In this episode of the Sunny Side Up Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with John Perkins, owner of Perk Solar, who has been working in the solar industry since 2005. We dive into his journey from being an electrician to becoming a pioneer in solar energy in California. John shares his experiences about the early days of solar, the evolution of products and materials, and how the industry has changed—particularly with the shift from Net Metering 2.0 to 3.0 in California. He also provides valuable insights into the challenges solar companies face today, especially with the new net metering regulations, and the rise of battery systems. Whether you’re a solar enthusiast or business owner, John’s deep industry knowledge and practical advice are invaluable!

Episode Highlights:

• [2:15] - How John got started in the solar industry and his early challenges in finding quality materials.
• [7:30] - The evolution of financing options for solar and how banks were initially slow to recognize the value.
• [14:45] - John explains the recent Net Metering 3.0 changes in California and why battery systems are now essential.
• [21:20] - The technology behind Tesla Powerwall 3 and how it’s revolutionizing battery storage and solar power.
• [29:12] - Tips for avoiding bad suppliers and why collaborating with competitors can benefit your solar business.
• [35:40] - Advice for new solar installers on selecting reliable equipment and ensuring longevity in the industry.

Links & Resources:

• John Perkins' company: PerkSolar.com

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