The Solar Dudes Podcast

The Solar Dudes return with an episode revolving around some horror stories they have encountered in the industry. Listen as they explore the net metering fiasco in Las Vegas, having to custom-make off the shelf parts in the middle of nowhere, and the different surprise visitors they have met on the job-site.

The Dudes share their personal history in the solar industry and what got them started along with what keeps them in it. Their different backgrounds brought them together to create The Solar Dudes Podcast in order to educate listeners on what they need to know and do to get the right solar system for them. They discuss the many challenges that went with choosing a career in solar and what led them to this point.

Join the Dudes as we take ride on the solar coaster explaining the ups and downs of the industry. Just like other dynamic industries solar can fluctuate in many areas including manufacturer bankruptcies, utility changes, incentive reductions, and storage. While some of these changes are avoidable others can be mitigated but not overcome. As an industry we have to strive to overcome these challenges, as solutions don't often come from the same locality.

We all have that one friend who knows more than even the expert. On this episode we argue misconceptions some of our "little professor" friends have. Topics covered include cost per watt, kilowatt hours vs. kilowatt, HOA's, cash back/rebates, power outages and more.

This week on the Solar Dudes Podcast we call "BS". We have a candid conversation on items we often find in"green" media sources and hear from solar companies that aren't necessarily accurate. Topics such as battery placements, thin film longevity, end of lease terms, and companies that outsource, which are often conveyed in a way that gives you typically uncovered or inaccurate information.

When presenting the idea to go solar to a significant other, there are many unknowns such as how to finance, find the right company and how beneficial it can actually be. Convincing someone why they should be on board with getting a solar system proves to be a challenge with many couples. On this episode we explore both sides of the argument when researching different solar options.

This episode explores solar energy applications on water. With many positive benefits such as, cooling effect on panels, less evaporation, and water algae reduction, solar on water could show promising for certain applications. While there may be many positives that could come from solar on water, it also poses many challenges and need for creative solutions. On this episode we look at the pros and cons as well as taking a look into the future of floating solar.

When looking into solar a lot of customers wonder if reducing usage may be a good first step, before producing the power from a renewable source. This week on The Solar Dudes we have special guest, Jason Owsley, who is a Home Energy Auditor. We discuss when the right time to reduce is vs. renewable energy being a better option, as well as diving into efficiencies of heating and cooling systems, insulation, and other energy saving info. You can reach Jason via his website below: http://heatthermography.com/

On this episode of The Solar Dudes Podcast we explore the questions that don't often get asked that probably should when looking into going solar. When getting solar quotes how do solar providers determine the output of the system, and is it guaranteed? When referring to things like ROI or return on investment, is the long term or short term strategy more fitting? We ask the questions as well as others and discuss the implication and possible outcomes.

On this episode of The Solar Dudes Podcast we explore off the roof solar applications, including everything from covered parking to tiny homes. While a lot of people are interested in solar they may not have the roof space in order to achieve their objectives. Commercial and residential systems have come a long way in terms of off the roof applications, especially in the commercial and industrial markets where roof space is a premium.

Today we have a special guest who is a realtor in the Phoenix Valley, Tara Rutkowski. She has specialized in promoting and working with solar customers looking to sell and purchase property with solar. In this episode we get the opportunity to understand the challenges and advantages of solar from a Realtors perspective. We dive into what it takes to buy and sell a home with solar already on it and the finer details of what questions to ask and items to review. http://www.rutkowskihomes.com/

On this episode of The Solar Dudes Podcast we review everything Tesla. Tesla, and Elon Musk, are in the news now on almost a daily basis. On this show we attempt to cover the extent of their product line, from the cars to the batteries to the solar roof tiles. Mus, being a great marketer means everyone knows about Tesla, but what about the more detailed info we don't know?

On this episode of The Solar Dudes Podcast we review the different types of financing available for solar installations. Everything from solar loans to wrapping the solar in with your mortgage or a re-fi. There are a lot of similar products offered by different lending institutions that at face level look the same, but are actually very unique. Besides loans there are also leases and specialty ways of financing solar.

On this episode of The Solar Dudes Podcast we identify the advantages and disadvantages of installing your own solar energy system. We start at the first step in the process of understanding your previous usage history, and move to the layout and estimated system production. Having the system identified, there are still a few challenges that lie in our way including, utility applications, permitting, HOA submissions, the technical side of design considerations, financing and warranties.

On this episode of The Solar Dudes Podcast we explore the history of solar. Starting in the 7th century B.C. solar has had a global impact. While still in the 500-1 B.C era the first battery had already been created in the middle east. Quite a long time later we finally understand the photovoltaic effect which leads to the creation of the first solar cell and then module. The solar story continues into present and we also explore the future of solar.