Richard Sebastian, Green Economy Program Coordinator at PEA, interviewing Brandon Herman, Senior Director of Field Operations for Renu Energy Solutions. Renu Energy is the solar company selected as the installer for Solarize the Triad, a PEA-led initiative launched in 2024 to provide the local community with cost effective solar and energy storage systems through a group purchase model. Renu also supported a six-week training class to expand the renewable energy workforce here in the Triad.
RS: Brandon, thank you for graciously sharing your time and expertise to talk about your central role as Senior Director of Field Operations for Renu Energy in the Solarize the Triad program. I am also eager to hear about your own journey to a career in the renewable energy sector. I’ll kick us off by asking you to give our readers an overview of how you became involved in the Solarize the Triad program and your role in the project. Had you been involved in similar projects before, or was the Solarize project unique?
BH: My pleasure Richard. Very proud to discuss Renu Energy Solutions’s role in the Solarize the Triad program, and share my own journey into and through the renewable energy industry.
Renu has participated in a number of community solar programs over the years. But for me, Solarize stands out as a truly unique, community-driven initiative. And I think it's one that has left a lasting mark on the Triad region’s energy future. We installed over 650kW of new solar energy systems across the area. That’s a powerful achievement, and a real milestone toward a cleaner, brighter energy future.
I formally became involved when Renu was selected as the solar contractor to execute the turnkey installation process for Solarize participants. Renu provided pretty much everything, from energy usage analysis, to custom system proposals; permitting and interconnection submissions, design and engineering expertise, and of course installation services. We also provide post-installation operations and maintenance support. My job was to ensure that all solar components and energy storage systems were installed safely, in full compliance with all local and national codes, and to the highest standards of quality.
Beyond that, I am someone who is deeply committed to supporting our dedicated in-field technicians, support staff, and Field Operations Leadership Teams. My role allows me to train, mentor, and invest in a passionate team committed to renewable energy and quality workmanship, a team who is actively helping create a better, more sustainable future through the work they do every day.
RS: You know, I saw this commitment and dedication firsthand when I visited the Sustainable Energy Training course at Goodwill. You were there as a trainer and a mentor to the students preparing to enter the clean energy workforce. Can you tell us a bit about this class and how it relates to the Solarize program?
We recognized that, to achieve the Solarize program’s goals, we needed a skilled and capable workforce. So Renu proposed designing and implementing the Triad region’s first solar-specific training program. With help from our dedicated collaborators and partner organizations–most notably Annette Hayes at Goler Community Development Corporation–we launched the first solar training course at Goodwill of NWNC last November. It was an intensive, six-week program. Students got hands-on experience and learned practical skills. Crucially, they also earned an OSHA 10 credential and NABCEP PV Associate certification, both key qualifications for entering the solar energy workforce. Nine participants graduated. Two graduates actually came to work for Renu. Another cohort of students is currently going through a second training class right now.
RS: Solarize’s success is a compelling model for the region. And your, and Renu’s, commitment to the program was critical to its success. Can you step back and tell us how you see the potential for green energy careers in the area. When you talk to someone curious about pursuing a local job in clean energy, what do you tell them? Do you see indications that green energy jobs here in the Triad will continue to grow?
BH: I get really excited to talk about this with job seekers. There’s something for everyone! Not just solar, but energy storage systems, EV charging, wind, hydro, energy efficiency, building upfits, grid modernization, etc. We’re seeing major momentum in the Triad. With significant investments in clean energy infrastructure, this region is quickly becoming a hub for green energy careers. The Inflation Reduction Act, for example, helped launch North Carolina’s "Solar for All" initiative, Energize NC, which will direct millions of dollars into accelerating renewable energy adoption for low- and moderate-income households. Some of that funding, and the jobs it creates, will be centered right here in the community.
I’d say if you’re curious about a career in renewable energy, my advice is: get involved. Seek out local opportunities, tap into community resources, and pursue relevant training and education. Most importantly, find a job at an organization that’s committed to growing with you, investing in your development as you build a future in this exciting and in-demand industry.
RS: Good advice. PEA shares your excitement about clean energy jobs here in the Triad and look forward to working with Renu and our other local partners to build on this clean energy momentum. A final, more personal, question: can you share the career path you took to get to your current position at Renu? What were your expectations when you started out on this path?
BH: My career path into renewable energy has been exciting, and humbling. I always knew I’d have a career in the construction industry; it just took me a little longer than expected.
I actually began my professional career as a mortgage broker and loan officer. Eventually I transitioned into media, advertising, and sales. These roles didn’t really provide the professional fulfillment I was seeking, although they did give me practical skills– in finance, sales, marketing, customer service, project management–that I now rely on every day. And ultimately, they led me to a more meaningful and purpose-driven career in renewable energy. A friend working in the solar industry opened the door for me and in 2015 I took an entry-level position at Renu as a Solar Technician. I got to experience the business from the ground up, expanding my skill set wherever I could. This helped me progress from Installation Team Lead to Field Operations Manager and eventually Director of Residential Field Services. Renu was growing rapidly, and I was fortunate to grow alongside the company. In 2023, I stepped into my current role as Senior Director of Field Operations. It's been a rewarding journey, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that values both personal and professional development. I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded, encouraged, and mentored by so many dedicated and passionate folks who invested in me.
RS: I’ve really enjoyed this exchange, Brandon. Thank you, for your work on Solarize and also for taking the time to share your personal experience and valuable insights related to renewable energy careers with our readers.
BH: Thanks so much, Richard, likewise. I really appreciate the chance to share a bit about the Solarize program, Renu, and my own story. Thank you and PEA for the work you do and the impact you’re making. I hope folks can get a sense of how passionate I am about the work we've done, the work we're continuing to do, and the positive changes we're helping make along the way.