With the holiday season upon us and the new year just around the corner, I’d like to reflect on some of the highlights for Inovateus Solar in 2017.
Certainly, completing the 58MWDC Lapeer, Michigan, solar farms for DTE Energy was the event of the year for us, as it is the largest solar construction project we’ve managed to date. Not far behind is the Michigan State University solar carport project, which when completed over the next few months will be the largest of its kind in North America. 2017 also saw the ribbons cut on two other projects of note we were involved in, the Rincon Solar 1 and Kokomo Solar 1 solar power plants.
On a personal level, the publication of my book, Building A Brilliant Tomorrow, was something I’m very proud of. The response to it, the subsequent blog excerpts and the just-released audiobook version has been heartening, and I am thrilled and humbled that people find our story and our unique business culture something worth reading about.
Those who know me or have read my book appreciate my passion for both music and solar. The two passions converged at the celebration marking the installation of a rooftop PV system that Inovateus helped develop at Terrapin Crossroads in San Rafael, CA. During the party, the universe smiled on me when I got to jam with one of my musical heroes, the Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh (who owns the venue). Now that’s what I call a highlight.
Of course, 2017 has not been without its challenges. The still-undecided Section 201 trade case has created uncertainty in the industry, resulted in PV module supply chain issues, and delayed project plans. The effects of the new federal tax reforms on solar and renewables project development and construction remain unclear, though the apparent final version of the bill—thanks to relentless efforts by SEIA and other trade organizations—makes me optimistic there will be minimal impact. Inovateus has not been immune to these issues, but we expect things to stabilize and move forward in 2018.
I’d like to thank everyone who made 2017 a year to remember here at Inovateus, especially our dedicated and talented team, as well as our partners and customers. It takes a collective effort to champion the clean energy transition and build a brilliant tomorrow, and each and every person involved has an important role to play.
On behalf of the entire Inovateus family, I wish you all a very happy holiday season—see you in 2018!
By TJ Kanczuzewski, chairman and cofounder, Inovateus Solar
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