Your Energy Answers

Home energy audits can dramatically improve comfort and reduce electricity bills before you even install solar or solar batteries. In this episode, Markus speaks with Adam Corrigan from Your Energy Friend (https://www.yourenergyfriend.com.au/) about hidden insulation problems, energy efficiency star ratings, switching electricity tariffs, hot water system choices, and the simple upgrades that can save thousands in Australian homes.

Timestamps:

00:00 The insulation mistake found in brand-new homes
 01:30 How Adam Corrigan got into home energy audits
 03:05 Cost, carbon or comfort – why people request audits
 04:10 Energy efficiency ratings that...

In this episode, Markus speaks with Derek McKercher from PSW Energy (https://pswenergy.com.au/) about the impact of the solar battery rebate, the risks of cheap battery systems, why installer quality and long-term support matter, how falling feed-in tariffs are changing the value of solar-only systems, and why EVs are reshaping the way solar and battery systems should be designed. The discussion also covers battery recalls, product selection, Australian-made panels, recycling challenges, and what the industry may look like once rebate-driven demand begins to slow.

Timestamps: 
00:00 Battery boom, rebate pressure, and cheap system risks
00:32 I...

Electricity prices are rising, feed-in tariffs are collapsing, and the solar industry is shifting toward batteries. In this episode, Markus Lambert speaks with Chris Pemberton from Sun Sellers about the realities of selling solar today.

They explore why solar alone often no longer delivers the savings homeowners expected, how batteries are changing the economics, and why many cheap solar offers lead to long-term problems. The conversation also dives into ethical solar sales, how local installers compete against large retailers, and why communication and trust are critical when selling solar and batteries.

Chris explains how his...

Australia is racing into a solar and battery boom, but are we quietly trading energy independence for dependency?

In this wide-ranging conversation, Markus Lambert sits down with Brian Craighhead from Energy Renaissance to unpack why energy security is now national security, why Australia can’t compete with China on price, and how slow bureaucracy is killing local manufacturing.

They explore the battery rebate, AI-driven job losses, supply-chain risk, cyber security, rushed installs, safety failures, and the real story behind the collapse of one of Australia’s most ambitious battery manufacturing projects.

This isn’t just...

 In this discussion, Markus and Thomas Bywater from AIKO dive into how geopolitics can significantly influence solar panel price. We explore the broader economy and international affairs, examining their impact on the finance of solar energy. This political analysis sheds light on the complex factors affecting solar panels.In this discussion, we dive into how world affairs and global politics directly impact solar panel pricing. Understanding these connections is crucial for anyone interested in solar power. We explore the geopolitical futures that shape the energy market.

Are you wondering about the future of solar panel pricing? We d...

In this episode, Markus sits down with James Petesic from PV Industries (https://www.pvindustries.com.au/) to unpack the hidden reality of solar panel recycling, why exporting “working” solar panels is now illegal, and how critical materials like silver, copper and silicon are at risk of being lost forever.

Want To Reduce Your Energy Bills? Find The Best Solar Installers in Australia Here: https://yourenergyanswers.com

Read more on the topic here: https://yourenergyanswers.com/solar-panel-recycling-australia-guide

Chapters
00:00:30 Introduction to PV Industries 
00:01:38 Origin Story and Career Background 
00:03:30 The Evolution of Recycl...

Cheap solar and battery deals are booming again — but history shows how this story ends.
In this candid conversation, Markus and Leonard unpack why low-price energy offers often lead to long-term pain, how rebates distort the market, why local installers matter more than ever, and what rising electricity prices mean for Australian households. From battery rebates and warranty traps to energy plans, recycling, and the future of Australia’s energy system, this episode goes well beyond sales pitches and into the real issues consumers need to understand.

00:00 Cheap solar, rebate booms, and why bad companies always disa...

This episode was filmed late 2024, thus some information may be outdated. 

Markus sits down with James to break down the real story behind BYD in Australia: battery safety, EV vs hybrid buying decisions, resale value, service costs, and why BYD is stealing market share from Tesla. They cover customer types, the 2025 BYD Seal rumours, charging options, environmental impact, and what the future of EVs in Australia really looks like.

Timestamps
0:00 – Why BYD’s blade battery is the safest in the EV market
3:25 – BYD model updates, 2025 Seal rumours & tech improvements
7:40 – EV vs Hybrid...

Want To Reduce Your Energy Bills? Find The Best Solar Installers in Australia Here: https://yourenergyanswers.com

Read more on the topic here at: https://yourenergyanswers.com/sydney-fish-market-solar-roof-building-integrated-photovoltaics/

A crane collapse, a builder liquidation, 864 custom-coloured solar panels, 263 triangular pods, and a roof shaped like an ocean wave… This is the true story of how Inspire Energy delivered one of Australia’s most complex solar installations on the new Sydney Fish Market.

Markus and Matt break down the challenges, the breakthroughs, the manufacturing journey, and how this project is reshaping the future of architecturally inte...

Want To Reduce Your Energy Bills? Find The Best Solar Installers in Australia Here: https://yourenergyanswers.com

Read more on the topic here: https://yourenergyanswers.com/three-hours-of-free-lipstick-for-the-energy-pig-dont-pop-the-bubbly-yet/ 

Three hours of free electricity for every Australian household — game changer or political gimmick? Markus and Huon break down the truth behind the government’s new “free power” policy, why it won’t actually lower bills, who really benefits, and the hidden costs no one is talking about.

In this explosive and entertaining deep-dive, we cover rooftop solar curtailment, smart-meter politics, grid stress, retail market manipulation, and how ene...

Markus sits down with Imraan Thanawalla (Solaris Finance / Solar Nerds) to unpack how “0% interest” really works, what the new BNPL rules mean, and how to structure cashflow-positive solar + battery deals. They cover residential vs commercial paybacks, why installer quality matters more than brand, and Imraan’s Solar Nerds data + Solaris Recruit offshoring play (including the Fair Work risk you should know about).

Solaris Finance – rates, calculator & vendor portal: https://solarisfinance.com.au/
Solar Nerds – free dashboards, CPD & reports: https://solarnerds.com.au/

Timestamps
00:00 Intro — who is Imraan & why this matters
01:00 “0% interest” explained (merchant fees ba...

Want To Reduce Your Energy Bills? Find The Best Solar Installers in Australia Here: https://yourenergyanswers.com

Why are Aussie power bills soaring while energy giants pay zero tax? Markus Lambert (Your Energy Answers) and Huon Hoogesteger (Smart Commercial Solar) expose how decades of privatisation and foreign ownership turned Australia’s energy system into a costly mess — and what we can do to take power back.

Timestamps
00:00 Energy Australia pays no tax
00:42 Why bills keep rising
02:00 The illusion of energy “choice”
05:00 Bureaucracy & profit layers
07:40 Nationalise the grid?
10:00 Water next?
12:0...

GoodWe’s Kang Ran joins Markus Lambert to reveal how solar carports and lightweight panels are unlocking new possibilities for Aussie homes and businesses. From powering EVs to solving roof limitations, discover how these innovations could save households up to $4,000 a year and reshape Australia’s solar future.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Australia's rooftops are full, where else can we install solar?
00:04:25 – Who is GoodWe? Meet Kang Ran
00:10:57 – Why choose a solar carport? 
00:15:51 – How is the carport engineered? 
00:21:00 – What’s the ROI on the solar carport?
00:27:00 – How easy is installation?
00:34:00 – What about council approvals? 
00:41...

Markus sits down with Dr Thomas and Dr Joy from @LudicrousFeed to talk EVs in Australia — why they switched from diesel to a Tesla, the rise of Chinese carmakers, hybrids vs full electrics, going big on home batteries, and whether EVs will stabilise or strain our grid. 

Want To Reduce Your Energy Bills? Find The Best Solar Installers in Australia Here: https://yourenergyanswers.com

Read more on the topic here at https://yourenergyanswers.com/ev-revolution-australia-future-driving/

Timestamps:
00:00 – Origins & First Tesla: Health issues, first EV, and starting Ludicrous Feed.
00:10 – Buying an EV in Austral...

Want To Reduce Your Energy Bills? Find The Best Installers in Australia Here: https://yourenergyanswers.com

Read more on the topic here: https://yourenergyanswers.com/how-your-battery-can-save-you-money-every-night/

Your Energy Socials
TikTok: @yeanswers https://www.tiktok.com/@yeanswers
Instagram: @yourenergy.answers https://instagram.com/yourenergy.answers
Facebook: @yeanswers https://www.facebook.com/yeanswers
Twitter: @yeanswers https://twitter.com/yeanswers
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/your-energy-media

Can your home battery actually make you money? Amber Electric’s Carlos Garcia explains how wholesale pricing + smart automations let you earn credits, dispatch du...

Chris Martell from GSES explains why half of the solar systems they check have issues — and 15% aren’t working at all. He reveals common hidden faults, why standard monitoring often misses them, and how GSES’s Diagno tool helps asset owners detect problems early and protect returns.

Key topics: 
0:00 Intro – GSES’s work with NSW Government and 700 solar assets
2:02 GSES history, training, and founder recognition
6:04 Consulting and renewable procurement projects
9:20 Why O&M is undervalued in the industry
10:34 The “maintenance-free” solar myth
16:10 Common faults in inspections
17:22 50% have issues, 15% serious faults
23:20 How D...

Want to save thousands on your energy bills while driving your EV for (almost) free? In this video, Johnny Warnock from MyEnergi explains how a smart charger like the Zappi turns your solar power and cheap grid energy into free mileage for your car.

Key topics:
0:00 Intro – Why smart charging matters for EV owners
2:30 The real cost of cheap EV chargers
6:00 How Zappi uses solar and off-peak energy to cut your bills
10:00 Smart hot water management with Eddi
16:00 Real-world savings and why smart chargers pay for themselves

For more tools, ca...

Are solar rebates really middle-class welfare? And why do rental properties still miss out?

In this fiery and no-fluff episode, Markus Lambert sits down with Heidi Lee Douglas, CEO of Solar Citizens, to tackle the biggest debates in renewable energy — from battery rebates and grid stability to solar for renters and Australia’s clean energy future.

Whether you're a homeowner, renter, policymaker, or industry insider, this episode lays bare the policy blind spots and what really needs to change. This isn’t just another climate conversation — it’s a wake-up call. 

What you’ll learn:

In this episode, Markus Lambert sits down with James Sturch from SolarEdge to unpack the real reasons behind Australia’s broken energy system.

They dive into why we pay more for our own gas than overseas buyers, how long-term contracts are locking us out, and why renewables — despite being the cheapest form of generation — still play second fiddle to fossil fuels.

The Australian solar boom has left many homeowners with panels on their roofs—but what happens after installation is often a mystery. David Pethick, President of Omnidian Australia, joins the podcast to uncover the hidden reality of post-installation solar service. With a background at AGL and now leading Omnidian’s expansion—boosted by their acquisition of Solar Service Guys—David shares how the company is transforming solar maintenance into a streamlined, tech-driven experience.

This episode explores:

The solar industry is often filled with companies focused on quick sales and minimum standards, but Brad Ott and Luke McKenzie from Velocity Solar take a refreshingly different approach. After 15 years in the business, Brad has built a reputation based on education, quality, and exceptional after-sales service. This episode explores: 

Sam Valenti from Essential Solar shares insights on quality solar installations, battery options, and future energy trends based on 13 years in the Melbourne market. His company's philosophy of performance, quality, and reliability guides their approach to sustainable energy solutions for residential and commercial properties.

• Premium solar products like Fronius, SolarEdge, and Enphase cost more upfront but provide superior longevity and after-sales support
• Quality installations save customers from future issues, as poor workmanship often leads to safety concerns and performance problems
• Battery systems don't automatically provide backup power during outages – additional equipment is required depending on backup n...

Ever wondered why your electricity bills keep climbing despite promises of cheap renewable energy? In this eye-opening conversation, energy data expert Tim Ryan pulls back the curtain on Australia's complex and often dysfunctional electricity market.

The revelation at the heart of this episode is startling: our energy market is deliberately designed to create price volatility, benefiting generators and retailers while leaving consumers to foot an ever-increasing bill. Tim explains how the market's bidding system means the last (and most expensive) generator sets the price for all electricity sold during that period – creating perverse incentives for price spikes th...

Smart Commercial Solar, founded by Huon Hoogesteger, has revolutionised commercial solar in Australia by providing cost-effective, high-performance solutions for businesses. From an off-grid solar experiment to leading large-scale commercial installations, this company has reshaped the industry. This episode reveals how strong relationships in the solar industry lead to sustained success. He discusses his journey in solar, the evolution of technology, the significant role of community funding, and the potential of nuclear energy in Australia’s renewable energy future.

What if you could power your home with the most efficient solar panels, drastically cutting your electricity bills while adding aesthetic appeal to your property? Join us for a captivating conversation with Thomas Bywater, a pioneer in the solar industry, as he shares his journey from Jinko to AIKO. Learn how AIKO's pioneering laser manufacturing technology is revolutionising solar panel efficiency, making them a top choice for maximising energy on limited roof spaces while minimising costs. Thomas opens up about the transformative potential of integrating high-performance solar solutions into everyday life, offering insights into the future of energy consumption...

In this episode, Markus chats with Daniel Lanzetta, CEO of Smart Energy Answers, about how his company grew from a small team to a leader in solar, battery storage, and EV charging solutions.
 
Daniel shares insights on why 9 out of 10 of their installations now include batteries, the rise of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) that let homeowners EARN money from stored energy, and how the new NSW battery rebate (up to $5,000!) is driving demand. 

Learn how smart solar systems aren't just about saving on bills—they're about energy independence, lifestyle, and even income opportunities.

What...

The episode uncovers the complexities of New South Wales' battery rebate, emphasising its potential rewards and challenges for homeowners. Topics include navigating rebate procedures, the benefits of integrating electric vehicles, and the future of virtual power plants in energy trading.

• Discussion of the New South Wales battery rebate system 
• Critique of the announcement's impact on the market and sales 
• Insight into the risks of navigating rebate and paperwork 
• Exploration of Virtual Power Plants and energy trading opportunities 
• Importance of selecting quality battery products 
• Integration of electric vehicles into home energy systems 
• Arguments for consum...

Discover the secrets behind the current dynamics in the solar industry with our returning expert guest, Derek McKercher. Why are record installations not translating to a bustling market in Perth? We promise you'll uncover the fascinating interplay of seasonal challenges and competitive pricing, as well as the pressures driving subcontractors to launch their own businesses. Amidst these complexities, we spotlight Tesla's highly anticipated Powerwall 3, boasting a substantial 20-kilowatt solar PV array input that marks a significant leap for residential energy solutions.

The episode delves into the sustainability and cutting-edge features of Tesla's Powerwall 3, from enhanced compatibility with...

Discover the transformative journey of Katherine McConnell, the trailblazing founder of Brighte, as she reshapes the solar battery energy industry one loan at a time. With over $2 billion in approved financing, Katherine shares her inspiring path from working at Macquarie Bank to bridging a critical gap for small-scale solar retailers. Learn how her innovative approach to energy equipment financing has empowered both retailers and customers, making energy savings as seamless and approachable as a car loan.

Our conversation sheds light on the vital role of the Clean Energy Council in Australia's energy policy landscape. Listen as Katherine...

How does common sense and long-term vision shape the future of renewable energy? Michael Reiken from Excel Power in Toowoomba joins us to share his insights from 16 years in the industry, highlighting the importance of quality and reliability in solar systems. From the bustling Tesla Powerwall launch in Sydney to the local charm of Toowoomba's tight-knit community, Michael provides a firsthand account of the evolving solar landscape, where investing in top-tier products like Enphase can truly transform lives and energy consumption habits.

Explore the intricacies of solar technology as Michael discusses the shift from low-quality, celebrity-endorsed systems...

Curious about how solar panels hold up in the scorching heat and humidity of North Queensland? Kash Partridge from True North Solar joins us to share his wealth of experience in navigating these challenges and thriving in Townsville's demanding environment. With two decades in the solar industry, Kash has seen it all, from the rollercoaster of shifting government policies to the evolution of solar technology. Our conversation sheds light on how True North Solar has outlasted competitors by prioritizing quality products that withstand local conditions and the resilient spirit of the Townsville community.

Solar technology has come...

Unlock the potential of solar energy with insights from Rollo Sherriff of Replenishable Energy in Cairns. Discover why prioritizing quality over cost is crucial in the solar industry, especially when dealing with companies that may not be around to honor their warranties. With over a decade of experience, Rollo shares his journey and sheds light on the benefits of employing dedicated staff for quality control. This episode highlights the importance of customized solar solutions tailored to future energy needs, like electric vehicles and machinery, ensuring you're prepared for what's next.

Explore the transformative power of solar batteries...

Curious about how a software developer can revolutionize the solar industry? Join us as Ben Masters from Solar Hub shares his incredible 14-year journey, blending advanced software solutions with home energy systems to deliver bespoke solar solutions that maximize customer benefits. We'll explore the challenges of navigating government policies and rebates, and the critical importance of maintaining high standards in solar installations to ensure long-term customer satisfaction.

Discover the expanding horizon of home electrification services beyond just solar energy. Delve into the financial and environmental perks of comprehensive electrification packages, featuring air conditioning, hot water systems, EV...

Ever wondered how a single faulty solar panel could compromise your entire system? This episode's guest, Michelle McCann from PV Lab in Canberra, lays it all out for us. Michelle's journey into the solar industry began with her passion for the environment and a solid physics background. From facing an initial market flooded with substandard products to her collaboration with Jürgen Arp from PV Lab Germany, Michelle shares the hurdles she overcame to establish PV Lab Australia. Her story underscores the crucial role of rigorous testing and quality control in advancing solar technology.

Quality control in t...

Can sustainable energy really transform your daily life? Our latest episode promises to answer this compelling question as we welcome Dan McCabe from GI Energy. With over a decade of experience in the solar industry, Dan takes us back to 2009, sharing the trials and triumphs that led to the ethical foundation of GI Energy in 2011. Explore how his customer-first approach has built a strong referral network and solidified the company's reputation amidst a crowded market of inconsistent service providers.

Travel with us to the Gold Coast, where innovative solar solutions are helping businesses manage their energy needs...

Unlock the secrets to energy self-sufficiency with Tim Baker from Apex Solar as he unveils the transformative power of solar energy in the Port Macquarie and Taree regions. Curious about the new battery rebate in New South Wales? This episode breaks down its market-changing impact and what it means for your energy setup. Learn from Tim's pioneering journey, from his early days experimenting with off-grid solar to founding a business dedicated to helping customers achieve energy independence. 

Quality matters when it comes to solar investments, and we'll show you why cutting corners isn't worth the risk. Discover t...

Are you tired of unreliable solar systems and misleading sales tactics? Join us as we sit down with Will Redfern from New South Wales Country Solar, who reveals the secrets to achieving long-lasting and efficient solar installations. With a background as an industrial and commercial electrician, Will shares his transformative journey into the world of solar energy, emphasizing the critical importance of high-quality products and meticulous installation techniques. Discover how his commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction sets his company apart in the competitive solar market.

Engage with us in an enlightening conversation about the pitfalls of...

Curious about the future of solar power and electric vehicles? Join us as we chat with Luke Smith from Sunergy in Bendigo, who shares his incredible journey from electrician to solar business owner. We'll explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by regional solar providers, discover the importance of word-of-mouth in regional Victoria, and uncover the range of services Sunergy offers—from residential solar and batteries to off-grid solutions and EV chargers. Luke gives us an insider's view on the increasing interest in EV charging and the sophisticated features of their integrated systems.

Tired of hearing horror st...

Curious about the rapid advancements in solar technology and how it impacts your daily life? Tune in to our latest episode where we sit down with Alex from SolarWise Wagga Wagga. Alex shares his incredible journey from irrigation to solar entrepreneurship, reflecting on how government rebates and technological innovations have transformed the solar market since 2009. You’ll learn about the significant drop in solar panel costs and efficiency improvements, and hear firsthand how Alex grew his company to service a 200K radius around Wagga Wagga with a dedicated team of 10 experts.

Struggling to choose between affordable and hi...

What if your childhood passion turned into a lifelong career? Join us as we welcome Nick Taber from New England Solar, who started his remarkable journey in the solar industry at the tender age of five. From unboxing panels for his grandfather’s business to taking the reins of the company in 2019, Nick shares his rich experience with us. Discover the nuances of installing solar in regional New South Wales compared to urban areas, the variety of services his company offers, and the slow adoption of EV charging infrastructure in rural areas.

We uncover the critical importance of...