Watt Matters by PVcase

About Watt Matters by PVcase

At PVcase, we’re on a mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. That’s why we created the Watt Matters podcast - a must-listen series for developers, engineers, analysts, and decision makers shaping the future of large-scale solar. Each episode tackles the tough realities behind why so many solar projects stall - and what we can do to fix it. We bring together industry leaders to share strategic insights, practical tools, and real-world experiences. Learn more at https://www.pvcase.com/ (https://www.pvcase.com/)

Publisher

PVcase

Category

business · science · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Sept 2025

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Oct 2026

   AI, technology and the next productivity leap

   AI is everywhere in solar, but the real question is whether the industry can turn the hype into measurable productivity gains. Recorded live at Intersolar Europe 2026, this episode of Watt Matters explores how AI, automation, robotics, and connected software are changing the way utility-scale solar projects are designed, engineered, built, and operated. As projects become more complex, grids more constrained, and margins tighter, the ability to make better decisions earlier in the project lifecycle is becoming a competitive advantage. Host Conrado speaks with Joachim Rupp, a renewable energy and cleantech advisor and independent board member; David Trainavicius, CEO of PVcase; and Ángel Galván of Nextpower. Together, they examine the practical realities of AI adoption, the importance of data quality and security, the economics of automation, and the evolution of solar technology beyond individual components. From AI-enabled workflows to robotic inspection and terrain-following tracker systems, the conversation explores how technology can help the industry scale without compromising project quality, reliability, or financial performance. Takeaways AI delivers the most value when it improves real business processes rather than being adopted for its own sake. Disconnected tools and fragmented data can limit optimization across the solar project lifecycle. Data quality is foundational to useful AI models and better project decisions. Trust, cybersecurity, confidentiality, and intellectual property must shape AI adoption. The growing complexity of solar, storage, and hybrid projects is increasing the need for smarter workflows. Tighter margins are pushing developers to focus more on project optimization, analytics, and return on investment. AI can help software teams experiment, develop products, and deliver improvements faster. Robotics can support solar plant monitoring, fault detection, and maintenance. Terrain-following trackers and more integrated technology platforms can reduce unnecessary site grading and improve construction efficiency. The next productivity leap will depend on combining technology, reliable data, and human expertise. Chapters 00:00 – Why solar needs its next productivity leap 01:04 – Joachim Rupp on AI adoption across the industry 03:41 – AI agents, trust, and responsible automation 05:27 – Data security, confidentiality, and choosing the right use cases 06:30 – Why renewable energy projects are becoming more complex 10:00 – Human oversight, AI costs, and the limits of automation 19:08 – David Trainavicius on building a connected solar workflow 20:51 – How AI is accelerating PVcase product development 22:14 – Balancing AI innovation with customer data protection 24:14 – Solar’s transition from subsidy-driven growth to optimization 27:32 – Turning technology into better project execution 27:52 – Ángel Galván on integrated solar technology 28:39 – Nextpower’s expanding platform beyond trackers 31:09 – Robotics, plant monitoring, and fault detection 33:01 – Business value over technology hype 34:38 – Terrain-following trackers and smarter site development 36:10 – Improving tracker performance and foundation reliability 38:00 – Scaling solar through smarter software and systems To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com.

2. 

   21 Sept 2026

   Policy, systems and the infrastructure around solar

   Solar is already one of the fastest and most affordable ways to add new generation in many markets. But economics alone will not determine what gets deployed. As solar becomes a larger part of the global energy system, the constraints around it become more important. Grids need flexibility. Storage needs viable markets. Workers need consistent training. Supply chains need resilience. And an industry built around sustainable energy also has to demonstrate sustainability across the full lifecycle of its products. Sonia Dunlop looks at this transition globally, from Agri-PV and rooftop deployment to skills, standards, and supply-chain resilience. Antonio Arruebo Lacleta explores why battery storage is becoming inseparable from solar growth — and why permitting, grid access, market design, and policy still determine how quickly it can scale. Christina Maria Huber brings the lifecycle perspective, explaining how Europe is approaching PV recycling, critical raw materials, and circularity as the first generations of large-scale solar assets eventually reach end of life. The common thread: solar’s next chapter depends not only on deploying more capacity, but on building the systems that allow that capacity to work at scale. What you’ll learn in this episode ●    Why solar’s next phase depends increasingly on infrastructure, standards, and policy ●    How battery storage addresses curtailment, flexibility, and the changing value of solar power ●    Why grid access, permitting, and market design remain major barriers to storage deployment ●    How global standards and workforce training support a maturing solar industry ●    Why PV recycling and circularity are becoming industrial and strategic opportunities for Europe Chapters 00:00 — Policy, systems, and the infrastructure around solar 01:20 — Sonia Dunlop: What solar needs to scale globally 03:00 — Electrification, Agri-PV, and new models for deployment 03:55 — Why a mature solar industry needs global standards 05:20 — Building resilient supply chains and a stronger workforce 09:26 — Antonio Arruebo: Why solar increasingly needs storage 12:45 — Europe’s battery storage market and what comes next 16:05 — Grid access, permitting, and the market rules holding storage back 19:20 — Policy, circularity, and support for a European battery industry 23:50 — Christina Maria Huber: The sustainability challenge beyond deployment 25:05 — Why PV recycling is still misunderstood 29:00 — From recycling targets to recovering critical materials 33:00 — Building a European circular economy for solar 37:00 — Sustainability, skills, and representation across the energy transition 40:40 — The systems that make solar growth durable

3. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Building bankable, build-ready solar

   Recorded live from Intersolar Europe 2026 in Munich, this episode of What Matters brings together four voices shaping the next phase of solar development: David Trainavicius, CEO and founder of PVcase; Miguel Herrero, Senior Market Advisor at PVcase; Stephan Schindele, one of Europe's leading Agri-PV experts; and Madeleine Hill, a solar consultant and partner at Everoze. Across the conversations, one theme kept surfacing: solar demand is still strong, but the projects themselves are getting harder to build, finance, and defend. That means better decisions have to happen earlier, not after the fact. David opens the episode with the founder's view of an industry outgrowing its subsidy-driven roots and leaning harder on data and AI to move faster without losing control. Miguel follows with an on-the-ground read of Intersolar's mood, the explosive rise of battery storage, and why an industry that looks like it is slowing down is, in reality, just getting more serious. Stephan then breaks down why Agri-PV is growing three times faster than solar overall, and why farmland, not desert, may be where most of Europe's next gigawatts get built. Finally, Madeleine brings the conversation to the ground truth of financing: what due diligence actually catches, why grid risk and module quality never stop being issues, and how Everoze's employee-owned, flat-hierarchy model shapes the way problems get solved. Together, these conversations sketch a solar industry moving from ambition to execution. It is an industry trading hype for margin discipline, improvisation for standards, and guesswork for data, while still holding on to the optimism that got it here. PVcase helps developers, engineers, and consultants make these harder projects bankable from day one. Learn more at www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com). TAKEAWAYS Solar demand remains strong, but projects now face tighter margins, more scrutiny, and higher expectations from financiers AI is accelerating product development at PVcase, but data governance and client trust set real limits on adoption Despite talk of an industry slowdown, most companies at Intersolar reported being fully booked, signaling a maturing market rather than a shrinking one Contrary to common belief, well-designed Agri-PV (such as grazing systems) can have a lower levelized cost of electricity than conventional ground-mount solar Recurring project risks remain remarkably consistent: grid connection and curtailment, module quality, and poor data handoff between project stages CHAPTERS 00:00 — Welcome to What Matters, live from Intersolar Europe 2026 00:59 — David Trainavicius on the mood at Intersolar and the "solar coaster" 04:41 — What separates the companies that survive from those that don't 05:33 — PVcase's origin story and building the full project workflow 07:09 — Balancing AI adoption with data risk and client trust 10:04 — Solar's maturity: from subsidies to bankable economics 13:32 — Miguel Herrero on market sentiment and the BESS boom 18:30 — Why building a battery storage business case is so complex 20:19 — Is solar in crisis, or just entering a new phase? 23:06 — Collaboration, data, and the push for industry standards 30:26 — Stephan Schindele on the fundamentals of Agri-PV 33:22 — Defining Agri-PV: from grazing land to fruit orchards 36:06 — Policy momentum and climate resilience for farmland 39:31 — Why Agri-PV could become Europe's standard within five years 44:04 — Debunking the cost myths around Agri-PV 47:00 — Madeleine Hill on due diligence and bankability 50:54 — Why solar and storage can no longer be assessed separately 53:17 — Growing pains: regulation lagging behind project scale 57:31 — The recurring risks: grid, curtailment, and module quality 1:02:27 — Diversity, employee ownership, and Everoze's collaborative model 1:08:10 — Closing thoughts: building solar right for the next phase

4. 

   19 Aug 2026

   What happens after solar wins?

   Solar has won the cost battle. But as deployment accelerates, the industry faces a new challenge: making solar work as a core part of the global electricity system. Recorded live from InterSolar Europe 2026, this special episode of Watt Matters brings together three leading voices from across the solar ecosystem: Jenny Chase from BloombergNEF, Josephine Berg from S&P Global, and Stefan Müller from Enerparc. Together, they explore how the industry is moving beyond cheap panels and rapid growth toward a more complex era defined by grids, storage, market design, flexibility, and long-term project economics. From negative electricity prices and solar cannibalization to AI-driven efficiency and the rise of storage, the conversation examines what it takes for solar to succeed at scale. Takeaways: Solar’s biggest challenge is no longer cost reduction, but system integration. Cheap solar power is reshaping electricity markets around the world. Storage and flexible demand are becoming essential for future solar growth. Solar developers must adapt to new market realities and revenue models. Manufacturing overcapacity remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges. Electricity demand growth from AI, data centers, and electrification creates new opportunities. Grid constraints and regulation are now central challenges for solar projects. Software, automation, and AI will improve project efficiency and economics. The solar industry is entering a more mature business phase. Collaboration across energy sectors will define the next decade of growth. Chapters: 00:00 – Solar’s next challenge after winning the cost battle 03:10 – Jenny Chase: Solar’s success and the clean power transition 11:45 – Storage, flexibility, and solving solar cannibalization 17:30 – Why solar manufacturing remains a difficult business 22:40 – Josephine Berg: Solar’s transition into a mature industry 30:15 – New markets, new business models, and the complexity of growth 37:20 – Policy, regulation, and the future electricity system 43:10 – Women in solar and building a more diverse industry 45:20 – Stefan Müller: Building and operating solar in the new era 47:30 – AI, efficiency, and the future of solar project development 59:30 – The next chapter for large-scale solar To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com/).

5. 

   6 Jul 2026

   Power, Planning and the Future of Digital Infrastructure, with Amy Polvado

   In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana sits down with Amy Polvado, a seasoned real estate developer turned tech founder and data center strategist, to explore the intricate world of data center development and what it means for energy infrastructure and the broader energy transition. Amy shares how her journey from commercial real estate to launching Facilimax, a digital twin platform for complex built environments, informed her unique perspective on site selection, power challenges, and the pressing need for accurate infrastructure data. The conversation dives into the multifaceted challenges data center developers face today — from navigating power grid constraints and understanding on‑site generation requirements to deciphering regulatory efforts and sustainability considerations in a rapidly evolving market. Amy also discusses future trends, including AI workloads, retrofitting smaller sites for edge computing, and the evolving role of digital tools in shaping the next generation of digital infrastructure. PVcase is proud to bring you insights that bridge energy, infrastructure, and digital growth. Visit pvcase.com to learn more. Takeaways Data center site selection requires deep understanding of power access, grid headroom, floodplain, fiber, and mineral rights. Just having utility infrastructure nearby (e.g., gas pipelines) does not guarantee usable capacity. On‑site power generation and interconnection complexities are central to speed to delivery for data centers. Vacancy rates in data centers are extremely low, and new capacity is often pre‑leased before construction begins. AI demand is driving seismic shifts in compute needs, grid interactions, and site planning. Sustainability goals and resource usage must be balanced with reliability and uptime requirements. Smaller, edge, and repurposed sites are likely to grow in importance alongside mega‑scale campuses. Regulatory efforts like Texas’s SB6 are attempts to manage explosive interconnection demand. Better real‑time infrastructure data would dramatically improve site decision‑making. Digital twin platforms are emerging as critical tools for planning, simulation, and risk reduction. Chapters 00:00 Intro and Guest Background 01:35 Journey from Real Estate to Data Centers 04:45 Site Selection Complexities: Power, Fiber, and Mineral Rights 7:30 Power Interconnection and On‑Site Generation Realities 11:50 Data Center Demand and Market Dynamics 15:15 Regulatory Landscape and Infrastructure Data Gaps 18:00 Sustainability, Resilience, and Grid Support 21:30 Future Trends: AI, Edge, and Retrofitting Sites 25:00 Closing Insights and Listener Takeaways To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com/)

6. 

   6 Jul 2026

   Fixing the grid, with Rob Gramlich

   In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Rob Gramlich, founder of Grid Strategies and a leading voice on U.S. transmission policy, market design, and interconnection reform. With decades of experience across government and industry—including time at Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)—Rob unpacks the structural challenges shaping the next phase of solar and storage deployment. The conversation explores why transmission constraints and interconnection delays have become critical bottlenecks, how market design is evolving in response to large-scale renewables, and what policy reforms could unlock faster deployment. From permitting reform to capacity valuation and the growing role of storage, this episode highlights the shift from simply building clean energy to integrating and valuing it effectively within the grid. Takeaways Interconnection delays are driven by outdated, serial study processes and limited transmission capacity Queue backlogs are self-reinforcing, with developers submitting multiple applications to manage uncertainty Transmission expansion is the most effective long-term solution to reduce interconnection costs and delays Market saturation is reducing solar’s marginal value, particularly during midday hours Battery storage is reshaping price dynamics and unlocking new value streams Capacity value for solar declines as penetration increases, impacting project economics Policy reform, especially around permitting, could significantly accelerate deployment timelines Long-term PPAs remain critical for revenue certainty in volatile wholesale markets Market design still reflects legacy fossil-based systems and needs adaptation for renewables Access to broader procurement mechanisms could unlock more stable demand for clean energy Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Rob Gramlich’s background 02:00 Why transmission and interconnection became critical bottlenecks 05:00 How interconnection works and where it breaks down 09:00 Regional reforms and why they are not enough 12:00 Impact of delays on project economics and technology choices 15:00 Permitting reform and policy outlook in Washington 20:00 The role and independence of FERC 24:00 How markets value solar and the “duck curve” challenge 28:00 Capacity value, derating, and saturation effects 32:00 Market design evolution and role of storage 36:00 Future policy scenarios and tax credits 39:00 Structural changes needed to unlock solar growth 42:00 Rethinking electricity markets for a renewable future To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com/)

7. 

   16 Jun 2026

   Why the grid can't keep up, with Michelle Davis

   Solar has become the world's fastest-growing source of new power generation, but record deployment has not translated into falling global emissions at the pace many expected. In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana sits down with Michelle Davis, Head of Global Solar at Wood Mackenzie, to unpack one of the biggest paradoxes in the energy transition: if solar is winning, why does decarbonization still feel so difficult? Drawing on global market data and years of forecasting experience, Michelle explores the forces shaping solar's next chapter. From grid constraints and transmission bottlenecks to AI-driven electricity demand, data center growth, project quality concerns, and the surprising rise of balcony solar in Europe, this conversation goes beyond deployment numbers to examine the systems that ultimately determine whether clean energy can deliver on its promise. Takeaways * Why Wood Mackenzie intentionally takes a conservative approach to forecasting * The solar market trends most analysts underestimated * Why record solar deployment has not yet translated into rapid emissions reductions * How transmission and interconnection delays are slowing progress * The growing disconnect between public support for solar and local project opposition * Why balcony solar is expanding faster than expected in Europe * The risks that cost pressure creates for module and project quality * How AI and data centers are reshaping electricity demand forecasts * Why new gas generation is still growing alongside renewables * The single infrastructure investment that could unlock the next phase of solar growth Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the responsibility of forecasting 04:35 Mentorship, women in energy, and financial independence 08:12 Solar's paradox: record growth and record emissions 13:01 What the data says versus industry narratives 16:44 The rise of balcony solar in Europe 21:29 Where the industry may be overconfident 24:22 AI, data centers, and exploding electricity demand 29:54 Does the decarbonization math still work? 33:40 Interconnection queues and permitting challenges 36:19 Solar's limits in a high-demand future 39:14 The most overlooked solution: transmission To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com)

8. 

   13 May 2026

   Building the sustainable cloud Europe needs, with Sabrina Breidert

   In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Sabrina Breidert, Head of Sales at Yorizon, about the intersection of digital infrastructure, energy transition, and European sovereignty. As AI-driven workloads accelerate and data center demand rises across Europe, the conversation explores how cloud infrastructure is becoming a strategic pillar of both sustainability and resilience. Sabrina shares how Yorizon is rethinking the hyperscaler model with a distributed edge approach: modular, wood-based data centers powered by 100% renewable energy, designed for carbon transparency, regulatory alignment, and local integration. From liquid cooling and district heating reuse to open-source architecture and vendor independence, the discussion highlights how sustainability, sovereignty, and performance can reinforce one another rather than compete. Takeaways Why cloud infrastructure is no longer “neutral” in the energy transition The risks of centralized hyperscaler dependency How distributed edge data centers improve resilience and compliance Achieving PUE below 1.1 through integrated design Reusing waste heat to support local district heating networks Transparent carbon reporting per workload for ESG compliance Open-source architecture as a sovereignty strategy Preparing for AI workloads with high-density, liquid-cooled GPU racks Building regional economic ecosystems around data infrastructure Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Yorizon and the European cloud vision 03:30 – Hyperscalers vs. distributed edge infrastructure 06:15 – Sustainability beyond marketing: energy, PUE, and efficiency 09:00 – Liquid cooling and district heating integration 11:45 – ESG reporting and carbon transparency 14:00 – Digital sovereignty and open-source cloud stacks 18:00 – Community impact and regional partnerships 20:00 – AI readiness and sustainable scaling 23:00 – Expansion plans across Europe through 2030 25:00 – The future of co-located renewables and data centers To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com).

9. 

   13 Apr 2026

   Flexibility, Security and Solar’s Next Growth Phase, with Walburga Hemetsberger

   In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO of Solar Power Europe, about the shifting priorities shaping Europe’s energy transition. As solar becomes a central pillar of energy security and competitiveness, the conversation explores how policy, flexibility, and system design must evolve to support the next phase of growth. Walburga outlines Solar Power Europe’s four strategic priorities: electrification, flexibility, resilient supply chains, and strong communications. From the urgent need to deploy 10x more battery storage by 2030 to the role of solar in powering AI-driven data centers, this episode examines what it will take to move from rapid capacity additions to a truly future-proof energy system. Takeaways: Solar is no longer just a climate solution — it is a strategic security asset for Europe. Electrification must accelerate beyond today’s stalled 23% share of final energy. Flexibility — through demand response and battery storage — is now essential. Europe needs 10x more battery capacity by 2030 to stabilize solar growth. Revenue stacking and regulatory reform are critical for battery investment. Implementation gaps, especially in permitting and grid reform, remain a major bottleneck. Energy security strategies must evolve beyond fossil-based thinking. Solar’s growth is strong, but business models are under pressure from negative pricing and curtailment. Data centers and AI could become key drivers of new electricity demand — if powered sustainably. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Walburga’s journey into solar 03:00 – Solar Power Europe’s mission and strategic priorities 08:00 – Energy security and Europe’s electrification challenge 13:30 – What flexibility really means for grids and markets 17:00 – Why Europe needs 10x more batteries 21:30 – Policy gaps and regulatory barriers to storage 23:30 – AI, data centers, and future electricity demand 26:45 – Solar’s growth trajectory and long-term confidence To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com).

10. 

    31 Mar 2026

    Latin America’s solar boom, with Guilherme Chrispim

    Latin America’s renewable energy story is no longer just about installing more megawatts. In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Guilherme Chrispim, Brazilian solar leader and former head of the Brazilian Distributed Generation Association, about how the region is navigating rapid growth, grid constraints, and the next phase of the energy transition. From Brazil’s distributed generation boom to Chile’s early leadership in battery storage, Guilherme shares an insider’s view of how different markets are evolving — and why integration, flexibility, and digital intelligence now matter more than raw capacity additions. As curtailment rises and data center demand accelerates, the conversation shifts toward storage, system efficiency, and the role of smarter networks in ensuring sustainable growth. This episode explores how Latin America can transform today’s bottlenecks into tomorrow’s competitive advantage — and why the next chapter of renewables will be defined by optimization, not expansion alone.

11. 

    17 Mar 2026

    Solar’s next survival test, with Peter Pongracz

    Solar is still scaling globally — but the rules of the game have changed. In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Peter Pongracz, Founder of Soliverse, about the diverging realities shaping today’s solar markets. While global installations continue to rise, developers across Europe and the U.S. are navigating curtailment, grid congestion, price pressure, and heightened financing scrutiny. Meanwhile, new markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia are accelerating with strong policy backing. Peter shares insights from his conversations with developers, investors, and policymakers across markets. From the rise of hybrid projects and the central role of battery storage to reshoring manufacturing and the need for a unified solar software workflow, this episode explores what it now takes to build resilient, bankable projects. As standalone solar gives way to flexibility-driven systems, success increasingly depends on disciplined site selection, grid strategy, and integrated digital tools. Takeaways Policy clarity is the primary driver of market acceleration Hybrid solar-plus-storage projects are becoming the new standard Grid congestion and curtailment are reshaping project economics Battery energy storage is critical to unlocking flexibility Capital is flowing toward lower-risk, grid-secured projects Early-stage site selection determines long-term bankability Manufacturing reshoring is driven by energy and supply chain security Fragmented software workflows create costly data loss and inefficiencies Bankability remains the barrier to wider adoption of new yield tools Resilience will define the next phase of solar growth Chapters 00:00 – Peter’s journey from SaaS sales to founding Soliverse 04:00 – Global divergence: Middle East growth vs. Western slowdowns 08:00 – Curtailment, grid congestion, and the rise of storage 13:00 – Is standalone solar dead? The shift to hybrid projects 18:00 – Policy, reshoring, and energy security in Europe and the U.S. 24:00 – Software fragmentation and the need for a solar “gold standard” 31:00 – Why 80% of projects never get built 35:00 – Solar resilience and optimism for the future To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com)

12. 

    17 Feb 2026

    Solar Resilience and Where Power Is Going, with Gerard Reid

    In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Gerard Reid, global energy transition strategist, investment expert, and co‑host of the Redefining Energy podcast, about the evolution of solar from niche technology to foundational element of the future energy system. Gerard shares how his early skepticism about solar shifted as costs fell, why solar paired with storage is reshaping the economics of power, and how systemic thinking — not isolated technology debates — is essential for navigating the next decade of the energy transition. They explore grid resilience, decentralization, and the economic realities that will determine winners and losers in tomorrow’s energy markets. PVcase mention: To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com/).

13. 

    20 Jan 2026

    The Data Center Goldrush, with Jake Anderson

    The rapid rise of AI-driven data centers is transforming the energy landscape faster than almost anyone predicted. In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Jake Anderson, Head of the Prospect Business Unit at PVcase, about why the data center boom is fundamentally an energy story — and what it means for developers, utilities, and clean energy providers. Jake breaks down the unprecedented scale of load growth, why power availability has become the defining constraint for new projects, and how traditional development models are breaking under pressure. From grid bottlenecks and land constraints to shifting policy rules and cost allocation debates, the conversation explores how the industry is being forced to rethink site selection, planning, and power-first development. The episode also looks ahead: how renewables and storage fit into the data center future, why uncertainty around AI demand won’t slow near-term growth, and what lessons data center developers are borrowing from renewable energy playbooks to move faster and smarter.

14. 

    16 Dec 2025

    The Foundation of Utility-Scale Solar, with Alice Thomas & Seif Gomaa

    In this episode of Watt Matters we sit down with Alice Thomas and Seif Gomaa from Solarport Systems, a UK-based manufacturer delivering ground-mount solar solutions across the UK and Europe. Together we explore what really goes on beneath the solar panels — from foundation engineering and site investigations to design optimisation, documentation standards, and emerging innovations like AI-driven workflows, trackers and carport systems. As projects grow in scale and complexity, mounting structures are not just a logistical detail — they are strategic drivers of cost, durability, yield and ultimately project bankability. Alice and Seif walk us through why early-stage due diligence, flexible foundation options, and strong supply-chain relationships increasingly differentiate successful solar developments from risky ones. Takeaways Local manufacturing dramatically reduces lead times and enables rapid spare-part support. Offering multiple foundation types (pile, ballast, gabion, X-anchor, etc.) makes even challenging terrain viable. Thorough geotechnical and topographical site investigations — including corrosion assessment and pull-out tests — are critical for long-term structural integrity. Documentation, code validation and traceability have become non-negotiable requirements for developers and investors. High-quality structural steel (e.g. S450 with advanced coatings) and tailored engineering can extend system life well beyond the traditional 25 years. Detailed 3-D layouts and topography-aware designs help avoid shading, grading or pile-clash issues — improving yield, constructability and bankability. Automation and AI are beginning to support repetitive tasks and QC processes — freeing up engineers to focus on design decisions and risk assessment. Tech is evolving: tracker systems and carport-mounted installations are among future growth areas for mounting providers like Solarport. Chapters (timestamps are approximate) 00:00 – Intro & context: why mounting systems matter 03:30 – Guest introductions: roles & motivations 05:00 – The advantage of being a UK-based manufacturer 07:30 – Evolution of site scale and foundation options 10:00 – Changes in design standards, warranty & longevity expectations 13:00 – Importance of site investigations, documentation and risk transparency 15:30 – How layout optimisation impacts yield and cost 18:00 – Project planning discipline: procurement & data quality 22:00 – Challenges: soil variability, archaeology, unexpected ground conditions 24:30 – Expanding from UK into EU: matching regional standards 26:00 – Use of AI and automation in engineering workflows 29:30 – Future of mounting: trackers, carports and continuous innovation 34:30 – Final thoughts: advice for developers & EPCs To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com).

15. 

    18 Nov 2025

    The BESS Revolution, with Swetha Sundaram

    Battery energy storage systems (BESS) have rapidly evolved from a niche technology into a core pillar of the modern renewable grid. As utility-scale solar expands, storage is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s essential for delivering reliability and resilience. In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Swetha Sundaram, VP of Solar and Hybrid BESS Systems at RWE Clean Energy and co-author of The BESS Book, to unpack what’s driving this transformation. Swetha shares her insider’s perspective on the evolution of storage—from early pilot projects to today’s 200MW+ systems—and offers practical insights into permitting, design, safety, and revenue optimisation. She also explores how AI and new chemical systems are reshaping what’s possible for grid-scale storage, and why collaboration across communities and regulators is key to BESS success. To learn more about accelerating solar project success and how PVcase supports developers from design to delivery, visit www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com). Takeaways BESS has become a critical part of grid infrastructure, not just a solar add-on. Safety and permitting remain top challenges, requiring proactive community engagement. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry now dominates for cost and safety advantages. Project scale has increased from 10MW a decade ago to 200MW and beyond. AI and predictive analytics are unlocking smarter battery degradation management. Revenue realisation depends heavily on sophisticated software and dynamic dispatch. Permitting delays can be avoided by early collaboration with local authorities. Standalone storage is thriving post-IRA, enabling new grid and data centre applications. Long-duration technologies like sodium-ion and iron-air show strong future potential. The future of BESS lies in integration—across grids, industries, and digital systems. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and guest background 03:00 – Why BESS matters for the clean energy transition 06:00 – Writing The BESS Book and its intended audience 09:00 – What is BESS and how it works 12:00 – How technology, chemistry, and safety have evolved 15:00 – Permitting challenges and lessons learned 18:00 – The unique development and operational aspects of BESS 24:00 – Market dynamics, tariffs, and project economics 29:00 – The rise of standalone storage and data centre integration 33:00 – The role of AI in optimising storage performance 39:00 – Long-duration storage and emerging technologies 43:00 – Hard-earned lessons and key takeaways for developers 47:00 – The future of storage and closing thoughts

16. 

    14 Oct 2025

    The Science of Solar Site Selection, with Benoy Thanjan

    In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana discusses the realities of financing and developing solar projects in today’s market with Benoy Thanjan, Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy. Drawing from his extensive experience as an investor, advisor, and entrepreneur, Benoy shares insights into where projects succeed — and where they often fail. The conversation focuses on how capital, risk perception, and project structures influence solar’s growth, while also touching on the evolving role of developers, financiers, and policy in shaping outcomes. Learn the practical hurdles facing solar professionals and the opportunities to unlock more successful projects. Takeaways Financing remains the most critical bottleneck in solar project development. Early-stage risk management determines long-term project success. Policy incentives are important, but can’t replace strong fundamentals. Collaboration and transparency between developers and financiers is essential. The maturing industry demands greater efficiency and innovation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Benoy Thanjan 02:10 From Wall Street to solar energy 05:42 Understanding solar finance basics 09:15 Key risks in project development 13:28 Challenges for small vs. large developers 17:40 Policy, incentives, and market trends 21:55 Investor confidence and transparency 26:30 Collaboration for project success 30:05 Looking ahead: the future of solar finance To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com)

17. 

    17 Sept 2025

    The State of Solar Development 2025, with Miguel Herrero

    In this first episode of Watt Matters by PVcase, Ana is in conversation with Miguel Herrero, Senior Market Advisor at PVcase, to discuss the findings from PVcase’s recent State of Solar Development survey. He emphasises the optimism within the industry despite significant challenges that came as a result from surveying over 400 solar professionals across various markets. Key themes include the optimism paradox, the critical pre-construction phase, and the need for better tools and processes to enhance project success. The conversation also highlights regional differences in solar development and the future direction of solar technology. Takeaways Miguel's journey into solar was driven by a desire to combat climate change. The 2025 State of Solar Development Report provides a comprehensive snapshot of the industry. Optimism in solar is high, with 84% of professionals reporting growth. The financing stage is the most critical hurdle for solar projects. High-quality engineering is essential for project success. The pre-construction phase is where most projects fail. Automation and better tools are needed to improve project efficiency. Regional differences exist in solar development challenges. The future of solar lies in smarter, more efficient processes. Collaboration and dialogue are key to overcoming industry hurdles. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Solar Enthusiasm 02:25 The State of Solar Development Report 05:09 Optimism in Solar: Growth and Challenges 08:13 The Optimism Paradox in Solar Projects 10:55 Identifying the Valley of Death 14:12 Best Practices for Successful Solar Projects 17:16 Regional Differences in Solar Development 20:02 Looking Ahead: The Future of Solar Technology To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com)

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    17 Sept 2025

    Welcome to Watt Matters by PVcase

    Why do so many solar projects stall? And what can we do to change this? Welcome to Watt Matters, the new solar podcast, powered by PVcase. In each episode, Ana Conde will be joined by exciting solar guests, ranging from industry leaders to influencers to engineers. We’ll take an in-depth look at a topic at the forefront of the solar conversation and explore the best tools and strategies for how to move solar forward. From site selection and feasibility to yield optimisation and the latest tech, you’ll hear expert perspectives and practical solutions you can put to work right now. Follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts to be sure you won’t miss out on hearing these solar insights brought to light – because when more projects succeed, we all move closer to a sustainable future, together. To learn more about building the future of large-scale solar and how PVcase can help, head to www.pvcase.com (http://www.pvcase.com)

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.