In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague is joined by Brian Baxter, Director of Sales East at CPS America, to discuss the rapid evolution of the solar and storage industry. As string inverter technologies gain traction in the utility-scale segment, CPS America is at the forefront of this trend with their innovative three-phase string inverters and battery storage products.
Brian shares his unique background, transitioning from engineering roles at GE to sales leadership at CPS America, providing valuable insights into the industry's technological upheavals and the customer-centric approaches driving the adoption of cutting-edge solutions. He highlights CPS's groundbreaking turnkey PCS Skid for utility energy storage systems, which comes in two standardized configurations: 2MW and 2.4MW. The skid incorporates 10 and 12 units of CPS's 200kW string PCS inverters (CPS ECB200KTL/US-800), respectively, and is compatible with CPS's new 5 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (CPS ES-5016KWH-US).
This containerized battery solution integrates 12 racks of LFP batteries, offering high energy density for utility applications. It features an advanced liquid cooling system for effective and efficient pack-level thermal management, and is packaged into a 20ft container for easy transportation, installation, and O&M.
Throughout the conversation, Brian emphasizes CPS America's strong focus on customer service, transparent problem-solving, and equipping their team with in-depth technical expertise to better serve their clients. He also shares advice for industry newcomers and the importance of fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and collaboration within the company.
Key topics covered in this episode include:
1. The increasing viability and advantages of string inverter architectures for large utility-scale solar and storage projects.
2. CPS America's innovative turnkey PCS Skid for utility energy storage systems, available in 2MW and 2.4MW configurations, and its compatibility with the new 5 MWh Battery Energy Storage System.
3. The company's commitment to customer service, technical training, and collaborative problem-solving.
4. Strategies for successfully transitioning from technical roles to customer-facing sales positions.
5. The value of transparency and providing in-depth expertise when working through challenges with customers.
Tune in to gain valuable insights from a renewable energy veteran at the forefront of string inverter and energy storage innovations, as the solar industry continues to evolve and embrace new technologies.
Social Media Handles
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-baxter-7849371/
http://www.chintpowersystems.com/
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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at https://www.chintpowersystems.com/
00:00 - Intro
01:45 - Brian Baxter's Background & Journey to CPS
06:51 - Changes in Solar Over Last 4 Years
08:50 - Rise of String Inverters in Utility-Scale
10:40 - Transitioning from Engineering to Sales
14:16 - CPS's Training & Customer-Centric Approach
16:26 - Overcoming Product Challenges with Customers
18:08 - Building Team Cohesion Across Locations
20:41 - What Makes CPS Different & Future Growth
22:00 - Training Junior Colleagues & Better Serving Customers
24:29 - Providing Value & Incorporating Customer Feedback
25:54 - CPS's Innovative Utility-Scale Energy Storage Offering
28:17 - Conclusion
The podcast is available on YouTube and audio platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us at www.CleanPowerHour.com and on Twitter @tgmontague. Tune in to hear hosts and cleantech professionals Tim Montague and John Weaver (Commercial Solar Guy) bring you the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news. Like, comment, and share!
