Solar Insiders - a Renew Economy Podcast

Myles Eftos, a staff engineer and evangelist at Amber Electric, shares his expertise on home battery storage and its integration with the energy market. He reveals how households can turn batteries into money-making machines by syncing them with solar energy. The discussion dives into Australia's new initiatives in battery technology and the significant role of electric vehicles in energy management. With a focus on consumer benefits and environmental impact, Myles emphasizes the future of sustainable energy through smart systems.

OpenSolar's Sophie Wright on the mission to streamline solar businesses so that more money and time can be spent where it's most needed - putting panels on rooftops. Plus, the news of the week.

Allegra Spender, the Federal member for Wentworth and a leading voice among Australia's teal independents, shares her vision for permanent energy bill relief and critiques federal Labor's battery rebate plans. She discusses innovative strategies to empower renters and enhance solar access within social housing. The conversation touches on the urgent need for climate action in the Pacific and highlights exciting developments from the Smart Energy Conference, including a $2.3 billion federal initiative aimed at boosting battery storage adoption.

Wayne Smith, an expert from the Smart Energy Council, shares insights on upcoming federal home battery rebates and their potential impact on Australian households. He discusses the crucial role of these incentives in boosting renewable energy adoption and easing family energy costs. The conversation also touches on the significance of community engagement in promoting solar energy and the implications of the upcoming elections on the energy landscape. Lastly, he offers a glimpse into innovations expected at Smart Energy 2025, focusing on EV battery recycling.

In our final episode for the year, SunWiz's Warwick Johnston on the highs and the lows of 2024 for rooftop PV, home batteries and all those who make the industry tick. Plus the news of the week.

Matthew van der Linden, CEO of Flow Power and renewable energy advocate, discusses the exciting shift towards residential retail in the renewable sector. He highlights the importance of consumer education in the transition to 100% renewables and how real-time data can empower consumers. The podcast also dives into advancements in home battery systems and the latest trends in the rooftop solar market, including SunDrive's innovations. Tune in for insights on fostering sustainable energy habits and the future of solar technology!

Baran Yildiz, a Senior Lecturer at the University of New South Wales and leader of Project Cicada, dives into the integration of Australia’s four million rooftop solar systems into the grid. He discusses the challenges of energy management and federal policies impacting renewables. The conversation highlights innovative strategies for optimizing solar use, like using electric hot water systems as thermal batteries, and encourages consumer behavior changes to enhance grid efficiency. Tune in for a blend of humor and insightful energy dialogue!

Will Beaumont, founding director of Canyon Solar, discusses the innovative world of modular solar carports and canopies. He explains how his company's technology is revolutionizing installations, making them more affordable and appealing. The conversation dives into the benefits of combining energy generation with EV charging, enhancing customer experience, and improving sustainability in commercial spaces. Beaumont also highlights the growing trend of rooftop solar in Australia and its pivotal role in the renewable energy landscape.

Clint Hare on Australia's most sustainable housing development, which has been building all-electric, super energy efficient homes on Victoria's Bass Coast for the past decade – with huge success.

In this discussion, Patrick Matweew, General Manager for Enphase Energy in the Australian New Zealand Pacific region, shares his inspiring journey from a coal town in Germany to advocating for solar in Queensland. He dives into the remarkable rise of rooftop solar in Australia, detailing how quality microinverters significantly enhance system reliability. Patrick also tackles the evolving battery technology landscape, exploring integration with solar and the importance of government support. Personal stories shed light on the renewable energy sector's transformation.