Solar Insiders - a Renew Economy Podcast
Solar Insiders - a Renew Economy Podcast
Join Renew Economy founder Giles Parkinson and editor Sophie Vorrath as they discuss the ins & outs of the solar industry and what it means for consumers.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 4, 2025 • 1h 6min
Can networks be nimble?
Ausgrid's Rob Amphlett Lewis on the challenges and opportunities facing Australia's largest distribution network. Plus the launch of Australia's home battery rebate and other news of the week.

Jun 26, 2025 • 48min
The community that built its own renewable grid
Kait Williamson from Flow Power on how one Victorian town built its own green power solution from the ground up. Plus the news of the week.

Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 6min
Home battery storage with the lot
RedEarth CEO Marc Sheldon on the evolution of home batteries, the company's new "Microgrid in a Box" offering, and why he's not a fan of VPPs. Plus news of the week.

May 29, 2025 • 47min
The energy pilot that pays customers to dial down their solar
Engie's Ryan Wavish on how the retailer is flipping the sun tax to make solar curtailment work for everyone.

May 21, 2025 • 1h 3min
Australia's waste panel problem – and how to turn it into a goldmine
Smart Energy Council's Darren Johannesen explains how Australia's solar "waste" stream is actually a massive reclaimed resources opportunity – but the federal government needs to act fast. Plus, news of the week.

May 8, 2025 • 52min
How to make the most out of home batteries
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.

Apr 23, 2025 • 55min
Shouting from the rooftops
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.

Apr 15, 2025 • 34min
A Teal take on what voters want – and how to give it to them
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.

Apr 2, 2025 • 42min
Get ready for battery rebates
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.

Dec 20, 2024 • 41min
A roller coaster year in review – and the keys to a smoother 2025
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.


