Solar Microgrids: The Energy Solution Rural America Needs
- Solar Microgrids: The Energy Solution Rural America Needs Devin Thorpe 25:47
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Devin: What is your superpower?
Lester: I believe that the human spirit is greater than human nature. I think that we allow each other to play small and blame it on human nature. “Oh, that’s just human nature.” It’s human nature to do as little as possible to try to get as much as possible. But the human spirit says, “How can I contribute as much as possible?”
The future of energy lies not just in renewables but in energy abundance, according to Lester Crafton, co-founder of Ovanova. In today’s episode, Lester shared how his company is transforming rural America by deploying solar microgrids—systems that combine solar, energy storage, and smart controls—to meet surging energy demands.
Lester believes the need for energy will grow exponentially in the coming decades. “What would happen if we went from an energy-starved world to an energy-abundant world? How much better could we treat each other?” he asked. With this philosophy, Ovanova focuses on deploying solar microgrids to ensure energy Security, particularly for communities at the greatest risk during power shortages.
The demand isn’t hypothetical. Lester identified six trends—he calls them a “six-headed monster”—that are pushing the grid to its limits: the return of American manufacturing, electric vehicles, Bitcoin mining, widespread electrification, robotics, and the energy-hungry rise of Artificial Intelligence. “An AI data center takes like 70 times the energy of a normal data center,” he said, highlighting the urgency of their work.
In rural communities, where large-scale grids often fail first, microgrids provide a reliable, local solution. “If Elon’s supercomputer and the Blue Oval [Ford plant] need energy, then it doesn’t matter if my parents’ medical devices need to run. They get the blackout,” Lester explained.
Ovanova’s mission resonates far beyond energy—it’s about economic and community resilience. Lester’s vision for microgrids offers both a practical path forward for the solar industry and a brighter, more equitable energy future.
If you’re looking to support this mission, Ovanova frequently raises capital through regulated investment Crowdfunding, empowering people to invest directly in the clean energy revolution.
tl;dr:
* In today’s episode, Lester Crafton shares how Ovanova builds solar microgrids to meet rising energy demands.
* Lester explains how six factors—including AI and EVs—drive exponential energy consumption in the future.
* This episode highlights how virtual power plants and microgrids secure energy for rural communities.
* Lester’s belief in persistence and humanity’s goodness fuels Ovanova’s innovative clean energy solutions.
* Lester emphasizes that solar energy’s cost-effectiveness and scalability make it essential for energy security.
How to Develop Persistence and Belief in Humanity As a Superpower
Lester Crafton’s superpower is his unwavering persistence, fueled by a deep belief in the goodness of humanity. He views challenges as opportunities to create, iterate, and improve. By centering his work on contributing as much value as possible, Lester inspires others to join him in solving problems that matter, particularly in renewable energy and disaster preparedness.
Lester shared an anecdote about a nonprofit project led by Xena Leone, Ovanova’s director. After inspiring people in Peru to clean up rivers, she returned to her North Carolina hometown to establish microgrids for disaster preparedness. This initiative not only strengthened local resilience but also laid the foundation for virtual power plants—systems that keep communities running during grid failures. Lester’s persistence and ability to rally talented people like Xena illustrate his commitment to solving real-world problems while inspiring others to contribute.
Tips for Developing This Superpower
* Focus on Contribution: Ask, “How can I create as much value as possible for others?” rather than focusing on personal gain.
* Embrace Feedback as Growth: Treat setbacks as experiments to refine and improve your work.
* Surround Yourself with Amazing People: Attract talented, purpose-driven individuals by inspiring them with your vision.
* Believe in Humanity’s Potential: Even when facing setbacks, remember the inherent goodness and capabilities of people.
* Keep Going, No Matter What: Persevere through challenges with a mindset of creating, sharing, and iterating until you succeed.
By following Lester Crafton’s example and advice, you can make persistence and belief in humanity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.
Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!
Guest Profile
Lester Crafton (he/him):
Co-Founder, Ovanova
About Ovanova: Ovanova’s mission is to add as much value as possible to as many lives as possible. We chose energy as the lever that created the most positive impact for the most people. We currently develop, deploy, monitor, maintain and maximize microgrids. We have installed solar projects in 25 states with over sixty utility companies and currently focus on serving disadvantaged and distressed rural communities by giving small business owners and ag producers an easy way to access Inflation Reduction Act benefits intended for them.
Website: ovanova.co
X/Twitter Handle: @voiceofsolar
Company Facebook Page: fb.com/voiceofsolar/
Biographical Information: Lester is from Somerville, TN. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He and his organization worked with over 1500 students directly in America’s oldest sales and leadership training program. He began his solar energy journey in 2014, and started Ovanova in 2015.
X/Twitter Handle: @lestercrafton
Personal Facebook Profile: fb.com/lcrafton/
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lestercrafton/
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