Expert Panel - Mastering Solar Project Success: Speed, Partnerships, and Problem-Solving | EP257

Clean Power Hour

Today on the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague explores two critical aspects of modern solar development: effective industry partnerships and IRA compliance. Four industry veterans share insights on how collaboration and compliance can coexist with aggressive timelines:

Successful Partnership Dynamics:

• OMCO and Sunstall have collaborated on over 100 projects together, including nearly 100 projects for Coldwell Solar in California
• Key success factors include:
  • Rapid response time for field issues due to domestic manufacturing
  • Product evolution based on installer feedback, particularly bearing designs that accommodate field conditions
  • Consistent communication and clear expectations between all parties
  • Proper sequencing of material deliveries (piles first, followed by racking)

Real World Example - Wilcox Project:

• 4MW ‘multi-site’ project (powering a greenhouse complex) completed in 8 weeks from initial contact to completion.
• Success attributed to:
  • OMCO's ability to manufacture and ship from the Phoenix facility
  • Sunstall's rapid team mobilization
  • Obodo Energy's decisive project management and clear communication

IRA Compliance & Domestic Content:

• OMCO Solar (Eric Goodwin) detailed their domestic manufacturing capabilities, currently at 88% domestic content for trackers with 100% expected by Q2 2025
• Their fixed-tilt products already meet 100% iron and steel requirements
• OMCO benefits from the 45X manufacturing tax credit, helping level pricing with international competitors

The discussion demonstrated how strong partnerships between manufacturers, installers, and EPCs can maintain efficient project timelines while meeting IRA requirements, with communication and trust serving as foundational elements for success.

Social Media Handles
Eric Goodwin
Matt Kessler
Omco Solar
Helge Biernath
Sunstall
John Mitman
Abodo Energy

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com