The Energy Show

Are dirty solar panels secretly robbing you blind?If you’ve ever looked up at your rooftop solar panels and wondered, “Do I really need to clean those?” — this episode is your wake-up call. Whether your system is a year old or just a few months in, there’s a high chance those precious photons aren’t making it through the grime. And yes, that dirt is costing you money.We’re diving headfirst into one of the most overlooked ways to boost your solar performance: cleaning your panels the right way — not the nonsense you’ve read online. We’re cutting through the clutter and breaking down three questions every solar owner needs to ask:1. When should you clean your solar panels?2. How should you clean them?3. And most importantly, who should do it?Expect myth-busting, hard numbers, and a surprising truth: you might be flushing hundreds of dollars in savings down the drain by doing nothing — or worse, doing it the wrong way. That garden hose trick? It might actually be ruining your panels.Plus, we’ve got jaw-dropping before-and-after photos (and a must-see video clip) that show just how much energy output you’re sacrificing when panels go untouched. Spoiler alert: a single dirty edge can slash performance by over 50%.We’re not just here to preach — we’ve cleaned thousands of panels since 2001 and we’re showing you what actually works. From safety tips and soap tricks to de-ionized water wizardry and spotting mineral damage, this is the ultimate guide to reclaiming your power, one photon at a time.Oh, and if you care about saving money and rescuing photons from quantum death? You definitely don’t want to miss the final five minutes.

You’d think it’s the cost of panels and batteries—but that’s only half the story. The other half? A tangled web of permits, inspections, engineering headaches, insurance, and paperwork that’s bleeding solar companies dry and keeping prices sky high.We’re joined by the man who’s on a mission to change that: Andrew “Birchy” Birch. You’ll hear why U.S. solar costs are double those in Germany and Australia, why nearly every big-name solar installer has gone out of business, and how a one-page invoice and no-permit process in Europe blew our minds back in 2007.We break down the real cost stack for rooftop solar, and how you—yes, you—can help drive down prices through smarter permitting, better service models, and demanding a better product.Want to know how to actually fix solar in America? We’re talking project velocity, profitability, SolarAPP+, OpenSolar, and why good service isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the secret weapon to staying in business.And if you've ever asked yourself, "Why can’t we just make this easier?"—this episode is for you.Hit play and get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about solar installation costs on www.energyshow.bizResources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

Thinking about going solar, upgrading to a heat pump, or adding a home battery system? You could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table if you don’t take advantage of the latest tax credits!We’re breaking down everything you need to know to maximize your tax credits for 2024 – and even 2025! Despite all the chaos in DC, these electrification incentives are still alive and well. But the clock is ticking.Learn how to get:30% tax credit on solar electric and water heating systems30% tax credit on battery storage (over 3 kWh)Up to $2,000 tax credit per year for heat pump HVAC and water heatersUp to $2,500 utility rebates for heat pump HVAC and heat pump water heaters in Silicon ValleyBut beware: the IRS is cracking down, auditing for accurate paperwork and manufacturer documentation. We’ll tell you how to avoid costly mistakes and ensure you get every dollar you’re entitled to.Don’t wait until it’s too late – find out how to claim your tax credits and secure local rebates before they vanish at www.energyshow.biz

AI is getting smarter—answering complex questions in seconds, from heat pump efficiency to system sizing. But can it really outthink a seasoned HVAC expert? We put AI head-to-head with heat pump design consultant Daniel Reres to find out who gives the best advice when replacing an old gas furnace and air conditioner with a state-of-the-art heat pump.Does AI have a clue about your heating load? Does Mr. AI know if a hybrid system (AKA natural gas) is worth it in California? Can Ms. AI inform you about the challenges that a heat pump has when it comes to effective dehumidification?It's man versus machine, in a showdown reminiscent of John Henry versus the steam drill—but this time, the prize is the comfort and efficiency of your home. The answers might surprise you, and they might even change the way you think about AI, heat pumps, and home energy forever. Find out who wins the man versus the machine heat pump design battle at www.energyshow.biz.

How can you tell when a "solar bro" salesman is lying? When his lips are moving.It may come as a surprise, but I’m sorry to report that not all solar sales people are honest. On this week’s Energy Show we’ll dive into the shadowy side of solar sales that often gets swept under the rug. Inspired by a provocative Wired article: “The Spectacular Burnout of a Solar Panel Salesman,” we explore the highs, lows, and questionable sales practices that sometimes occur in the solar industry.Instead of the traditional set of Frequently Asked Questions, this week’s show is a roundtable discussion with two very experienced solar salespeople. They’ll do a bit of role playing as they expose the lies that unethical salespeople spew as they seek to maximize their commissions, the tough customer questions that make salespeople squirm, and the right answers you should get from an ethical solar salesperson.Curious about the lies and exaggerations that you may hear during a solar sales pitch? Get the straight scoop on this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz.

Imagine this: Domino’s delivers your pepperoni pizza from the sky via drone, skipping traffic and landing it piping hot on your doorstep. Wouldn’t you want your energy delivered just as efficiently? Today’s energy delivered to our buildings takes a circuitous route - from pipes, wires or underground. But energy delivery directly from the sky is not only feasible, but surprisingly inexpensive. That’s because in today’s energy world, it costs far more to deliver energy than to generate it. This week on The Energy Show, we reveal why the location of energy generation is the ultimate cost driver—and why rooftop solar is leading the charge as the cheapest, most efficient solution. From chopping wood to cutting-edge solar panels, Barry Cinnamon uncovers the inefficiencies (and dangers) of outdated energy systems and explains why the future of energy is already shining down on us. Intrigued? Tune into this week’s Energy show at www.energyshow.biz and find out how energy delivery determines energy costs.

Patti Poppe, PG&E’s CEO, sent a literal love letter to all of her California customers. You can read it here, but allow me to summarize: Dear PG&E Customers: If you conserve electricity we will raise your rates. If you use more electricity your bills will go up. Either way we make more money. And it’s not our fault. With love, Patti I couldn’t make this $#!T up if I tried! California’s energy infrastructure is at a breaking point. Utilities are spending billions on bloated grid upgrades while at the same time lobbying for laws that stop homes and businesses from installing their own solar systems. The results? The highest peak electric rates in the country and record profits for California’s utilities. Enter the Solar Rights Alliance, a grassroots organization fighting back against monopolistic utilities and their political allies. On this week’s show Dave Rosenfeld, Executive Director of SRA, breaks down the lies behind utility-backed policies, reveals the real cause of rising electric rates, and shares actionable ways Californians can reclaim control over their energy future. Curious how we got here—and what’s next for rooftop solar, energy freedom, and cutting the cord from the grid? Tune in to The Energy Show for the full story at www.energyshow.biz.

Part 2 of our podcast with Greg Smith, author of The Battery Powered Home, goes into the intricate details of designing and installing the ideal home battery system. Some of the questions that Greg answers are: * What are the top mistakes homeowners and contractors make? * How can you ensure your system meets building code restrictions? * How can automatic load shedding and generator input capabilities improve the backup performance of your system? One of the most interesting features to me is the capability to connect to external backup power sources, such as a home generator or an EV. This capability provides the potential to partially or completely cut the cord with your utility — Grid Defection, as we say in the business. I think you’ll find that Greg’s wisdom in both Part 1 and Part 2 will help you sort through the battery system design choices offered by contractors. Part 2 of Tips for the Best Home Backup System podcast is at www.energyshow.biz.

Almost every solar system installed in California and Hawaii includes batteries. And for good reason. Daytime electric rates are low, evening rates are extremely high, blackouts are common, and utilities pay almost nothing for excess power you send back to the grid. But it’s not easy to design a battery system that takes into account homeowner power needs throughout the day, specific home wiring requirements, and building code restrictions on battery locations. Ironically, one of the biggest challenges is overcoming battery manufacturer hype that they can always back up your home for as long as you want during a blackout. My guest on this week’s Energy Show is Greg Smith, author of The Battery Powered Home. Because there is so much content to cover we’ve recorded two podcast segments with Greg. This first part focuses on battery system power and energy ratings — coupled with information about your home appliances — that will help homeowners make the right system design choices. Greg also delves into the three basic design approaches for a typical home battery system: arbitrage only, essential load backup, and whole home backup. So If you’re thinking about adding a battery to your rooftop solar system, or just getting a completely new combined solar and battery system, please tune into Part 1 of Tips for the Best Home Backup System with Greg Smith at www.energyshow.biz.

I have no doubt that we will need more electricity for EVs, building electrification and AI. But across the country — and particularly in California — electricity shortages are being artificially created by utilities as they actively stop competitive sources of power, such as rooftop solar and storage. At the rate our electricity demands are growing we need as much power as we can get from rooftop solar and batteries -- as well as remote utility power plants. However, due to political contributions made by utilities (using our money), California’s government has adopted a utility-only plan for our future power needs. The 40% of California’s electricity capacity historically provided by rooftop solar is almost completely off the table. Tune into this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz for the real reason California is facing a tremendous shortage of electricity — while at the same time electricity rates are skyrocketing, blackouts are becoming routine, and utilities are achieving record-breaking profits.

Demand for solar, storage and electrification is at an all-time high in the U.S. But economic and political uncertainties have clouded up my 2025 crystal ball. Nevertheless, here is what I see going into 2025. 1) No one knows what will happen with IRA tax credits and rebates 2) TPO system demand will increase if residential IRA incentives are reduced. 3) Utilities throughout the U.S. will increasingly exercise their monopoly power to suppress or outright prohibit customer-sited solar and battery systems 4) Electricity demand will increase more slowly than utilities predict 5) Heat pump rebate process was broken even before it started 6) Heat pumps combined with solar will shine in 2025 7) New UL-3741 solar rapid shutdown codes add price pressure to micro-inverter and optimizer component suppliers 8) Battery system shortages will continue in 2025, but newcomers will be hard pressed to meet this demand 9) Battery systems with integrated inverters will become the standard 10) “Grid Defection” will enter the energy system lexicon For the details on my Ten Solar, Storage and Electrification Predictions for 2025, please check out the Energy Show website at www.energyshow.biz

Did you know the 30% solar tax credit that fueled the industry’s explosive growth was partly funded by a sneaky deal allowing fossil fuel exports—raising gas prices in the process? Or that the long-term stability of these credits helped solar leasing and PPAs thrive? But there’s a storm brewing. With a potential Trump administration set to revisit the 2017 tax cuts, IRA incentives might be the first casualties. Imagine an immediate 30% hike in solar costs or the loss of your $8,000 heat pump rebate. For perspective on these potential changes I’ve turned to the smartest person I know about solar tax credit policy: Rhone Resch. As the CEO of SEIA from 2004 to 2016, Rhone led the charge on the first three rounds of tax credits in 2005, 2008 and 2014. Please listen to this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz for Rhone’s insights into the future of the IRA incentives, differences between the Section 25 residential credits and Section 48 commercial credits, and advice if you’re on the fence about installing solar and storage (hint: to be safe, get your system installed before 12/31/2025).

Solar panel costs have declined from $5/watt to $0.25/watt over the last 25 years. Due to the scale and risks involved in solar panel manufacturing, “…making solar panels is a horrible business,” according to Jenny Chase with Bloomberg NEF. And the same result is likely to happen with manufacturing the other key new energy technology: batteries. What’s bad news for solar and battery manufacturers is great news for energy-hungry customers. The core component of a power plant -- regardless of size -- is now a dirt-cheap commodity. Coal, oil and natural gas can’t keep up with PV power cost declines. Even nuclear, geothermal and wind power are challenged because these remotely constructed power plants require outrageously expensive high voltage transmission lines that take over a decade to design and construct. Our guest on this week’s Energy Show is Neal Dikeman with Energy Transition Ventures. It’s almost impossible to contain Neal's enthusiasm about new business opportunities presented by "almost free" solar and battery power. So please join me as Neal riffs on the changes happening with clean tech investing at www.energyshow.biz.

Utilities are in business to make money. So it’s no surprise that your electric bills will keep going up. You may not know it, but since 2022 the United States has been energy independent. As a country, we produce more energy (mostly fossil fuels) than we consume. Unfortunately, the benefits of energy independence do not trickle down to homeowners. Fossil fuel companies and utilities keep those profits while consumers keep paying more and more for energy. Unless your name is Jed Clampett, it is not feasible to drill an oil well in your back yard. But you can do the next best thing: put solar panels on your roof and add a battery backup system. One of the key benefits of rooftop solar and storage is that this energy can also go to fuel your EV, as well as heat and cool your house with a heat pump. With a properly designed solar and battery system it’s easy to slash your electric bills in half. This level of electricity cost reduction is termed "partial grid defection." And if you have enough roof space you can even get a check back from your utility because you are producing more energy than you consume — basically total grid defection. The same concept works for commercial and industrial customers who install solar and batteries. Don’t wait for the next big jump in electric rates. Or the next blackout. Listen to this week's electrifying Energy Show episode and celebrate your own Energy Independence Day.

Net metering is history (for now) in California and Hawaii. So almost every homeowner needs batteries with their solar system. But businesses need solar too, and therefore batteries. In fact, because of demand charges on most commercial electric bills, businesses benefit from batteries even more than homes. But there are almost no reliable, standardized, ready-for-prime-time commercial battery systems that provide the trifecta of energy savings, backup power and demand charge reduction. There is a gaping hole in the battery market between huge customized utility scale battery systems and small “off the shelf” home battery systems. Go figure! Note that I said “almost.” Fortress Power has a suite of commercial battery storage systems that are ideal for small and medium commercial customers. These systems can time shift energy use, provide solar-connected backup power and reduce peak demand charges. This week, CEO Jing Yu and Sales Director Alex Lepore join us to discuss how they’re filling in the Energy Storage System gap between residential and utility scale. If you’re wondering how a commercial battery system can benefit your company, please tune into this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz.

Think it can’t happen to you? Imagine icicles forming in the shower or condensate water seeping through your ceiling—all thanks to an HVAC system that’s begging for attention. This week, the “House Whisperer” Nate Adams joins us to expose the hidden perils of skipping HVAC maintenance and how a few proactive tweaks can prevent a winter nightmare (and save your bank account from disaster). • Your Furnace: A Ticking Time Bomb? Why ignoring maintenance is like setting yourself up for a frigid breakdown—just when you need heat the most. • Heat Pumps Are Taking Over: Nate and Barry dive into why these super-efficient systems are transforming homes, especially for solar-powered setups. • DIY Maintenance You Can’t Afford to Miss: Learn the easy steps to dodge condensation leaks, clogged filters, and cold-air surprises that make winter miserable. Want to save on HVAC repairs and avoid a frozen shower? Don’t miss this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz. About The Energy Show Every week Barry hosts The Energy Show, a 30 minute informative talk show that covers a broad variety of energy related topics spanning technology, economics, policy, and politics that are shaping the future of how we generate and consume electricity, along with practical money-saving tips on ways to reduce your home and business energy consumption.

The first challenge with a home electrification project is determining the actual costs, savings and incentives for each step in the project. Once that’s done, the second challenge is navigating the maze of different electrification contractors (solar, batteries, EV chargers, HVAC, HPWH, insulation, etc.) Due to the magnitude of potential energy savings, solar and battery contractors are often the first in the door when homeowners consider an electrification project. Balto Energy is delivering a suite of software that will help solar contractors model and prioritize a range of electrification measures. To learn more about Balto Energy and their quest to decarbonize homes across America, please listen up to this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz as we speak with James Quazi, Founder & CEO of Balto Energy.

Ever wonder how early investors turned a hippy solar energy industry into a $100+ billion worldwide industry? On this week's episode we sit down with Gerard Reid, co-founder of Alexa Capital. Way back in 2005 he was researching PV technologies in Berlin - that’s when he realized that combining the right financing with rapid cost reductions in the solar industry could be the foundation for some terrific investments. And he was right. Fast forward to 2024 and we are seeing even greater worldwide potential for the combination of solar and storage. Now it is pretty obvious that solar and storage will deliver dirt cheap electricity. The challenge now is to seek out the opportunities that are not constrained by incumbent industries or hostile public policies. Please tune into this week's Energy Show at www. energyshow.biz to get Gerard’s insights into the actions that early solar and finance companies took to set them up for such a global success story.

Will the future of energy be driven by massive utility solar farms or millions of local rooftop systems? John Farrell from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance shares his insights on how utility monopolies are strangling local solar efforts -- especially in California -- where monopoly utilities are locking customers into sky-high rates. The conversation delves into the growing trend of “grid defection” as consumers use their own solar and battery systems to reduce their dependence on utility power. With an appropriately sized solar and battery system -- with a little help from a friendly EV -- it is indeed possible to cut the cord with the utility completely. Locations with lots of sunlight and high electric rates will be the first places where people can cost effectively ditch their local utility. With all due respect to Alice’s Restaurant…could this be the start of a nationwide movement? Please tune into this week’s Energy Show episode at www.energyshow.biz.

Nuclear power will make electricity too cheap to meter,” a prediction made in a 1954 statement from the head of the Atomic Energy Commission. 70 years later I’m predicting that electricity will be almost free, but powered from that fusion generator 93 million miles away. Sounds crazy, but rooftop solar is already generating power for $0.06/kwh — compared to our average rates here in California of $0.45/kwh. As rooftop solar costs continue to decline and grid electricity costs continue to increase, we need to prepare for three traumatic energy industry changes: 1. Gasoline demand will plummet as EVs dominate road transportation. 2. Natural gas demand will decline steadily as heat pumps dominate space heating and solar dominates power generation. 3. The utility business model will collapse as technological changes (solar and batteries) turn the electric grid upside down. Please tune into this week’s Energy Show as we dive into the capital costs, operating costs, ownership arrangements and timing for the four most common types of power plants. The results make it clear why utilities are trying so hard to stop the growth of rooftop solar and storage. For the details, please head over to www.energyshow.biz and listen to this week's podcast.

In the second part of this week’s episode, we dive deeper with Vince Battaglia, CEO of Renova Energy, as he unpacks the aftermath of SunPower’s shocking collapse. First, a quick recap of Part 1: Vince shared the inspiring 18-year evolution of Renova Energy. From thriving in the heat of Coachella Valley to expanding into Arizona, he explained Renova’s smart choices in solar and battery tech and their consistent maintenance approach. Most notably, Renova’s steady, conservative business practices have been key to their sustained success. Now, we pivot to the gripping story of SunPower’s downfall and its ripple effects. Vince details how Renova was impacted and the strategic, customer-first decisions that guided their recovery. His firsthand account sheds light on how they survived the upheaval—reinforcing customer trust, making swift adjustments, and doubling down on reliable business practices. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion about navigating industry crises and what this means for the future of solar. Catch the full episode at www.energyshow.biz. Stay tuned as Vince breaks down the gritty details of SunPower’s failure and how Renova emerged stronger than ever.

This podcast episode, Segment 2 of our Enphase interview, delves into Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE) and the rise of advanced battery technology, with Enphase at the forefront since 2008. Segment 1, released a few weeks ago, is a good listen — especially for homeowners. Raghu Belur, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Enphase, shares insider details on their success, market position, and IRA incentives. We'll also debate open vs. closed home energy ecosystems and discuss how rapid advances in battery and EV charging tech are outpacing regulations. Explore UL 3741, a new code enhancing solar safety and efficiency, and learn about effective Whole Home Backup system designs. Discover how Enphase is shaping U.S. and California energy policies and what changes are needed to slash costs and boost safety. Catch Segment 2 of our Enphase episode at www.energyshow.biz for the latest from Enphase’s perspective on the future of solar, storage and home energy management.

This podcast episode, Segment 2 of our SolarEdge interview, is for my fellow solar installers who crave the inside scoop on industry TLAs such as IRA, VPP, V2G, PCS and NBT. This is the geeky deeper dive on the latest technologies and policy perspectives from SolarEdge. Segment 1, released a few weeks ago, is a great listen for more of a customer perspective. Today’s podcast, the second SolarEdge segment, is focused on interests and needs for contractors -- both residential and commercial. Issues related to fire safety, maximizing energy harvest, commercial cost reduction and UL 3741 are among the topics we are discussing. And if you work in California, techniques to increase system size for existing NEM2 customers will also be covered. Joining us on these two SolarEdge podcast segments are Bertrand Vandeweile, SolarEdge’s new GM for North America, and John Ahlman, their Chief Marketing Officer. Please tune into this second of two Energy Show podcasts with SolarEdge at www.energyshow.biz.

What happens when your largest solar equipment supplier suddenly files for bankruptcy? And worse, they stop paying you for your ongoing projects? This is the nightmare scenario for solar installers everywhere. As the solar industry faces shifting policies, rising interest rates, and market turbulence, some companies are managing to thrive despite the challenges. One such standout is Renova Energy. In this week’s episode, Vince Battaglia, CEO of Renova Energy, shares the secrets behind the company’s 18-year journey to becoming a leading force in the Coachella Valley and beyond. In this first segment, Vince highlights Renova’s growth and expansion into Arizona, their smart approach to solar and battery installations, and how they’ve tailored their offerings to the unique needs of the desert region. With a focus on extreme heat conditions and local roofing demands, Renova’s conservative business practices and top-tier maintenance services have helped them build a reputation for excellence. Want to know how to build a resilient solar business? Please listen to this episode of The Energy Show for Vince’s insights on The Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz.

Anyone who pays an electric bill in California knows we’re in the midst of an energy crisis. The stark reality is that this crisis is enabled by politicians who lack the will to do something about it. But unlike many politicians, Sam Liccardo took action to lower electric bills when he was the Mayor of San Jose. Now, as candidate for U.S. Congress, Sam plans to tackle this these energy affordability problems on both a state level and national scale. Please join me on this week’s Energy Show as U.S. Congress candidate Sam Liccardo talks about his work on safer bike lanes, how a heat pump keeps his house cool, and of course affordable energy. Perhaps most important — how his "across the aisle" political philosophy will help him get things done in Washington, DC. Looking for real-world solutions to sky-high energy costs? Then tune into this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz.

FINALLY, someone who actually understands our crazy-complicated electric bills! His name is Dr. Ahmad Faruqui. I’m delighted to have Ahmad join me on this week’s Energy Show to talk about energy policy -- with a particular focus on why the heck our electric bills keep going up when it’s so inexpensive to generate power with solar and wind. It helps to have a PhD in economics, as Ahmad has from UC Davis. He started his energy policy career at the California Energy Commission, and then went over to the Dark Side at EPRI, the Electric Power Research Institute, after which he worked at the Brattle Group on energy consumer policies. So he understands the economic theories as well as the realities of the electric utility industry. New energy technologies, such as rooftop solar and batteries, have disrupted the 120-year old utility industry. Please tune into this week's energy show at www.energyshow.biz for an expert’s view on how these technologies should best be deployed to provide affordable and reliable electricity for everyone.

Unfortunately, there are a few "quick buck" solar companies that take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners. These ten tips will help you avoid these scam artists -- and get the best solar and battery installation for your home or business. 1. Beware of the word “Free” 2. Beware of TGTBT pricing and financing 3. Don’t sign up on the spot 4. Do not trust quotes generated completely online 5. Beware of “free maintenance and cleaning” commitments 6. Beware of optimistic system savings 7. Research the company that manufacturers the solar panels you will install 8. Research the company that manufactures battery SYSTEM you will install 9. Understand your backup power strategy 10. Do your own research on applicable incentives, credits and financing options Don’t let a bad deal or poor installation quality ruin your solar investment. Tune into this week's podcast at www.energyshow.biz

California’s clean energy future is on a collision course with profit-oriented monopoly utilities. From the Governor’s office to the California Public Utilities Commission to the Legislature, policies are being implemented that are leading to skyrocketing electric rates and record utility profits — while at the same time crushing California's rooftop solar and storage industry and knocking the state off track in meeting its own clean energy goals. It’s a classic David vs. Goliath story. Only, instead of “David” being one person standing up to the powerful utilities, given the unique power of solar energy, here, it is every ratepayer, every solar worker, every solar business fighting to protect the right for consumers to generate energy from the sun. And Bernadette Del Chiaro, as the Executive Director of the California Solar and Storage Association (CALSSA), is leading the fight for affordable, safe and reliable power for homes and businesses.

I bet you didn’t know that the “WH” in FranklinWH stands for "Whole Home." The Jersey Boys from Franklin designed their battery system from the ground up to help people back up their whole home without adding extra batteries or expensive load shedding subpanels. This capability has made Franklin one of the best selling battery systems on the market. Founder Gary Lam and Product Manager Doug Amarhanow — both Rutgers graduates — are my guests on this week’s Energy Show. In addition to integrated load shedding, the FranlinWH system also allows homeowners to expand their rooftop solar systems without triggering the Net Billing Tariff (or NEM3). On the near-term horizon is a capability that will allow EVs with a 240 volt generator output (such as the Ford Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck) to power a home independent of the grid. To learn more about these unique Whole Home backup features from FranklinWH, please tune into this week's energy show at www.energyshow.biz.

“SunPower” and “bankruptcy” are two words I never thought I’d see in the same sentence. But we should temper our schadenfreude. The solar industry owes SunPower and their employees tremendous gratitude. Without a doubt, our industry would be much smaller without SunPower’s early and determined leadership. So rather than dance on their potential grave, this week’s Energy Show will focus on SunPower’s accomplishments that I’ve witnessed first-hand over the past 20 years. Think about back contact cells; best dealer network; utility-scale installations on five continents; horsepower behind CALSSA and SEIA; Million Solar Roofs; uncapped ITC; Swanson, Werner, Shugar, Wenger, Blunden, Starrs; NexTracker and Renova. The list goes on. There’s plenty of news about SunPower’s demise. For the other side of the story, please tune into this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz.

Who would have thunk that you could put a 240 volt split phase inverter on the back of every solar panel? The gurus at Enphase and Akeena did, and I've been a fan ever since their first prototypes in 2008. In fact, I still have Enphase M-190 microinverters on my San Francisco home. Time for an upgrade? Probably! Our special guest is Raghu Belur, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Enphase. We've discussed microinverters for 16 years, witnessing Enphase's rise in the solar industry. Raghu shares insights on their product lineup, market segments, manufacturing hubs, and how they're leveraging IRA incentives. We explore open vs. closed home energy ecosystems, and the integration of battery, inverter, software, and EV charging technologies. We also cover whole home backup designs, industry challenges, and Enphase's influence on energy policies. Don't miss Part 1 of this insightful interview with Raghu on home electricity costs and reliability. Dial your browser to www.energyshow.biz for the inside scoop on Enphase and their latest products.

You don’t have to be a Boomer to remember the days of simple DC wire connections to string inverters. For the most part, these times are long gone. Since 2010, module-level power electronics (MLPE) have taken over — and now, with batteries and advanced load control, solar systems have evolved into the energy focal point for homes. This Energy Show podcast highlights new capabilities from SolarEdge, broken up into two segments. Today’s podcast, the first SolarEdge segment, is focused on interests and needs for homeowners. We saved the geekier deep dive for installers in the second segment, which will be released in a few weeks. Joining us on these two SolarEdge podcast segments are Bertrand Vandeweile, SolarEdge’s new GM for North America, and John Ahlman, their Chief Marketing Officer. We dive into the benefits of optimized string inverters, batteries, and load control of multiple home devices. Discover why homeowners should care about lifetime system “energy harvest,” as well as the tradeoffs between open versus closed home energy ecosystems. Please listen to this first of two Energy Show podcasts with SolarEdge on www.EnergyShow.biz

Yes, definitely. Heat pumps are literally and figuratively cool. And without a doubt, the best time to consider installing a heat pump is when your AC (or furnace) dies. Heat pumps do double duty, providing both heating and cooling. They offer significant savings and improved comfort -- which I confirmed first hand after my old outdoor air conditioner compressor died. Replacing both my old AC and gas furnace with a heat pump was one of the best home improvements I’ve ever made. The system operates almost silently, has better temperature control throughout my house, and my heating and cooling bills are down significantly. New heat pump models use inverter-based variable speed compressors with efficiencies in excess of 350%. These high system efficiencies mean that your total heating and cooling costs will almost always be lower with a heat pump than an ordinary AC and gas furnace. And from a comfort standpoint, with mini-split models you can even heat/cool individual rooms in your house! Sure, a basic AC replacement might seem cheaper initially. But keep in mind, federal tax credits and state rebates (part of the Inflation Reduction Act) will bring down the cost of your heat pump installation by $2k-$10k. So in most cases it makes sense to price out a heat pump when your AC fails in the summer, or your furnace fails in the winter. Want to learn more? Tune in to the full podcast at EnergyShow.Biz and discover why heat pumps are the smart choice when your AC can longer stand the heat.

Consider the poor photons! If your panels are dirty you are causing trillions of premature photonic deaths when they collide with dirt molecules. Please give those photons the chance to knock an electron loose from an eager semi-conductor. Instead of being converted to heat and banished to quantum hell. Save The Photons. Clean Your Solar Panels After just a week, your panels might look slightly dusty. But a light coating of dust doesn’t significantly block sunlight. However, severe grime, especially on low-tilt panels, can slash your output by over 25%! You can’t save all the photons all the time, but by watching your solar monitoring system you can tell mathematically — as well as visually — when your panels should be cleaned. If you have a larger system in an area with high electric rates and a dry climate, the economics of cleaning become more favorable. When it comes to cleaning solar panels there’s lots of bad advice on the internet…and even from manufacturers. On this week’s podcast we address WHEN you should clean your solar panels, as well as HOW. Please listen to the full “Save The Photons” podcast on The Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz. And keep these three things in mind: safety, the type of water, and the best cleaning agents.

Are you sick of all the heat pump hype? Skeptical about why you should buy one right away? Don’t mind paying huge bills to your utility for methane (natural gas)? Even heat pump enthusiasts like us agree with you — they are definitely NOT for everyone. Here are five reasons why heat pumps may not be the right thing for your house: 1. You don’t believe in global warming and prefer to burn fossil fuels 2. Heat pumps are too expensive 3. It's too complicated to install a HPWH or HP HVAC 4. You rent your house or plan to move 5. Your existing HVAC and water heater works fine With all the tax credits, rebates and financing options, heat pumps are more affordable than ever. They deliver significant energy savings, offer better comfort and provide superior indoor air quality — even for complicated installations. With efficiencies over 300%, heat pumps are almost always less expensive to operate over the long term, and can be installed in almost all existing homes. On the other hand, from an economic standpoint it often makes sense to wait until your existing heating equipment dies before replacing it with heat pumps. If you don’t believe in the science of global warming, maybe saving money with a heat pump will change your mind. For the full scoop and a heat pump reality check, please tune in to the full podcast at EnergyShow.Biz.

This week's Energy Show dives into the tumultuous landscape of the clean energy industry, painting a picture of contrasting fortunes akin to the classic “Tale of Two Cities.” On one hand, we witness a surge in demand for clean energy, driven by improving economics, lower equipment costs, and rising electric rates, alongside enticing incentives. Yet, on the flip side, California experiences its first-ever decline in rooftop solar installations, coupled with a slowdown in electric vehicle growth and a resurgence of incumbent fossil fuel companies. Amidst this dichotomy, our guest, Jon Semingson, President of Peak Demand, Inc., sheds light on the critical challenges plaguing the industry's infrastructure and human resources. From a scarcity of skilled construction labor to a dearth of executive-level talent, the hurdles to industry growth loom large. Moreover, financing remains a linchpin, with uncertainties surrounding tax equity and interest rate trends. The urgency of these issues is underscored by the grid's perilous state, with transmission and interconnection queues adding to the mounting backlog of energy projects. As California grapples with policy-induced setbacks in residential, commercial, and community solar segments, the looming question remains: can utility-scale solar bridge the gap as electricity demand escalates, fueled by the surge in electric vehicles, AI, and heating needs? This podcast doesn't just highlight the industry's challenges but offers a platform for critical discussion and solutions. For a deeper dive into these pressing issues and insights from industry experts like Jon Semingson, tune in to the full episode at EnergyShow.Biz.

I read an avalanche of media criticism when Elon Musk fired his entire SuperCharger team a few weeks ago. In spite of all the whining, it was a good business decision for Tesla. Here’s why: expanding and running a fast charging network is a lousy business. Installation costs are high, permitting and construction delays are extensive, and revenues from charging cannot overcome the high electricity costs charged by utilities. According to a McKinsey and Company study in October of 2023, most EV fast charging sites are swimming in red ink, losing $45,000 a year at every 4 port charging station. A back-of-the-envelope calculation shows that a typical Starbucks in California would have to sell 56,000 extra cups of coffee every year just to break even on EV charging. That’s a lotta Joe. In spite of complaints about high gasoline prices, gasoline is a worldwide commodity with reasonable substitutes. Prices are set by the free market. But prices for electricity supplied to charging stations are set by utilities who have a monopoly on electricity sales. It's illegal for anyone other than a utility to resell electricity, so utilities can charge whatever they want. To make matters worse, Public Utility Commissions in many states let utilities run wild with sky-high electric rates and record profits. I’m a big EV fan, but the lack of EV charging infrastructure coupled with the extraordinarily high costs of charging will stifle the industry’s growth. California’s goal of selling only zero emissions vehicles by 2035 is a pipe dream. In order to hit that goal we need to quickly change the monopoly utility business model so that EV charging makes sense. But there's another faster and cheaper option: solar-powered EV charging. Solar charging is easy to do for homes — the average driver in California needs just 7 more solar panels to meet their annual driving needs. Taking it one step further, we should couple EV chargers with commercial solar installations. Think about it: shouldn’t we charge our cars during the day, when it's sunny, from inexpensive rooftop solar, at work, where the cars are parked? Instead of waiting to charge our cars at public stations which get expensive power from utility solar farms 500 miles away? Tesla’s Supercharger network challenges are just the tip of the iceberg. For more about costs and practical solutions to EV charging, please tune in to the full SuperCharger podcast at www.energyshow.biz

10 years in the solar and storage industry qualifies most industry veterans as a solar old timer. But there is one person who stands out as a beacon of leadership, longevity and success. Ed Murray has been heating water molecules (solar thermal), converting photons to electrons (solar PV) and saving customers money since 1978. That’s 322 dog years! Ed Murray, CEO of Aztec Solar in Sacramento, knows solar thermal, PV and storage technology like the back of his hand. He’s managed to run his successful solar business in spite of the “solar coaster” craziness. But what impresses me the most about Ed is his industry leadership. Ed has been on the Board of Directors of the California Solar and Storage Association for 40 years, has been serving as its president since 2016, has been on the Board of the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners for 14 years, and served on the Board of the Solar Energy Industries Association for 14 years. For a detailed dive into what it takes to be successful in the solar and storage industry for the long term, you don’t want to miss this episode of the Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz

It’s not a flippant comment or a classic jazz solo — but an existential question about the devastating trend our civilization is on due to climate change. The history of Earth Day shows how the worldwide environmental movement has evolved from concerns about in-your-face air and water pollution … to a focus on the invisible hazard of rising CO2 emissions. To a large degree we’ve cleaned up the worst of the visible air pollution, contaminated water, and toxic wastes hiding under a few feet of topsoil. In the first few decades of Earth Day, consumers, companies and governments were all pulling in the same direction to right these environmental wrongs. But something insidious happened due to the profits that can be reaped by polluting the Earth. Economists call it a Negative Externality (the imposition of a cost to one group of people as an indirect effect of the actions of another group of people). To fossil fuel companies, the negative externality they cause by producing oil and gas — which when burned pollutes the Earth with CO2 — is just a side effect to their record profits. For decades fossil fuel companies have been fighting and concealing this unprofitable truth. There is hope amidst this grim reality. The history of Earth Day shows how public opinion can indeed change this trajectory — especially as the effects of CO2 pollution impact all of us with flooded shores, burning homes and unlivable cities. For insights into our progress amidst this grim reality, please Listen Up to this week’s Energy Show.

Welcome back to Part 2 of our interview with Scott Sullivan, my friend and one of the best networked executives in the industry. Earthquake excitement has diminished in the New Jersey area, but seismic changes in solar continue around the country. In Part 1 we discussed what happens in the solar and storage industry — really every industry — when company profits decline. It’s a tough adjustment to make, and many companies have not yet recovered from this high interest rate environment. Nevertheless, the majority of companies have figured out the formula, and the topics that Scott and I discussed are summarized below: * What are the characteristics of a great solar and storage contractor? * What should potential customers look for in a contractor? * Have you seen any changes with the solar panels offered by contractors? * Have you seen any changes with the inverters and batteries offered by contractors? * Is solar financing recovering yet from high interest rates? * Are Virtual Power Plants (VPP) and Vehicle To Grid (V2G) technologies getting much traction? * And last but not least, what do you do for fun? If you missed any of Part 1 or Part 2 of our podcasts with Scott Sullivan, please visit ENERGYSHOW.BIZ and listen to the full podcasts.

Seismic changes in the solar and storage industry? Who would have thought that our friends in New Jersey would relate so viscerally? Their recent 4.8 magnitude quake in early April literally extended this metaphor across the country. Metaphors aside, the solar and storage industry is changing faster now than I have ever seen: * Electric rates are soaring, along with utility profits * Solar equipment costs — panels, inverters, batteries — are declining * UL-3741 standards for rapid shutdown throw a monkey wrench into rooftop safety standards * Demand for electricity to power our EVs and heat pumps is increasing * AI is recently on the scene as the newest electricity demand wildcard * Continued high interest rates are suppressing solar and storage financing * Utilities have wised-up to rooftop solar and storage threats to their profits * Hostile utility policies and relatively high interest rates squeeze installer margins, forcing many unprofitable solar companies out of business * Some companies have cracked the code for long-time success — how do they do it? For cross country insights into the impact of these changes, our guest on this week’s podcast is Scott Sullivan. I’ve known Scott for over 20 years. Not only is he the best networked person in the industry, but his depth of solar sales and marketing knowledge is a treasure for people trying to figure out what’s next. Scott and I had so many topics we decided to split the podcast into two episodes. So please listen to Part One of Scott’s podcast for his observations and advice for these metaphorical seismic changes in the solar industry.

March isn't just about shamrocks and leprechauns; it's also Women's History Month, highlighting the incredible contributions of women in various fields. But have you ever wondered about their role in the energy transition? In general, women are just as involved as men — not just in solar, but also in batteries, hydrogen, policy-making, electrification, and manufacturing. However, there's a glaring gap in representation when it comes to the construction side of energy systems. But not at Luminalt Solar under the leadership of Jeanine Cotter, their President and CEO. Luminalt is the leading solar and battery contractor in San Francisco. One would think that it would be easy to be a solar and storage contractor in a liberal city such as San Francisco. Until you try to find a space to park your van. Or navigate the city’s convoluted permitting issues. Or just try to find a place for a battery and inverter near the electric meter. In our candid conversion, Jeanine and I discuss her journey as she built a successful solar company in one of the most densely populated cities in the country. Unlike most contractors, she didn’t start with a construction background; instead, she is a licensed California attorney. Take it from me: knowing how to navigate the regulations, policies and laws that apply to the clean energy industry is one of the most critical skills that a solar and storage company must have. But it's not all business; we delve into the personal side too. How did Jeanine get into solar? How does she champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within Luminalt and the clean energy industry in general? And perhaps most intriguingly, how does she suggest women navigate the traditionally male-dominated construction industry? Please listen to the full podcast for Jeanine’s insights into achieving success in the solar and storage industry and be sure to visit The Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz for access to all Energy Show episodes.

The Learning Curve for understanding home batteries and solar systems is steep. Your battery system education will require mastering at least twice as much jargon, TLAs (that’s Three Letter Acronyms), specifications and industry gossip than ordinary solar systems. So if you don’t want to get bamboozled by an aggressive salesperson, this week’s podcast is a great place to start. Some of the topics and questions include: * What is the best way for me to expand my existing solar system? * What are the important assumptions -- such as shading, battery location and equipment compatibility — that I should verify with my salesperson? * How long will my battery last during a blackout? Can my backup battery start large equipment, such as my AC or pool pumps? * What’s the difference between AC- and DC-coupled battery systems, and why should I care? * What changes do I need t make to add a battery to my existing solar system? * What are the building code and fire code restrictions on battery installations in my city? * Can I install two batteries alongside my house or in my garage? * Should I install an Essential Loads Panel, or just go with Whole Home Backup? *How can I connect a generator to my batter system? * What are my alternatives to doing an electric service upgrade? Answers to the questions above are not obvious, and vary significantly based on your location, existing solar equipment, and the electrical wiring in your house. For all the details, please tune into this week’s Energy Show podcast at www.energyshow.biz.

The Utility Empire is striking back. As a result, the rooftop solar industry is experiencing its first decline in growth ever. In California alone the end of Net Metering has resulted in an 80% drop in rooftop installations and 17,000 job losses among passionate Rebel solar installers. Utilities in other states are following California’s lead, leveraging their Death Star-caliber monopoly powers and millions in lobbying money to further reduce competition. Even though we need rooftop solar more than ever, this solar industry decline may leave both new and existing customers in the lurch. New solar and battery customers have fewer, although some will say better, choices. And people with existing systems may find that their original installer is no longer around to support their system. Jedi Geoff Greenfield from Kokosing Solar joins us on this week’s Energy Show. His suggestions will help both new and existing customers continue to benefit from money-saving solar and storage systems. He points out that there are still thousands of established local solar companies all around the country with the Force to be able to support their existing customers — as well as orphan customers. Here's the bottom line: if you're investing in solar, you need to choose wisely. There is a Dark Side to the cheapest or fastest solar and storage internet deal. In some cases the companies pitching these systems may not have the resources to complete your system, no less support it for its 25 year projected life. What may seem like a too good to be true deal may very likely cost you in the long run. Please tune in to the full podcast at www.energyshow.biz for Geoff’s wisdom and solutions for the best ways to navigate these changes in the solar and storage industry.

This week we’re talking about World Domination. Domination of energy production, that is. In the re-scrambled words of the wise and infamous Dr. Evil: “Why make Gigawatts when we can make…Terrawatts!” Indeed, solar is on track to completely dominate electricity generation. Solar is growing faster than wind, nuclear and LNG ever did. Alternatives to solar such as nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, CO2 capture and sequestration (CCS), and CO2 direct air capture (DAC) are way too expensive and very slow to scale to meet our needs. And with batteries sited with solar, we’ve solved the problems of intermittency and power when the sun is down. Costs for rooftop solar and storage are continuing to decline as manufacturing scale increases. According to the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), rooftop solar can meet 45% of our energy needs. The rest can be easily met with utility scale solar. So as long as we aggressively pursue deployments of BOTH rooftop and utility solar and storage, there is no doubt in my mind that by 2050 our society will be almost completely powered by solar. For more about Solar Power World Domination, listen to the full podcast at www.energyshow.biz.

If you’re thinking about solar there’s something important you should know. It should be obvious, but just in case: there is no such thing as Free Solar. Getting solar — or a battery -- installed on your house is not cheap and certainly not free. These projects are significant construction and electrical improvements. No company will install solar or a battery for free. I guarantee it. The Romans had a term for it: Caveat Emptor. Let The Buyer Beware. Unfortunately, disreputable companies still advertise Free Solar. I see these ads on the internet every day. Many states, including California, have laws against this type of false advertising. Nevertheless, these deceptive sales tactics persist. The U.S. Department of Energy advises people to watch out for “too good to be true” offers. Beware of hard-sell attempts to collect your personal data in exchange for a free solar or battery quote. Make sure the contractor you select has the proper installation and sales licenses. If you find yourself a victim of a Free Solar scam, your best option is to contact your state’s Contractor Licensing Board or Consumer Protection Department. Homeowners are even more vulnerable now that electric rates continue to skyrocket. My advice is to be patient, get educated about solar and battery technology, and get references from experienced local installers. These local companies are most likely to design a customized system, install reliable equipment, and provide the necessary service over the lifetime of your system. For more about the persistent and probably painful pretense of Free Solar, please tune into this week’s Energy Show, or go to ENERGYSHOW.BIZ.

It’s no surprise that this is the most common question, since the solar panels themselves are the biggest cost component of a typical rooftop system. But I’m not going to give you the single "Best Panel" answer you may be looking for. Sorry. With over 100 companies making solar panels worldwide — and vast differences in efficiency, aesthetics and reliability — there is no one answer. So instead I’ll focus on the factors and characteristics to help you make the best decision for your particular circumstances. When I think about my 20+ years of installing rooftop solar panels, I’ve come to the conclusion that highest efficiency, quality features, country of manufacturing, low light performance, annual degradation, rock bottom pricing, proprietary cell technologies, fancy advertising, long warranties and Top Ten lists DON’T REALLY MATTER! You can throw every one of these manufacturer claims and specifications out the window if the solar panel manufacturer goes out of business, or just arbitrarily decides to ignore problems with their product. What REALLY MATTERS is your confidence in the local installer you choose to install the system. That local installer’s business depends on happy customers for the long term. You can — and probably should -- pepper them with questions. Good installers will do their best to make good on warranties, even when the solar panel manufacturer disappears. So I suggest you trust their objective advice on the best panels for your particular roof space, orientation and budget. Please listen to this week’s Energy Show for my advice on finding the Best Solar Panels for your rooftop.

As in year’s past, we in California greet the New Year with yet another electric rate increase. It’s almost impossible to believe this time — but on January 1, 2024, PG&E raised electric rates by another 28.4% according to the San Jose Mercury News. Just follow the money. Since 2017, Utilities and the IBEW spent over $111 million on politicians and ballot measures to maintain their monopoly. So it should be no surprise that our government passed laws that make California’s peak rates the highest in the country. The Solar Rights Alliance compiled this list of Utility and IBEW Contributions from publicly available data. So you can see for yourself how much your own politicians -- from the Governor on down -- accepted in contributions. Please listen to this episode of the Energy Show as I connect the dots from these contributions to: ...Anti-solar laws passed by California’s Legislature ...The Governor's appointments of new California Public Utilities Commissioners ...The end of Net Metering ...An array of hostile rooftop solar policies affecting homes and businesses ...Out-of-control utility spending on long distance transmission lines on which utilities get a guaranteed 12% annual profit ...The impact on low- and middle-income residents ...The crash of California’s rooftop solar and storage industry ...The $500+ million budget deficit these job losses will create for California ...And the $500+ million in extra revenue that utilities will rake in from these lost home and business solar installations. My two recommendations to reduce your electric rates are simple: 1. Vote these politicians out, and 2. Consider installing your own rooftop solar and storage system To view the list, please go to https://www.energyshow.biz/listaccess Please forward this Energy Show podcast to any of your friends who are also wondering why their electric rates are so high.

I’ve added electrification predictions for 2024 to my customary set of solar and storage predictions. Electrification incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are already starting to drive demand for heat pumps and electrical upgrades, just as tax credits accelerated the solar and EV markets in the past. So here I go again sticking my neck out with these ten home energy predictions for 2024: EVs will be equipped with integrated 240-volt generators for home backup and evening power Heat pump sales will surge by 25% Fewer than half of the newly announced clean energy manufacturing plants will be completed Utilities in other states will follow California’s lead to end Net Metering Residential solar revenues in California will plunge by 50% A national-scale solar installation company will file for bankruptcy Tesla will claw its way into the U.S. inverter business Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) and Vehicle to Grid (V2G) will not gain traction The residential battery system business will consolidate It’s Game Over for fossil fuels For more details on my Home Energy Predictions for 2024, please go to www.EnergyShow.biz.