Solar Maverick Podcast

Benoy Thanjan

The Solar Maverick Podcast is the insiders guide to where the solar and energy markets meet entrepreneurship and trailblazing. Hosted by Benoy Thanjan - a serial entrepreneur and founder of Reneu Energy

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S1 · E306
Tuesday · 49 min· Video
SMP 306: How AI Is Changing Utility Scale Solar Design?
Episode Summary Can artificial intelligence help solar developers design more constructible projects and identify costly site challenges earlier? In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan speaks with Orçun Başlak, Co-Founder and CEO of PVX AI, about how AI is changing utility scale solar design. Orçun explains why PVX AI starts with terrain before placing modules and racks, how AI can work directly within AutoCAD, and why reducing design rework matters as much as increasing speed. He also shares how soil conditions, foundation requirements, and early site selection can influence project construction costs. The conversation covers AI adoption, software security, battery storage placement, and PVX AI’s expansion into the U.S. market. Orçun offers practical advice for energy entrepreneurs and companies looking to incorporate AI into their daily workflows. Celebrate 300 Episodes of Solar Maverick Join Benoy and the Solar Maverick community for a networking celebration marking 300 episodes of conversations about solar, entrepreneurship, and the energy transition. November 5 | 6:00–9:00 p.m. | Jersey City, New Jersey https://luma.com/oj8frtug Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MWs of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bthanjan Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Guest Bio: Orçun Başlak Orçun Başlak is the Co-Founder and CEO of PVX.AI, a solar power plant design software company. Based in Istanbul, Turkey, he has worked in the solar industry since 2008, combining experience in utility-scale solar engineering and consulting with a background in software development. Orçun studied electrical and electronics engineering before completing a master’s degree in software and system security in the United Kingdom. His experience designing projects on challenging terrain led him to develop tools that address construction constraints early in the design process. Through PVX.AI, he focuses on helping solar teams assess terrain, develop practical layouts, and revise designs within AutoCAD. His approach emphasizes first-principles thinking, reliable software, and reducing unnecessary rework. Connect with Orçun on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orcunbaslak/ Learn more about PVX.AI: https://pvx.ai Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. The team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities across community solar, commercial and industrial, utility-scale, and Renewable Energy Credit markets. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com/ You can also email the team at info@reneuenergy.com. Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E305
October 26 · 9 min· Video
SMP 305: Illinois Storage Takes Off as America’s Power Needs Grow
In this episode of The League on the Solar Maverick Podcast, we discuss Illinois’ latest storage solicitation and how long-term contracts can help projects move toward construction. We also explore workforce shortages, the connection between permitting reform and project finance, and how major technology companies are reshaping the race to deliver reliable power. America’s growing electricity needs are creating opportunities across energy storage, transmission, and power generation. But turning that demand into operating projects requires reliable revenue, skilled workers, and a clear path through permitting and financing. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Solar Maverick Networking Event Join us to celebrate 300 episodes of the Solar Maverick Podcast on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 6–9 p.m. at Hudson Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Connect with energy industry professionals, past guests, listeners, and friends as we celebrate this milestone. Learn more and register: https://luma.com/oj8frtug Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E304
October 20 · 58 min· Video
SMP 304: How to Grow Your Business Without Doing Everything Yourself
Episode Summary In Episode 304 of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan sits down with mental performance coach, entrepreneur, and former FDNY firefighter Vin Infante to explore the mindset and systems needed to build a business that can grow beyond its founder. Drawing on his background in psychotherapy, coaching, and firefighting, Vin shares practical lessons on leadership, resilience, and performing under pressure. He explains why founders become bottlenecks and describes helping a solar business owner reduce his workweek from six days to four while increasing sales through documented processes, delegation, and team training. The conversation also covers Vin’s five-part framework for AI prompts, the importance of human oversight, and how personal branding builds trust. Benoy and Vin discuss protecting your time, leading with value, and knowing when to adapt while staying committed to a long-term vision. For solar and energy professionals looking to grow their businesses and reclaim their time, this episode offers practical ideas to put into action. Celebrate 300 Episodes of Solar Maverick Join Benoy and the Solar Maverick community for a networking celebration marking 300 episodes of conversations about solar, entrepreneurship, and the energy transition. November 5 | 6:00–9:00 p.m. | Jersey City, New Jersey https://luma.com/oj8frtug Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MWs of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Guest Bio: Vin Infante Vin Infante is a mental performance coach, licensed psychotherapist, entrepreneur, and former FDNY firefighter. He combines therapy, mentorship, and coaching to help founders, executives, and high-performing professionals address the personal and operational challenges that hold them back. His experience includes work in hospitals, homeless shelters, and private practice, as well as coaching entrepreneurs and business leaders. In this episode, Vin shares lessons from working with founders at early-stage startups and leaders at multibillion-dollar organizations. He discusses building repeatable systems, improving delegation, and creating a business that supports the life its owner wants. Connect with Vin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vininfante/ Learn more about Vin’s coaching, newsletter, and podcast: https://www.vincentinfante.life Sponsor: DCE Solar This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by DCE Solar. Since 2009, DCE has built a unique model in the solar industry by bringing design, racking, and construction together under one roof. DCE Design provides full-scope electrical design across multiple project types. DCE Solar manufactures fixed-tilt, tracker, carport, and rooftop racking systems for commercial and utility-scale projects. DCE Services handles installation. DCE Services was named the number-one commercial ground-mount installer by Solar Power World in 2025 and the number-one commercial rooftop installer in 2026. This gives customers one company and one point of accountability, from utility-scale projects with IPPs and developers to turnkey commercial and industrial projects. Learn more about DCE and its company story in SMP 288: Why Solar Racking Can Make or Break a Project, featuring DCE Founder and CEO Bill Taylor: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/smp-288-why-solar-racking-can-make-or-break-a-project/id1441876259?i=1000774004477 You can also meet the DCE team at RE+ Las Vegas or visit: https://dcesolar.com/ Thank you to DCE for supporting the Solar Maverick Podcast. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. The team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities across community solar, commercial and industrial, utility-scale, and Renewable Energy Credit markets. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com/ You can also email the team at info@reneuenergy.com. Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E303
October 17 · 9 min· Video
SMP 303: Climate Week NYC: What’s Next for Renewable Energy Development?
In this episode of The League, Benoy Thanjan and David Magid share their Climate Week NYC takeaways and follow-up developments across energy finance, infrastructure, nuclear power, and battery storage. They discuss why promising projects need more than investor interest to move forward, and how early collaboration among developers, lenders, insurers, technical experts, and local communities can help turn opportunities into operating assets. As AI and data centers drive electricity demand, Benoy and David explore the growing importance of speed to power and reliable supply, including the role of behind-the-meter generation, storage, and microgrids. They also examine nuclear development challenges, workforce needs, and New York’s latest efforts to advance nuclear power and utility-scale storage. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E302
October 10 · 29 min· Video
SMP 302: Climate Week NYC: Financing Clean Energy, Powering AI & Building the Workforce
Episode Summary Benoy Thanjan shares his key takeaways from Climate Week NYC, focusing on what it takes to turn clean energy commitments into financed, built, and operating projects. He discusses early community and investor engagement, permitting and interconnection challenges, supply-chain traceability, cybersecurity, and how AI and data-center demand are driving interest in behind-the-meter generation, storage, and microgrids. The episode then features an interview with Kristy Drutman at the Green Jobs Pavilion, bringing a workforce perspective to the clean energy conversation. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MWs of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Kristy Drutman Kristy Drutman is the Co-Founder of Green Jobs Board and the Founder of Brown Girl Green. She is a climate entrepreneur, speaker, media producer, consultant, and environmental educator working at the intersection of climate action, storytelling, culture, diversity, and workforce development. Through Green Jobs Board, Kristy is helping build more accessible pathways into the green economy by connecting mission-driven job seekers with employers across sustainability and climate-related industries. She also uses Brown Girl Green to make climate information more approachable through digital media, education, speaking, and storytelling. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Kristy Drutman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristy-drutman/ Green Jobs Board: https://www.greenjobsboard.us/ Green Jobs Pavilion: https://www.greenjobsboard.us/pavilion Brown Girl Green: https://www.browngirlgreen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/browngirl_green/ 300th Episode Networking Event of the Solar Maverick Podcast Nov. 5th in Jersey City, NJ Below is the link. https://luma.com/oj8frtug Sponsor: DCE Solar This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by DCE Solar. Since 2009, DCE has built a unique model in the solar industry by bringing design, racking, and construction together under one roof. DCE Design provides full-scope electrical design across multiple project types. DCE Solar manufactures fixed-tilt, tracker, carport, and rooftop racking systems for commercial and utility-scale projects. DCE Services handles installation. DCE Services was named the number-one commercial ground-mount installer by Solar Power World in 2025 and the number-one commercial rooftop installer in 2026. This gives customers one company and one point of accountability, from utility-scale projects with IPPs and developers to turnkey commercial and industrial projects. Learn more about DCE and its company story in SMP 288: Why Solar Racking Can Make or Break a Project, featuring DCE Founder and CEO Bill Taylor: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/smp-288-why-solar-racking-can-make-or-break-a-project/id1441876259?i=1000774004477 You can also meet the DCE team at RE+ Las Vegas or visit: https://dcesolar.com/ Thank you to DCE for supporting the Solar Maverick Podcast. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. The team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities across community solar, commercial and industrial, utility-scale, and Renewable Energy Credit markets. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com/ You can also email the team at info@reneuenergy.com. Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E301
September 29 · 53 min· Video
SMP 301: Solar's Next Chapter: Affordability, Storage and the Grid
Episode Summary In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan speaks with Sachu Constantine, Executive Director of Vote Solar, about why state-level policy is becoming increasingly important to the future of solar. They discuss major industry challenges including interconnection delays, permitting, policy uncertainty, and rising electricity demand from AI, data centers, EVs, and electrification. Sachu also explains how solar plus storage can improve grid reliability and how emerging solutions such as plug-in or balcony solar could expand access to renters and apartment residents. Despite political and regulatory headwinds, Sachu remains optimistic about solar’s future because of falling costs, improving technology, growing consumer demand, and the need for faster deployment of new electricity generation. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MWs of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Sachu Constantine Sachu Constantine is the Executive Director of Vote Solar, where he leads the organization’s strategy and advocacy to expand access to affordable, equitable clean energy. He previously served as Vote Solar’s Regulatory Managing Director from 2017 to 2022 and as Interim Executive Director in 2021. Before joining Vote Solar, Sachu spent five years as Director of Policy at the Center for Sustainable Energy, overseeing its policy, regulatory, and legislative work. His career also includes senior roles at SunPower Corporation, the California Public Utilities Commission, and the Alliance to Save Energy. Sachu’s experience spans domestic and international energy and environmental work, including service as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ghana. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs from the University of Colorado Boulder and a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Sachu Constantine Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachu-constantine-05a4176/ Biography: https://votesolar.org/team/sachu-constantine/ Vote Solar: https://votesolar.org/ Subscribe to Vote Solar’s newsletter through its website for policy updates, resources, and stories from communities advancing clean energy. Sponsor: DCE Solar This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by DCE Solar. Since 2009, DCE has built a unique model in the solar industry by bringing design, racking, and construction together under one roof. DCE Design provides full-scope electrical design across multiple project types. DCE Solar manufactures fixed-tilt, tracker, carport, and rooftop racking systems for commercial and utility-scale projects. DCE Services handles installation. DCE Services was named the number-one commercial ground-mount installer by Solar Power World in 2025 and the number-one commercial rooftop installer in 2026. This gives customers one company and one point of accountability, from utility-scale projects with IPPs and developers to turnkey commercial and industrial projects. Learn more about DCE and its company story in SMP 288: Why Solar Racking Can Make or Break a Project, featuring DCE Founder and CEO Bill Taylor: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/smp-288-why-solar-racking-can-make-or-break-a-project/id1441876259?i=1000774004477 You can also meet the DCE team at RE+ Las Vegas or visit: https://dcesolar.com/ Thank you to DCE for supporting the Solar Maverick Podcast. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. The team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities across community solar, commercial and industrial, utility-scale, and Renewable Energy Credit markets. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com/ You can also email the team at info@reneuenergy.com. Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E300
September 18 · 51 min· Video
SMP 300: 300 Episodes Later, Why We’re Still Bullish on Solar
Episode Summary In this milestone 300th episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan is joined by longtime friend and co-host Nate Jovanelly, Founder and CEO of SunRaise Capital. Benoy and Nate reflect on how much the solar industry has changed since the podcast began and explore where the market is headed next. They discuss the evolution of residential solar, the growing importance of battery storage, changing financing models, rising electricity costs, policy uncertainty, and the continuing challenge of customer acquisition. They also examine the advantages regional solar companies may have over national providers, how shifting customer demographics could affect the market, and why solar plus storage represents one of the industry’s greatest opportunities over the next decade. The episode concludes with lessons from entrepreneurship, reflections on navigating constant change, and a special Monday Motivation. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MWs of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Nathan “Nate” Jovanelly Nathan Jovanelly is the Founder and CEO of SunRaise Capital, a technology and financial infrastructure platform supporting residential solar deployment. Before founding SunRaise Capital, Nate helped build IGS Solar and later launched its residential division. Under his leadership, the division grew to 150 MW and approximately $600 million in managed assets. Across his career, Nate has been involved in deploying more than $3 billion into residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar infrastructure. Nate has worked on solar projects for organizations including Amazon, FedEx, Unilever, and numerous nonprofit groups. He is also a licensed Professional Engineer with a background in chemical engineering and serves on the Board of SunVena Solar. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Nathan Jovanelly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natejov/ SunRaise Capital: https://www.sunraisecapital.com/ Sponsor: DCE This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by DCE. Since 2009, DCE has built a unique model in the solar industry by bringing design, racking, and construction together under one roof. DCE Design provides full-scope electrical design across multiple project types. DCE Solar manufactures fixed-tilt, tracker, carport, and rooftop racking systems for commercial and utility-scale projects. DCE Services handles installation. DCE Services was named the number-one commercial ground-mount installer by Solar Power World in 2025 and the number-one commercial rooftop installer in 2026. This gives customers one company and one point of accountability, from utility-scale projects with IPPs and developers to turnkey commercial and industrial projects. Learn more about DCE and its company story in SMP 288: Why Solar Racking Can Make or Break a Project, featuring DCE Founder and CEO Bill Taylor: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/smp-288-why-solar-racking-can-make-or-break-a-project/id1441876259?i=1000774004477 You can also meet the DCE team at RE+ Las Vegas or visit: https://dcesolar.com/ Thank you to DCE for supporting the Solar Maverick Podcast. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. The team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities across community solar, commercial and industrial, utility-scale, and Renewable Energy Credit markets. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com/ You can also email the team at info@reneuenergy.com. Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E299
September 10 · 34 min· Video
SMP 299: From 9/11 Survivor to Solar Maverick: A Life Driven by Purpose
Episode Summary Benoy Thanjan, host of the Solar Maverick Podcast, sits down with Li Wang, Head of Marketing for Reneu Energy and the Solar Maverick Podcast, for a deeply personal conversation about surviving the attacks on the World Trade Center and how that day changed the course of his life. Benoy shares what he experienced inside One World Trade Center when the first plane struck, the chaos of the evacuation, and the moments that have remained with him for the past 25 years. The conversation goes beyond the events of that morning and explores the lessons Benoy carried forward: appreciating how fragile life can be, living more intentionally, helping others when it matters most, and remembering the courage and sacrifice displayed by so many people that day. Benoy also reflects on how September 11 shaped his approach to entrepreneurship, leadership, relationships, gratitude, and making the most of the time we are given. The episode also features an AI-generated visual intro and AI-generated imagery of Benoy, created to support the storytelling and reflective tone of the episode. This episode is a remembrance of those who were lost, those who responded, and everyone whose life was forever changed by September 11. Never forget. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MWs of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Li Wang Li Wang is the Marketing Director of Reneu Energy and the Solar Maverick Podcast. He was there when the podcast began in 2018, encouraged Benoy to launch the show, and helped create the Solar Maverick name. Li is also a former journalist and the founder of Little Ox Workshop, a Squarespace website design studio. His journalism career includes working as a business reporter for the Times of Trenton, arts editor for the Honolulu Weekly, and film critic for the Harrisburg Patriot-News. He later earned a professional certificate in digital marketing from New York University and moved into website design, brand messaging, and content marketing. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Li Wang LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liwang22/ Little Ox Workshop: https://www.littleoxworkshop.com/ Related Episodes SMP 234: A 9/11 Survivor’s Journey: Resilience, Gratitude, and Purpose in Solar https://solarmaverick.podbean.com/e/smp-234-a-911-survivor-s-journey-resilience-gratitude-and-purpose-in-solar/ SMP 01: Introduction to the Solar Maverick Podcast with Benoy and Li https://solarmaverick.podbean.com/e/smp-01-introduction-to-the-solar-maverick-podcast-with-benoy-and-li/ If you have any questions or comments, email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Sponsor This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by Reneu Energy. Reneu Energy works with companies and organizations on renewable energy strategy, project development, owner’s representation, project finance, renewable energy credits, and market advisory services. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E298
September 1 · 6 min· Video
SMP 298: When Energy Becomes a National Security Issue
In Episode 54 of The League, Benoy Thanjan and David Magid examine how clean energy is becoming increasingly connected to national security, grid resilience and government policy. They discuss Michigan’s new statewide permitting process, which could overcome local zoning barriers and accelerate utility-scale solar development. They also explore Westinghouse’s proposed nuclear microreactor at Fort Drum and its potential to strengthen military energy resilience. The conversation then turns to the national-security risks associated with foreign-made solar and storage equipment, including inverters, batteries and control software. Finally, Benoy and David examine California’s record renewable-energy curtailment and why additional storage, transmission and grid modernization are essential to avoid wasting clean electricity. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E297
August 26 · 10 min· Video
SMP 297: Solar Gets Complicated: AI, Storage, Inverters & Grid Challenges
In Episode 53 of The League, Benoy Thanjan and David Magid discuss how the solar industry is becoming more complex as policy uncertainty, storage, cybersecurity, and grid constraints reshape project development. They look at growing concerns around inverter supply chains and national security, as well as the impact of changing rules on financing and project timelines. The conversation also covers Massachusetts’ latest energy storage solicitation and the rising costs of permitting, interconnection, and network upgrades. They also discuss ERCOT’s massive queue of large-load applications driven by data centers and the increasing scrutiny around grid and resource impacts. The episode highlights why success in clean energy now requires understanding far more than just solar panels. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E296
August 18 · 6 min· Video
SMP 296: The Race for Reliable Power: Storage, Nuclear and AI Data Centers
In Episode 52 of The League, Benoy Thanjan and David Magid discuss several major developments shaping the future of power markets. The conversation begins with a significant New York court ruling that classified battery energy storage as a public utility, potentially giving developers a stronger path through local zoning and permitting challenges. They discuss why this legal precedent could accelerate the development of standalone battery projects across the state over the next several years. They also examine New Jersey’s plans to procure 1.1 GW of nuclear power while seeking to protect ratepayers from construction and cost-overrun risk. Nuclear offers the promise of reliable, carbon-free generation, but long development timelines, financing challenges, and execution risk remain major questions. The episode then turns to the rapidly growing electricity demand created by AI and data centers. Benoy shares insights from a recent Young Professionals in Energy panel focused on how the industry can deliver reliable 24/7 power quickly enough to support data center growth. The conclusion: there is no single solution. Solar, battery storage, natural gas, fuel cells, microgrids, nuclear, transmission, and demand management will all likely play a role. The real competitive advantage may belong to companies that can navigate permitting, interconnection, financing, and infrastructure deployment faster than their competitors. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E295
August 13 · 46 min· Video
SMP 295: Building a Brand in Clean Energy: Marketing, LinkedIn & Thought Leadership
Episode Summary On this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan speaks with Jacob Yang, a clean energy marketing and communications professional who has worked across the solar, energy storage and climate tech industries. Benoy and Jacob discuss how marketing in renewable energy has evolved, some of the biggest mistakes clean energy companies make when communicating with customers, and why thought leadership and personal branding are becoming increasingly important. They also explore the growing importance of LinkedIn as a business development platform, how executives can build authentic brands without constantly selling, and why sharing knowledge consistently can create opportunities long before someone becomes a customer. Jacob also shares his perspective on careers in clean energy, the skills that will become increasingly valuable, and how the industry may evolve over the next decade. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MW of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information Jacob Yang is the founder and CEO of Amp Your Story and a clean energy marketing professional with more than 10 years of marketing experience and approximately seven years of experience working in clean energy. Earlier in his career, Jacob worked at a marketing agency where his clients included utility-scale EPC companies in the Midwest and several cleantech startups. Today, he works with cleantech companies around the world as a fractional CMO. Jacob also created a free online clean energy marketing community designed to encourage collaboration, professional growth, knowledge sharing, and new voices within the industry. The community helps marketers navigate challenges ranging from clean energy policy and industry volatility to AI, emerging marketing technologies, career development, and demonstrating marketing ROI. Through his thought leadership, Jacob focuses heavily on personal branding, LinkedIn, demand generation, paid advertising, AI, and helping clean energy professionals become more effective marketers. He is also developing a clean energy LinkedIn course designed to share these strategies with a broader audience. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Jacob Yang LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjuancarlosyang/ Website: https://cleanenergymarketer.com Jacob Yang interview about Linkedin strategies https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dnDOdlpLZU Sponsor This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by Reneu Energy. Reneu Energy works with companies and organizations on renewable energy strategy, project development, owner’s representation, project finance, renewable energy credits, and market advisory services. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E294
August 4 · 52 min· Video
SMP 294: Solar’s New Reality: Capital, Storage, and the Race to Execute
In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan joins Peter Pongracz of Soliverse for a wide-ranging conversation about how the global solar market is changing. They discuss why early-stage development capital has become more difficult to secure, why investors increasingly prefer later-stage and lower-risk projects, and why solar-plus-storage is becoming the new standard in many markets. Benoy and Peter also examine the growing importance of community relationships, energy independence, repowering, solar-panel recycling, and innovation as the United States and Europe compete with China’s scale and long-term energy strategy. A central theme throughout the episode is that solar technology itself is relatively simple, but developing, financing, interconnecting, and delivering projects has become increasingly complex. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MW of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information Peter Pongracz is the host of Soliverse, a European solar-industry podcast that he describes as, in his own words, "the Solar Maverick Podcast of Europe." He draws on market data from sources including SolarPower Europe and his own client work, including market segmentation research on floating PV, to bring a European and global lens to conversations about solar development, investment, and policy. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Peter Pongracz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterpongraczsaas/ Soliverse https://www.youtube.com/@Soliversepodcast Sponsor This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by Reneu Energy. Reneu Energy works with companies and organizations on renewable energy strategy, project development, owner’s representation, project finance, renewable energy credits, and market advisory services. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E293
July 29 · 9 min· Video
SMP 293: Why Execution Will Decide the Next Clean Energy Winners
The League Episode #51 – Show Notes In this episode of The League, Clean energy demand continues to accelerate as utilities, data centers, manufacturers, and large commercial customers seek more power. Solar, storage, transmission, and nuclear all have major opportunities, but the next phase of industry growth will depend less on demand and more on execution. In this episode of The League, we discuss the growing importance of permitting, interconnection, community engagement, tax-credit certainty, domestic manufacturing, and access to capital. We also examine the rising cost of grid upgrades in ISO New England, the renewed interest in nuclear development, and the continued evolution of tax equity and transferable tax-credit markets. The companies that can navigate complexity, manage risk, and move projects from development to operation will be best positioned to win. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E292
July 21 · 40 min· Video
SMP 292: Where the Capital Is Flowing: Inside S&P Global’s Clean Energy Investment Trends Report
Recorded at the ACORE Finance Forum, Benoy Thanjan speaks with James Gutman of S&P Global about the findings from S&P Global’s latest report created for ACORE on the state of renewable energy finance and investment in the United States. James discusses the continued flow of capital into solar, battery storage, and other energy infrastructure, while examining the transmission, permitting, and market challenges that could constrain future growth. The conversation also explores James’s work with Young Professionals in Energy New York City and the importance of mentorship, networking, and developing the next generation of energy leaders. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MW of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information James Gutman Senior principal analyst at S&P Global focused on providing energy finance analysis and advisory services to financial and capital market clients. Previously a deal advisory senior associate with five and a half years experience in public accounting. He has a distinctive background: started his career advising entrepreneurs on building up successful businesses, scaling up full cycles accounting processes with growth strategies and tax planning. Moved into full time audit and then deal advisory at a Big 4 firm in New York City to assist asset managers and private equity in mergers and acquisitions with a specialization in renewables and infrastructure. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ James Gutman Report: https://acore.org/resources/clean-energy-investment-trends-sp-global-energy-report-produced-for-acore/ Email: james.gutman@spglobal.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-gutman/ Young Professional in Energy NYC: https://www.ypenyc.org/ Sponsor This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by Reneu Energy. Reneu Energy works with companies and organizations on renewable energy strategy, project development, owner’s representation, project finance, renewable energy credits, and market advisory services. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E291
July 15 · 39 min· Video
SMP 291: How Bees, Biodiversity Data, and Agrivoltaics Are Transforming Solar Farms
Episode Summary In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan speaks with Matt Coleman, CEO of Davis Hill Development and Principal of Skyview Ventures. The conversation centers on Davis Hill's partnership with HiveTracks, an innovative program that uses beekeeping and honey analysis as a biodiversity monitoring tool on solar sites. Matt explains how HiveTracks analyzes honey, pollen, and environmental DNA to track pollutants, invasive species, and ecosystem health, and how that data informs vegetative maintenance, mowing schedules, and seeding decisions on Davis Hill's projects. Benoy and Matt also discuss agrivoltaics and multi-use land strategies, including grazing, hay production, and a new cranberry bog project in Massachusetts, the importance of long-term partnerships with farmers and landowners, how community-focused land stewardship can strengthen permitting outcomes, and the evolving role of solar-plus-storage and standalone battery projects. The episode closes with Matt's advice for early-stage clean energy entrepreneurs on differentiation and market timing. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MW of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information Matt Coleman Matt Coleman joined Skyview in February 2016 and brings over fifteen years of expertise in renewable energy via project development and finance, corporate investment, and technology development. Mr. Coleman was most recently EVP of Business Development at Clean Focus, where he led the company’s commercial and utility solar power project development and acquisition. Prior to Clean Focus, Mr. Coleman co-founded and managed one of the first renewable energy sector hedge funds in the United States. He also helped launch two different concentrating solar firms, Soliant Energy and Hyperlight Energy, and developed and financed a variety of distributed generation technologies for RealEnergy. Mr. Coleman earned an MBA from the Anderson School at UCLA and a BA in Environmental Science from Johns Hopkins University. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Matt Coleman Skyview Ventures https://skyviewventures.com/ Davis Hill Development https://www.davishilldevelopment.com/ Hivetracks https://www.hivetracks.com/ Matt Coleman on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattecolem/ Sponsor This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by Reneu Energy. Reneu Energy works with companies and organizations on renewable energy strategy, project development, owner’s representation, project finance, renewable energy credits, and market advisory services. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition.
S1 · E290
July 8 · 54 min· Video
SMP 290: Community Solar, Storage, and Getting Projects Done with Noelle Paige of Aspen Power
In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan speaks with Noelle Paige, Vice President of Project Development at Aspen Power. Noelle shares her journey from classical ballet and public administration into renewable energy, including her work at Cypress Creek Renewables, Sol Systems, Summit Ridge Energy, Onyx Renewables, and now Aspen Power. She discusses what it takes to lead project development teams, how Aspen Power approaches community solar and distributed generation, and why stable markets like New York, Illinois, and Maryland remain important for community solar growth. Benoy and Noelle also discuss the changing solar market, the impact of policy uncertainty, the growing role of battery storage, and how companies are adapting as the industry shifts from pure solar development toward broader energy solutions. The conversation also highlights Noelle’s involvement with Solar Sisters and the Let’s Share the Sun delegation to Puerto Rico, including the importance of women’s leadership, mentorship, and building a stronger, more diverse renewable energy industry. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MW of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information Noelle Paige Noelle Paige is Vice President of Project Development at Aspen Power, where she leads project development strategy and execution for distributed generation and community solar projects. She has approximately a decade of experience in the solar industry, with prior roles at Cypress Creek Renewables, Sol Systems, Summit Ridge Energy, and Onyx Renewables. Her background includes community outreach, zoning, project finance diligence, development management, and team leadership. At Aspen Power, Noelle and her team help guide projects from acquisition and development through development completion, working closely with channel partners, finance teams, policy teams, and preconstruction teams. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Noelle Paige Email: npaige@aspenpower.com Aspen Power https://aspenpower.com Noelle Paige on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/noellepaige/ Solar Sisters https://solar-sisters.org Solar Sisters first interview on the Solar Maverick Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT-7t_K_4Oo&t=1093s Sponsor This episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast is brought to you by Reneu Energy. Reneu Energy works with companies and organizations on renewable energy strategy, project development, owner’s representation, project finance, renewable energy credits, and market advisory services. To learn more, visit: https://www.reneuenergy.com Listen and Subscribe Subscribe to the Solar Maverick Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more people discover conversations with the leaders shaping the future of solar, storage, and the energy transition. SMP 290 Key Takeaways 1. Community solar depends on stable markets Noelle explains that Aspen Power is focused on community solar markets with stable and predictable programs. New York and Illinois are especially important because their community solar frameworks give developers more certainty around project economics, awards, timelines, and offtake. 2. Project development is about execution A major theme of the episode is execution. From development milestones to permitting, finance, interconnection, landowner communication, and preconstruction, getting projects across the finish line requires coordination across many different teams. 3. Policy changes are forcing companies to adapt The conversation explores how changes to the investment tax credit, safe harboring, equipment requirements, and broader political uncertainty are forcing solar companies to rethink project design, timelines, and market strategy. 4. Storage is becoming increasingly important Noelle discusses how Aspen Power is evaluating storage opportunities, including solar-plus-storage and standalone storage. As the market changes, more companies are looking at batteries as a way to diversify, strengthen project economics, and maximize existing assets. 5. Leadership means serving your team Noelle shares her approach to management, including the idea that her team does not work for her, but that she works for them. She emphasizes listening, understanding how people learn and operate, and creating a culture where team members can grow and succeed. 6. Women’s networks are essential in renewable energy The episode highlights Solar Sisters, a growing community of women in solar and renewable energy. Noelle discusses the importance of peer support, mentorship, and creating spaces where women can share experiences, challenges, wins, and opportunities. 7. Diversity requires intentional action Noelle explains that hiring and leadership require more than good intentions. Companies need to be intentional about broadening candidate pools, creating access, and making sure more people have the opportunity to become “the best person for the job.” Memorable Quotes “People don’t work for me. I work for them.” “Learn it once, touch it once, do it once.” “Community solar is great for those of us who are trying to get a bunch of things done at once.” “You can build a great project and have all your permits, but if you don’t know where you’re selling your energy, there’s a big problem.” “Your network is everything, and it’s not just who you know, it’s who knows you.” “Go get some shit done, or get out of the way.”
S1 · E289
June 30 · 31 min· Video
SMP 289: The Author of The Lean Startup Explains How to Build an Incorruptible Company
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy Thanjan speaks with Eric Ries, bestselling author of The Lean Startup, about his new book, Incorruptible. Eric explains why successful companies often lose their mission as they grow, take on outside capital, and face pressure to prioritize short-term shareholder returns over long-term value. He explores how founders can protect the original purpose of their companies through stronger governance, legal structures, aligned investors, and what he calls “mission integrity.” The conversation also covers lessons from Costco, FedMart, Anthropic, public benefit corporations, employee ownership, and purpose trusts. Eric also explains why the core principles of The Lean Startup remain highly relevant in the age of artificial intelligence. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, a solar development and consulting firm, and the host of the Solar Maverick Podcast. He also serves as a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed more than 100 MW of solar projects across the United States, advised on more than 1 GW of energy projects worldwide, helped launch some of the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered approximately $50 million in renewable energy credit transactions. Before founding Reneu Energy, Benoy worked in Tesla’s Project Finance Group as an environmental commodities trader, where he managed one of the company’s largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated renewable energy credit transactions and worked with senior leadership to develop monetization and hedging strategies supporting the company’s expansion into East Coast markets. Benoy also served as Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a solar and energy storage construction company, where he developed project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. At Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with approximately 125 MW of U.S. renewable energy assets, he evaluated investment opportunities, supported portfolio strategy, and played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable energy portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and in Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young. He also completed an internship on the trading floor at D. E. Shaw & Co., a global investment and technology development firm. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the NYU Stern School of Business, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information Eric Ries Eric Ries is an entrepreneur, author, and leading thinker on innovation, management, and organizational design. He is best known as the author of the New York Times bestseller The Lean Startup, which introduced the Build-Measure-Learn framework and helped transform how startups and established companies develop new products under conditions of uncertainty. His latest book, Incorruptible: Why Good Companies Go Bad and How Great Companies Stay Great, examines why organizations lose their founding principles and how leaders can design companies that remain trustworthy, mission-driven, and successful over the long term. Eric has worked with startups, major corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and leaders across industries to create more innovative and resilient organizations. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Eric Ries Website: https://incorruptible.co Website: https://howisincorruptiblegoing.com Legal services (Virgil): https://tryvirgil.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eries/ Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E288
June 24 · 46 min· Video
SMP 288: Why Solar Racking Can Make or Break a Project
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy speaks with Bill Taylor, CEO and owner of DCE Solar, about his 17-year journey building one of the solar industry's most resilient racking and construction companies. Bill shares how DCE Solar grew from a racking supplier into a group of businesses spanning racking systems, construction services, engineering and design, carports, ground mounts, rooftop systems, and single-axis trackers for solar projects across the United States. The conversation covers how Bill has navigated the "solar coaster" through financial discipline, a strong company culture, and a focus on quality and long-term customer relationships rather than competing purely on price. Bill and Benoy also dig into the technical side of racking and tracker design for challenging terrain and cold climates, DCE's exclusive U.S. partnership with Spain's Axial Structures, and why AI-driven data center growth is making reliable power access more critical than ever for the US’'s energy strategy. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $50 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, a large solar and storage construction firm, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Guest Information Bill Taylor Bill Taylor is an accomplished entrepreneur and executive with over two decades of experience successfully navigating and scaling the alternative energy and sustainability sector. As the CEO and Owner of DCE Solar, DCE Services, and DCE Design, he is driven by a commitment to innovation and an unwavering belief in making solar the most cost-effective energy source globally. Under his leadership, the DCE companies design, engineer, and build solar power plants, managing projects from complex commercial carports and rooftops to large-scale 100 Megawatt (MW) utility installations nationwide. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com/ Bill Taylor Website: https://www.dcesolar.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billetaylor/ Bill Taylor recommended Good to Great by Jim Collins. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
S1 · E287
June 19 · 5 min· Video
SMP 287: Solar Surpasses Coal in the U.S. but Legal and Political Risks Are Rising
The League Episode #50 – Show Notes In this episode of The League, Benoy Thanjan and David Magid break down the latest clean energy trends. They discuss litigation surrounding alleged battery leaks in Suffolk County, the revocation of a permit for a major Ohio solar project, and the growing regulatory risks confronting developers. They also explore why data centers, warehouses, and other large energy users are increasingly adopting behind-the-meter solar and storage as grid constraints and interconnection delays make access to reliable power a critical business issue. The episode concludes with a major industry milestone: solar generated more U.S. electricity than coal in May 2026. Benoy and David explain why pairing solar with battery storage can make renewable power more valuable, flexible, and responsive to periods of peak demand. Host Bio: Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla’s Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm’s renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Connect with Benoy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoythanjan/ Learn more: https://reneuenergy.com https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Host Bio: David Magid David Magid is a seasoned renewable energy executive with deep expertise in solar development, financing, and operations. He has worked across the clean energy value chain, leading teams that deliver distributed generation and community solar projects. David is widely recognized for his strategic insights on interconnection, market economics, and policy trends shaping the U.S. solar industry. Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmagid/ If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at info@reneuenergy.com. Please provide 5 star reviews If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.

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