Scott Pelley and Jared Schoch to Discuss Solar Industry's Evolution at RE+ 2026
Scott Pelley and Jared Schoch at RE+ 2026
On November 17, 2026, the premier clean energy event RE+ will feature a dynamic discussion between award-winning journalist Scott Pelley and solar industry veteran Jared Schoch in Las Vegas. This session, titled "20 Years of Riding the Solar Coaster: The Past, Present and Future of an Industry in a Constant State of Change," aims to delve into the remarkable transformations within the solar sector over the last two decades.
In the context of rising energy demands and an urgent need for sustainable practices, solar power has transitioned from a niche technology to a cornerstone of the U.S. energy landscape. Schoch, who has more than 20 years of experience in the energy infrastructure sector, will draw from his career managing solar projects totaling over $5 billion in investments. He has held key positions at companies like Johnson Controls and SunEdison before founding TurningPoint Energy in 2014, focusing on community and utility-scale solar projects.
Pelley, known for his deep and incisive journalism, spent nearly 25 years reporting for 60 Minutes, documenting historic events and interviewing numerous world leaders. He will guide the conversation with his substantial expertise in extracting insights from influential figures, creating a platform for Schoch's reflections on his personal journey and industry leadership.
A central element of the discussion will be Schoch's upcoming book, SOLAR COASTER: The Untold Story of the Solar Industry and One Man's Journey Leading with Soul, set for release on November 10, 2026. The book unveils the complexities of navigating the solar industry, exploring the impact of evolving policies, financial hurdles, and unique market dynamics that demand adept leadership and strategic decision-making.
Schoch aims to tell a story beyond just business statistics; he will share the ethos of "soul-driven leadership" that has guided his career—highlighting how and why a deeper sense of purpose is vital in making sound business choices. This philosophy has empowered him to cultivate a culture of resilience and ethical responsibility within TurningPoint Energy.
To add a personal touch, Schoch will recount a significant four-month sabbatical that precipitated transformative changes in his approach to leadership and life. He believes that aligning business objectives with a profound sense of purpose fosters sustained success, equipping leaders with the moral compass necessary for navigating the industry's uncertainties.
As solar energy continues to play an increasingly pivotal role in the clean energy transition, Pelley and Schoch’s conversation will encapsulate the lessons learned over the past 20 years, inspiring future leaders to approach challenges with a renewed sense of mission and determination. Join them at RE+ 2026 to gain insights into the future of solar energy in the United States and beyond.
This event is not only significant for industry professionals but also offers an opportunity for anyone interested in understanding the broader implications of solar energy development and leadership dynamics.
Don't miss this unique discussion and the chance to learn from two leading voices in their fields.