Chris Martell from GSES explains why half of the solar systems they check have issues — and 15% aren’t working at all. He reveals common hidden faults, why standard monitoring often misses them, and how GSES’s Diagno tool helps asset owners detect problems early and protect returns. Key topics: 0:00 Intro – GSES’s work with NSW Government and 700 solar assets 2:02 GSES history, training, and founder recognition 6:04 Consulting and renewable procurement projects 9:20 Why O&M is unde...

Want to save thousands on your energy bills while driving your EV for (almost) free? In this video, Johnny Warnock from MyEnergi explains how a smart charger like the Zappi turns your solar power and cheap grid energy into free mileage for your car. Key topics: 0:00 Intro – Why smart charging matters for EV owners 2:30 The real cost of cheap EV chargers 6:00 How Zappi uses solar and off-peak energy to cut your bills 10:00 Smart hot water management with Eddi 16:00 Real-world savings and why ...

Are solar rebates really middle-class welfare? And why do rental properties still miss out? In this fiery and no-fluff episode, Markus Lambert sits down with Heidi Lee Douglas, CEO of Solar Citizens, to tackle the biggest debates in renewable energy — from battery rebates and grid stability to solar for renters and Australia’s clean energy future. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, policymaker, or industry insider, this episode lays bare the policy blind spots and what really needs to chan...

In this episode, Markus Lambert sits down with James Sturch from SolarEdge to unpack the real reasons behind Australia’s broken energy system. They dive into why we pay more for our own gas than overseas buyers, how long-term contracts are locking us out, and why renewables — despite being the cheapest form of generation — still play second fiddle to fossil fuels.

The Australian solar boom has left many homeowners with panels on their roofs—but what happens after installation is often a mystery. David Pethick, President of Omnidian Australia, joins the podcast to uncover the hidden reality of post-installation solar service. With a background at AGL and now leading Omnidian’s expansion—boosted by their acquisition of Solar Service Guys—David shares how the company is transforming solar maintenance into a streamlined, tech-driven experience. This episod...

The solar industry is often filled with companies focused on quick sales and minimum standards, but Brad Ott and Luke McKenzie from Velocity Solar take a refreshingly different approach. After 15 years in the business, Brad has built a reputation based on education, quality, and exceptional after-sales service. This episode explores: Educating both customers and employees to ensure informed decisions and quality installationsPrioritizing proper system sizing based on individual needs ra...

Sam Valenti from Essential Solar shares insights on quality solar installations, battery options, and future energy trends based on 13 years in the Melbourne market. His company's philosophy of performance, quality, and reliability guides their approach to sustainable energy solutions for residential and commercial properties. • Premium solar products like Fronius, SolarEdge, and Enphase cost more upfront but provide superior longevity and after-sales support • Quality installations save cus...

Ever wondered why your electricity bills keep climbing despite promises of cheap renewable energy? In this eye-opening conversation, energy data expert Tim Ryan pulls back the curtain on Australia's complex and often dysfunctional electricity market. The revelation at the heart of this episode is startling: our energy market is deliberately designed to create price volatility, benefiting generators and retailers while leaving consumers to foot an ever-increasing bill. Tim explains how the ma...

Smart Commercial Solar, founded by Huon Hoogesteger, has revolutionised commercial solar in Australia by providing cost-effective, high-performance solutions for businesses. From an off-grid solar experiment to leading large-scale commercial installations, this company has reshaped the industry. This episode reveals how strong relationships in the solar industry lead to sustained success. He discusses his journey in solar, the evolution of technology, the significant role of community funding...

What if you could power your home with the most efficient solar panels, drastically cutting your electricity bills while adding aesthetic appeal to your property? Join us for a captivating conversation with Thomas Bywater, a pioneer in the solar industry, as he shares his journey from Jinko to AIKO. Learn how AIKO's pioneering laser manufacturing technology is revolutionising solar panel efficiency, making them a top choice for maximising energy on limited roof spaces while minimising costs. ...

In this episode, Markus chats with Daniel Lanzetta, CEO of Smart Energy Answers, about how his company grew from a small team to a leader in solar, battery storage, and EV charging solutions. Daniel shares insights on why 9 out of 10 of their installations now include batteries, the rise of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) that let homeowners EARN money from stored energy, and how the new NSW battery rebate (up to $5,000!) is driving demand. Learn how smart solar systems aren't just ...

The episode uncovers the complexities of New South Wales' battery rebate, emphasising its potential rewards and challenges for homeowners. Topics include navigating rebate procedures, the benefits of integrating electric vehicles, and the future of virtual power plants in energy trading.• Discussion of the New South Wales battery rebate system • Critique of the announcement's impact on the market and sales • Insight into the risks of navigating rebate and paperwork • Exploratio...

Discover the secrets behind the current dynamics in the solar industry with our returning expert guest, Derek McKercher. Why are record installations not translating to a bustling market in Perth? We promise you'll uncover the fascinating interplay of seasonal challenges and competitive pricing, as well as the pressures driving subcontractors to launch their own businesses. Amidst these complexities, we spotlight Tesla's highly anticipated Powerwall 3, boasting a substantial 20-kilowatt solar...

Discover the transformative journey of Katherine McConnell, the trailblazing founder of Brighte, as she reshapes the solar battery energy industry one loan at a time. With over $2 billion in approved financing, Katherine shares her inspiring path from working at Macquarie Bank to bridging a critical gap for small-scale solar retailers. Learn how her innovative approach to energy equipment financing has empowered both retailers and customers, making energy savings as seamless and approachable ...

How does common sense and long-term vision shape the future of renewable energy? Michael Reiken from Excel Power in Toowoomba joins us to share his insights from 16 years in the industry, highlighting the importance of quality and reliability in solar systems. From the bustling Tesla Powerwall launch in Sydney to the local charm of Toowoomba's tight-knit community, Michael provides a firsthand account of the evolving solar landscape, where investing in top-tier products like Enphase can truly...

Curious about how solar panels hold up in the scorching heat and humidity of North Queensland? Kash Partridge from True North Solar joins us to share his wealth of experience in navigating these challenges and thriving in Townsville's demanding environment. With two decades in the solar industry, Kash has seen it all, from the rollercoaster of shifting government policies to the evolution of solar technology. Our conversation sheds light on how True North Solar has outlasted competitors by pr...

Unlock the potential of solar energy with insights from Rollo Sherriff of Replenishable Energy in Cairns. Discover why prioritizing quality over cost is crucial in the solar industry, especially when dealing with companies that may not be around to honor their warranties. With over a decade of experience, Rollo shares his journey and sheds light on the benefits of employing dedicated staff for quality control. This episode highlights the importance of customized solar solutions tailored to fu...

Curious about how a software developer can revolutionize the solar industry? Join us as Ben Masters from Solar Hub shares his incredible 14-year journey, blending advanced software solutions with home energy systems to deliver bespoke solar solutions that maximize customer benefits. We'll explore the challenges of navigating government policies and rebates, and the critical importance of maintaining high standards in solar installations to ensure long-term customer satisfaction.Discover the e...

Ever wondered how a single faulty solar panel could compromise your entire system? This episode's guest, Michelle McCann from PV Lab in Canberra, lays it all out for us. Michelle's journey into the solar industry began with her passion for the environment and a solid physics background. From facing an initial market flooded with substandard products to her collaboration with Jürgen Arp from PV Lab Germany, Michelle shares the hurdles she overcame to establish PV Lab Australia. Her story under...

Can sustainable energy really transform your daily life? Our latest episode promises to answer this compelling question as we welcome Dan McCabe from GI Energy. With over a decade of experience in the solar industry, Dan takes us back to 2009, sharing the trials and triumphs that led to the ethical foundation of GI Energy in 2011. Explore how his customer-first approach has built a strong referral network and solidified the company's reputation amidst a crowded market of inconsistent service ...