As Texans start the painful process of rebuilding their lives after Hurricane Harvey, many are asking: Could anything have been done to lessen the impact?

In this week's podcast, we're going to discuss the storm through the lenses of climate, urban planning and federal policy. All three of those factors created the perfect storm for maximum damage.

Marianne Lavelle, a reporter with InsideClimate News, joins us to talk about the important stories to watch in the wake of the hurricane.

Then, the DOE grid study redux. We’ll offer up some thoughts on the final version of that contentious federal grid reliability report you’ve heard so much about. 

Next, China’s solar frenzy continues. Wasn’t it supposed to be a slow year?

Also, don't forget to join us for our live podcast in NYC on September 19. Also, use the discount code "ENERGYGANG" for a 15 percent discount to our NY REV Future conference in Brooklyn on September 26-27.

This podcast is sponsored by Mission Solar Energy, a solar module manufacturer based in San Antonio, Texas. Visit Mission Solar at the upcoming Solar Power International conference at Booth 3975. You can find out more about Mission’s American-made, high-power modules at missionsolar.com.

Recommended reading and listening:

  • InsideClimate News: Will Harvey's Damage Shift How Congress Sees Climate Change and Budget Cuts?
  • GTM: Harvey’s Devastation Shows the Need for Distributed Energy, Microgrids During Disasters
  • The Interchange: A Conversation With Travis Fisher, Lead on DOE’s Epic Grid Reliability Report