Wilderness Trace Solar

The Clean Energy Advantage (and How Policies Affect It)

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 19:11:34 GMT

The Clean Energy Advantage (and How Policies Affect It)

Podcast Host: Dunja Jovanovic

The energy landscape is shifting rapidly—how do we see it?

As the founder of NxtGen Clean Energy Solutions (NXTGEN), I’ve had a front-row seat to the changing tides of energy. Our company is leading the way in helping businesses transition to renewable energy, and it’s been an exciting journey.

Today, we have a podcast episode hosted by Dunja Jovanovic, where we dive into these changes and discuss how companies can navigate the shift to clean energy solutions.

Key Takeaways:

➜ NxtGen Clean Energy focuses on consulting and implementing energy projects.
➜ Solar energy has seen significant efficiency and economic improvements.
➜ Success stories include municipalities adopting clean energy plans.
➜ Scaling clean energy companies faces challenges from political changes.
➜ Tax incentives are crucial for the growth of clean energy.
➜ The U.S. has opportunities to lead in clean energy innovation.
➜ Energy independence is becoming increasingly important.
➜ The clean energy revolution is comparable to the industrial revolution.
➜ Technology advancements are making clean energy more economically viable.

Russ Bates: Pioneering the Future of Clean Energy

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 19:27:27 GMT

In this feature, Russ Bates, founder of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, shares his journey from his roots in the southern Indiana coal fields to becoming a leader in the clean energy industry. From solar to wind and EV charging, Russ discusses his path to business ownership, the challenges of navigating a rapidly evolving market, and his approach to building a sustainable future for both his company and the industry.

Cleantech Business Leader - Russ Bates

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 18:28:56 GMT

#Cleantechers -

Russ Bates had the opportunity to sit down with Mike Casey from The Scaling Clean podcast, where his compelling background and hands-on approach to clean energy were discussed in detail.

Russ Bates has an impressive and hands-on background in the energy sector. Growing up in the southern Indiana coal fields, Russ started his career as a union electrician before advancing to foreman and eventually VP. After 26 years in the industry, he founded NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions in the Cleveland area. NXTGEN offers a full range of services, including solar, wind, battery storage, and EV charging station solutions.

Here are some key insights from Russ’s journey:

5:08 – Clean energy continues to attract people, with new advancements happening almost daily.
14:34 – As a business owner, it’s crucial to ask: "Will this decision be sustainable? Will it provide enough business to support your employees and their families?" With the sector rapidly evolving, especially with elections approaching, it’s important to remain mindful of potential shifts that could affect business plans.
25:35 – When it’s time to make the tough call to let someone go, ensure you are clear about the reasoning. If it’s not a good fit, parting ways might actually be the best decision for both parties. Make the decision swiftly and confidently.

Thank you to Mike Casey and the Scaling Clean podcast for the opportunity to share Russ’s story and insights with a broader audience.

WHY IT'S IMPORTANT TO HAVE AN OPEN MIND featuring Russ Bates on The Business Spotlight

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 19:25:13 GMT

Join us for an enlightening conversation exploring the power of an open mind in today's business world. Click the link to dive into insightful discussions that could transform your approach to success: Watch Now

RUSS BATES' INTERVIEW WITH SARA KREMSAR OF OPTIMOD FOR '2023 IMPROVING ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY INITIATIVE' ANNUAL BROCHURE

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:19:40 GMT

Russ Bates had the privilege of being interviewed by Sara Kremsar of OPTIMOD for the '2023 Improving Entrepreneurial Journey Initiative' annual brochure.

Sara and her amazing team have compiled not only very useful information in this brochure, but great advice from incredible entrepreneurs which I also find inspiring.

I highly recommend checking it out- https://lnkd.in/e59nhR7a

Solution for Small Business Owners to Make the Clean Energy Transition

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:04:26 GMT

Making the clean energy transition isn’t the simplest thing for small and medium businesses. That’s why NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions is here. To make that transition as simple as possible.

They have your back. And give you the best solution possible that is custom fitted to your business and your goals.

So don’t miss a single second of this incredible interview with the CEO of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, Russ Bates.

RUSS BATES’ INTERVIEW WITH SHELBY KAEMMERER, MPH OF ONE PLANET MEDIA, LLC PODCAST

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:04:25 GMT

In the latest episode of All Things Green, Shelby sat down with Russ Bates who founded the clean energy company NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions .

After starting in the coal industry, Russ learned that clean energy was more sustainable, long-term, and a stable industry to build his business. ♻️

Watch now to hear how Russ changed his mind on fossil fuels and created a successful #sustainable business.

Listen to the full interview with Russ here >>

RUSS BATES' INTERVIEW WITH CHRIS SASS ON THE INSIDER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY PODCAST

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:04:19 GMT

Clean energies used to be a novelty a mere 2 decades ago. Now they’re a highly essential part of the bottom-line, enabling industries and corporates to manage their demand economically. Join us, as we discuss this and more on localizing energy supply chains, manufacturing, jobs and economics in a candid chat with Russ Bates , Founder and CEO of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, a consulting one-stop-shop firm acting as a single touch point for small and large business owners who want to take advantage of renewable energies.

Host: Chris Sass

Check out the episode on our website:

https://lnkd.in/ejUuzRNN

Or find it on Buzzsprout:

https://lnkd.in/ePTgY286

Celebrating Excellence: Russ Bates Inducted into Marquis Who's Who

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 16:36:36 GMT

Celebrating Excellence: Russ Bates Inducted into Marquis Who's Who

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of power generation, Russ Bates, the Founder and CEO of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, has been honored with induction into Marquis Who's Who. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights Bates' remarkable leadership and expertise in clean energy solutions, fossil fuel, coal, and natural gas.

Since establishing NXTGEN in 2021, Bates has spearheaded the company's mission to provide innovative clean energy solutions and sustainability consulting services to a diverse range of clients, including businesses, municipalities, educational institutions, and manufacturers. Under his guidance, NXTGEN has experienced consistent growth, earning Bates recognition as a Top 20 Business Leader by Valiant CEO in 2023.

Bates' journey to success began with an electrician apprenticeship at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, where he honed his skills as a journeyman wireman and foreman. His career trajectory led him to prominent roles such as Superintendent and Electrical Department Manager at Sterling Boiler & Mechanical Inc., Vice President and Business Manager at Carroll County Constructors, LLC, and northeast Regional Manager and Director of Business Development at Sterling Industrial, LLC.

Driven by his passion for clean energy, Bates founded NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, recognizing a growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in commercial and industrial sectors. His academic achievements include participation in the Haroun Education Ventures MBA program, completion of a five-year electrical construction apprenticeship with IBEW-NECA, and coursework at the University of Southern Indiana.

Looking ahead, Bates remains committed to expanding NXTGEN while prioritizing the well-being of his team and fostering a healthy work-life balance. Beyond his professional endeavors, he finds joy in spending time with his wife Alisa and their three stepchildren, Sam, Luke, and Jake, sharing a love for travel and fitness. Bates' induction into Marquis Who's Who underscores his dedication to excellence and innovation in the field of clean energy solutions.

Marquis Who's Who Ventures LLC

02/16/2024 Press Release

Russ Bates Article

THE NXTGEN EV CAFÉ IS AN EXCITING CONCEPT THAT WE WILL BEGIN ROLLING OUT IN 2023.

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:23:21 GMT

Introducing the revolutionary NXTGEN EV Café, an innovative destination tailored for the modern electric vehicle driver seeking more than just a pit stop. Picture this: a vibrant hub where sustainability meets convenience, where every aspect is meticulously designed to cater to the needs and desires of our eco-conscious patrons.

At NXTGEN EV Café, we redefine the concept of charging stations, transforming them into dynamic spaces where people can seamlessly blend work, socializing, and relaxation. Our prime location offers a welcoming oasis for both business meetings and casual meet-ups, all while your electric vehicle replenishes its energy.

Powered by cutting-edge clean energy technologies, including solar canopies, roof-mounted solar panels, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), micro wind turbines, and advanced battery storage systems, our charging infrastructure ensures that every electron consumed is sustainably sourced. As you recharge your vehicle, bask in the knowledge that you're contributing to a greener future.

The premise is a fantastic and convenient location for electric vehicle drivers to be able to charge while meeting people for business or pleasure, grab a meal, perform work with free WiFi, and have clean restrooms. There will be indoor/outdoor seating with free device charging to accommodate guests for business meetings or social gatherings. Food and beverage vendors will be providing great options.

RUSS BATES – NXTGEN – PROVIDING CLEAN ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND SUSTAINABILITY CONSULTING

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:45:41 GMT

Meet Russ Bates , the Founder of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, the One Stop Shop for Solar, Electric Vehicle Charging, and Battery Storage projects.

NXTGEN was born of his passion for clean energy technologies and how they can help save money, improve the economy, and improve the environment. He loves working with small businesses and showing how clean energy can vastly reduce costs and that these technologies are not only for big corporations.

Russ transitioned from a long career in the fossil fuel power generation industry to the clean energy sector. From growing up on property that was once a coal mine to working as a pre-apprentice in a coal fired power plant to being the Vice President of a company who build a 750MW combined cycle facility, he’s seen it all in the fossil fuel power gen sector.

Clean energy and bringing this technology to businesses, municipalities, and the general public is his purpose.

Russ is an experienced executive who is passionate about all aspects of business, strategy, and building long term relationships. He’s skilled in management of P&L centers, including project estimation, proposals, project management, project controls, subcontract management, and supply chain management. Russ is also a believer in one team where everyone contributes to achieve the common goal and strives to bring success to the organization.

EUCLID PARTNERS WITH NXTGEN TO BECOME “THE SUSTAINABLE LAKEFRONT CITY”

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:39:06 GMT

The City of Euclid has entered an innovative partnership with NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions to explore environmentally friendly options that will help Euclid meet its “sustainable lakefront city” goals. Euclid, a current member of the Power a Clean Future Ohio (PCFO) campaign, has made an ongoing commitment to reduce carbon footprint, attract clean energy, implement equitable policy solutions and reduce energy costs citywide.

“Ohio’s biggest opportunity to address large-scale environmental challenges and opportunities is at the local level.” Says PCFO on their website poweracleanfuture.org. “In fact, most climate action victories over the past several years have occurred in cities and counties where pragmatism and practical solutions drive decision-making.”

Some of the practical off-grid solutions being explored by Euclid leaders are solar street lighting, solar parking lot lighting, solar bus stops with sun-powered electrical outlets, micro-wind turbines and “smart poles” that include solar lighting, cameras, WIFI, environmental sensors, emergency call buttons and gunshot detection. Transit enhancements, like the aforementioned solar-powered bus stops, not only contribute to the reduction of our carbon footprint as a city- they make public transit riding safer and easier by offering sheltered, well-lit waiting areas with digital signage that can be updated in real-time to reflect any delays.

“It’s great to see cities like Euclid taking action and making moves towards their clean energy goals,” says NXTGEN founder Russ Bates, who will be personally working with Euclid leaders in the upcoming months to create a clean energy plan that aligns with the Cities goals and needs. NXTGEN was chosen as a clean energy partner based on its 25 years experience in the power generation market and its expertise in bringing self-sustaining microgrids to communities both large and small.

“The City of Euclid is committed to being a sustainable city and reducing our carbon footprint,” said Mayor Kirsten Holzheimer Gail. “We are excited to partner with NXTGEN and PCFO to develop an actionable plan and make real progress towards that commitment. We look forward to engaging the whole community to find ways to protect the environment and ensure a healthy and sustainable future for our residents.”

These clean energy efforts are currently in the research phase, with NXTGEN examining the best options for short-, mid- and long-term projects that can help Euclid meet their sustainable city goals. A full report is expected to be available in early August, allowing Euclid to make quick moves towards off-grid options. For updated information as this project progresses, please visit www.cityofeuclid.com .

Click here to download this press release

B-SMART SERVICES INTERVIEWED RUSS BATES OF NXTGEN CLEAN ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:27:23 GMT

B-Smart Services by Klarissa Botes recently interviewed NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions’ founder Russ Bates. During the interview, Klarissa asked Russ about the types of clients NXTGEN works with.

We are working on developing a number of projects with what I would call the smaller, mom and pop folks. As an example, I met the other day with a prospective client who owns a smaller manufacturing facility. The company is employing a lot of people and has some substantial electricity bills and. They’re really doing a lot of good work. The owners are very passionate about the environment and they want to save money too.

NXTGEN can put a solar cell and battery backup project in for them that accomplishes the goal of being conscientious environmentally and also reduces electric consumption they are buying now off the grid.

Although they are not a huge manufacturing facility, it would be a pretty good size project – about one and a half megawatts to take care of their need. The really nice part of this is it is fulfilling multiple goals: putting people to work, helping that local economy, helping that client to save dollars – that’s going to be a big deal.

Both NXTGEN and the client really want people to see this installation and know that they care. Part of the goal of the project is to locate the new solar panels right there in the front of the facility. The owners want for people to be able to see these solar panels being installed and in-use. we talked about that too. They’re on a roadway that has several of these manufacturing facilities so they told me “you know, maybe if neighboring companies see we’re doing it they’ll start questioning, and maybe they’ll want to do it too. So if we can promote that – that’s what we would like!”

Russ loves working with those type of folks – it’s very exciting to have people who like to be leaders encouraging others to use clean energy. Clean energy is definitely the future and it’s definitely the way to go – it is very cost effective, it will help the economy, and it will also help with job creation.

Watch the entire exchange between Russ and Klarissa on YouTube here >>

RUSS BATES’ INTERVIEW WITH PAUL WEBB OF THE “ENERGY SPEAKS BACK” PODCAST

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:21:34 GMT

NXTGEN Founder Russ Bates was recently interviewed for Paul Webb’s “Energy Speaks Back” podcast.

Paul describes his mission as bringing Energy Experts together across the world sharing knowledge about how to generate savings on business’ 3rd largest expense after property and people. Paul speaks to Global Energy Experts around the World and solicits their unconditional tips to help you drive down your energy consumption.

Russ was invited to the show to talk about Clean Energy Solutions including Solar, Battery Storage, Electric Vehicle Charging, Solar Light Poles, and helping businesses improve the bottom line and the environment.

Listen to the full interview with Russ here >>

RUSS BATES’ INTERVIEW WITH GREEN.ORG

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:07:48 GMT

Russ Bates, Founder & CEO of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, was recently interviewed by Green.Org to provide insight into his transition from the fossil fuel power generation industry to the clean energy sector as well as to share some of his experiences with founding NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions.

Green.Org is a television show, podcast, social media, and news platform that highlights climate change scientists, renewable energy experts, and clean tech entrepreneurs by giving them a voice in the mainstream media.

Green.Org was founded by Dylan Welch, the CEO of Green.Org and Dylan Welch Media. Dylan has a long background in television production, having produced over 1,000 TV shows with ABC, NBC, CBS, and Amazon, before starting his own company with a focus on clean technology, renewable energy, and sustainability. Since then, Dylan has interviewed hundreds of scientists, CEOs, and experts in the renewable energy space, and has shared their stories to millions of people.

Read the full interview here >>

EV CHARGING COMPATIBILITY ON THE ROAD

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:00:16 GMT

Everyone who buys an electric vehicle will not need an at-home charging station because all mass-produced electric vehicles today include a charging unit that you can plug into any standard 110v outlet. For most people however, because the charge time for your EV is much faster with a Level 2 Charging Station, it makes sense to install one.

But what about charging your EV when you are traveling?

Finding an away-from-home charging option isn’t quite as easy as finding a gas station…yet.

The good news is that there are phone apps such as PlugShare and a website run by the US Government to help you locate and get directions to publicly accessible charging stations. And with the market for vehicle sales heating up weekly, there are more charging stations being added into the database regularly.

Most EVs that are currently on the market (September 2021) use an open standard port to attach like the Combined Charging System (CCS) or less common CHAdeMO connector. The big exception, at the moment, is Tesla.

However, The Big T has just announced that it will be making a switch that allows other automaker electric vehicles to use its Fast Charging stations. This new solution will expand the use of the Tesla Supercharger network of charging stations which will require vehicle owners to obtain a small new piece of hardware. According to Elon Musk, his company will start selling a Tesla-designed adapter which sits between the car and the Supercharger. This port adapter will allow owners of non-Tesla vehicles to use the Supercharging network to charge their vehicle. (Note, this adapter will function along with the Tesla app to indicate which charging bay you parked in).

4 Types of Charger Connectors

J1772
CCS
CHAdeMO
Tesla

According to a July 31, 2021 Popular Science article by Rob Stumpf , “As more automakers move towards electrification, the need for additional chargers is predicted to grow at an astronomical rate. In fact, President Joseph Biden recently called for providers to reach a milestone of a half-million chargers installed by 2030 and set out to establish an infrastructure funding bill to make the target a reality.”

Although the absolute number of chargers and multi-vehicle charging stations will continue to grow in the coming decade, it is likely that we’ll all feel the occasional crunch of more vehicles looking to be charged than there are chargers available.

Is this a problem…. or an opportunity? It really depends. It’s a problem for EV drivers where the community businesses and local government have not embraced this ‘rEVolution’. It is a fantastic opportunity for businesses and municipalities who invest in electric vehicle charging station technologies which will provide an additional source of revenue while simultaneously helping the community and the environment.

The bottom line is that both the public and private sector are clearly in agreement that electric vehicles are the future of transportation. Automakers are making announcements about eliminating production of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in the not-too-distant future. New EV models such as the Ford F-150 Lightning are being introduced by legacy companies with newcomers to the industry such as Lucid, Rivian, and Lordstown now in the transportation game. And then of course there’s the king of the EV market, Tesla. With all the electric vehicles coming to market and pricing competitive with ICE vehicles, the demand for EV Charging will exponentially grow. Are you ready?

CLEAN JOBS MIDWEST - 2021 REPORT

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 15:49:32 GMT

Clean Jobs Midwest is an annual report on clean energy employment based on survey data within 12 Midwestern states. The goal of the report is to show the size, scope, and potential of the clean energy industry within Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

On August 11, the 2021 Clean Jobs Midwest report was issued by Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2) and Clean Energy Trust.

E2 is a national, nonpartisan group of business leaders, investors, and professionals from every sector of the economy who advocate for smart policies that are good for the economy and good for the environment. Clean Energy Trust provides catalytic capital and support to early-stage startups in the Greater Midwest working on solutions for clean energy, decarbonization, and environmental sustainability.

Coinciding with release of the report each year is a panel interview featuring authors of the report from Clean Energy Trust and E2 as well as 2-3 business leaders who represent the clean energy jobs being created in our region.

As Founder of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions in Independence, OH, Russ Bates was honored to be part of the 2021 panel discussion. The panel also consisted of Ian Adams-Managing Director at Clean Energy Trust; Micaela Preskill-Midwest States Advocate at E2; Maria Onesto Moran-President of Green Home Experts in Lyons, IL.

Russ was asked to share his story about starting his own business, transitioning from the fossil fuel power generation industry to clean energy. In addition, Russ shared his thoughts on how state and federal policy can help the industry grow. As the group discussed, among the various challenges renewable energy projects face, is Ohio General Assembly’s recently passed Substitute Senate Bill 52, a significant revision to Ohio’s power siting approval process for utility-scale solar and wind projects.

Senate Bill 52 implements additional roadblocks for utility scale solar projects in Ohio.

Key takeaways from this year’s report:

Over 677,000 Midwesterners work in the clean energy industry
2020 was the first year since the report started in which the region lost clean energy jobs (due to the pandemic-induced recession), although there were a few bright spots:
Jobs in advanced transportation increased in every state, driven by the growth of electric vehicles and hybrids
Wind jobs grew by 4% in the Midwest and now employs more than 37,800 people
Energy Efficiency remains the largest clean energy sector in the region, employing over 470,000 people

Clean Energy Trust develops Clean Jobs Midwest in partnership with Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2) with support from the McKnight Foundation to tell the story of the region’s clean energy sector. Survey research for this report was conducted by BW Research Partnership, a national leader in workforce and economic development research.

You can watch the full panel discussion below: