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The team is back for a big catch-up on what’s happening across Australia’s solar and energy industry. We dive into the controversy surrounding an electrical inspector who certified battery installations without inspecting them, the most common solar and battery defects, and what this means for industry compliance. We also unpack Australia’s 500,000+ home battery milestone, how batteries are reshaping the electricity market, whether battery arbitrage is disappearing, EVs and charging, heat pumps, and the growing public support for renewables.

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This week on Just Another Solar Podcast, Nigel, Carl, Logan and Michael dive into the changing face of Australia’s solar industry — from the expansion of the SRES program to 1MW and the rise of utility-scale projects, to the increasingly important world of solar piling. Logan and Michael share the story of their four-generation electrical and solar business, why they walked away from residential and commercial solar, and how they built a specialist operation around GPS-controlled piling, mechanical construction and large-scale solar projects. Plus, the latest energy market numbers, batteries, heat pumps, the industry’s alleged bribery scandal, and a look at where Australia’s massive solar pipeline is heading next.

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Carl’s off partying in Amsterdam, Jess rocks up late to a panel, and Nigel interrogates a random battery install on his dog walk. Bobby McKibbin jumps in to talk solar integrity, consumer protection, VPP reality, SA tariff changes and NSW’s new interest‑free loans. 

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This episode breaks down how the energy game is really changing, with GoodWe at the centre of the conversation. From “free power” plans and rising grid pressure to the reality of solar in winter, batteries, and shifting retail pricing, the discussion cuts through the hype and gets into what actually matters for households and the future of Australia’s energy system. If you’re trying to understand where solar, storage, and energy costs are heading next, this is a grounded look at what’s coming.

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 Australia’s energy landscape is shifting fast—home batteries are surging, gas is being pushed aside, and new “free power” retail deals are changing how households use electricity. In this episode, we break down what’s really happening on the ground, from winter solar struggles and smart energy habits to the rapid rise of battery storage and its impact on the grid. Featuring insights from Smart Energy Council CEO David McElroy, this is a deep dive into where the industry is heading, what it means for consumers, and why the next phase of the energy transition is already here. 

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 In this episode, we cut through the noise around solar, energy policy, and media narratives—focusing on what’s actually happening on the ground. From real-world industry challenges to the growing disconnect between headlines and reality, the conversation unpacks the complexities of the energy transition with honest insights, practical experience, and a few strong opinions along the way. 

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This episode dives into the current state of the solar and energy industry, unpacking the tension between public narratives and on-the-ground reality while highlighting the impact of misinformation on consumer trust and business operations. The conversation explores how companies are navigating growth, maintaining profitability, and adapting strategy in a rapidly shifting market, with a strong focus on learning from peers, strengthening teams, and positioning for the next phase of the industry. It’s a grounded look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector right now, and what it takes to stay resilient through it.

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This episode takes a closer look at the impact of mainstream media narratives, focusing on recent misinformation from Channel 7 and how it’s shaping public perception of solar and renewables. The discussion unpacks the real-world consequences for the industry, from consumer confusion to increased scrutiny and compliance pressure, while contrasting these claims with what’s actually happening on the ground. It also explores how broader global factors, including geopolitical tensions and energy market volatility, are adding to the complexity facing the sector.

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This episode explores how rising tensions involving Iran are influencing global energy markets and flowing through to Australia’s solar industry. The conversation breaks down the ripple effects on pricing, supply chains, and policy, while also examining how local market pressures, compliance demands, and shifting consumer behaviour are reshaping the renewable energy landscape. Practical insights highlight what these changes mean for installers, businesses, and the future of solar.

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This episode dives into the rapid rise of battery demand and what it signals for the future of Australia’s energy market, alongside major industry developments and shifting business conditions. The conversation explores growing solar backlogs, changing customer behaviour, and the increasing complexity of tariffs, interoperability, and system design. It also unpacks broader pressures from policy debates, misinformation, and resistance to change, offering grounded insights into how the industry is adapting and where it’s heading next.

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In this episode of Just Another Solar Podcast, we're joined by guest co-host Simon Ceglinski (PowerPlus Energy) to unpack what’s really happening in Australia’s solar and battery market.

From compliance blowouts and battery standards through to tariffs, policy shifts, and mounting market pressure this is a straight-talking look at the challenges (and opportunities) facing the industry right now.

They dive into system sizing, EV-driven demand, manufacturer realities, and where the smart money is heading next plus a few honest takes on industry culture and leadership along the way.

This episode is proudly brought to you by GoodWe Australia, a trusted partner to Australian solar retailers and installers, delivering reliable inverter and energy storage solutions designed for real-world conditions and backed by a strong local team.

Just Another Solar Podcast is hosted by Luke Beattie, Karl Jensen, Nigel Morris and Jess MacPherson. It's a casual conversation that shouldn't be taken as business, financial or legal advice. 

00:00:00 Opening and Introductions
00:03:10 Early Banter and Catch-Up
00:06:20 Compliance and Industry Complexity
00:09:40 Battery Standards and Testing Issues
00:13:00 Policy Changes and Market Impact
00:16:20 Industry Reactions and Adjustments
00:20:45 Leadership Changes and Legacy
00:23:00 Industry Culture and Relationships
00:26:00 Personal Stories and Mindset
00:29:20 Living Well and Work Balance
00:32:00 Market Pressures and Competition
00:35:20 Manufacturer Challenges Explained
00:38:00 Battery Strategy and System Sizing
00:41:20 Commercial Opportunities Discussion
00:44:10 Technology and Product Trends
00:47:20 EVs and Energy Usage Shifts
00:50:40 Tariffs and Grid Incentives
00:53:30 Compliance and Reporting Issues
00:56:00 Industry Criticism and Standards
00:59:30 Final Thoughts and Advice
01:01:30 Wrap-Up and Farewells