Phil Obendorf, CEO of PowerHub, provides a reflective analysis of REPlus23—its pivotal moments, and insights on future trajectory of the solar industry

As I slowly readjust to the rhythm of daily life after the exhilaration of the RE+ event, a torrent of thoughts and emotions swirl within me.

This event wasn’t just another milestone; it was a testament to the progress, collaboration, and innovation defining our industry. I’ve also had a moment to gather my thoughts and truly appreciate the strides our industry is making:

The PowerHub team at REPlus23. From Left to Right: Bryan Asa, Phil Obendorf and James Mastin (Image courtesy of James Mastin).

IRA’s Impact
Few legislative acts have made waves like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Its ramifications in the renewable sector are profound and far-reaching. Since its inception in 2022 – an unexpected political maneuver – the IRA pledged an ambitious $370 billion to realize a vision: 80% clean electricity and a 40% decrease in climate pollution by 2030. Fast forward to today, and we see promises turning into tangible results: $278 billion in private clean energy investments, a workforce enriched by 170,000 jobs, and a whopping $70 billion funneled into rebates and funding.

Development & Investment
The renewable energy landscape of 2022, scarred by trade restrictions and supply chain hiccups, painted a bleak picture. But as dawn always follows the darkest hour, 2023 heralds a revival, with forecasts suggesting a 40% surge in the wind and solar PV sectors. The IRA’s stability assurance, combined with existing tax benefits, indicates an even brighter horizon post-2024.

Local Manufacturing
The induction of the QCells plant isn’t just an addition; it’s a revolution for our supply chain. Spearheading this change is Hanwha, QCells’ parent entity, crafting a sustainable solar future for North America. Their collaborative venture with Canadian Premium Sand (CPS) promises low-carbon, locally-sourced products, setting a benchmark for eco-conscious manufacturing.

Focus on Storage

The RE+ event spotlighted energy storage’s pivotal role, bridging the gaps between diverse energy solutions. As technologies evolve, and battery costs dip, storage systems are no longer ancillary; they’re indispensable, harmonizing supply with demand and ensuring uninterrupted power.

Connectivity Challenges
Every industry has its Achilles’ heel, and ours is connectivity. Yet, it’s invigorating to witness the unyielding efforts by the Department of Energy and state dignitaries to rectify this. By endorsing cutting-edge grid systems and research, we’re paving the way for a grid that’s resilient, inclusive, and future-ready.

PowerHub CEO Phil Obendorf (bottom left) met esteemed industry colleagues from Canada while at REPlus23 (Selfie by Phil Obendorf).

Community Solar
The burgeoning stature of the community solar market underscores its potential to democratize clean energy access. With the installed capacity showcasing exponential growth since 2010, the ambition to electrify 5 million American households via community solar by 2025 seems less a dream, more a reality in the making.

Charging Networks
The tentacles of charging networks are stretching, moving from affluent urban pockets to America’s heartland. This inclusivity is pivotal for mainstreaming electric vehicle adoption, making green transit not a luxury, but a norm.

Final Thoughts
As I pen down these reflections, pride and optimism surge within me. The collective ethos at RE+ 2023 was palpable: “we rise together.” Such solidarity, steered by our mission to counteract climate change, unveils our industry’s true might.

We’re more than mere business entities; we’re the vanguard of a global paradigm shift. With collaboration as our compass, innovation as our engine, and sustainability as our destination, we’ll forge ahead. Together, we’ll sculpt a legacy that resonates for eons.

Here’s to our collective journey – where dreams morph into actions, and aspirations manifest as legacies.