Krista Simicich
Digital Editor
Inside The Episode
Recorded live at the Hub during Intersolar & Energy Storage North America 2025, these conversations spotlight cutting-edge advancements in solar manufacturing and entrepreneurial strategy in clean energy.
Dr. Sebastian Gatz of Von Ardenne and Hugh McDermott of ESS Inc. explore how automation, innovative materials, and domestic manufacturing strategies are driving the next wave of growth in the solar and storage industry. They dive into production scaling, long-duration energy storage, and the critical role of localized supply chains in clean energy resilience.
In the second episode, founders from Sunstack Racking, ContractPower, and Commercial Solar Panel Recycling share their real-world startup journeys. From funding and market entry to scaling and differentiation, they offer candid insights into building a clean tech business in today’s evolving energy landscape.
Tune in for practical insights from industry veterans and emerging leaders shaping the future of solar and storage.
Scaling Solar & Storage: How Automation is Powering Manufacturing
Featuring: Dr. Sebastian Gatz, VP, Renewable Energies & Strategic Partnerships at Von Ardenne, and Hugh McDermott, Senior VP, Sales & Marketing at ESS Inc.
Innovations in domestic solar and storage manufacturing were discussed by leaders from battery pioneer ESS and solar equipment provider Von Ardenne. They highlighted advancements in scaling production through automation and shared recent technological developments in their respective fields, while identifying key growth opportunities in the evolving energy landscape.
Topics covered:
- How manufacturers are using automation to efficiently scale solar and storage production
- Innovations including long-lasting batteries and high-throughput, safer solar equipment
- Growth potential in long-duration energy storage and localized solar cell production
Strategies for Success: Insights from Clean Energy Startup Founders
Featuring: Joe Perez, Co-Founder, Business Development at Sunstack Racking, Bryan Villano, Co-Founder & CEO at ContractPower, and Glenn Laga, Founder & President at Commercial Solar Panel Recycling
Three startup founders in the solar and storage sectors share their experiences on funding, scaling, competitive advantages, and growth strategies. Listen to the leaders from Sunstack Racking, ContractPower, and Commercial Solar Panel Recycling discuss challenges and opportunities in today’s energy landscape, offering candid insights for emerging ventures in the industry.
Topics covered:
- Self-funding, strategic partnerships, and creative growth paths for startups
- Common scaling obstacles like marketing, manufacturing, and focus
- How innovation, niche positioning, and strong relationships fuel success
For a deeper dive into these founders’ stories, check out:
Startup Spotlight: Innovators Shaping the Future of Renewable Energy
About The Hub
Located in the IESNA 2025 exhibit hall, the Hub stage is an educational space that included included insightful interviews with top product and solution providers as well as educational presentations describing real-world applications and takeaways. Learn more here.
Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Supporting Sponsor
Stage Sponsor
Thank You to Our Partner
