Solar Energy Show

In this episode of The Energy Show with Barry Cinnamon, Barry reconnects with Jeff Wolfe, clean-tech veteran, founder of GroSolar, longtime SEIA board member, and now managing partner at Wolf Yates & Co. Together, they unpack what contractors and homeowners need to know as the 30% residential solar tax credit disappears in 2026.Here’s what you’ll learn:• OBBB 101 – Why cash and loan solar prices jump 30% in 2026• Why batteries may become the financial backbone of solar installs• Contractor survival playbook – AI-driven marketing, cutting acquisition costs, diversifying into heat pumps & electrification• Financing shake-up – Why shady solar loans disappear, and what comes next• EVs as backup batteries – the untapped “fourth source” of home power•  How reliability sells – why blackouts and rising rates make batteries irresistible• The big picture – Solar without subsidies will still thrive, and the transition is unstoppableLike, Comment & Subscribe Today!#OBBB #SolarCliff #SolarEnergy #CleanEnergy #

In this week’s episode of The Energy Show with Barry Cinnamon, we break down how the elimination of the 30% residential solar tax credit and new commercial restrictions are shaking up the entire solar industry.Joining Barry is Tom Werner, former CEO & Chairman of SunPower, one of the most respected leaders in solar. Together they cover:What the OBBB really means for homeowners and contractorsWhy 2025 might be a record-breaking year for installs — and what happens in 2026How smart solar companies can pivot to full-home electrification The future of TPO, storage, and repowering How to survive and thrive when margins shrink and policies shift The critical role of software, service, and future-proof equipment Why policy (and CALSSA) matters more than everWhether you’re a solar contractor, energy investor, or homeowner trying to understand the future of rooftop solar — this conversation has real-world insights from two industry veterans.Like, Comment & Subscribe Today!

Enphase co-founder Raghu Belur joins Barry Cinnamon to break down the future of solar + storage in this eye-opening episode of The Energy Show.As tax credits fade and utility rates surge, inverters and batteries are becoming the heart of the home energy system — and Enphase is leading the charge. This episode reveals how Gen 4 and Gen 5 batteries, smarter microinverters, and bidirectional EV charging will reshape the energy landscapeBalcony Solar from Enphase is destined for the U.S.—the new gateway drug for energy independence.Just launched Modular Enphase’s batteries for whole-home backupBidirectional EV charging without utility brain damageHow inverters are evolving into full energy brainsWhy battery storage is no longer optional for installersEnphase’s roadmap for whole-home backup & EV integrationThe real role of software in battery ROIHow the OBBB accelerates the move to U.S. battery manufacturing“We’re building the infrastructure to manage power, not just generate it.” — Raghu BelurLike, Comment &a

In this episode of The Energy Show, host Barry Cinnamon welcomes Dan Fadden, co-founder of Greentech Renewables (CED). Dan and Barry discuss the jaw-dropping new reality facing every solar installer and homeowner in America. With the 30% residential tax credit ending 12/31/25 and new commercial financing restrictions kicking in, the entire industry is racing toward a deadline. Only the smartest contractors will survive.Why solar prices are set to increase through the end of 2025How the OBBB is reshaping tax credits, leasing rules & financing - and not for the betterThe hidden risks that could bankrupt unprepared contractorsDan’s brutally honest advice for contractors trying to stay afloat in 2026Questions that smart homeowners should ask before signing a solar dealInsider secrets on supply chain chaos, domestic content rules, and the truth behind “safe harboring”Whether you're a solar veteran, installer, distributor, or homeowner looking to go solar, this is the episode you can't afford to miss.Like, Comm

Welcome to the next episode in our continuing series examining the devastating impact on the solar industry embedded in the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” or OBBB as described in polite terms. We’re interviewing experts in the solar and battery industry throughout the entire value chain. If you’re a homeowner looking for solar, a contractor installing solar and battery systems, or a manufacturer/service provider, this series is for you as you plan for the future.This week’s guest is Corey Geiger, Chief Operating Officer at Enstall—the largest rooftop solar racking company in the world. Enstall is the parent company of IronRidge, EcoFasten, Quickmount, and PanelClaw. If there’s anyone who understands how to get solar panels on roofs faster, cheaper, and with fewer headaches, it’s Corey. With a background that includes Soligent and Sparq Systems, Corey brings a rare, full-stack view of the industry—from racking and inverters to distribution and deployment.Corey shares proven strategies for contractors to stay profit

Welcome to the next episode in our continuing series examining the devastating impact on the solar industry embedded in the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” or OBBB as described in polite terms. We’re interviewing experts in the solar and battery industry throughout the entire value chain. If you’re a homeowner looking for solar, a contractor installing solar and battery systems, or a manufacturer/service provider, this series is for you as you plan for the future.On this week’s show we're joined by Jeff Spies, President of Planet Plansets. If you didn’t know, Planet Plansets creates the engineering plan sets that are essential to getting the building permit needed for every code-compliant solar and battery system. Not only is Jeff an expert in designing residential and commercial solar systems, he’s also the Executive Producer of “Solar Roots,” the first documentary movie on the early days of the solar industry.Jeff shares his journey from telemarketing solar water heaters to shaping solar policy as a Board Member

You Are Getting Ripped Off.That’s right. If you’re a California homeowner, your utility is jacking up your electric bills to maximize their profits — and the government is approving these rate increases.PG&E’s profits have gone up three years in a row. Their profits hit a record of $2.5 billion in 2024. All because of steadily increasing electric rates and continued over-investment in expensive utility infrastructure.It’s a little-known fact that utilities like PG&E get a guaranteed 10-12% return on all of their assets — including power plants, poles, even their fancy office buildings. They then get to increase electric rates every year to ensure they hit these profit targets. I wish I ran a business where I could automatically raise my prices to guarantee 10-12% annual profits. And my customers were forced to buy my products because I have a monopoly with no competition. Nice work if you can get it.But there is a way to fight back and take control of your energy costs: generate your own rooftop solar

Warning: The clean energy forecast for 2026 looks stormy—are you ready to weather it?In part two of our conversation with SunCast host Nico Johnson, we go deep into the chaotic, fast-changing landscape that solar companies are bracing for.You’ve probably heard the rumors: tax credits vanishing, new tariffs incoming, battery costs skyrocketing, and a federal crackdown via FEOC regulations. But this isn’t just talk—it’s the start of a true solar shakeup. We break down what’s coming and how smart companies can pivot, survive, and even thrive in the face of policy whiplash.From contingency planning to cash flow strategies, from FEOC fallout to financing fixes—you’ll learn what’s at stake and what’s still worth fighting for. Because here’s the good news: customer demand is still climbing, and the long-term future for solar is as bright as ever… if you can make it through the next storm.

What do the Peace Corps, Trina Solar, and 800+ podcasts have in common? One man: Nico Johnson.This week on The Energy Show, we're bringing you a rare behind-the-scenes conversation with the voice of the solar industry—Nico Johnson, founder of SunCast. If you’ve ever listened to a solar podcast or worked in clean energy, you’ve felt his impact.From climbing rooftops in the early days of residential installs to building one of the most influential media platforms in clean energy, Nico shares how he went from solar hustler to host of SunCast, a show that’s become a must-listen for solar professionals worldwide. And spoiler alert: it didn’t happen overnight.Whether you're a solar newbie or seasoned exec, this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and maybe even ready to hit record yourself.

Octopus Energy is shaking up the utility industry—one smart tentacle at a time.Nick Chaset, CEO of Octopus Energy U.S., joins us on this week’s Energy Show episode. Octopus Energy is redefining how customers interact with electricity. From solar and batteries to smart controls and EV chargers, Octopus isn’t just selling power—it’s empowering people to take control of it. Think of them as the energy disruptor with eight arms in all the right places.While investor-owned utilities like PG&E rake in record profits and raise rates, homeowners are fighting back by installing their own mini power plants. In deregulated markets like Texas, customers have the freedom to choose their energy provider—and companies like Octopus are leading the charge with innovation, lower prices, and customer-focused services.Octopus Energy takes what’s working in places like the UK and applies it to U.S. markets with a laser focus on technology, transparency, and customer savings. Whether it's offering dynamic pricing, bundling roo

Do you want to pay 30% more for your solar and battery system next year? Since the 30% tax credit is likely to end on 12/31/25, that’s exactly what’s going to happen.On this week's Energy Show we dive into the clean energy details in the proposed Big Beautiful Bill (BBB) that is currently being negotiated in Congress. For a change, Elon Musk and I are on the same page: killing the solar and battery tax credits would be a disaster for your energy bill, not to mention America’s prospects for energy independence.Here’s what’s really happening:Solar tax credits? Terminated 12/31/25.Heat pump incentives? Hasta la vista.That $9,000 tax credit on your $30k solar and battery system? Won’t be back.Act right now. Find a contractor fast if you want to save.If you’re sick and tired of skyrocketing electric bills and blackouts, this episode is a money-saving wake up call. For the details of the end of the tax credit and what you need to do for a qualified 2025 solar and battery installation, please tune into this week’s E

The biggest home solar tax credit is about to be axed by Congress. If you are thinking about solar, or just want to expand your system or even add a battery — this 30% tax credit will save you a lot of money. You will lose out on a tax credit savings of $9,000 on a typical $30k solar system. That’s a lot of dough!Under the current reconciliation bill proposed by Congress, the 30% residential solar and battery tax credit will end on 12/31/25. If your solar or battery is not fully installed by then your system will cost 30% more.This isn’t about tariffs, electric rates, uncertainty about the economy or local incentives. This is the one clean energy credit that makes solar affordable—and without it, the economics of solar and batteries for homeowners completely change:

Ever wonder how you're supposed to navigate electrified homes, green building, sustainability, and energy efficiency when even the words "climate change" feel like a political landmine? Yeah, same here. Turns out, even poor Kermit the Frog isn't safe anymore.On this week’s Energy Show we’re diving headfirst into the complicated world of green buildings. The rules from Title 24 and building codes are still in play... but they're harder than ever to follow in today's upside-down political climate. So, what do you do if you still want to build smarter, save money, and future-proof your home without getting tangled in a morass of building code red tape?To help decode these regulations, we’re joined by green building expert Jeff Aalfs — a true insider who gets both the tech and the politics. With 17 years on the Portola Valley Town Council and leadership experience at Peninsula Clean Energy, Jeff knows exactly where policy meets your wallet. We’ll be covering everything from solar and batteries to heat pumps and E

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

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 ea

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.energysho

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

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.