Watts Up Renewables

Watt’s Up Renewables, LLC

🎙️ Watts Up! We’re bringing you the brightest in renewable energy!⚡️ You’ll hear from the legends that built our past, the dreamers shaping our future and the dedicated people leading the charge.🌎

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21 episodes
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#79
Tuesday · 1 hr 5 min
EP 79 - Don't Hide The Worst Case Scenario | Leone King | Energy Storage Canada
🇨🇦 What’s next for Canada’s energy future? On this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we’re joined by Leone King of Energy Storage Canada to talk about the growth of energy storage and what it means for communities across Canada.🔋⚡ We get into: 🔋 The future of energy storage 📈 Canada’s growing energy demand 🏘️ Why communities need to be part of the conversation 🔥 Storage safety & emergency preparedness 🌨️ Energy storage + extreme weather ⚡ Grid reliability & long-duration storage 💬 Why transparency and communication matter Leone shares why sometimes the best thing you can do is have the hard conversation — and give people the facts. 🎙️ Real people. Real stories. Real energy.
#78
August 11 · 1 hr 13 min
EP 78 - Laser Beams From Outer Space | Wendy Jorgensen
🚀 Laser beams from space, wind trivia, career advice, and plenty of laughs — this episode has a little bit of everything! Returning guest Wendy Jorgensen joins Adam for another fun and wide-ranging conversation on the Watt’s Up Renewables Podcast. ☀️ We dive into some seriously futuristic renewable energy technology, including a company testing the idea of using satellites in space to reflect sunlight back toward solar farms, potentially extending solar power production beyond normal daylight hours. It sounds like science fiction, but the technology being explored is very real. 🌬️ Then Wendy flips the script and puts Adam in the hot seat for a round of Tehachapi Wind Trivia to see just how much he really knows about one of the most iconic wind regions in the country. The conversation also gets practical as Wendy and Adam talk about career paths in renewable energy, what people should consider when entering the industry, and some valuable interview tips and tricks for standing out and making a strong impression. 💼 👷‍♀️ They also discuss the growing importance and impact of women in renewable energy, the value of bringing different perspectives into the industry, and why creating opportunities for more women to build long-term careers in renewables matters. From space technology to wind turbines to landing your next job, this is a fun conversation packed with laughs, interesting ideas, and advice you can actually use. 🎙️ Tune in and see how Adam does in Wendy’s Tehachapi Wind Trivia!
#77
August 4 · 1 hr 11 min
EP 77 - From Race Cars To Wind Turbines | Ben Wood | Anakata Wind Power Recources
What if the fastest way to produce more wind energy isn’t building new turbines—but improving the ones already spinning? 🌬️⚡ On this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Ben Wood, CEO & CTO of Anakata Wind Power Recources, to explore how advanced aerodynamic blade upgrades can improve turbine performance, maximize efficiency, increase energy production, and help owners get more value from their existing wind assets. Ben also shares how his experience in Formula 1 engineering helped shape Anakata’s approach to wind technology—bringing high-performance aerodynamics from the racetrack to renewable energy. 🏎️💨 Would you rather build more turbines or get more power from the ones already in the field? 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support more conversations with the people powering the future of renewable energy.
August 3 · 9 min
ACP 26 - Generating Power With No Combustion | Taijuan Thomas | Mainspring Energy
What if reliable power could be produced without traditional combustion—and scaled to meet nearly any energy demand? ⚡ In this ACP special, Taijuan Thomas of Mainspring Energy introduces us to linear generators and the innovative technology changing how we think about power generation. Taijuan explains how linear generators work, what makes them different from conventional systems, and how multiple units can be combined to support a wide range of power needs. From smaller applications to large-scale operations, this flexible technology can be configured to deliver dependable energy while supporting a more efficient energy future. 🔋 Tune in for an informative conversation about innovation, flexibility, and the next generation of power production. 🎙️
July 26 · 8 min
ACP 26 - Kyle Shircliffe | Powerwave Services
Find out why safety at the substation goes far beyond protecting the technicians working on-site. 💥 In this ACP 26 interview special, we chat with Kyle Shircliffe of Powerwave Services to discuss the critical work performed on medium- and high-voltage transformers. ⚡️ Kyle explains why safety at the substation goes far beyond protecting the technicians working on-site. The decisions, procedures, and precautions taken around high-voltage equipment can directly affect workers and communities farther down the power line—and, in some cases, may ultimately save lives. Tune in for an important conversation about transformer safety, accountability, and the far-reaching impact of doing the job right. ✅
July 21 · 5 min
ACP 26 - Mike Goodman | ORR Protection
In this ACP special, we talk with Mike Goodman of ORR Protection to discuss why fire safety is critical—not only for the boots on the ground 👷, but also for protecting renewable energy assets and projects. 🔥 Mike shares valuable insight into the risks teams face in the field, the importance of proactive fire protection, and how ORR Protection helps companies safeguard their people, equipment, and investments. Tune in to learn how the right fire safety solutions can make a meaningful difference across your projects. 🛡️
July 13 · 11 min
ACP 26 - Omar Bakr & Alan Tennery | Quantum Solutions
⚡🔍 At ACP 26, we sat down with Omar Bakr and Alan Tennery of Quantum Solutions to discuss their groundbreaking "Invisible Technology." In this episode, we explore how their advanced imaging technology allows teams to see deeper into solar panels, identifying hidden defects and potential failures before they become costly problems. It's an exciting look at how innovation is helping improve reliability, performance, and the future of solar energy. 🎙️ Tune in to discover how Quantum Solutions is making the invisible, visible! #CleanPower26 #InvisibleTechnology #RenewableEnergy #EnergyPodcast
June 24 · 1 hr 48 min
EP 76 - Building A Better Tomorrow For Our Kids | Fathers Day Special
⚡ This Father's Day Special is one of our most meaningful episodes yet. We step away from the technical side of renewable energy to celebrate the people who make it all worthwhile—our families. 💙🌎 🎙️ Host Adam Tiefenthaler is joined by his son, along with three other fathers and their sons who have all been shaped by the renewable energy industry. Together, they share stories, laughs, and honest conversations about fatherhood, family, and the unique bond created by working in the same industry across generations. 🤝⚙️ From the excitement of becoming a new dad, to the wisdom that comes with being a grandfather, this episode explores the different stages of a man's life and how each season brings new challenges, new perspectives, and a deeper sense of purpose. We also dive into the realities of working in renewable energy—the long hours, time away from home, and the sacrifices families make to help keep the lights on and communities powered. 🌬️🌞 Whether you're a father, son, mentor, or someone who simply values family, this conversation is a reminder that behind every wind turbine turning and every solar panel producing power are the hardworking people and families who make it all possible. 🛠️ Happy Father's Day from all of us at Watt's Up Renewables! We hope this special episode reminds you to appreciate the people who have shaped your journey—both at home and throughout your career. Here's to the dads who lead, teach, provide, and inspire the next generation. 💪👨‍👦 #FathersDay #RenewableEnergy #WattsUpRenewables #WindEnergy #CleanEnergy #Family #Podcast
June 18 · 8 min
ACP 26 - Milton Floch | Holt Wind Resources
💥 At ACP 26, we had the privilege of talking with Milton Floch of Holt Wind Resources for a conversation that celebrates a remarkable career in renewable energy. As Milton prepares for retirement, he reflects on the path that brought him into the industry, the projects and people that shaped his journey, and the lasting impact he's made along the way. 👷‍♂️ From the relationships he's built to the lessons learned over the years, Milton shares a heartfelt perspective on what has made his career so rewarding. 🤝 This episode is a reminder that while technology continues to drive the renewable energy industry forward, it's the people behind it who leave the greatest legacy. ⚡ Whether you're just starting your career or have spent decades in the field, Milton's story is one you won't want to miss. 🎙️ #WattsUpRenewables #RenewableRetirement #Reflection #CleanPower26 #RenewableEnergy
June 17 · 8 min
ACP 26 - Forrest Dyer | OEL Worldwide Industries
⚡ At ACP 26, talked with Forrest Dyer of OEL Worldwide Industries to discuss what makes their family-owned business stand out in the renewable energy industry. Forrest shares how a strong commitment to family values, customer relationships, and quality service has helped shape OEL's success. 🤝 We also talk about the importance of company culture, building trust, and staying true to your mission in a rapidly growing industry. 🌎 If you're interested in the people behind renewable energy and the values that drive lasting success, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🎙️ #RenewableEnergy #CleanPower26 #CleanEnergy #FamilyBusiness #WattsUpRenewables
June 14 · 17 min
ACP 26 - Ben Wood | Anakata Wind Power Resources
What happens when Formula 1 engineering meets renewable energy? 🚀⚡ At ACP 26, we sat down with Ben Wood of Anakata Wind Power Resources to explore how innovative aerodynamic technology is helping wind turbines perform better than ever. Drawing inspiration from the high-performance world of Formula 1 racing, Ben and his team are developing advanced blade attachments designed to improve efficiency, increase energy production, and enhance the overall robustness of wind assets in the field. In this episode, Ben breaks down the science behind aerodynamic optimization, how small design changes can create significant performance gains, and why cross-industry innovation is driving the next generation of renewable energy solutions. It's a fascinating look at how lessons learned on the racetrack are being applied to some of the world's largest renewable energy assets. Whether you're a wind technician, engineer, asset owner, or simply curious about cutting-edge renewable technology, this conversation offers a unique perspective on the future of wind energy performance and reliability.
June 12 · 11 min
ACP 26 - Sean Baisden | Pitbull Shredding Solutions
🚂 The next railroad tie you see could be made from a retired wind turbine blade. ♻️ In this episode of Watt's Up Renewables, we sit down with Sean Baisden, President of Pitbull Shredding Solutions, to explore an innovative approach to sustainability that's turning heads across multiple industries. Sean shares how his company is taking retired wind turbine blades and transforming them into composite railroad ties, creating a true circular economy solution for materials that have long been considered difficult to recycle. We dive into how these composite ties can help replace traditional railroad ties treated with harmful chemicals, reducing environmental impact while creating a durable, long-lasting alternative. Sean's outside-the-box thinking is a great example of how innovation and sustainability can work hand in hand to solve real-world challenges. If you're interested in renewable energy, recycling, sustainability, or simply hearing how creative minds are tackling big environmental problems, this is an episode you won't want to miss. ⚡🚂🌱 #WindTurbineBlades #WattsUpRenewables #RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #EnvironmentalSolutions
June 10 · 9 min
ACP 26 - Dylan Ragsdale | Here To Serve Renewables
At ACP 26, we chat with Dylan Ragsdale of Here to Serve Renewables for a conversation full of energy, perspective, and encouragement. As a second-generation renewable energy professional, Dylan shares what it's like growing up around the industry and how he's carving out his own path while carrying forward the lessons and values passed down to him.
#75
May 26 · 1 hr 20 min
EP 75 - Leadership Through Culture | Steven Errickson & Tyrone Amos | Eriksun Energy & Altair Energy Services
On this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Steven Errickson of Eriksun Energy and Tyrone Amos of Altair Energy Services for a conversation packed with real-world stories, leadership insight, and lessons learned from life in the field. ⚡🌎 Steven and Tyrone have worked closely together across multiple projects over the years, building not just successful working relationships, but a strong inter-company bond rooted in trust, accountability, and mutual respect. Together, they share stories from the road, lessons from the traveling technician lifestyle, and what that life truly requires — not just from the techs themselves, but from their families and significant others as well. 🚛🛠️ We also dive into why company culture matters, why investing in people will always matter more than investing in job titles, and how honesty, transparency, and accountability can shape stronger teams and better businesses across the renewable energy industry. This episode is filled with authentic conversations, field experience, and leadership perspectives from two people who genuinely care about the people behind the work. 🤝⚡
#74
May 19 · 1 hr 10 min
EP 74 - Engineering Safety | Joe Chacon | Padge LLC
Joe Chacon of Padge LLC returns to the podcast for one of our most technical conversations yet. ⚡🔧 In this episode, we dive deep into the engineering side of renewable energy — from why thermodynamics matters more than most people realize, to the growing challenges and demands of system engineering across modern energy infrastructure. Joe breaks down how small design decisions can create massive impacts in efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance. We also explore practical field knowledge like how to extend the life of your fuses, why understanding failure points matters, and the importance of bridging the gap between engineers and technicians in the field. This episode is packed with real-world insight, technical discussions, and high-level thinking for the engineers, troubleshooters, and technical techs helping keep the industry moving forward. 🌎⚙️
#73
May 12 · 54 min
EP 73 - Where AI Meets The Grid | Gareth Brown & Andrew Brunskill | Clir Renewables
On this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Gareth Brown and Andrew Brunskill from Clir Renewables to dive into the rapidly evolving role of AI and data analytics in the renewable energy industry. ⚡📊 We explore how artificial intelligence is helping reduce technical uncertainty, improve decision-making, and create more resilient and profitable renewable energy assets. Gareth and Andrew break down how Clir Renewables is leveraging advanced analytics and operational insights across more than 350+ GW of renewable assets worldwide — helping operators better understand performance, reliability, and long-term risk. This conversation goes far beyond software. We talk about the future of the industry, the growing importance of data visibility, and how AI is beginning to reshape the way renewable energy sites are operated, maintained, and optimized. If you’re interested in the intersection of technology, operations, and the future of clean energy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🌎🚀
#72
May 5 · 1 hr 4 min
EP 72 - The Power Of Veterans | Kevin Doffing | Project Vanguard
In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Kevin Doffing of Project Vanguard for a conversation on The Power of Veterans. ⚡🪖 We dive into a perspective that’s not talked about enough in the industry — energy as a matter of national security. Kevin breaks down how our energy system can be viewed through the lens of combined arms in the military, where coordination, redundancy, and strategy all play a critical role in keeping the mission moving forward. We also get into the importance of bringing more diverse viewpoints into renewable energy, including voices that challenge the norm and push the conversation forward in new ways. Because if we’re serious about building a resilient energy future, it’s going to take more than one perspective. This episode is about leadership, mission, and the role veterans play in shaping the future of energy. If you care about where the industry is headed — and how we get there stronger — this is one you don’t want to miss. 🌎⚡
#71
April 28 · 1 hr 16 min
EP 71 - Everyone Is A Safety Manager | Mike Williams
In this powerful episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Mike Williams — a renewable energy trainer who’s deeply passionate about building a stronger, safer industry from the inside out. ⚡🦺 We dive into a critical question that doesn’t get asked enough: Are we actually training the people we promote into leadership roles? From new leads to managers, the expectation to lead safely is there — but the support and development don’t always follow. Mike challenges the industry to rethink how we prepare those stepping into positions of influence, and what happens when we don’t. This conversation also reinforces a mindset shift: safety isn’t just a department — it’s everyone’s responsibility. Every technician, every lead, every person on site has the authority to call a stop work if something doesn’t feel right. That kind of culture only works when it’s truly supported, not just stated. We also break down the importance of something simple, yet often overlooked — buddy checking your PPE. It’s a small act that can prevent major incidents, and a reminder that looking out for each other is a core part of the job. At the heart of it all, Mike brings it back to one idea: safety starts from within. It’s not just procedures or policies — it’s personal ownership, awareness, and the standards we hold ourselves to every single day. If you care about leadership, accountability, and building a safer future in renewable energy, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 🌎⚡
#70
April 21 · 1 hr 37 min
EP 70 - Conferences: Don't Just Attend - Dominate | Ian Steele | Here To Serve Renewables
In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Ian Steele of Here To Serve Renewables for a powerful, real-world conversation on leadership and industry growth. ⚡🎙️ We kick things off by diving into what truly separates great managers from the rest. From autocratic styles to influencer-driven leadership, Ian breaks down the different approaches to management — what works, what doesn’t, and how leadership directly impacts team performance and safety in the field. 🔧 Then we shift gears into a deep discussion on renewable energy conferences — the good, the bad, and everything in between. We talk about what actually makes these events valuable, where companies often miss the mark, and how to maximize ROI whether you’re attending or exhibiting. From networking tactics to deciding when it’s the right time to invest in a booth, this episode is packed with practical insights for companies looking to grow and stand out. 🚀 If you’ve ever wondered how to lead better, connect smarter, and get more out of industry events — this one’s for you. 🌎
#69
April 7 · 1 hr 8 min
EP 69 - High Voltage, Higher Standards | Stephen San Juan | Rise Renewable Energy
In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Stephen San Juan of Rise Renewable Energy — a company dedicated to developing, training, and supporting the technicians who keep this industry moving. This conversation dives deep into the growing demand for medium voltage (MV) and high voltage (HV) expertise as renewable energy systems continue to scale. Stephen shares real-world insights on why the industry must evolve its training standards to match the complexity and risk of today’s infrastructure. We also tackle a critical operational question: Is one technician ever enough on-site? From efficiency to safety, we break down the challenges and risks of solo work versus having a second set of eyes — and how that decision can directly impact outcomes in the field. Safety takes center stage as we explore how injuries can be prevented through stronger training, better procedures, and a culture built around proactive risk management. One of the biggest takeaways? PPE is not your first line of defense — it’s your last. The real protection comes from planning, communication, and doing the job right before hazards ever escalate. If you’re in the field, leading a team, or shaping training programs, this episode delivers practical insight into what it takes to build a safer, more capable renewable energy workforce. ⚡

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