Continuing our theme from last month, when we established why solar power has emerged as such a compelling global energy solution, we can now zoom in on a Samsung C&T Trading & Investment Group that is responsible for carrying out vast solar energy projects in the United States.
With solar energy generation rising 23 percent globally last year, Samsung C&T’s US Solar Group has been particularly busy. Indeed, as we pointed out before, the U.S. has taken steps to support its solar industry while planning to rely on 100 percent clean energy by 2035. As Samsung C&T has also been expanding its solar energy business, US Solar Group is responsible for massive photovoltaic power projects drawing on the energy of the sun in areas like Texas and California.
Let’s find out how US Solar Group is working with a blend of youthful passion and expertise to seize the solar momentum.
What does US Solar Group do exactly?
Imagine carrying out an energy project spanning the size of a hundred soccer fields. That is what US Solar Group has been doing in California.
Far from the bright lights of big cities, such projects are carved out of the desert wilderness. So, a solar energy project begins with screening suitable sites to build solar power plants, designing layouts for these sites, figuring out the best way to install solar panels, and simulating how much power will be produced.
After that, discussions need take place to reach an understanding with the local residents and permits need to be obtained from local governments or federal entities, while Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with various types of off-takers, for instance publicly owned electric utilities, corporates, or electric cooperatives, should be concluded in most cases to sell electricity from solar power generation. Of course, the amount of sunlight and market volatility risk must also be considered.
To break the ground of the actual power plant, diverse discussions with multiple parties including governmental agencies, grid operators, land owners, utilities and power consumers must be conducted. This all takes between two to four years – requiring great patience along with passion to persevere.
Carrying the burden of huge projects together
US Solar Group bases much of its progress on solid teamwork because it is impossible for just one or two internal members to sufficiently anticipate all the issues that can arise when taking on a long-term power plant project.
Knowledge of various sectors is required and this also calls for teamwork with professional consultants and locals. For example, a state like California has very particular and complicated environmental regulations. In other words, in California, US Solar Group strives to find common ground with landowners and local agencies, sometimes even to the extent of relocation of rare wildlife.
US Solar Group members have noted the importance of a strong driving force alongside expertise when they face long-lasting challenges.
Harnessing youthful dynamism through horizontal communication
An interesting feature of US Solar Group is that their members are younger, on average, than any other Samsung C&T Energy Division. This naturally generates a spirit of enthusiasm, but US Solar Group also ensures all members can communicate transparently regardless of age or experience.
They achieve this through horizontal communication, meaning members are encouraged to communicate with each other without any reservations. When issues come up, they strive to find solutions in an open-minded manner, holding discussions with everyone concerned.
So US Solar Group members benefit from shared information and transparency when grasping what decisions need to be made. This is especially important in the solar energy business, where there are so many aspects involved and areas of expertise, in addition to rapidly changing tech trends.
In their own words
Let’s check out some of the comments from US Solar Group members who add the value of solar power to the public good as their project progresses.
Youthful energy, horizontal communication and a strong driving force are the best words to portray US Solar Group. With solid teamwork that has enabled them to do so well in projects, they are now making preparations to march forward.
