10 Questions About Renewable Energy With GM’s Rob Threlkeld, Ep #  2

Few people could be considered to be at the epicenter of the renewable energy transition in big business, but this episode’s guest, Rob Threlkeld is one of whom it could be said. With over 19 years of experience in the energy side of General Motors, Rob has led the charge in transitioning the company toward its goal of 100% sourcing of operations from Renewable energy. He’s also set the pace for GM’s Global Energy Efforts in Sustainable Energy, Supply, and Reliability.  Rob believes it’s not only possible but very likely that companies like GM will lead the way toward a 100% carbon-free future. Join guest host Peter Kelly-Detwiler as he leads Rob through a rapid-fire “10 questions” format on the topic of big business and renewable energy. You won’t want to miss this episode.   You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... Rob’s beginning of working on energy issues for GM [2:30] The biggest challenge of greening-up GM's portfolio strategy [3:51] Rob’s biggest surprises to date working in the sustainability sector [5:05] The impact of COVID-19 on the renewable energy industry [6:01] How to manage the inherent risk involved in financial contracts [7:59] Why Rob likes to zig when others zag [9:40] GMs strategies regarding charging of electric vehicle fleets [11:21] The changing culture within GM regarding sustainability [13:13] Accelerating education for smaller companies [14:28] Cutting edge things Rob sees happening in the RE Industry[17:16] Click here for detailed show notes Resources & People Mentioned Peter Kelly-Detwiler GMs RE100 Goals The Renewable Energy Buyer’s Alliance Connect with Rob Threlkeld Follow Rob Threlkeld on Linkedin Rob Threlkeld is Global Manager of Sustainable Energy, Supply and Reliability for General Motors, leading the company’s energy procurement efforts including the commitment to meet the electricity needs of its global operations with 100 percent renewable energy by 2050. Rob is responsible for leading that team that supports GM energy procurement and regulatory efforts including negotiating power purchase agreements, natural gas, green tariffs, and engineering onsite renewable solutions for GM facilities across the globe, including opportunities associated with battery storage, behind-the-meter applications and EV integration. As part of GM’s Sustainable Workplaces team, Rob shares best practices for renewable energy procurement with internal and external audiences, offering solutions for large and small businesses alike to benefit from the use of renewables. Rob began his career at GM in 2000 as manager of the powerhouse and wastewater treatment plant operations at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio Assembly Complex. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Purdue University. He is a registered Certified Hazardous Material Manager, Certified Energy Manager, and Business Energy Professional. Connect With Smart Energy Decisions https://smartenergydecisions.com   Follow them on Facebook Follow them on Twitter Follow them on LinkedIn Subscribe to Smart Energy Voices Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com