Challenges and Opportunities in the Renewable Energy Industry

On this episode of Know Power, we delve into the complex world of solar panel manufacturing and the challenges faced by the global solar industry. From the impact of trade wars on the solar supply chain to the need for onshoring processes, we discuss the urgent need for a comprehensive discussion around establishing a transmission policy in the US. We also explore the challenges of long-term planning for procurement and why the Inflation Reduction Act has been a game changer for the renewable energy industry. Our guest for this episode is the Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Pine Gate, Brett White, who provides insights into the company's growth and expansion plans, as well as their in-depth knowledge of federal agency engagement, RTO engagement in wholesale markets, and international trade. Join us as we explore the nuances of onshoring solar supply chains and the opportunities it presents for American jobs and communities.

Guest bio: Brett focuses on Pine Gate’s activities in the wholesale electricity markets as well as matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). He previously spent several years in private practice representing regional transmission organizations and investor-owned utilities before FERC and the federal courts.

Before his time in private practice, Brett served as an Attorney-Advisor in FERC’s office of general counsel. He was also the director of federal regulatory affairs for the Edison Electric Institute. Brett is a graduate of the Vermont Law School, where he served as Editor-in-Chief of the Vermont Law Review, and of Appalachian State University. He is a resident of Washington, D.C.

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[00:02:33] An overview of Pine Gate: A utility-scale solar developer and operator

[00:04:11] His responsibilities  as the Vice President of Regulatory Affairs

[00:05:34] Tariff issues impact the solar industry, shifting imports and trade dynamics

[00:07:10] Anti-dumping and 201 tariffs impact the solar industry, targeting specific countries and all imports

[00:09:36] Tariffs create uncertainty, affecting procurement decisions and long-term planning

[00:12:21] Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) positively impacts businesses with extended tax credits

[00:16:21] Tax equity financing incentivizes investment in renewable projects with low-cost capital

[00:20:48] Investments in domestic manufacturing create jobs and drive the energy transition

[00:23:48] IRA incentivizes onshoring of solar supply chains to reduce reliance on China

[00:28:01] The timeline for onshoring the solar supply chain is influenced by several factors

[00:35:04] Navigating policy discussions for responsible onshoring of solar supply chain

[00:36:05] Energy community adder brings complexities and uncertainties regarding project eligibility and timelines

[00:42:17] The future for Pine Gate is promising, with opportunities for growth, innovation, and success

[00:46:34] What Brett’s ideal energy future looks like

[00:50:43] Balancing domestic manufacturing goals with immediate project deployment challenges

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