At Energy Solutions and Supplies LLC (ESAS), weโre proud to spotlight the dedicated individuals behind our mission to deliver sustainable solutions on time, every time. This week, weโre featuringย Pravin Poudel, our first-ever hire and the longest-serving member of our team. Originally from Nepal, Pravinโs passion for clean energy and his expertise in both technical and customer-facing roles have helped shape ESAS into what it is today.
1. From Nepal to the U.S.: The Journey and Inspiration
Q:ย You have a fascinating backgroundโoriginally from Nepal, then moving to the U.S. to pursue mechanical engineering. Can you tell us about that journey and what inspired you to join ESAS?
Pravin:
I moved to the United States at age 18 to pursue my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering at Youngstown State University in Ohio. From the beginning, I was always drawn to clean energy solutions. After finishing my studies, I was fortunate to find an opportunity with ESAS. At the time, we were just a small team of three people, but I saw the potential to make a real impact in providing sustainable energy solutions. Four and a half years later, Iโm still here, and itโs been an amazing journey.
2. Watching the Company Grow
Q:ย As ESASโs very first hire, youโve had a front-row seat to the companyโs evolution since 2020. What have been some of the major milestones and changes youโve witnessed?
Pravin:
Even as a small startup, we had big dreams. We began by focusing primarily on residential solar systems and selling solar panels, but over time, we expanded into inverters, racking solutions, and energy storage options. We also now provide specialized professional services for commercial systemsโsomething Iโm actively involved in. Itโs been truly fulfilling to see how much weโve grown, from a team of three to more than a dozen staff, all dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions to our customers.
3. Balancing Engineering and Sales
Q:ย Your title combines the roles of a design engineer and a sales engineer. How do you balance the technical aspects with the need to connect with customers?
Pravin:
It really comes down to communication. I work to understand the clientโs challenges in simple terms, then translate complex technical detailsโlike system design or performance metricsโinto clear, approachable solutions. This dual role keeps me deeply involved with cutting-edge technology while also building strong, trust-based relationships with our customers.
4. Crafting Solutions from RFPs and RFQs
Q:ย RFPs and RFQs are crucial in solar project development. How do you approach reviewing requirements and shaping the right solutionโespecially when customers might not be technically versed?
Pravin:
Each RFP or RFQ has unique requirements, so I start by listening and asking simple, direct questions. For example, if itโs a commercial roof installation, Iโll ask about roof type, available space, potential shading, and distance to the distribution panel. Even if the customer isnโt an โeducated buyer,โ basic details help guide a feasible design. Ultimately, itโs not about just winning contracts; itโs about ensuring the solar system meets and exceeds their expectations.
5. Coordinating Team Efforts
Q:ย You also oversee parts of sales operations, procurement, and logistics. What does a typical day look like for you, and how do you keep everything running smoothly?
Pravin:
I usually start my day by reviewing ongoing projects, updating the CRM with current leads, and checking product availability. Because Iโve been here the longest, Iโm often called on to assist in logistics or administrative tasks if needed. We rely heavily on teamwork and organizationโour collaborative culture allows us to move projects forward and deliver on customer needs efficiently.
6. Personal Passions: Hiking, Cooking, and Travel
Q:ย Outside of the office, youโre an avid hiker, spin-class enthusiast, and passionate cook. How do these personal interests influence your work at ESAS?
Pravin:
Hiking and cooking keep me creative and resilientโproblem-solving on a trail or experimenting with new recipes helps me stay sharp at work. Spin classes and workouts give me energy and discipline, which I bring to my day-to-day tasks. Travelingโespecially to my favorite spots like New York City and San Diegoโbroadens my perspective, which helps in connecting with clients of various backgrounds. Iโm aiming to visit all 50 states one day!
7. Trends and the Future of Solar
Q:ย The solar industry is constantly evolving. What emerging trends or technologies are you excited about, and how is ESAS staying ahead?
Pravin:
Iโm particularly excited about the advances in energy storage and the potential for more domestic-content solutions. At ESAS, we keep a close eye on industry changes so we can continually update our offerings with the latest, most efficient products. I also see significant opportunities in the commercial and industrial solar segments, and weโre positioning ourselves to serve those markets with comprehensive solutions.
8. Advice for Newcomers to Renewable Energy
Q:ย Youโve been part of ESAS from its early days. What advice would you give to someone starting out in renewable energy?
Pravin:
Be curious and passionateโthis industry moves fast, and thereโs always something new to learn. Donโt hesitate to ask questions, especially early in your career, when youโre still piecing everything together. Also, focus on building relationships, both within your team and with clients. If you genuinely believe in the positive impact of solar, that enthusiasm will show in every project you handle.
Final Thoughts
Pravinโs journeyโstarting from a small team of three to helping develop a full suite of solar solutionsโhighlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and genuine customer care. His story underscores ESASโs commitment to delivering โSustainable Solutions on Time, Every Time,โ and weโre proud to have him shaping our mission.
Interested in learning more about ESAS or exploring a partnership?
- Visit Our Website:ย energysolutions-solar.com
- Follow Us on Social Media:ย Stay updated viaย LinkedIn,ย Instagram, andย Facebook.
- Attend an Event or Webinar:ย Connect with us at industry events or virtual sessions.
- Contact Us Directly:ย Reach out by phone or via our contact form for any questions, or explore how our services can meet your specific solar needs.
At ESAS, we believe in transforming the world through renewable energyโone partnership at a time. Join us, and letโs build a cleaner, more sustainable future together.
