Emily Kirsch of Powerhouse on fighting big oil & transforming energy sector to solar

TL;DR

Solyndra, often portrayed as a failure, actually returned value to the Department of Energy, highlighting the exponential growth and potential of the solar energy industry. However, utility companies are fighting against the deployment of solar energy for their own self-preservation.

Transcript

it was I mean the irony about Solyndra is it's it's well known because it was spun so well by oil and gas interests to be this incredible failure when in fact the portfolio that cylinder was a part of returned more value to the Department of Energy into US taxpayers than any previous portfolio of companies so so as far as the the industry overall g... Read More

Key Insights

• ↩️ Solyndra's success in returning value to the Department of Energy challenges the perception of its failure, emphasizing the potential and value of the solar energy industry.
• ♿ Solar energy provides a choice for consumers to access sustainable energy sources and contribute to a thriving economy.
• 🤳 Utility companies are fighting against the deployment of solar energy, prioritizing their self-preservation over the planet's well-being.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Solyndra defy the perception of being a failure?

Solyndra proved to be a successful investment, returning value to the Department of Energy and US taxpayers, presenting a different narrative compared to its widely known failure story shaped by oil and gas interests.

Q: What are the implications of the exponential growth in the solar energy industry?

The rapid growth in the solar energy industry provides an opportunity for individuals to choose sustainable energy sources and contribute to a three trillion dollar economy. It also suggests a decline in the coal, oil, and gas sectors.

Q: Why are utility companies limiting the deployment of solar energy?

Utility companies, facing a decline in their customer base and struggling for survival, are opposing the widespread adoption of solar energy, as it threatens their traditional business models and revenue streams.

Q: How are entrepreneurs challenging the established players in the solar energy industry?

Entrepreneurs, like Ahmed, are creating innovative business models, such as financing solar installations through mortgages, disrupting traditional leasing options and offering a more efficient means for customers to access solar energy.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Solyndra, despite being labeled a failure, actually returned more value to the Department of Energy and US taxpayers than any previous portfolio of companies.

• The solar energy industry is experiencing exponential growth and has the potential to transform our lives, offering a choice of sustainable energy sources.

• Utility companies are opposing the deployment of solar energy and limiting the installation of solar panels and batteries on houses to protect their dying business models.