Clean Power Hour
Tim Montague, John Weaver
The Clean Power Hour podcast is speeding the clean energy transition. Tim Montague and John Weaver highlight clean energy innovations shaping the next generation of renewable energy sources. We discuss the latest solar PV, battery storage, wind, water, wave, and other low-carbon technologies. We answer the question: How can we decarbonize the economy? We promote the economic opportunity of electrifying everything - transportation, energy, industry, and the built environment. Let's speed up the clean energy transition together. Join the movement - www.CleanPowerHour.com
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Top 10 Clean Power Hour Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Clean Power Hour episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Clean Power Hour for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Clean Power Hour episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
03/13/25 • 14 min
Today on the Clean Power Hour recorded at RE+ Northeast in Boston, Tim Montague sits down with Bryan Wagner, President of CPS America, to discuss the latest developments in solar power electronics and energy storage. Wagner shares insights from his recent overseas trip to China, where he explored Chint's global manufacturing capabilities and strategy for the North American market.
The conversation delves into Chint's impressive portfolio as a diversified global energy company, including their expansion into high-voltage transformers for solar substations, innovative inverter products with enhanced safety features like the 250 and 350 models, and their exciting new energy storage product called "Gonzo." Wagner explains how Chint's engineering expertise allows them to create complex power equipment designed to last through the 20-40 year lifespan of modern solar installations.
Wagner also reveals CPS America's launch of a new service brand called CSPs (Chint Smart Power Services), leveraging Chint's extensive experience in operating and maintaining 20 gigawatts of solar globally. The discussion highlights the importance of RE+ Northeast as a platform for industry growth and networking, with Wagner noting how electrification trends and AI-driven data centers are significantly increasing power demand—potentially doubling or tripling New York State's capacity needs in the next decade.
Bryan also mentions that their Innovation Day event is growing significantly, with attendance increasing from around 300 people last year to an expected 500 this year, and he invites listeners to connect with them via the Chint Power Systems website or by emailing [email protected] to learn more. Check out CPS Product Innovation Day 2025: https://loom.ly/Ll19EVk
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Clean Power Hour
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Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
Solar's Growing Pains: Tariffs, Utah's Balcony Solar, and Commercial Project Updates
Clean Power Hour
03/14/25 • 37 min
In this insightful episode of Clean Power Hour, hosts Tim Montague and John Weaver dive into the latest developments shaking up the renewable energy landscape. They discuss the immediate impacts of newly announced tariffs on Canadian and Mexican solar equipment, with John sharing how his commercial projects are already seeing price increases on critical components like neutral ground reactors. (Link)
The conversation shifts to exciting innovations in the solar space, including Utah's groundbreaking unanimous legislation allowing plug-in balcony solar systems and a unique vertical solar cell mounting system from Norway. (Story Link)
John and Tim also analyze recent data showing solar generation up 27% nationwide, now accounting for 6.8% of all U.S. electricity, while examining the stark differences in renewable adoption between states. (Story Link)
The hosts round out the episode with a behind-the-scenes look at a commercial solar carport project, detailing the engineering considerations involved in these increasingly popular installations. (Story Link)
Tune in for an essential update on the rapidly evolving clean energy sector and the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
The Future of Home Solar: Battery Storage, EV Integration, and Installation Trends with Joe Ordia | EP262
Clean Power Hour
02/25/25 • 36 min
In this illuminating episode of the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Joe Ordia, the creator of Solar Surge on YouTube, to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of residential solar technology. With 13 years of industry experience, Joe shares invaluable insights on the transformation of home solar and battery storage solutions, from early "science experiment" setups to today's sleek, integrated systems.
The conversation delves deep into the current state of residential solar technology, examining the pros and cons of leading brands like Tesla, Franklin, Enphase, and SolarEdge. Joe and Tim discuss the shifting dynamics of module-level power electronics (MLPEs), installation complexity challenges, and the emerging trend toward simplified DC-coupled systems. They explore how changes in net metering policies are reshaping the industry and driving the adoption of battery storage solutions (BESS).
A highlight of the episode is the forward-looking discussion of bi-directional EV charging, which both experts identify as the next major innovation in home energy systems. Listeners will gain practical insights into how this technology could transform the relationship between electric vehicles and home energy management.
Whether you're a solar installer, industry professional, or homeowner considering solar, this episode offers valuable perspectives on current market leaders, installation best practices, and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of residential solar.
Social Media Handles
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
12/31/24 • 41 min
We wrap up 2024 with a rather unique agrivoltaics episode. Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague sits down with Nick de Vries, Chief Technology Officer of Silicon Ranch, to explore the groundbreaking concept of regenerative energy. This innovative approach goes beyond traditional solar energy production by integrating sustainable agricultural practices that enhance soil health and promote biodiversity.
Nick shares his journey with Silicon Ranch and discusses the company's commitment to owning the land on which solar projects are developed, allowing for a long-term vision that prioritizes both energy generation and environmental stewardship. The conversation delves into the dual-use concept, where solar installations not only generate electricity but also support agricultural activities such as grazing and crop production.
Listeners will learn about Silicon Ranch's regenerative energy program, which aims to revitalize soils through practices like rotational grazing and carbon sequestration. This episode emphasizes the importance of sustainable land management in while fostering economic development in local communities.
Join us for this insightful discussion that highlights the potential of regenerative energy to transform both our energy systems and our ecosystems. Don’t miss out—tune in to discover how we can create a more sustainable future together!
Social Media Handles
Nick de Vries
Silicon Ranch
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
Clean Power Hour LIVE November 3, 2022
Clean Power Hour
11/04/22 • 61 min
On the weekly clean power news and views, we bring you the latest cleantech and clean energy news, thought leaders, and innovators. Our motto is ‘Speeding the Energy Transition!’
This week John Weaver and I discuss,
1. The Two Falcon Heavy rockets that landed within moments of each other this week.
2. Sunnova's plan seeking to develop ‘electricity micro-utilities’ in California for 500-2,000 customer communities - ~7.7 kWdc+10-20 kWh batteries per house, neighborhood battery of 2 MWh+300 kW solar
3. The visualization of a house with solar plus a car charger
4. Rhode Island launched an RFP for 1 GW of offshore wind - and this one facility could meet 50% of the state's electricity demand - 1 GW of wind will generate ~3.9 TWh/year at a 45% capacity factor.
5. The demand for ESS Inc's - iron flow battery now driving the business plan as manufacturing capacity finds it tougher to keep up
6. The bus charging station (the largest one in the nation) is turning into a community energy resource
7. A cool looking “solar chair” used for a pavilion at an event - modules a colored for good visual representation (look like dragon scale modules)
Subscribe: https://bit.ly/cph-sub
The podcast is available on YouTube and audio platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and Amazon. We bring you interviews with cleantech entrepreneurs, investors, manufacturers, and energy professionals weekly.
What technologies are trending?
Why are we excited about agrivoltaics or dual-use solar?
What are the challenges and opportunities for renewable energy, electrification of transportation, and decarbonizing the economy?
Listen, like, comment, and share! Get all our content at www.CleanPowerHour.com and reach out to Tim Montague @tgmontague on Twitter or Gmail.
The Clean Power Hour hosts and cleantech professionals Tim Montague and John Weaver (the Commercial Solar Guy) bring you the latest solar, wind, and energy storage news.
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
Clean Energy News | Clean Power Hour LIVE Feb 17, 2022
Clean Power Hour
02/21/22 • 61 min
Illinois clean energy boom is back
10-20 GW electrolyzer coming to California?
World’s largest wind turbine blade looks like a skate park
John bought a Hyundai Ionic 5 - yes!
Check out all of our content at www.CleanPowerHour.com
Subscribe to our youtube channel: https://bit.ly/cph-sub
Illinois Clean Energy Boom is back on
https://electrek.co/2022/02/15/egeb-illinois-to-shut-all-fossil-fuel-plants-by-2045-and-invest-580m-a-year-in-renewables/
Southern California Gas Company is submitting an application to build a 10 to 20GW electrolyzer and 25 to 35GW of new and curtailed wind and solar, along with 2GW of energy storage, to deliver green hydrogen to the Los Angeles Basin.
World’s largest wind turbine blade - here’s the mould, it looks like a skate park
John bought an Ionic 5
https://twitter.com/SolarInMASS/status/1493937420764696577
Europe is building a massive number of battery factories - everywhere:
https://twitter.com/pogechi/status/1492422415800061952
5.4 TWh of battery manufacturing capacity in the pipeline by 2030
https://twitter.com/sdmoores/status/1493590988329213955
Complementing the above reality is a great chart of mining for lithium - expect it to POP
https://twitter.com/ProfRayWills/status/1492457305216262151
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
A Silent Revolution in Utility Solar - Central to String Inverters with Anton Patton, CPS America | EP 158
Clean Power Hour
09/05/23 • 43 min
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Today on the Clean Power Hour, the silent revolution in central to string inverters for utility-scale solar. In this episode of The Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Anton Patton, Director of Product Management at CPS America, about the grand transition from central to string inverters in utility-scale solar. Visit CPS America at Booth 2521 sands level 2 at RE+ 2023 to learn more about CPS America.
Anton Patton has over 10 years of experience in the solar industry. He started in engineering roles designing commercial and industrial solar systems before joining CPS America 5 years ago. As Director of Product Management and Applications Engineering at CPS America, Anton helps drive innovation and bring new products to market that advance solar PV technology.
CPS America is the leading three-phase string inverter manufacturer in North America having shipped over 6GW of inverters. Their flagship 250kW string inverter is designed for utility-scale solar plants from 2MW to 2GW.
In this episode, Anton provides an inside look at the major transition happening from central inverters to string inverters in utility-scale solar. He explains key differences in architecture and highlights the benefits of string inverters like improved uptime, data granularity, and design flexibility. Anton also discusses new energy storage products CPS is launching for utility and C&I markets.
He provides insights into CPS's collaborative work culture. Anton invites listeners to visit CPS at SPI to see new products launching like their 350kW string inverter and 800V balance of system equipment aiding the shift to string inverters.
Key Takeaways
- What are the main factors driving the adoption of string inverters over central inverters for utility-scale solar plants?
- How do the system architecture and equipment differ between central inverter and string inverter systems?
- What new string inverter and balance of system products is CPS America launching?
- What energy storage solutions is CPS bringing to market for utility and C&I customers?
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
Creating a Customer-Centric Organization in Technology Sales | Kelly Shamblen, CPS | EP193
Clean Power Hour
02/13/24 • 32 min
The solar industry is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and mounting competition forcing companies to adapt or be left behind. On this week's Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague sits down with Kelly Shamblen, Regional Sales Manager West for Chint Power Systems (CPS America), the leading three-phase string inverter manufacturer in North America.
Kelly has been with CPS for six years which is a testament to the company’s ability to recruit and retain top talent. She has a somewhat unconventional background in the solar industry but Kelly has made an indelible mark on CPS during her tenure. Though she didn't have a technical background, Kelly was drawn to CPS's customer-centric culture and tight-knit feel as a smaller organization at the time she joined. She started in operations, getting exposure to finance, logistics, and order processing. This diverse experience gave her a perfect foundation to transition into her current sales leadership position.
Today we explore how inverter manufacturer CPS America creates a customer-centric culture. Guest Kelly Shamblen shares her passion for partnering deeply with customers and problem-solving their toughest needs. With over 90% customer retention, CPS focuses on service and responsiveness when issues arise. Kelly discusses the company's tight-knit, solutions-oriented approach, embracing difficult situations as learning opportunities.
Tim and Kelly also discuss how CPS has built a customer-centric organization in the competitive technology sales industry. Kelly talks about how CPS focuses on treating customers as long-term partners rather than one-off transactions, taking the time to understand their unique needs and challenges.
They also highlight CPS's commitment to responsive customer service. If there are ever any issues with CPS inverters, the team works diligently to diagnose problems and get systems back up and running as quickly as possible.
Key Takeaways
- What makes CPS stand out?
- How does CPS handle product issues or rollouts that don't go smoothly?
- What is CPS's approach to difficult customers or complaints?
- What opportunities and challenges does CPS's growth present?
- What is CPS's expected growth?
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
02/01/24 • 18 min
The solar industry in Illinois has come a long way over the past decade, but its continued growth relies on overcoming legislative and regulatory challenges. In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague talks with Michelle Knox, owner of Wind Solar USA and former Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) board member, about the organization's crucial role in protecting and advancing rooftop solar across the state.
Michelle has been in the solar industry since 2008, starting her company to provide sustainability and energy self-sufficiency to homeowners, businesses, and farms. She shares her perspective on how the Illinois solar market has grown and matured over the past decade thanks to legislation like FEJA and CEJA.
Michelle discusses her experience serving on the board of ISEA and the importance of the organization in advancing rooftop solar through policy and advocacy work. She talks about ISEA's role in protecting net metering when policies have been threatened by utilities hitting net metering caps prematurely. Michelle also touches on the value of ISEA for solar businesses and customers, from educational resources to having a voice in key legislation and rules that shape the state's solar industry.
Michelle reflects on the economic impact of the industry's growth, going from a one-woman company to now employing multiple teams across central and southern Illinois. The conversation explores the opportunities and challenges still facing the solar market in Illinois as the state works towards its renewable energy goals.
The key to achieving Illinois' 100% renewable energy goal is ensuring the policy landscape continues to evolve through the collective voice and expertise of groups like ISEA.
Key Takeaways
- What role has the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) played in advancing solar policy in the state?
- How does ISEA help protect net metering policies from utility efforts to undermine rooftop solar?
- What educational resources and advocacy does ISEA provide to solar companies and customers in Illinois?
- How can Illinois meet its renewable energy goals?
Social Media Handles
Wind Solar USA
Michelle Knox
ISEA
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
Geothermal for All: How Property Owners Can Tap into Sustainable Heating & Cooling | EP260
Clean Power Hour
02/11/25 • 35 min
Today on the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague explores the cutting-edge developments in geothermal technology with Joselyn Lai, co-founder and CEO of Bedrock Energy. Lai discusses how her company is revolutionizing the geothermal heating and cooling industry by dramatically reducing installation costs and time through innovative drilling technology.
The conversation delves into how Bedrock Energy's proprietary sensor package and two-way communication system allows for faster, more efficient drilling – up to 8 times faster in difficult conditions. This technological advancement has helped reduce geothermal system payback periods from 15-20 years to just 5-7 years, making clean heating and cooling more accessible to building owners.
Lai provides valuable insights into geothermal systems' economic and environmental benefits, including potential energy savings of $100,000 annually for million-dollar installations, reduced maintenance costs, and significant carbon emission reductions. The discussion also covers how geothermal systems can help address grid constraints and rising energy demands, particularly in regions with extreme heating and cooling needs.
Whether you're a real estate developer, building owner, or simply interested in sustainable building technologies, this episode offers crucial information about the future of clean heating and cooling solutions. Listen now to learn how geothermal technology is becoming an increasingly viable option for building decarbonization.
Social Media Handles
Connect with Tim
Clean Power Hour
Clean Power Hour on YouTube
Tim on Twitter
Tim on LinkedIn
Email [email protected]
Review Clean Power Hour on Apple Podcasts
The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]
Corporate sponsors who share our mission to speed the energy transition are invited to check out https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/support/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com
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FAQ
How many episodes does Clean Power Hour have?
Clean Power Hour currently has 307 episodes available.
What topics does Clean Power Hour cover?
The podcast is about News, Entrepreneurship, Business News, Energy, Podcasts, Technology, Clean Energy, Industry, Green Energy and Energy Transition.
What is the most popular episode on Clean Power Hour?
The episode title 'Accelerating Solar Project Development by Streamlining Land Title Processes | EP198' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Clean Power Hour?
The average episode length on Clean Power Hour is 45 minutes.
How often are episodes of Clean Power Hour released?
Episodes of Clean Power Hour are typically released every 4 days, 2 hours.
When was the first episode of Clean Power Hour?
The first episode of Clean Power Hour was released on Apr 24, 2021.
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