Solar Roots Party and Movie OCT3O-NOV1 in Grass Valley California with Jeff Spies and Jason Vetterli

In this podcast, Jeff Spies shares the story behind "Solar Roots: The Pioneers of PV" and its upcoming release party. Jeff explained how the 11-year project began as a reunion party that evolved into capturing the stories of early solar industry pioneers, with interviews conducted over 2 years of filming. The documentary explores how the solar photovoltaic industry started with hippies in the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on both the technology's development and its adoption by off-grid communities, particularly those involved in marijuana cultivation. The release party will take place October 30-November 1 in Grass Valley, California at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, featuring screenings at the Del Oro Theater, musical performances by TJ Kanjizewski, and opportunities to meet many of the historical figures featured in the film, including David Katz, John Schaefer, and Charlie Gay. The event is open to the public with accommodations available for camping or nearby lodging, and the documentary will be released for free on Vimeo and YouTube following the party.

Topics Covered

Solar Roots: The Pioneers of PV

Solar Roots Party (October 31st – November 1st, 2026) www.solar-roots.com

AEE Solar = Alternative Energy Engineering Solar

Marijuana

Hippy

Sustainability

Grateful Dead

Solar History

Home Power Market

Grass Valley