Shows
Hi, Energy!Climate Innovation In TransportationIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about how new climate-focused technology is shaping the way we move ourselves and our stuff around the world. To help us learn about that, Esteban is joined by Jack Symington, the Director of City Climate Innovation at LA Climate Incubator.
Jack and Esteban discuss how clean transportation will get us warmer burritos, the olympics are bringing us accessible EV charging, the origin story of the city of Los Angeles deciding that a city climate incubator was needed and so much more.
Additional References from the podcast:
2026-02-2330 minHi, Energy!Bridging the Equity and Inclusion Gap Within the Green EconomyIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the power of networking through social media, and about the community of people making green jobs the norm and accessible to all.
Kristy Drutman, aka “Browngirl Green,” and co-founder of The Green Jobs Board, joins the show to break down her trail-blazing career as a model for future climate work.
Kristy and Esteban discuss the origins of the Green Jobs Board, how to open climate jobs to underprivileged folks and people of color, how to draw on the power of your family history when the world isn’t...
2026-01-1231 minHi, Energy!Breaking into Climate Tech and Clean Tech TransformationsIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the grid, climate tech startup culture, and California’s special relationship to climate issues.
Josh Rothermel of SoCal Edison and formerly of Rivian and the UCLA Anderson Energy & Cleantech Association, joins Esteban to talk about having a career in clean energy.
Josh and Esteban discuss simple but important questions like “what is the grid?” and “what is an internal combustion engine?” and so much more. Josh also shares his impressions of California’s well-above-average climate consciousness.
Additional References from the podcast:
After 4 Years And Billions O...
2025-12-1528 minHi, Energy!Bridging the Equity and Inclusion Gap Within the Green EconomyIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the power of networking through social media, and about the community of people making green jobs the norm and accessible to all.
Kristy Drutman, aka “Browngirl Green,” and co-founder of The Green Jobs Board, joins the show to break down her trail-blazing career as a model for future climate work.
Kristy and Esteban discuss the origins of the Green Jobs Board, how to open climate jobs to underprivileged folks and people of color, how to draw on the power of your f...
2025-12-1531 minHi, Energy!Achieving Environmental Goals Through Community EngagementIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about the connections between community engagement and environmental policy. Ken Chawkins, a professor at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs, joins the show to share wisdom from nearly 30 years in public affairs, serving business, labor, government, and nonprofits.
Ken and Esteban discuss coalition building towards climate solutions, how to get involved locally and politically to support the environment, climate policy from a working class perspective, and so much more.
Additional References from the podcast:
Books
Who Is Government by Michael Lewis
Articles
California makes major chang...
2025-11-1031 minHi, Energy!Climate in the NewsIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about how climate news is made. Sammy Roth, a former climate columnist for the LA Times and the host of the podcast and newsletter Boiling Point, has been writing about Southern California’s climate issues for over a decade. He now writes an independent newsletter, Climate-Colored Goggles, about climate & culture. In this episode, he comes to spill the tea on climate news.
Sammy and Esteban discuss how California is a hub for many of the most important climate issues facing the entire United States, how to be...
2025-10-3141 minHi, Energy!Driving Blueprint for Mobility and Civic StrategyIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about all of the options we have to move around LA. Eli Lipmen, Executive Director of Move LA, shares that the future of clean transit is a future with many options.
Eli and Esteban discuss the 2028 Olympics from a transit perspective, some of Move LA’s biggest policy wins, why a public transit advocate like Eli still sees value in owning his car, and so much more.
Additional References from the podcast:
Books
Nobody Walks in LA by John Bwarie
Arti...
2025-09-2934 minHi, Energy!Putting Local Communities at the Forefront of the Climate ConversationIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about local organizations keeping the residents in the communities they serve at the forefront of the climate conversation. Esteban is joined by Nicole Landers, Director of Communications & Partnerships @ GreenWealth Energy. Nicole is a longtime climate consultant and one of the founders of a community garden that helped nourish and support her local Venice community.
Nicole and Esteban discuss community-focused efforts to make electrical vehicle charging more accessible, how a few friends can make a real impact on the climate and on their community, how building sustainable communities is an...
2025-08-2540 minHi, Energy!Understanding Climate Policy Decision MakingIn this episode of Hi, Energy! We learn about local clean energy projects and how they support a larger and greener statewide vision for California. He is joined by Heather Repenning, Vice President, Account Manager and Resilience Lead at Jacobs, and the former Executive Officer for Sustainability at LA Metro where she led efforts to support clean transportation and reduce emissions within LA Metro’s capital expansion program.
Heather and Esteban talk about the way design choices made by local governments impact the choices we make as we travel through southern California. They also di...
2025-07-2833 minHi, Energy!Hi, Energy! is Back!Hi, Energy! is back! This season, we’re diving deeper into real-world stories, smart energy solutions, and local community voices driving change right here in our neighborhoods.
Hear from Southern California’s best and brightest leaders rolling up their sleeves to make clean and sustainable energy work for everyone.And insights from experts who work with government officials to turn big climate goals into real climate action.
New episodes of Hi, Energy are coming out every month. So check out our Instagram and subscribe to the show on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, and...
2025-07-2101 minHi, Energy!Environmental Justice: A Call For EqualityIn this episode of Hi, Energy! Esteban Gast dives into the vital topic of environmental justice with Veronica Padilla-Campos, Executive Director of Pacoima Beautiful. Together, they explore what environmental justice means, the systemic issues behind environmental racism, and how climate change disproportionately impacts low-income and marginalized communities. Veronica shares inspiring stories of advocacy, the real-world consequences of environmental inequities, and actionable steps to drive change.
2025-02-2529 minHi, Energy!Boosting Efficiency: SOCalREN's Impact on Cities & SchoolsIn this episode of Hi, Energy! Esteban Gast sits down with Rachel Pennington, Assistant Director of Energy Services at The Energy Coalition, to explore how SoCalREN’s Public Agency Program is helping cities, school districts, and government agencies save money and energy through impactful projects. Rachel shares success stories, breaks down how public agencies can implement energy-efficient improvements, and highlights the long-term benefits of sustainability. They also answer listener questions about overcoming budget constraints and supporting smaller agencies.
2025-01-2726 minHi, Energy!Breaking Into the Green EconomyEsteban Gast dives into the exciting world of green career pathways with Ben Stapleton, Executive Director of the US Green Building Council – California. As industries shift toward sustainability, Ben breaks down the growing opportunities in fields like green building, energy efficiency, and clean technology. They also explore how these careers are evolving, the importance of equity in the green economy, and how to get started, even if you're transitioning from a non-environmental background. Tune in for expert insights, practical advice, and a roadmap to making a real impact through your work!
2024-12-3034 minHi, Energy!The Urban Heat Island Effect: Why It Matters and How We Can Fix ItIn this episode of Hi, Energy!, Esteban Gast dives into the rising challenge of urban heat islands, especially here in Southern California where summer heat is only intensifying. But it’s not just about the problem—it’s about finding solutions! Esteban is joined by Amanda Begley, Senior Program Manager at TreePeople, who shares her expertise on how green spaces, reflective materials, and community action can help cool our cities. They discuss public health impacts, successful green projects, and ways listeners can get involved. Tune in for actionable tips to beat the heat!
2024-11-2528 minHi, Energy!Heat Pumps: They Heat, They Cool, and They’re a Game Changer for SoCalEsteban chats with energy engineer Evan Davis, who’s on a mission to bring heat pumps to homes across SoCal. They may not sound glamorous, but these versatile gadgets are game-changers for home heating and cooling, especially here in sunny Southern California. They’ll break down how heat pumps work, why they’re a win for both your wallet and the environment, and what you need to know if you’re thinking about making the switch. Plus, they’ll answer listener questions about installation costs, energy savings, and whether heat pumps can handle extreme weather.Tune in to find ou...
2024-10-2825 min
Hi, Energy!Decarbonization 101In the season premiere of Hi, Energy! Esteban Gast tackles a big one—decarbonization. But don’t worry, this isn’t a science class! Esteban keeps it fun and breaks it down so you can casually drop "decarbonization" into conversation like a pro. Joining him is Jakub Zielkiewicz, the Director of Climate Planning at ICF, to help us get what decarbonization really means for LA and how we can all pitch in to hit those big emission-cutting goals. From cool tech solutions to simple everyday actions, Jakub’s got practical tips for how we can all do our part to make...
2024-10-0135 min
Hi, Energy!Introducing Hi, Energy!Reducing energy use today is key to a safer, more affordable, and sustainable tomorrow. In this season of Hi, Energy!, we bring you front-row access to the innovators and leaders across Southern California who are making a real difference. From demystifying the benefits of heat pumps to guiding you through actionable steps toward decarbonization, we’re here to help you navigate the path to a cleaner, greener future. We’ll also uncover career opportunities in the booming green economy and tackle the urgent challenges of urban heat islands. Whether you’re looking to make smarter energy choices at home, work...
2024-09-2701 min
Hi, Energy!The Future of Women In EnergyFor episode number 18 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, speaks with Tinuviel Carlson, Program Manager at The Energy Coalition, and Cassie Smith & Megan Kendall from the California Climate Action Corp, about their individual experiences in the energy industry to date, as fellows and ultimately as energy sector professionals in their early careers to date.
2023-10-0934 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesThe Future of Women In EnergyFor episode number 18 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, speaks with Tinuviel Carlson, Program Manager at The Energy Coalition, and Cassie Smith & Megan Kendall from the California Climate Action Corp, about their individual experiences in the energy industry to date, as fellows and ultimately as energy sector professionals in their early careers to date.
2023-10-0934 min
Hi, Energy!Women in Energy: Past and PresentFor episode number 17 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Jenny Berg (recently retired) of BayREN and RaChelle Taccone with the LA County Public Works Department, about their experience in the energy industry, their challenges, and successes in their work to date, and what they look forward to in the years to come.
2023-09-1818 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesWomen in Energy: Past and PresentFor episode number 17 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Jenny Berg (recently retired) of BayREN and RaChelle Taccone with the LA County Public Works Department, about their experience in the energy industry, their challenges, and successes in their work to date, and what they look forward to in the years to come.
2023-09-1818 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesThe High Sierra Energy Foundation and its Partnership with SoCalRENWith episode 16, we interviewed Pam Bold (Executive Direction of High Sierra Energy Foundation) who joined HSEF in 2015 after a hiatus spent raising two active boys and volunteering extensively in the area she serves today. As stated in her bio, “Pam has a degree in something she never worked one day in, spent her early career in the tech field, and couldn’t be happier that she found her way to a role that allows her to have a positive impact on people and the environment.” She now lives out a long-time passion of working in energy and has been a vital...
2023-07-2113 min
Hi, Energy!The High Sierra Energy Foundation and its Partnership with SoCalRENWith episode 16, we interviewed Pam Bold (Executive Direction of High Sierra Energy Foundation) who joined HSEF in 2015 after a hiatus spent raising two active boys and volunteering extensively in the area she serves today. As stated in her bio, “Pam has a degree in something she never worked one day in, spent her early career in the tech field, and couldn’t be happier that she found her way to a role that allows her to have a positive impact on people and the environment.” She now lives out a long-time passion of working in energy and has been a vital...
2023-07-2113 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesThe High Sierra Energy Foundation and its Partnership with SoCalRENFor episode number 16 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Pam Bold, Executive Director at High Sierra Energy Foundation. Pam has lead the collaboration with SoCalREN and succeeded in the implementation of energy efficiency program in both Inyo and Mono Counties, which cover 13,222 square miles, hosts a relatively small population, and temperatures see wild opposite extremes.
2023-06-0817 min
Hi, Energy!The Las Virgenes Municipal Water DistrictFor episode number 15 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes John Zhao, with the La Virgenes Municipal Water District. John discusses how his team is addressing water supply challenges and utilizing their partnership with SoCalREN to pave the path of energy savings.
2023-06-0817 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesIntroducing Kids to Energy Efficiency with “Kits for Kids” For episode number 14 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Laurie Jacobs, Program Coordinator with South Bay Cities Council of Governments, and Dan Bonn, an educator with Towne Avenue Elementary School. Both have been involved in an innovative education program, Kits for Kits, that educates students, teachers, and families alike about the importance of energy efficiency. Along with providing easy to install, no-cost items like LED bulbs to help parents and guardians save at home, participating classrooms can earn an $1000 incentive for their efforts.
2023-01-0612 min
Hi, Energy!Introducing Kids to Energy Efficiency with “Kits for Kids”For episode number 14 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, host Julie Castro, welcomes Laurie Jacobs, Program Coordinator with South Bay Cities Council of Governments, and Dan Bonn, an educator with Towne Avenue Elementary School. Both have been involved in an innovative education program, Kits for Kits, that educates students, teachers, and families alike about the importance of energy efficiency. Along with providing easy to install, no-cost items like LED bulbs to help parents and guardians save at home, participating classrooms can earn an $1000 incentive for their efforts.
2023-01-0612 min
Hi, Energy!The Greenlining Institute: Environmental Justice for Communities of ColorFor episode number 13 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Greenlining Institute’s, Alvaro Sanchez, joins host Julie Castro to discuss Environmental Justice for Communities of Color. The Greenlining Institute is committed to building a just economy that is inclusive, cooperative, sustainable, participatory, fair, and healthy. Their multifaceted advocacy efforts address the root causes of racial, economic, and environmental inequities to meaningfully transform the material conditions of communities of color in California and across the country. They envision a future where communities of color can build a wealth, live in healthy places, filled with economic opportunity, and are read...
2022-10-1833 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesThe Greenlining Institute: Environmental Justice for Communities of ColorFor episode number 13 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Greenlining Institute’s, Alvaro Sanchez, joins host Julie Castro to discuss Environmental Justice for Communities of Color. The Greenlining Institute is committed to building a just economy that is inclusive, cooperative, sustainable, participatory, fair, and healthy. Their multifaceted advocacy efforts address the root causes of racial, economic, and environmental inequities to meaningfully transform the material conditions of communities of color in California and across the country. They envision a future where communities of color can build a wealth, live in healthy places, filled with economic opportunity, and are read...
2022-10-1833 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesLos Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE): Activism in Local Communities with RePower LA For episode number 12 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy’s Community Organizer, Kameron Hurt, joins host Julie Castro to discuss Activism in Local Communities with RePower LA. Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE) is recognized nationally as an advocacy organization building a community-centric economy. LAANE promotes a new economic approach based on good jobs, thriving communities, and a healthy environment. LAANE’s campaign, RePower LA is a citywide coalition of community groups, environmentalists, and small businesses anchored by LAANE, SCOPE, and IBEW Local 18 that advocates equitable environmental programs and ca...
2022-08-2527 min
Hi, Energy!Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE): Activism in Local Communities with RePower LAFor episode number 12 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy’s Community Organizer, Kameron Hurt, joins host Julie Castro to discuss Activism in Local Communities with RePower LA. Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE) is recognized nationally as an advocacy organization building a community-centric economy. LAANE promotes a new economic approach based on good jobs, thriving communities, and a healthy environment. LAANE’s campaign, RePower LA is a citywide coalition of community groups, environmentalists, and small businesses anchored by LAANE, SCOPE, and IBEW Local 18 that advocates equitable environmental programs and ca...
2022-08-2527 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesCool Irvine: Irvine's Campaign to Reach Carbon Neutrality by 2030For episode number 11 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Cool Irvine’s Environmental Programs Administrator, Sona Coffee, joins host Julie Castro to discuss their campaign to reach carbon neutrality by 2030. Cool Irvine’s, Cool Block Program is developed to create planet friendly, disaster resilient, and community rich neighborhoods. The cities efforts to incorporate sustainability measures into their homes will help conserve natural resources, improve energy and water efficiency, and reduce your carbon footprint. In addition, with the synergy created by the community, all the actions taken will work together to make Irvine carbon neutral by 2030 as part of the...
2022-07-2820 min
Hi, Energy!Cool Irvine: Irvine's Campaign to Reach Carbon Neutrality by 2030For episode number 11 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, Cool Irvine’s Environmental Programs Administrator, Sona Coffee, joins host Julie Castro to discuss their campaign to reach carbon neutrality by 2030. Cool Irvine’s, Cool Block Program is developed to create planet friendly, disaster resilient, and community rich neighborhoods. The cities efforts to incorporate sustainability measures into their homes will help conserve natural resources, improve energy and water efficiency, and reduce your carbon footprint. In addition, with the synergy created by the community, all the actions taken will work together to make Irvine carbon neutral by 2030 as part of the...
2022-07-2820 min
Hi, Energy!USGBC-LA's Ben Stapleton on Sustainability in LA Schools and BusinessesFor episode number 10 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, US Green Building Council Los Angeles (USGBC-LA) Executive Director, Ben Stapleton, joins host Julie Castro to discuss sustainability in LA schools and businesses.USGBC-LA’s focus is people and creating a more sustainable future for Southern California. Their initiatives embody action, education, and engagement while collaboratively and inclusively improving local communities. Their members and volunteers believe in creating a more sustainable built environment through education, innovation, and impactful action. They take steps in impacting communities and building a legacy.
2022-05-2427 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesUSGBC-LA's Ben Stapleton on Sustainability in LA Schools and BusinessesFor episode number 10 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, US Green Building Council Los Angeles (USGBC-LA) Executive Director, Ben Stapleton, joins host Julie Castro to discuss sustainability in LA schools and businesses.USGBC-LA’s focus is people and creating a more sustainable future for Southern California. Their initiatives embody action, education, and engagement while collaboratively and inclusively improving local communities. Their members and volunteers believe in creating a more sustainable built environment through education, innovation, and impactful action. They take steps in impacting communities and building a legacy.
2022-05-2427 min
Hi, Energy!The City of West Hollywood: A SoCalREN Public Agency VeteranFor episode number 9 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, City of West Hollywood Long Range Planning and Sustainability Manager, Robyn Eason, and Senior Administrative Analyst, Erin Hamant joined host Julie Castro to discuss local energy initiatives.The City of West Hollywood has been enrolled in the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) Public Agency Programs for 8 years. Through this partnership, the city and SoCalREN have collaborated on retrofitting city streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs and conducted energy assessments at multiple city sites to identify opportunities for more energy savings and GHG emission reductions. The City and SoCalREN implemented an...
2022-04-1428 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesThe City of West Hollywood: A SoCalREN Public Agency VeteranFor episode number 9 of SoCalREN’s ReEnergizing Communities podcast, City of West Hollywood Long Range Planning and Sustainability Manager, Robyn Eason, and Senior Administrative Analyst, Erin Hamant joined host Julie Castro to discuss local energy initiatives.The City of West Hollywood has been enrolled in the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) Public Agency Programs for 8 years. Through this partnership, the city and SoCalREN have collaborated on retrofitting city streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs and conducted energy assessments at multiple city sites to identify opportunities for more energy savings and GHG emission reductions. The City and SoCalREN implemented an...
2022-04-1428 min
Hi, Energy!Utility Debt Relief and Energy Justice with SCOPEFor episode number 8 of ReEnergizing Communities, Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE) Executive Director, Gloria Medina and SCOPE Member, Peggy Scott join host Julie Castro to discuss Utility Debt Relief and Energy Justice. For over 10 years, SCOPE has worked with community-based organizations, labor unions, and environmental groups to ensure low-income communities of color are at the forefront of the green job sector. SCOPE’s strong presence in the community and drive to create equal opportunities within them has generated energy justice across Los Angeles. Gloria and Peggy give a detailed overview of the work SCOPE is doing to...
2022-03-1733 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesUtility Debt Relief and Energy Justice with SCOPEFor episode number 8 of ReEnergizing Communities, Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE) Executive Director, Gloria Medina and SCOPE Member, Peggy Scott join host Julie Castro to discuss Utility Debt Relief and Energy Justice. For over 10 years, SCOPE has worked with community-based organizations, labor unions, and environmental groups to ensure low-income communities of color are at the forefront of the green job sector. SCOPE’s strong presence in the community and drive to create equal opportunities within them has generated energy justice across Los Angeles. Gloria and Peggy give a detailed overview of the work SCOPE is doing to...
2022-03-1733 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesUtility Debt Relief and Energy Justice with SCOPEFor episode number 8 of ReEnergizing Communities, Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE) Executive Director, Gloria Medina and SCOPE Member, Peggy Scott join host Julie Castro to discuss Utility Debt Relief and Energy Justice. For over 10 years, SCOPE has worked with community-based organizations, labor unions, and environmental groups to ensure low-income communities of color are at the forefront of the green job sector. SCOPE’s strong presence in the community and drive to create equal opportunities within them has generated energy justice across Los Angeles. Gloria and Peggy give a detailed overview of the work SCOPE is doing to...
2022-03-1700 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesSan Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and their Partnership with SoCalRENFor episode number 7 of ReEnergizing Communities, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Executive Director, Marisa Creter joins host Julie Castro to discuss Local and State Objectives and their Partnership with SoCalREN. SGVCOG is a regional government planning agency that aims to maximize the quality of life in the San Gabriel Valley. The SGVCOG is the largest and most diverse sub-regional council of governments in Los Angeles County. It encompasses more than 374 square miles and has more than 2 million residents. SGVCOG discusses how they are leveraging local knowledge and strong relationships with SoCalREN’s various Programs, to bring energy ef...
2022-01-2621 min
Hi, Energy!San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and their Partnership with SoCalRENFor episode number 7 of ReEnergizing Communities, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Executive Director, Marisa Creter joins host Julie Castro to discuss Local and State Objectives and their Partnership with SoCalREN. SGVCOG is a regional government planning agency that aims to maximize the quality of life in the San Gabriel Valley. The SGVCOG is the largest and most diverse sub-regional council of governments in Los Angeles County. It encompasses more than 374 square miles and has more than 2 million residents. SGVCOG discusses how they are leveraging local knowledge and strong relationships with SoCalREN’s various Programs, to bring energy ef...
2022-01-2621 min
Hi, Energy!Clean Power: Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH)For episode number 6 of ReEnergizing Communities, Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) Program Manager, Kajsa Hendrickson joins host Chris Ford to discuss SOMAH, currently the largest solar-owned investment in the country. The program will deliver clean power and credits on energy bills to hundreds of thousands of California’s affordable housing residents. Kasja gives a detailed overview of the unique program as it is the first of its kind. She also discusses the sustainability goals, program design, benefits for tenants, and more.
2021-11-2226 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesClean Power: Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH)For episode number 6 of ReEnergizing Communities, Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) Program Manager, Kajsa Hendrickson joins host Chris Ford to discuss SOMAH, currently the largest solar-owned investment in the country. The program will deliver clean power and credits on energy bills to hundreds of thousands of California’s affordable housing residents. Kasja gives a detailed overview of the unique program as it is the first of its kind. She also discusses the sustainability goals, program design, benefits for tenants, and more.
2021-11-2226 min
Hi, Energy!Upcoming Initiatives: CPUC and the CommunityFor episode number 5 of ReEnergizing Communities, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Commissioner Genevieve Shiroma joins host Chris Ford to discuss ongoing initiatives at the CPUC level. Shiroma discusses SB 350, the role local governments can play in achieving clean energy goals for the state, wildfire mitigation efforts, and more.
2021-10-0522 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesUpcoming Initiatives: CPUC and the Community For episode number 5 of ReEnergizing Communities, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Commissioner Genevieve Shiroma joins host Chris Ford to discuss ongoing initiatives at the CPUC level. Shiroma discusses SB 350, the role local governments can play in achieving clean energy goals for the state, wildfire mitigation efforts, and more.
2021-10-0522 min
Hi, Energy!Assembly Bill 841 School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Pt. 2For episode number 4 of ReEnergizing Communities, Christine Marez of Cumming Corporation joins host Chris Ford to discuss Assembly Bill 841 and the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program that was created as a result of its passage. Marez discusses energy-related challenges schools are facing during the pandemic, which types of projects districts should prioritize with state and federal funding, and the specific steps districts should take to attain grant funding.
2021-09-0923 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesAssembly Bill 841 School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Pt. 2For episode number 4 of ReEnergizing Communities, Christine Marez of Cumming Corporation joins host Chris Ford to discuss Assembly Bill 841 and the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program that was created as a result of its passage. Marez discusses energy-related challenges schools are facing during the pandemic, which types of projects districts should prioritize with state and federal funding, and the specific steps districts should take to attain grant funding.
2021-09-0923 min
Hi, Energy!Assembly Bill 841 School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Pt. 1For episode number 3 of ReEnergizing Communities, Jay Kim from the Colton Joint Unified School District joins host Chris Ford to discuss Assembly Bill 841 and the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program that was created as a result of its passage. Kim discusses the impact of this Program on both his district and other school districts in the process of reopening, as well as how to take advantage of the available resources to upgrade HVAC systems in schools and improve overall energy efficiency.
2021-08-1824 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesAssembly Bill 841 School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Pt. 1For episode number 3 of ReEnergizing Communities, Jay Kim from the Colton Joint Unified School District joins host Chris Ford to discuss Assembly Bill 841 and the School Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program that was created as a result of its passage. Kim discusses the impact of this Program on both his district and other school districts in the process of reopening, as well as how to take advantage of the available resources to upgrade HVAC systems in schools and improve overall energy efficiency.
2021-08-1824 min
Hi, Energy!Energy Efficiency PolicymakingFor episode number 2 of ReEnergizing Communities, Kurt Johnson from The Climate Center joins host Chris Ford to discuss his organization’s work, structuring energy efficiency-related policy at both the state and federal level, and how the state of California can become more energy resilient. Other topics include Kurt’s work on the EPA’s Green Power Partnership Program and the status of the Community Energy Resilience Act in the State legislature.
2021-07-0823 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesEnergy Efficiency PolicymakingFor episode number 2 of ReEnergizing Communities, Kurt Johnson from The Climate Center joins host Chris Ford to discuss his organization’s work, structuring energy efficiency-related policy at both the state and federal level, and how the state of California can become more energy resilient. Other topics include Kurt’s work on the EPA’s Green Power Partnership Program and the status of the Community Energy Resilience Act in the State legislature.
2021-07-0823 minHi, Energy!Energy Resiliency in Southern CaliforniaIn the pilot episode of ReEnergizing Communities, host Dan Tyler sits down with four guests to discuss energy resiliency and the important role it plays for communities across Southern California. Energy resiliency is defined as an entity's ability to withstand or recover quickly from disruptions in available and affordable energy resources. The panel includes:
Lujuana Medina, a manager for the Los Angeles County Internal Services Department, Environmental Initiatives Division, which administers SoCalREN.
Chris Ford, Assistant Director of Energy Services for The Energy Coalition, also known as TEC. TEC is a nonprofit organization that partners with...
2021-03-1532 min
ReEnergizing CommunitiesEnergy Resiliency in Southern CaliforniaIn the pilot episode of ReEnergizing Communities, host Dan Tyler sits down with four guests to discuss energy resiliency and the important role it plays for communities across Southern California. Energy resiliency is defined as an entity's ability to withstand or recover quickly from disruptions in available and affordable energy resources. The panel includes:Lujuana Medina, a manager for the Los Angeles County Internal Services Department, Environmental Initiatives Division, which administers SoCalREN.Chris Ford, Assistant Director of Energy Services for The Energy Coalition, also known as TEC. TEC is a nonprofit organization that partners with...
2021-03-1532 min