Powering the future

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn from a panel of leaders about the benefits and incentives driving the push for renewable energy.  

In the latest episode of Coffee Conversations, Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with ABC Supply’s renewable energy team to talk about the latest advancements, challenges and opportunities in the renewable energy sector. They also highlighted the growing shift towards the use of renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind, and shared a little bit about what is driving the movement. James Mason, ABC Supply’s vice president of renewable energy, explained some of the context for the growth, saying, “Back in 2004 we could probably install about a gigawatt (a billion watts) in about a year. Let's fast forward to 2010. We could probably install that same gigawatt in about six months. Fast-forward to 2016, we could probably do that in about a week. Now, in 2024, sometimes we can do it in a day.” The key thing fostering the accelerated growth of this sector is the alignment of three key factors — policy, financing and support.  

One of the biggest ways this growth is visible is in the rise of solar installations on roofs, both commercial and residential. Eric Cieslak, ABC Supply’s business development manager for the West Region, shared his thoughts on the specifics of what has supported this increase, saying, “A clear sign of its expansion is the implementation of a tax benefit with the Inflation Reduction Act. For many communities and homeowners, it’s a compelling incentive to [transition to a renewable energy option].”   While the tax incentive plays a role, it’s not the only financial benefit prompting people to support renewable energy integration in their communities.  

Rob Smith, who is the business development manager for the Northeast and Southeast Regions, pointed out that inflation is causing people to look for ways to reduce their expenses. “Across the country, electricity rates have typically risen by about 3% each year, without any decreases. As prices go up, more people are looking to solar and battery storage to help save money.”  and “historically, electricity rates have always gone up roughly about 3% on a national level and never gone down. So, in order to combat that inflation and try to save money, people have started going a lot more with solar and battery storage.” Beyond the individual level, many communities are pushing for the development of local, renewable energy sources because of the security these systems can provide, such as during natural disasters. Anthony Romero, the business development manager for the Central Region, explained, “In Texas, having energy independence is a big thing for us. With all the storms that hit the coast and the power goes out, still being able to run your electricity, keep your fridge on and support your family and those times of need is a significant benefit.”  

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording for more about the push for renewable energy and the benefits it brings!