Humans of Solar

   26th Jun 2017

Zach Sprau recently received his Master’s degree from Appalachian State University, and is the head project coordinator for United Solar Initiative’s project with the Hospitality House, a homeless shelter in Boone, NC. Here, he talks about his experience with USI and what he hopes to do with solar energy in his future career endeavors.  USI: When […]

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   20th Mar 2017

Cole Anderson graduated from Appalachian State University in the spring of 2014, and following his graduation, joined students from ASU and volunteers from USI on a trip to Nicaragua to work on solar projects in communities there. He specifically worked in San Ramón and helped install solar panels on a local art center and community […]

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   28th Feb 2017

Meagan Walsh (pictured right) currently works for Cape Fear Solar Systems as a Lead Generator. Formerly, she has worked for Level Solar in Long Island, New York as a Lead Marketing and Events Associate for two years. Through her experiences, she gained a passion for solar and knowledge about its importance in curbing climate change. Here, […]

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   5th Mar 2016

USI: Can you describe your role with the Sisterhood Communities of San Ramon? How did you get involved with them? Larry Bleymir: It has been almost two years since I started working for Sister Communities of San Ramon (SCSRN),  a non-profit organization.  My current position is Coordinator of Tourism and Advertisement. Every year, we offer […]

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   27th Feb 2016

Stephen Kalland has worked with energy efficiency and renewable energy for over 20 years. His work with the North Carolina Clean Energy Center includes public policy as well as workforce and economic development. Here, Steve speaks to the solar momentum in North Carolina as well as how the next generation should continue to look forward.   […]

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   14th Feb 2016

UNC-Chapel Hill graduate David Plunkett currently works for Strata Solar as a project coordinator. His degree in environmental science, coupled with his experience studying abroad in Thailand, helped pave the way for his career in the solar industry. Here, he discusses his education and experience with Strata. United Solar Initiative: What is your position with […]

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   30th Jan 2016

Jim Rogers is the former CEO and chairman of the board for Duke Energy. He continues to advocate for sustainable energy access as written in his book Lighting the World. More about Jim’s book can be found at https://jimrogersenergy.com/. Here he discusses the fight against energy poverty. United Solar Initiative: Since leaving Duke you’ve written a book called […]

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   15th Dec 2015

Rob Pinder, the founder of NextClimate, is determined to take action on climate change through affordable renewable energy. NextClimate is a nonprofit based in North Carolina that helps provide cost-effective renewable energy to homeowners. Pinder has used NextClimate to launch several campaigns called SolarizeNC that have pushed for solar in various communities. United Solar Initiative: Why solar? Rob […]

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   8th Dec 2015

Representative Chuck McGrady is an important environmental figure in North Carolina legislature. Here he discusses his perspective of the solar industry as a Republican member of the North Carolina General Assembly. United Solar Initiative: Can you discuss your advocacy for the environment despite being a Republican in the House? What issues do you regularly face? Chuck McGrady: Republicans, […]

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   1st Dec 2015

Greg Gangi is a professor at UNC, Chapel Hill, and director with the Institute for the Environment. He discussed his motivation behind teaching and how this accompanies his relationship with leaders in the solar industry in North Carolina. United Solar Initiative: How would you describe your relationship to the solar industry? Greg Gangi: Well I just got […]

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