In this Convo of Flanigan’s Eco-Logic, Ted speaks with Yin Chen, CEO and Chairman at Greenworks, a supplier of battery-powered outdoor power equipment (OPE) since 2003. With over 20 years at the forefront of home, yard, and do-it-yourself electric tools, Greenworks is redefining durability and eco-friendliness in the face of climate challenges, delivering high performance equipment focused on reducing carbon footprints.
Ted and Yin discuss his background briefly, studying mechanical engineering at China's Donghua University, and business at Warwick University in the UK. He shares humble beginnings of Greenworks, recalling a meeting with one of their first clients placing a modified bike battery on the table, noting that it would be the centerpiece of all their applications. Fast forward, Greenworks now has more than 7,000 employees and manufacturing facilities in China, the U.S. and Vietnam, and offers everything from riding lawn mowers to snow removal tools and pressure washers – all powered by batteries.
Yin shares his outlook on how Greenworks has shifted the narrative, and landscapers are now embracing battery power because it is in their best interest. Environmental benefits aside, Greenworks products improve workers’ day-to-day well-being. As they engage with the cleaner battery-powered technology, landscape professionals can now focus more on their tasks without the negative side effects of inhaling toxic fumes.
Yin also highlights Greenworks Optimus line of OPE, which was previously focused around the residential sector, but now focused on developing new products and comprehensive solutions for the commercial sector. The research and development, product testing, manufacturing, and customer service for the commercial equipment is being done at the Greenworks Commercial Center of Excellence in Morristown, Tennessee, ushering Greenworks Commercial into a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable manufacturing future here in the US.
What is Flanigan's Eco-Logic?
Flanigan's Eco-Logic, hosted by Ted Flanigan, provides cutting-edge information and insights in sustainability and the clean energy space. Episodes address alternative energy -- featuring solar, storage, microgrids, vehicle grid integration, and energy access. In addition, the podcast covers resources issues -- like water and food issues, and even slow fashion. Flanigan’s enthusiasm, vast experience, and deep network in the energy and environmental arena are palpable as he brings exciting and encouraging green developments to the fore, interviewing and engaging leading policy makers and practitioners throughout the United States and in many countries around the world.