Warning: The clean energy forecast for 2026 looks stormy—are you ready to weather it?In part two of our conversation with SunCast host Nico Johnson, we go deep into the chaotic, fast-changing landscape that solar companies are bracing for.You’ve probably heard the rumors: tax credits vanishing, new tariffs incoming, battery costs skyrocketing, and a federal crackdown via FEOC regulations. But this isn’t just talk—it’s the start of a true solar shakeup. We break down what’s coming and how smart companies can pivot, survive, and even thrive in the face of policy whiplash.From contingency planning to cash flow strategies, from FEOC fallout to financing fixes—you’ll learn what’s at stake and what’s still worth fighting for. Because here’s the good news: customer demand is still climbing, and the long-term future for solar is as bright as ever… if you can make it through the next storm.
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The SunCast Story, with Nico Johnson
What do the Peace Corps, Trina Solar, and 800+ podcasts have in common? One man: Nico Johnson.This week on The Energy Show, we're bringing you a rare behind-the-scenes conversation with the voice of the solar industry—Nico Johnson, founder of SunCast. If you’ve ever listened to a solar podcast or worked in clean energy, you’ve felt his impact.From climbing rooftops in the early days of residential installs to building one of the most influential media platforms in clean energy, Nico shares how he went from solar hustler to host of SunCast, a show that’s become a must-listen for solar professionals worldwide. And spoiler alert: it didn’t happen overnight.Whether you're a solar newbie or seasoned exec, this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and maybe even ready to hit record yourself.
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Nick Chaset with Octopus Energy
Octopus Energy is shaking up the utility industry—one smart tentacle at a time.Nick Chaset, CEO of Octopus Energy U.S., joins us on this week’s Energy Show episode. Octopus Energy is redefining how customers interact with electricity. From solar and batteries to smart controls and EV chargers, Octopus isn’t just selling power—it’s empowering people to take control of it. Think of them as the energy disruptor with eight arms in all the right places.While investor-owned utilities like PG&E rake in record profits and raise rates, homeowners are fighting back by installing their own mini power plants. In deregulated markets like Texas, customers have the freedom to choose their energy provider—and companies like Octopus are leading the charge with innovation, lower prices, and customer-focused services.Octopus Energy takes what’s working in places like the UK and applies it to U.S. markets with a laser focus on technology, transparency, and customer savings. Whether it's offering dynamic pricing, bundling rooftop solar with smart home tools, or integrating batteries into flexible grid systems, they’re not just building an energy company—they're building a smarter, more agile energy future.To learn more about how Octopus Energy is changing the way consumers buy energy, listen now at www.energyshow.biz.
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Musk and Cinnamon Agree: Don’t Kill the Solar Tax Credits
Do you want to pay 30% more for your solar and battery system next year? Since the 30% tax credit is likely to end on 12/31/25, that’s exactly what’s going to happen.On this week's Energy Show we dive into the clean energy details in the proposed Big Beautiful Bill (BBB) that is currently being negotiated in Congress. For a change, Elon Musk and I are on the same page: killing the solar and battery tax credits would be a disaster for your energy bill, not to mention America’s prospects for energy independence.Here’s what’s really happening:Solar tax credits? Terminated 12/31/25.Heat pump incentives? Hasta la vista.That $9,000 tax credit on your $30k solar and battery system? Won’t be back.Act right now. Find a contractor fast if you want to save.If you’re sick and tired of skyrocketing electric bills and blackouts, this episode is a money-saving wake up call. For the details of the end of the tax credit and what you need to do for a qualified 2025 solar and battery installation, please tune into this week’s Energy Show at www.energyshow.biz or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Save the 30% Solar Tax Credit - Special Guest: Anya Schoolman
The biggest home solar tax credit is about to be axed by Congress. If you are thinking about solar, or just want to expand your system or even add a battery — this 30% tax credit will save you a lot of money. You will lose out on a tax credit savings of $9,000 on a typical $30k solar system. That’s a lot of dough!Under the current reconciliation bill proposed by Congress, the 30% residential solar and battery tax credit will end on 12/31/25. If your solar or battery is not fully installed by then your system will cost 30% more.This isn’t about tariffs, electric rates, uncertainty about the economy or local incentives. This is the one clean energy credit that makes solar affordable—and without it, the economics of solar and batteries for homeowners completely change:
Every week Barry hosts The Energy Show, a 30 minute informative talk show that covers a broad variety of energy related topics spanning technology, economics, policy, and politics that are shaping the future of how we generate and consume electricity, along with practical money-saving tips on ways to reduce your home and business energy consumption.
New Zealand