific papers and 20 books and book chapters, Christian worked at Q-Cells in various roles in R&D and the market development department. 

Christian is a co-founder of Energy Watch Group which regularly publishes cutting edge research about the energy future of our society. As part of his roles, he co-authors the “Global Energy System Based on 100% Renewable Energy” report. In this extensive report, it is clearly stated that a transition to 100% renewable energy is feasible with current technologies and most likely we, as a society, will even save money if we do it!

If you want to connect with Christian Breyer you can find him on LinkedIn.

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- Hear an innovative approach to shift the corporate culture of established utility companies.

- How did Christian make a move from a tax advisor to physicist and then professor of the solar economy?

- What opportunities lead Christian to Finland, of all places, considering Finland doesn’t have a lot of sun?

- Hear some insights into the manmade nature of global warming.

- Climate change is more dangerous than COVID-19: Why does humanity struggle with recognizing its threat?

- What are the required resources to compute his hallmark 100% renewable energy model with 50M variables and 50M constraints in a stable way?

- Hear a discussion of the three key scenarios on how to get to a 100% sustainable energy system.

- Learn the number of installed solar Gigawatts required to run a 100% sustainable global economy.

- How reliable is the IEA Global Energy Outlook?

- What is the outline of a pathway to a sustainable aviation industry?

- Who has to make the call to get all of us on the path towards a sustainable future and ensure our survival?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Our guest in episode #004 of The Solar Journey is Christian Breyer. Christian is a professor of solar economy at the renowned finlandian LUT University. Prior to engaging in world-changing research, and publishing more than 250 scientific papers and 20 books and book chapters, Christian worked at Q-Cells in various roles in R&D and the market development department. 

Christian is a co-founder of Energy Watch Group which regularly publishes cutting edge research about the energy future of our society. As part of his roles, he co-authors the “Global Energy System Based on 100% Renewable Energy” report. In this extensive report, it is clearly stated that a transition to 100% renewable energy is feasible with current technologies and most likely we, as a society, will even save money if we do it!

If you want to connect with Christian Breyer you can find him on LinkedIn.

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- Hear an innovative approach to shift the corporate culture of established utility companies.

- How did Christian make a move from a tax advisor to physicist and then professor of the solar economy?

- What opportunities lead Christian to Finland, of all places, considering Finland doesn’t have a lot of sun?

- Hear some insights into the manmade nature of global warming.

- Climate change is more dangerous than COVID-19: Why does humanity struggle with recognizing its threat?

- What are the required resources to compute his hallmark 100% renewable energy model with 50M variables and 50M constraints in a stable way?

- Hear a discussion of the three key scenarios on how to get to a 100% sustainable energy system.

- Learn the number of installed solar Gigawatts required to run a 100% sustainable global economy.

- How reliable is the IEA Global Energy Outlook?

- What is the outline of a pathway to a sustainable aviation industry?

- Who has to make the call to get all of us on the path towards a sustainable future and ensure our survival?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Our guest in episode #004 of The Solar Journey is Christian Breyer. Christian is a professor of solar economy at the renowned finlandian LUT University. Prior to engaging in world-changing research, and publishing more than 250 scientific papers and 20 books and book chapters, Christian worked at Q-Cells in various roles in R&D and the market development department.  Christian is a co-founder of Energy Watch Group which regularly publishes cutting edge research about the energy future of our society. As part of his roles, he co-authors the “Global Energy System Based on 100% Renewable Energy” report. In this extensive report, it is clearly stated that a transition to 100% renewable energy is feasible with current technologies and most likely we, as a society, will even save money if we do it! Torsten Brammer false No 4957 5 full Episode #004 - Christian Breyer Episode #003 - Simon Chau Episode #003 - Simon Chau https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-003-simon-chau/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-003-simon-chau/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2020 18:56:53 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/af60f443-21ff-37b4-89d9-1839f4d8cc76 Similar to a few of our other guests, Simon Chau is a serial entrepreneur having started a number of enterprises in the renewable energy space. Having had a background in the financial industry, Simon decided to pivot into the sustainable energy space mid-career. Wanting to make a difference and leave a legacy with his work, Simon finds himself onboard the exciting "solar-coaster" on a daily basis. He has now been in the space for a little over a decade.

Simon is currently working at Canadian Solar Inc, managing the commercial and industrial divisions of one of the largest vertically integrated solar PV module manufacturers in the world. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- Why would someone pivot mid-career to start their own solar journey?

- How did Australia manage to find themselves with 1 in 5 homes having a solar system installed?

- How does Simon view large oil and gas companies entering the alternative energy space?

- What is the role that government policy plays not only in solar project pipelines but in the financial health of entities involved with project development and operation?

- How could an electric vehicle become your family home’s rechargeable battery?

- Hydrogen battery cells – how does this energy platform compare to more "conventional" renewable energy sources like solar?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Similar to a few of our other guests, Simon Chau is a serial entrepreneur having started a number of enterprises in the renewable energy space. Having had a background in the financial industry, Simon decided to pivot into the sustainable energy space mid-career. Wanting to make a difference and leave a legacy with his work, Simon finds himself onboard the exciting "solar-coaster" on a daily basis. He has now been in the space for a little over a decade.

Simon is currently working at Canadian Solar Inc, managing the commercial and industrial divisions of one of the largest vertically integrated solar PV module manufacturers in the world. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- Why would someone pivot mid-career to start their own solar journey?

- How did Australia manage to find themselves with 1 in 5 homes having a solar system installed?

- How does Simon view large oil and gas companies entering the alternative energy space?

- What is the role that government policy plays not only in solar project pipelines but in the financial health of entities involved with project development and operation?

- How could an electric vehicle become your family home’s rechargeable battery?

- Hydrogen battery cells – how does this energy platform compare to more "conventional" renewable energy sources like solar?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Similar to a few of our other guests, Simon Chau is a serial entrepreneur having started a number of enterprises in the renewable energy space. Having had a background in the financial industry, Simon decided to pivot into the sustainable energy space mid-career. Wanting to make a difference and leave a legacy with his work, Simon finds himself onboard the exciting "solar-coaster" on a daily basis. He has now been in the space for a little over a decade. Simon is currently working at Canadian Solar Inc, managing the commercial and industrial divisions of one of the largest vertically integrated solar PV module manufacturers in the world. Torsten Brammer false No 4957 3 full Episode #003 - Simon Chau Episode #002 - Stefan Krauter Episode #002 - Stefan Krauter https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-002-stefan-krauter/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-002-stefan-krauter/#comments Wed, 29 Jul 2020 01:39:25 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/017d25f1-da77-35f5-b80e-178a108b7998 Stefan Krauter is a serial entrepreneur and professor. In the 1970s, while his friends went onto demonstration against nuclear power plants, he searched for something he could support. This is when solar power caught his interest and he has not left the solar industry ever since.

He is a co-founder of the first publicly listed solar module producer Solon and co-founder of the technical advisor PI Berlin. On Twitter, he tries to compete with Trump by using a job title usually limited to the CEO of the catholic church. Officially, he claims that a former student gave him the title “solar-pope” (@solarpapst).

You can tell that his agenda is on eye level with the mayor of the Vatican when he discusses the pros of his new concept of measuring time (spoiler: it is related to tobacco). 

Currently, he is a professor at the German University of Paderborn. He researches, all down-to-earth but always with-the-sun, innovative energy supply structures, energy efficiency, and load management. 

Show notes 

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- Why is tobacco the centerfold of Stefan's new concept for time?

- Why did Stefan end up in the solar industry? 

- What is Stefan's major advice for founders?

- Why was the German feed-in tariff from the year 2000 THE major global milestone for the solar industry?

- Why is German national security the mother of the modern solar industry? 

- How did Germany lose its pole position of 50% market share in solar to China?

- Why is nuclear power 100 times more expensive than solar and coal?

- What are the biggest roadblocks for solar and wind?

- What can solar learn from Russian nuclear power plant giant Rosatom?

- Why should solar join forces with worker unions?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Stefan Krauter is a serial entrepreneur and professor. In the 1970s, while his friends went onto demonstration against nuclear power plants, he searched for something he could support. This is when solar power caught his interest and he has not left the solar industry ever since.

He is a co-founder of the first publicly listed solar module producer Solon and co-founder of the technical advisor PI Berlin. On Twitter, he tries to compete with Trump by using a job title usually limited to the CEO of the catholic church. Officially, he claims that a former student gave him the title “solar-pope” (@solarpapst).

You can tell that his agenda is on eye level with the mayor of the Vatican when he discusses the pros of his new concept of measuring time (spoiler: it is related to tobacco). 

Currently, he is a professor at the German University of Paderborn. He researches, all down-to-earth but always with-the-sun, innovative energy supply structures, energy efficiency, and load management. 

Show notes 

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- Why is tobacco the centerfold of Stefan's new concept for time?

- Why did Stefan end up in the solar industry? 

- What is Stefan's major advice for founders?

- Why was the German feed-in tariff from the year 2000 THE major global milestone for the solar industry?

- Why is German national security the mother of the modern solar industry? 

- How did Germany lose its pole position of 50% market share in solar to China?

- Why is nuclear power 100 times more expensive than solar and coal?

- What are the biggest roadblocks for solar and wind?

- What can solar learn from Russian nuclear power plant giant Rosatom?

- Why should solar join forces with worker unions?

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Stefan Krauter is a serial entrepreneur and professor. In the 1970s, while his friends went onto demonstration against nuclear power plants, he searched for something he could support. This is when solar power caught his interest and he has not left the solar industry ever since. He is a co-founder of the first publicly listed solar module producer Solon and co-founder of the technical advisor PI Berlin. On Twitter, he tries to compete with Trump by using a job title usually limited to the CEO of the catholic church. Officially, he claims that a former student gave him the title “solar-pope” (@solarpapst). You can tell that his agenda is on eye level with the mayor of the Vatican when he discusses the pros of his new concept of measuring time (spoiler: it is related to tobacco).  Currently, he is a professor at the German University of Paderborn. He researches, all down-to-earth but always with-the-sun, innovative energy supply structures, energy efficiency, and load management. Torsten Brammer false No 4173 2 full Episode #002 - Stefan Krauter Episode #001 - Jens Schneider Episode #001 - Jens Schneider https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-001-jens-schneider/ https://thesolarjourney.podbean.com/e/episode-001-jens-schneider/#comments Wed, 29 Jul 2020 01:15:23 +0200 thesolarjourney.podbean.com/fe5c927c-f90e-3651-b3f9-35f6a0625843 Having graduated with a Ph.D. from Helmholtz Zentrum in Berlin in 2005, Jens Schneider embarked on a career that took him from being an engineer at CSG solar to heading up the Solar Module Technology group at the prestigious Fraunhofer CSP in Halle, Germany.

Jens currently juggles a couple of different positions in the solar space, being a professor at Leipzig’s University of Applied Sciences and working with the Center for Economics of Materials (CEM) in Energy System Analysis.  

We are pleased to have the professor on as our first guest on The Solar Journey podcast, bringing us back to school for this online masterclass.  

So prof, show us the way to a 100% renewable energy future…. 

Connect with him on LinkedIn!

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- How does one survive an intercontinental flight when seated with our host Torsten?

- Where did the Solar Journey begin for Jens?

- How do students drive movements and nudge others along in doing their bit?

- How do you balance the fine line between science and politics? 

- How will Covid-19 affect the movements towards a sustainable future? 

- How cheap is solar really? 

- What is a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?

- Can solar stand on its own, or does the state need to assist this industry still? 

- How do you understand the balance between electricity and heating requirements?

- Understanding how energy systems have to transition their business models from being OPEX to CAPEX based. 

- How much PV would be needed in Germany for it to be powered by a hundred percent renewables?

- How many people are working in the renewable energy sector globally? 

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Having graduated with a Ph.D. from Helmholtz Zentrum in Berlin in 2005, Jens Schneider embarked on a career that took him from being an engineer at CSG solar to heading up the Solar Module Technology group at the prestigious Fraunhofer CSP in Halle, Germany.

Jens currently juggles a couple of different positions in the solar space, being a professor at Leipzig’s University of Applied Sciences and working with the Center for Economics of Materials (CEM) in Energy System Analysis.  

We are pleased to have the professor on as our first guest on The Solar Journey podcast, bringing us back to school for this online masterclass.  

So prof, show us the way to a 100% renewable energy future…. 

Connect with him on LinkedIn!

Show notes

Interesting points covered in this episode for those of us on our own Solar Journey:

- How does one survive an intercontinental flight when seated with our host Torsten?

- Where did the Solar Journey begin for Jens?

- How do students drive movements and nudge others along in doing their bit?

- How do you balance the fine line between science and politics? 

- How will Covid-19 affect the movements towards a sustainable future? 

- How cheap is solar really? 

- What is a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?

- Can solar stand on its own, or does the state need to assist this industry still? 

- How do you understand the balance between electricity and heating requirements?

- Understanding how energy systems have to transition their business models from being OPEX to CAPEX based. 

- How much PV would be needed in Germany for it to be powered by a hundred percent renewables?

- How many people are working in the renewable energy sector globally? 

** Find this episode's transcript on The Solar Journey website > Blog > Interviews **

]]> Having graduated with a Ph.D. from Helmholtz Zentrum in Berlin in 2005, Jens Schneider embarked on a career that took him from being an engineer at CSG solar to heading up the Solar Module Technology group at the prestigious Fraunhofer CSP in Halle, Germany. Jens currently juggles a couple of different positions in the solar space, being a professor at Leipzig’s University of Applied Sciences and working with the Center for Economics of Materials (CEM) in Energy System Analysis. Torsten Brammer false No 3661 1 full Episode #001 - Jens Schneider