Community Solar 101: Unlocking Renewable Energy for Everyone with Jason Kaplan of PowerMarket

Green Giants: Titans of Renewable Energy Podcast

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In this episode of Green Giants: Titans of Renewable Energy, host Wes Ashworth welcomes Jason Kaplan, the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel at PowerMarket. Jason shares his incredible journey from studying geology and environmental law to becoming a pivotal leader in the renewable energy sector. Under his guidance, PowerMarket has transformed into a leading force in community solar, supporting nearly 400 projects across 11 states and servicing over 85,000 subscribers. Discover how PowerMarket combines cutting-edge software with deep energy policy expertise to deliver affordable, clean power to communities, especially low and moderate-income households. Join us as we delve into the transformative potential of community solar and learn how you can make a tangible difference in the fight against climate change.

Show Notes:

Introduction

• [00:00] Wes Ashworth introduces Jason Kaplan, COO and General Counsel at PowerMarket.
• [01:21] Jason Kaplan shares his excitement about being on the show.

Jason Kaplan’s Background

• [01:24] Jason discusses his transition from environmental law to clean tech.
• [01:46] His academic journey: from a geology major at Colgate to environmental law at Vermont Law School.
• [02:42] Early career experiences at General Electric and law firms.

Entering the Clean Tech World

• [03:53] Jason’s realization that hard environmental law wasn't his passion.
• [05:06] The pivotal moment at a New York City clean tech incubator event.
• [06:02] Joining United Wind and finding his niche in clean tech startups.

PowerMarket’s Growth and Impact

• [07:03] Jason talks about his role in PowerMarket’s expansion and community solar.
• [07:38] Explanation of community solar and its benefits.
• [09:37] Challenges and benefits of including low-income households in community solar.

Practical Insights on Community Solar

• [13:05] Case study: PowerMarket’s partnership with Redwood Family Care Network.
• [14:23] Overcoming skepticism and barriers to community solar adoption.
• [18:20] Steps individuals and organizations can take to get involved.

Policy and Regulation

• [22:35] Treasury IRS guidance on low-income households and its impact on community solar.
• [25:04] Addressing frictions and practical solutions for low-income customer inclusion.

Future of Community Solar

• [30:37] PowerMarket’s vision and future goals for expanding community solar.
• [32:29] Importance of strong relationships with utilities and policy expertise.

Closing Remarks

• [34:38] Jason’s passion for renewable energy and making a positive impact.
• [35:15] How listeners can get involved with community solar through PowerMarket.

Call to Action

• [35:53] Visit PowerMarket to explore community solar projects.
• [35:53] Contact Jason Kaplan at [e-mail] for more information.
• [36:23] Subscribe to the podcast on all major platforms and share this episode with your network.

Keywords:

Community Solar, Renewable Energy, Clean Energy Solutions, Jason Kaplan, PowerMarket, Solar Projects, Clean Tech, Environmental Law, Low-Income Households, Sustainable Energy, Renewable Energy Podcast, Energy Policy, Solar Energy, Climate Change Solutions, Green Energy

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