?? Solar Slopes February Recap: Insights from the Frontlines of Solar ??
We had an incredible Solar Slopes meeting this month锟斤拷despite the snowstorm keeping some people from traveling in, the conversation was ??.
One thing is clear: the solar industry is shifting fast, and those who adapt will come out ahead.
BIG Shout out to FranklinWH Energy Storage Inc. for sponsoring this month's meeting! Thank you Rick Schmidt from Solar Insure!
? Survey Says: Consumer Sentiment & Financing Relationships Rule
When asked about the biggest concern for residential solar today, 60% of attendees pointed to consumer sentiment, while 20% emphasized lender relationships.
?? Why does consumer sentiment matter?
200+ solar companies have gone bankrupt in the past year.
Media headlines focus on bad actors and negative experiences, leading to homeowner skepticism.
Trust needs to be rebuilt锟斤拷and that starts with service, warranties, and delivering on promises.
?? Financing Challenges Are Reshaping the Market
Lenders are delaying M1 payments, increasing dealer fees, and requiring funding at PTO, putting pressure on contractor cash flow. High APRs are making financing tougher, while procurement delays on TPO projects are pushing more contractors toward cash and finance deals, giving them more control over margins and faster funding.
?? Massive Opportunity in Service & Batteries
A big theme of the discussion? Contractors who aren锟斤拷t offering service and battery retrofits are leaving money on the table. In Hawaii, 20% of service calls result in additional installations or battery add-ons. That锟斤拷s a huge upsell opportunity!
"If you're not doing service, get into service." - A key takeaway from the group.
/// CONSUMER PROTECTION ///
??? Regulatory & Policy Shifts Are Reshaping Solar in Utah
Utah锟斤拷s proposed H.B. 57 could mandate production guarantees, W-2 employment for sales, bonding requirements and delayed funding until PTO.
Installers are being held more accountable for system performance, and this will become a norm across multiple states.
?? Where Do We Go from Here?
1?? Educate homeowners锟斤拷address skepticism and reinforce the long-term value of solar + storage.
2?? Strengthen lender relationships锟斤拷contractors need flexibility in loan options and better cash flow solutions.
3?? Offer service and battery retrofits锟斤拷this is a huge, profitable, and growing market.
4?? Prepare for regulation changes锟斤拷understanding the policy landscape is critical to staying ahead.
The industry is evolving锟斤拷but those who adapt will be the ones leading the charge. ??
Let锟斤拷s keep the conversation going. What are YOU seeing in your market? Drop a comment below. ??
P.S. If you or someone you know would like to join Solar Slopes in March, DM me and we can see if we can bring you in.
