2023: The Year of the Good Guys
The solar industry is trendy again, thanks to last year’s monumental passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. Manufacturing tax credits, installation subsidies, skilled-labor requirements, oh my! With that trendiness comes great responsibility. We have the opportunity to really accelerate solar and storage adoption across the country. The sales pitch is easy now — climate change is accelerating, electricity grids are overloaded, solar is the cheapest it’s ever been. Our focus must shift to making sure the right, moral companies take us to the next level.
Time has a way of working itself out. One of the biggest “national” installers with an inflated self-worth dropped out of the market last year. But the new installation opportunities granted in the IRA opens the door for more fly-by-night companies looking for a quick cash-grab to enter our industry. The promotion of the good guys will come from within.
A really great story in this first SPW issue of 2023 is our look at “The Wolf Pack,” a group of solar installers working together to boost each other’s businesses. There are enough homes and commercial rooftops to go around. Instead of competing for contracts, these installers are sharing internal efficiencies, getting the most accurate information to the public and building lasting friendships. They share personnel across the country and ensure their company names are getting the exposure they deserve.
We at SPW have always recognized that our annual Top Solar Contractors campaign is a unique showcase of the best in the business, and our associated events are a celebration of everyone’s success. We look forward to applauding more good guys in 2023, and we hope you all will continue to do the same. The success of solar and storage in 2023 is depending on it.
Kelly PickerelEditor in Chiefkpickerel@wtwhmedia.com@SolarKellyP@SolarPowerWorld