Krista Simicich
Digital Editor
Inside The Episode
Recorded live at the Hub during Intersolar & Energy Storage North America 2025, this conversation highlights the skills, strategy, and global impact behind the industry’s premier solar installer competition.
In this special episode, SunCast Media’s Nico Johnson is joined by Huston Solar, the 2025 Solar Games champions, as they share how they prepared for the high-pressure installation challenge. From safety and speed to teamwork and technical precision, hear what it takes to win on the mock rooftop stage.
Nico also speaks with Twende Solar’s Executive Director, who explains how the competition’s repurposed equipment supports solar installations in underserved communities around the world—bridging the gap between industry excellence and energy access.
Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at solar installation as both craft and catalyst for change.
Behind the Victory – 2025 Solar Games Champs & Twende Solar
Featuring: Nico Johnson, Creator and Host at SunCast Media, Robin Swanhuyser, Executive Director at Twende Solar, and Huston Solar’s Cam Smith and Brandon Newcomer
SunCast Media’s Nico Johnson chats with Cam Smith and Brandon Newcomer of Huston Solar, the 2025 Intersolar & Energy Storage North America Solar Games champions, as they share what it took to win this high-pressure installer competition. Nico is also joined by Twende Solar’s Executive Director to discuss how the reused competition equipment is making a real impact in underserved communities.
Topics covered:
- Installer teams go head-to-head in high-stakes, timed solar installations on mock rooftops
- Judging focuses on safety, efficiency, teamwork, and code compliance—highlighting real-world installation excellence
- After the competition, used equipment is repurposed for impactful global projects, while winners gain industry recognition and prizes
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
