Shows
Probably True Solar StoriesBonus Episode:REALLY True Solar Stories -- Live From RE+ 2024!On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we're going rogue for a midseason bonus episode! Instead of the strange and wonderful fictional solar stories that we usually tell, we're going to share some strange and wonderful REALLY True Solar Stories from actual solar workers and solar industry leaders.There are around 279,000 solar industry workers today. And about 40,000 of those came to the RE+ conference in Anaheim, California in September 2024. And about 100 of those attendees came to my annual Social Views & Brews Happy Hour that I host with the support of the generous and beautiful people who run...2025-04-0448 min
Probably True Solar StoriesA Declaration of Probably True Solar Independence (Encore)For July 4th, I asked ChatGPT to write a version of the Declaration of Independence for solar power. The result was pretty good, so I wanted to share it. "When in the course of human development, it becomes necessary for individuals and communities to break free from the dependence on unsustainable and finite sources of energy, and to embrace the abundance of renewable solar power, a respect for the laws of nature and sustainability requires that they should declare the reasons.For this transition, we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all individuals and c...2024-07-0304 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Naked Solar Lady (Encore)On the next encore episode of Probably True Solar Stories, a semi-sweet retired teacher gets inspired by Greta Thunberg to advocate for solar energy. But when her neighbors make excuses for not getting a solar quote, she starts a radical social media campaign that almost gets her arrested by the local Sheriff.True Solar TakeawaysThis story is fiction, but Greta Thunberg is very real and a true climate action activist. You can follow her on Twitter and on Instagram, and you can follow her campaign here. Here's a link to her "How Dare Yo...2024-06-2616 min
Probably True Solar StoriesA Murder of Solar Crows (Part 2)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we conclude "A Murder of Solar Crows." Four thieves have tried to strip two solar farms of their expensive copper wires, solar panels, and other equipment. But a brown tabby cat and her animal friends keep getting in their way. Will the gang finally beat her on their third and final job?True Solar TakeawaysListen to Part 1 here: https://www.probablytruesolar.com/murder-crows/A line of crows on a tree limb or electrical wire is called "A murder of crows."Kelptovoltaics is the term for the a...2024-06-1919 min
Probably True Solar StoriesA Murder of Solar Crows (Part 1)Four thieves break into three solar projects during long holiday weekends, trying to steal the solar panels, copper wire, and other equipment. But each time they try, a brown tabby cat stops them with deadly consequences. True Solar TakeawaysA line of crows on a tree limb or electrical wire is called "A murder of crows."Kelptovoltaics is the term for the act of stealing solar equipment from a solar project.Theft of solar modules, inverters, copper cabling, and other valuable equipment from solar installations is a real phenomenon, but there are no statistics...2024-06-1221 min
Probably True Solar StoriesBob, the Dog, and the Solar Vineyard (Encore)Bob is a winemaker who is having a mid-life crisis. Trying to pull it together, he converts the oldest part of his vineyard into a solar farm, adopts a lost dog, and tries to make great wine. But nothing goes as planned, so he decides to take a psychedelic trip that takes him on a solar magical mystery tour that sparks joy in everyone—especially the dog.True Solar TakeawaysVineyards use a tremendous amount of energy for irrigation pumps, refrigeration, bottling operations, and resort energy costs. Consequently, many wine companies are now converting a...2024-06-0530 min
Probably True Solar StoriesRufus the Solar Guard Dog (Encore)Rufus, a pet and mascot of a solar installer, is dognapped out of the installer's truck while on the job. A chase ensues, but we learn that the dog, the solar installer, and the dog napper aren't quite what they seem.True Solar TakeawaysAs of 2020, there are 20,000 military veterans in the solar industry, making up about 9% of the solar workforce.IREC, the Interstate Renewable Energy Council, supports veteran training programs. Get more information on these programs here.The Solar Ready Vets Fellowship connects mid-to-senior level transitioning service members with on-the-job training in leadership a...2024-05-2915 min
Sean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage PodcastNorCal Solar 50 Years PartyCelebrating 50 Years with NorCal Solar: Insights, Innovations, and Impact
In this special episode, join Sean White at the 50th NorCal Solar Anniversary Party in Oakland, California. Sean captures the essence of this vibrant gathering, filled with pioneers, innovators, and advocates for solar and energy storage. Each conversation shines a light on the diverse contributions to the solar industry and environmental sustainability. As we celebrate 50 years of NorCal Solar, join us in exploring the future of solar energy, the importance of community, and the advancements in technological and environmental advocacy.
Topics covered and people I talked to...2024-05-2653 min
Probably True Solar StoriesI'm Sorry, Ma'am, But You Can't Go Solar (Encore)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, a feisty senior citizen is determined to haggle with a solar salesman to buy the solar system of her dreams. But her haggling plans fall through when an honest salesperson refuses to sell an installation at any price. Can they find the solar win-win?True Solar TakeawaysNot every home is a good fit for solar. The home may have too many trees or other obstacles that block the sun--and solar production. The home may need a new roof. The home's wiring or service panel may need a...2024-05-2214 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon (Encore)Once upon a time, there were honest and friendly dragons who heated the boilers for steam-powered electric turbines. But due to the high cost of dragon energy, the King decided that the dragons needed to be replaced, sparking a bloody dragon war that led to the invention of solar power. True Solar TakeawaysFossil fuel-based generators work by burning fossil fuels, which boil water to high temperatures. The boiled, high-pressure water produces steam that spins an electric turbine, generating electricity.Unionized labor dominates the energy industry, including solar. All utilities contract or own stand-by pow...2024-05-1557 min
SunCastA love story, about Solar. w/Tor “Solar Fred” Valenza 265,000! That’s how many of you/us work in Solar Energy so far (and rapidly growing!)Yet, with 4 million solar installations in the U.S alone, Solar Energy is rarely featured in mainstream media. WHY?Probably True Solar Stories, a podcast created by Tor Valenza, also known as Solar Fred, aims to bridge this content gap with engaging solar-themed fictional tales.Valenza, once a Hollywood writer for shows like "The Dead Zone," "Dharma and Greg," and "Stargate SG-1” brings a uniquely solar flair (get it? 😉).This BONUS episode features Solar Fr...2024-05-1423 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Way: A Fable (Encore)Gather around the fireplace, solar friends. Pull up a seat at the bar. On the next, Probably True Solar Stories, we're going to tell a solar fable. It's a fairytale. A hero's journey sort of thing. With a Texas accent. (Forgive me in advance.)It's about a young, ambitious solar installer who seeks her fortune to be the most successful solar installer in all the land. And like many fables, our ambitious installer meets a wise guide--or in this case, a wise couple--who teaches her about The Solar Way, a solar-inspired guide to living life on The S...2024-05-0817 min
Probably True Solar StoriesWe Have a Pigeon Problem (Encore)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we have a pigeon problem. When a new solar owner sees that a pigeon is unrelentingly shit-bombing her brand-new solar array, she calls in a critter pro to do the dirty work. But then she discovers that her pigeon also has a problem, and the solution becomes complicated...Indeed, it's a probably true solar panel pigeon poo-poo problem that's probably more problematic than precisely pronouncing this preposterous sentence 10 times fast.But instead of doing that, just listen all the way through. Then ask yourself, "What would I have...2024-05-0126 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Caveman, the Devil’s Tools, and the Grid (Encore)Two teenagers are having a private moment in the hills above a utility substation when suddenly they happen upon a terrorist intent on bringing down their local grid. Will the teens escape and defeat the terrorist? Yes, but only with the help of modern-day cleantech resources...True Solar TakeawaysTerrorists have been attempting to disrupt the grid by firing rifle shots at the transformers of utility substations. Here are some news clips about these incidents:FBI thwarts neo-Nazi plot to attack Baltimore Gas & Electric substations, ‘completely destroy’ city Mass power outage in North Carolina cause...2024-04-2425 min
Probably True Solar StoriesWhy Solar Man Joined the Ultra League of Super Defenders (Encore)There's a new superhero in town. His name is Solar Man, and he's here to help the world, but not in the way you might think. To defeat his arch-nemesis, Solar Man reluctantly decides to join the Ultra League of Super Defenders, a band of superheroes that are beyond the law. But will Solar Man be able to show his Super Solar strengths and pass the audition?True Solar TakeawaysThe U.S. solar industry installs the equivalent of a residential solar installation every 39 seconds. All solar projects require some type of local permitting an...2024-04-1714 min
Probably True Solar StoriesMurder by Solar Drone (Encore)A solar installer thinks he hears a gunshot while performing a drone solar site survey. The shot--if it was a shot--came from the ranch house of his ex-fiancé. Can the solar installer’s drone footage solve the gunshot mystery? And even if it does, will anyone believe him?True Solar TakeawaysDrones are an increasingly common tool for inspecting and designing residential solar systems.A "POI" is an acronym for a drone circling program. It stands for "Point of Interest."Solar design software incorporates drone footage and photos. The software then sizes and designs the...2024-04-1027 min
Probably True Solar StoriesProbably True Solar Songs: A Ballad for Greta T (Live-ish)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, you’ll hear a new Probably True Solar Song that was inspired by the relentless climate action and advocacy of Greta Thunberg. True Solar TakeawaysWe loved this song so much that we made a music video version. Check it out at: https://youtu.be/T69fNdXsS9gListen to the original solar music pioneers and their real solar music written and sung by humans:Christie McCarthy & Jam Session - "Rise and Shine" - Watch it here.Cell Test Dummies - "Pure Energy (The Solar Song)" - Watch it...2024-04-0506 min
Probably True Solar StoriesProbably True Solar Songs: Bye Bye Utility Bill. Hello, Solar Thrill! (Live!... Kind of)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we return for our second Probably True Solar Song about a woman who decides to break up with her utility and fall in love with solar power. True Solar TakeawaysThis solar breakup song was inspired by my friend, "Solar Rosana" Francescato's blog post. Solar can and does reduce utility bills, but your payback time and ROI will vary on many factors. With some utility rates, your best option is to install solar with batteries.Check out the original solar music pioneers and their real solar music w...2024-04-0407 min
Probably True Solar StoriesProbably True Solar Songs: The Solar Coaster Life (Sort of Live)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we introduce our music division: Probably True Solar Songs. You'll also learn about our new solar-themed dive bar, meet the band, and hear our first future hit solar song, "The Solar Coaster Life." True Solar TakeawaysCheck out the original solar music pioneers and their real solar music written and sung by humans:Christie McCarthy & Jam Session - "Rise and Shine" - Watch it here.Cell Test Dummies - "Pure Energy (The Solar Song)" - Watch it here.The ReVisionistas - "Cover of the Solar Pro"...2024-04-0307 min
Probably True Solar StoriesGood Afternoon, Dude. I'm Solar Sam, Your Solar Salesbot (Encore)(The following is an encore episode from 2022, but all the info is still "probably true.")On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we imagine how the AI and robots of the future could affect solar sales in the year 2040. On the surface, it seems great, but there's a bit of a twist at the end... NOTE: This Probably True Solar Story does reference when two people fall in love, yada, yada, yada. So you should probably listen to this one when young kids aren't listening and it's just you and your significant other...2024-03-2722 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Psychic, the Solar Installer, and the CPUCOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, a psychic predicts a sunny future for a struggling solar installer and the entire California solar industry. But when the installer doesn’t believe her, the psychic makes a bet that could cost him a free solar installation. Can the psychic really change the installer's future or the CPUC?True Solar TakeawaysRecent decisions by the California Public Utilities Commission have resulted in 17,000 solar job losses in California, and there could be more.https://www.renewableenergyworld.com/solar/rooftop/california-nem-3-0-layoffs-and-closures-set-in-six-months-after-controversial-ruling/Studies show that rooftop solar is...2024-03-2120 min
Probably True Solar StoriesOur Solar State of the Union: The Energy Deep StateOn the next Probably True Solar Stories., we imagine what a fictional President Biden --a.k.a. "Dark Brandon"-- could have said at his 2024 State of the Union to bring more urgency about our global climate crisis and current solar and clean energy solutions.True Solar TakeawaysClimate Crisis and the Urgency to ActThe Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has consistently reported the urgency of acting on climate change to avoid catastrophic impacts. https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/syr/Solar and other renewables a...2024-03-1318 minSean White‘s Solar and Energy Storage PodcastTor "Solar Fred" Valenza of Probably True Solar Stories PodcastTor "Solar Fred" Valenza is a regular in the solar industry. Tor has a podcast called Probably True Solar Stories, which takes his expertise as a former Hollywood writer and merges that with the solar industry. Some of his Hollywood work was on popular shows, such as Stargate SG-1, Dharma & Greg, and The Dead Zone. Tor's current day job is he is a chief solar public relations geek at UnThink Solar, a solar PR and communications firm.
In this podcast we talk about how Tor Valenza became Solar Fred and how he made stories about solar.
...2024-03-101h 24
Probably True Solar StoriesHow Winnie-the-Pooh Went Solar (with Tigger Too!)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we revisit the story of how Winnie-the-Pooh went solar, but this time, with a certain Pooh character who wasn’t part of the public domain… until now. True Solar TakeawaysAs Christopher Robin mentioned, you should always get at least three solar quotes before selecting a solar installer.The typical solar system consists of the solar panels, the inverter, and the racking.An inverter converts the solar panel's direct current (DC) electricity into the alternating current (AC) electricity that's used by home electronics and appliances.A microinverter is in...2024-03-0619 min
Probably True Solar StoriesLet's Get Married at RE+ in Vegas (Live from Las Vegas)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, you’ll hear a live storytelling about two solar pros who decide to get married at a solar conference in Las Vegas. But when the wedding gets unexpectedly interrupted, the solar industry comes to the rescue.Watch the live video performance here: https://youtu.be/YyhWQi1d2ZE True Solar TakeawaysRE+ is the largest annual U.S. solar and renewable energy conference. It's held in various locations every year.Abby Hopper is the head of SEIA, the leading U.S. solar industry advocacy or...2024-02-2819 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 11: RewindOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, we conclude our limited series, "The Solar Heist, or How I Got Into the Solar Business." It's about two neighbors who unexpectedly form an odd friendship and work to uncover a solar energy crime syndicate. But arresting the syndicate’s leader turns out to be more complicated than they expected.Previous Solar Heist episodes:Listen to Part 1 here.Listen to Part 2 here.Listen to Part 3 here.Listen to Part 4 here.Listen to Part 5 here.Listen to Part 6 here.Listen to Part 7 here.Lis...2024-02-2135 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 10: TimingOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, we continue with Part 10 of "The Solar Heist" series. Mrs. Prout returns to Mazz and Charlie’s house to give them a warning. But Mazz and Charlie are already in Chico. Despite her efforts, it’s just bad timing for Sylvia, and really, for everyone...If you missed any of the previous Solar Heist episodes:Listen to Parts 1-6 here. Listen to Part 7 here.Listen to Part 8 here.Listen to Part 9 here.True Solar Takeaways (Careful! Spoilers!)Building solar projects on land...2024-02-1435 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 9: ChicoOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, "The Solar Heist" series continues. Charlie goes to Chico, California to hunt for "CATs," --certain awful things--buried at a landfill that’s about to become a new solar farm. Meanwhile, Mazz tries to calmly educate the solar farm’s opponents without doing ... certain awful things.To catch up with the previous episodes:Listen to Parts 1-6 here.Listen to Part 7 here.Listen to Part 8 here.True Solar TakeawaysAs part of the solar project development process, solar project developers have to get approvals from authorities havin...2024-02-0727 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 8: Mrs. ProutOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, Sylvia Prout, the widow of Richard Prout, visits Mazz and Charlie looking for answers about her husband's apparent murder. After some intense questioning and bourbon Irish coffees, Sylvia asks Mazz and Charlie for a favor that they can't refuse.If you missed the earlier episodes with Richard Prout, listen to episodes 3, 4, 5, and 6. True Solar TakeawaysPTO is a common utility solar acronym for Permission to Operate. It's the final go-ahead from the utility following inspections and approvals, allowing the solar system to legally and safely f...2024-01-3124 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 7: MonstersOn the next episode of Probably True Solar Stories, we continue with Part 7 of The Solar Heist, or How I Got Into the Solar Business. When an intruder breaks in and holds a gun to the head of Mazz's wife, Mazz, Charlie, and Beth come to the rescue. But doing so risks blowing Charlie's cover and the entire DOE intelligence operation.Listen to the previous episode here: The Solar Heist, Part 6: Trust Listen to all six previous chapters in a single episode here: The Solar Heist, Parts 1-6True Solar TakeawaysT...2024-01-2419 min
Probably True Solar StoriesSeason 3 Preview: The Energy Deep StateWelcome, solar fiction fans to the Season 3 preview of Probably True Solar Stories!Last season's theme was "Solar Noir." For Season 3, it's a presidential election year, so our stories are going to explore politics and the #EnergyDeepState. Listen to this episode to hear about the next ten solar stories. Note: The first five episodes will mark the conclusion of "The Solar Heist, or How I Got Into The Solar Business." Listen to The Solar Heist, Part 6 to refresh your memory about last season's cliffhanger.If you're brand new to the podcast, listen to The Solar Heist, Pa...2024-01-1705 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Reason We All Decided to Go Solar after Halloween (Bonus Episode)On the next Probably True Solar Stories, twenty homes on the same cul de sac decide to go solar on the day after a Halloween night blackout. It’s a simple story, but when a young reporter looks into it, he gets the Halloween scoop of his short lifetime.True Solar TakeawaysGoing solar is "contagious." That is, several studies have shown that when one person in a neighborhood goes solar, nearby homes follow.Blackouts often happen during a heatwave when energy-intensive air conditioning overwhelms the grid.In 2023, most solar homes need to add batteries to be...2023-10-2613 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Parts 1-6For those solar fiction fans who prefer the longer formats, we've combined all six episodes of "The Solar Heist" into a single two-hour version, including chapter headings. Two neighbors meet unexpectedly at an Oakland, California coffee shop specializing in dark, rich coffee. Mazz owns a trucking business by day and is a thief at night. Charlie is a solar project developer by day and a guy with an international solar problem that can only be solved by Mazz. As the two grow to be friends, Mazz realizes that Charlie may also have a dangerous side gig that...2023-09-201h 47
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Story Behind the Solar Panel: Solar Expectations (Sponsored)Today's Probably True Solar Stories mini-story is about one solar installer's expectations. It's also tangentially about a moose...("The Story Behind the Solar Panel" is a new Prbably True Solar Stories mini-story series that is supported by sponsors. The stories are still fun and original fictional solar stories, but they're shorter and written in collaboration with the episode's sponsors.) True Solar TakeawaysLearn more about Maxeon Solar Technologies' solar panels.If you're a solar installer, learn about Maxeon's partner program.Visit Maxeon's booth at RE+ in Las Vegas at Booth 3368.-----2023-09-1303 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Story Behind the Solar Panel: The Solar Superhero Story (Sponsored)Today's Probably True Solar Stories episode is about a solar superhero that you may already know...("The Story Behind the Solar Panel" is a new Prbably True Solar Stories mini-story series that is supported by sponsors. The stories are still fun and original fictional solar stories, but they're shorter and written in collaboration with the episode's sponsors.) True Solar TakeawaysLearn more about Maxeon Solar Technologies' solar panels.If you're a solar installer, learn about Maxeon's partner program.Visit Maxeon's booth at RE+ in Las Vegas at Booth 3368....2023-09-1103 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon, Parts 1, 2, & 3On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we’re bringing together our previously published solar dragon story, "The Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon." It’s the same Season 2 story, but instead of three 20-minute episodes, we’re telling this dragon tale in a single hour-long version for those who prefer a longer audio-novella version. --Once upon a time, there were honest and friendly dragons who heated the boilers for steam-powered electric turbines. The dragons enjoyed the job and were paid good union wages. However, due to the high cost of dragon energy, the Ki...2023-08-3057 min
Probably True Solar StoriesPart 6, The Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business: TrustOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, we end our Solar Noir season where we began. We continue the ongoing story of "The Solar Heist, or How I Got Into the Solar Business." In this next chapter, it’s all about Trust. Charlie finally comes clean about who he is and what his goals are. But will Mazz help? Or will he run? Or worse. There's also another reveal at the end, so if you haven't listened to the previous Solar Hiest episodes, here's where you can catch up here:Part 1: The Proposal 2023-08-1623 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon, Part 3On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we conclude the Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon. The evil King Maxwell and his Red Knight, Goran, have started the Second Dragon War, trying to replace the moody, but docile energy dragons with fossil fuels. The dragons fight back with their fire breath. But can they win the war without the help of solar power? True Solar TakeawaysThe world needs more solar and clean energy workers. Transitioning to clean energy will create more jobs than the jobs lost from winding down fossil...2023-08-0920 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon, Part 2On the next Probably True Solar Stories, we continue with part 2 of The Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon. Gorin, The Red Knight has invented a technology to replace dragon power with short-sighted fossil fuel power. But can Gorin quietly replace hundreds of fire-breathing dragons without getting burned and starting a Second Dragon War? Maybe not...True Solar TakeawaysUnions are truly a part of our utility energy operations and construction. They bargain for good prevailing wages and benefits, and they can also get involved in energy politics. For example, utility...2023-08-0222 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Red Knight and the Dawn of the Solar Dragon, Part 1Once upon a time, there were honest and friendly dragons who heated the boilers for steam-powered electric turbines. The dragons enjoyed the job and were paid good union wages. But due to the high cost of dragon energy, the King decided that the dragons needed to be replaced and sparked a bloody dragon war that led to the invention of solar power...FYI, this is a three-part episode. True Solar TakeawaysFossil fuel-based generators work by burning fossil fuels, which boil water to high temperatures. The boiled, high-pressure water produces steam that s...2023-07-2621 min
Probably True Solar StoriesRufus the Solar Guard DogRufus, the pet and mascot of a solar installer, is dognapped out of the installer's truck while on the job. A chase ensues, but we learn that the dog, the solar installer, and the dog napper aren't quite what they seem. True Solar TakeawaysAs of 2020, there are 20,000 military veterans in the solar industry, making up about 9% of the solar workforce.IREC, the Interstate Renewable Energy Council, supports veteran training programs. Get more information on these programs here.The Solar Ready Vets Fellowship connects mid-to-senior level transitioning service members with on-the-job training in leadership a...2023-07-1916 min
Probably True Solar StoriesMurder by Solar DroneA solar installer thinks he hears a gunshot while performing a drone solar site survey. The shot--if it was a shot--came from the ranch house of his ex-fiancé. Can the solar installer’s drone footage solve the gunshot mystery? And even if it does, will anyone believe him? True Solar TakeawaysDrones are an increasingly common tool for inspecting and designing residential solar systems.A "POI" is an acronym for a drone circling program. It stands for "Point of Interest."Solar design software incorporates drone footage and photos. The software then sizes and designs the...2023-07-1228 min
Probably True Solar StoriesBob, the Dog, and the Solar VineyardBob is a winemaker who is having a mid-life crisis. Trying to pull it together, he converts the oldest part of his vineyard into a solar farm, adopts a lost dog, and tries to make great wine. But nothing goes as planned, so he decides to take a psychedelic trip that takes him on a solar magical mystery tour that sparks joy in everyone—especially the dog. True Solar TakeawaysVineyards use a tremendous amount of energy for irrigation pumps, refrigeration, bottling operations, and resort energy costs. Consequently, many wine companies are now converting a...2023-07-0530 min
Probably True Solar StoriesBonus: A Declaration of Probably True Solar Independence DayHappy July 4th. I decided to do a quick, Probably True Solar Story by asking ChatGPT to write a version of the Declaration of Independence for solar power. The result was pretty good, so I wanted to share it. "When in the course of human development, it becomes necessary for individuals and communities to break free from the dependence on unsustainable and finite sources of energy, and to embrace the abundance of renewable solar power, a respect for the laws of nature and sustainability requires that they should declare the reasons.For this t...2023-07-0404 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Caveman, the Devil’s Tools, and the GridTwo teenagers are having a private moment in the hills above a utility substation when suddenly they happen upon a terrorist intent on bringing down their local grid. Will the teens escape and defeat the terrorist? Yes, but only with the help of some very modern and very real solar and smart electric resources.True Solar TakeawaysTerrorists have been attempting to disrupt the grid by firing rifle shots at the transformers of utility substations. Here are some news clips about these incidents:FBI thwarts neo-Nazi plot to attack Baltimore Gas & Electric substations, ‘completely de...2023-06-2826 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Naked Solar LadyOn the next Probably True Solar Stories, a semi-sweet retired teacher gets inspired by Greta Thunberg to advocate for solar energy. But when her neighbors make excuses for not getting a solar quote, she starts a radical social media campaign that almost gets her arrested by the local sheriff... who happens to be her grandson.True Solar TakeawaysThis story is fiction, but Greta Thunberg is very real and a true climate action activist. You can follow her on Twitter and on Instagram, and you can follow her campaign here. Here's a link to he...2023-06-2116 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 5: The EscapeAfter almost being shot by a crime syndicate enforcer, Charlie and Mazz go to confront Richard Prout about who really owns the utility solar project. But Richard won’t talk. Worse, he attempts a daring escape that frustrates the hell out of Mazz and Charlie and attempts to split them apart.True Solar TakeawaysBrownfields and landfills are ideal locations for utility solar projects because they're near grid infrastructure. Brownfields and landfills are also ideal because they typically qualify for a bonus 10% investment tax credit (ITC.) The standard solar investment tax credit is 30%.Ownership of a...2023-06-1420 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Part 4: The WarningSeason 2's theme is "Solar Noir," and we start off with a darkly comedic Part 4 of our Solar Heist series. (Catch up to Parts 1-3 here.) In Part 4, Mazz and Charlie are forced by Richard Prout, a crime syndicate boss, to dig up some CATs (Certain Awful Things) under Charlie's solar project, which used to be a landfill. As Charlie and Mazz dig, an unexpected visitor arrives to give Charlie a dangerous pop quiz. Will Charlie pass the test?True Solar TakeawaysThanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) solar project owners receive a 30% inve...2023-06-0722 min
Probably True Solar StoriesA Preview of Season 2: Solar NoirWe're back for Season 2 of Probably True Solar Stories. This season, the theme is "Solar Noir." You know, like film noir, except our twisted thrillers, murder, mysteries, and petty crime stories will all have something to do with solar energy. Why solar noir? Well, when I look at today's hit TV shows and films, many are thrillers and murder mysteries. And since our main goal for creating the podcast is to get solar into mainstream pop culture, there's no reason why fictional solar stories can't also be thrillers, murder mysteries--and even dragon stories. As long as...2023-05-2408 min
Probably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business, Parts 1, 2, & 3In preparation for launching Season 2 of Probably True Solar Stories, we've combined all three parts of "The Solar Heist, or How I Got Into the Solar Business" into a single 53-minute episode. Two neighbors meet unexpectedly at an Oakland, California coffee shop that specializes in dark, rich coffee. Mazz owns a trucking business by day and is a thief at night. Charlie is a solar project developer by day and a guy with an international solar problem that can only be solved by Mazz.After a somewhat successful solar panel heist, the two neighbors become...2023-05-1753 min
Dial the Gate175: Tor Valenza (Writer and Story Editor, SG-1)Tor Alexander Valenza, known just as much today by his pseudonym "Solar Fred," joins Dial the Gate to share tales about his scripts from Seasons Two to Four of SG-1, discuss the advantages of solar energy (especially if your interstellar ship is charged by the stars themselves) and take your questions LIVE!2023-02-221h 34SunCastMarketing Experts on How to Raise Brand Awareness, Lauren Glickman, Tor Valenza and Nico talk details It’s a holiday weekend, so I’ll keep the reading short for you.Every so often, I try to convene my close friends who are working in the trenches doing the guerilla and grass roots marketing helping our industry grow. Two-such folks are Tor “Solar Fred” Valenza, and Lauren “Windy Glick” Glickman, and I’ve truly come to admire and respect them both. I ask them a ton of questions in this conversation all about how they help their clients navigate the world of new media, social, podcasts, etc, and get more than a handful of tac...2022-12-2341 minProbably True Solar StoriesPart 3: The Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business: The FavorIn the next episode of Probably True Solar Stories, we continue the story of two neighbors who are part of the solar industry. Charlie is a large-scale utility solar developer while Mazz is a medium-scale thief who successfully "liberated" Charlie's solar panel shipment from a U.S. customs warehouse in Part 1 and Part 2. Now, in Part 3, it's a year later. Mazz has invested in a home solar company and trying to go legit. Meanwhile, Charlie's big solar project is almost complete... but there's a complication. Somebody knows about the solar panel heist. And that somebody now wants a...2022-11-3023 minProbably True Solar StoriesThe Solar Way -- A Fable About Successfully Riding the Solar CoasterGather around the fireplace, solar friends. Pull up a seat at the bar. On the next, Probably True Solar Stories, we're going to tell the first-ever solar fable. It's a fairytale. A hero's journey sort of thing. With a Texas accent. (Forgive me in advance.) This story may be a familiar one to people inside and outside the solar industry. It's about a young, ambitious solar installer who seeks her fortune to be the most successful solar installer in all the land. And like many fables, our ambitious installer meets a wise guide--or in this case, a wi...2022-11-2318 minProbably True Solar StoriesI'm Sorry, Ma'am, But You Can't Go SolarIn this episode of Probably True Solar Stories, a feisty senior citizen is determined to haggle with a solar salesman to buy the solar system of her dreams. But her haggling plans fall through when an honest salesperson refuses to sell an installation at any price. Can they find the solar win-win?True Solar TakeawaysNot every home is a good fit for solar. The home may have too many trees or other obstacles that block the sun--and solar production. The home may need a new roof. The home's wiring or service panel may need an u...2022-11-1614 minProbably True Solar StoriesWhy Solar Man Joined the Ultra League of Super DefendersThere's a new superhero in town. His name is Solar Man, and he's here to help the world, but not in the way you might think. To defeat his arch-nemesis, Solar Man reluctantly decides to join the Ultra League of Super Defenders, a band of superheroes that are beyond the law. But will Solar Man be able to show his Super Solar strengths and pass the audition?True Solar TakeawaysThe U.S. solar industry installs the equivalent of a residential solar installation every 60 seconds. All solar projects require some type of local permitting and...2022-11-0914 min
Probably True Solar StoriesHow Winnie the Pooh Went Solar (And Found More "Hunny")Note: For this episode, we're temporarily changing the name of Probably True Solar Stories to Probably POOH Solar Stories in honor of our main character, Winnie-the-Pooh. Once upon a time, not long ago, after public domain laws freed Winnie-the-Pooh from A.A. Milne's copyright ... there lived a bear who wanted to go solar but didn't understand the process or the technology. After some discussion with Solar Fred, the narrator, and Pooh's friends Piglet, Owl, and Rabbit, Winnie-the-Pooh decides that he will go solar ... as long as more "hunny" is somehow found by the end of...2022-11-0218 minProbably True Solar StoriesWe Didn’t Know Our Solar Home Was Haunted Until We Got a Text from the GhostThis Probably True Solar Story is the first haunted solar house story ever told... So... we're making pop-culture history! I think... If you find another one, let me know. As for the story, it's about a family that's moved into an updated solar home that seems to be haunted by a ghost with an unfulfilled environmental mission. But will that mission help the family ... or hurt them? This episode is fairly tame in the scary story department. There are a couple of bad words. So... listen to it first before sharing it with a...2022-10-2630 minProbably True Solar StoriesWe Have a Pigeon ProblemSolar homes come with minimal maintenance, especially when the solar has just been installed. But when a new solar owner sees that a pigeon is unrelentingly shit-bombing her brand-new solar array, she calls in a pro to do the dirty work. But then she discovers that her pigeon also has a problem, and there are very few things that can be done to fix the situation. Indeed, it's a probably true solar panel pigeon poo-poo problem that's probably more problematic than precisely pronouncing this preposterous sentence 10 times fast. But instead of doing that, just listen...2022-10-1927 minProbably True Solar StoriesGood Afternoon, Dude. I’m Solar Sam, Your Solar SalesBotHow will solar sales be different in the year 2040? Today’s solar sales experience is fairly familiar: You call for a solar quote. Or maybe someone comes to your door to set an appointment. Then you give some basic info about your electric bill, and the salesperson uses software to quickly generate a quote. And then you think about it, maybe compare it to other quotes. It’s a little painful and fairly easy, but could it be even easier in the future? And if it could be easier, at what cost to your personal life...2022-10-1223 minProbably True Solar StoriesPart 2: The Solar Heist, or How I Got into the Solar Business: The No-Good, Rotten HeistIn real life, you never hear about the perfect heist. That’s because when a real-life heist is perfect, there are no witnesses, the criminals disappear, and the case goes cold. Boring. Now, in a fictional heist story, something always goes wrong. It has to. It’s a story telling rule. So why should that change for a solar heist story? When we last left Mazz Botticelli in Part 1, he’d made a deal with his neighbor, Charlie Boston, to liberate some illegally imported solar panels from a U.S. Customs warehouse. In part 2, Mazz makes...2022-10-0523 min