Solar Sidekicks Podcast
Solar Sidekicks is the go-to podcast for all things solar, serving up essential insights with a friendly, down-to-earth vibe. Hosted by industry professional Pat Southwell and his co-host Lauren Ciconte, each episode explores technical topics, industry regulations, and the real-world challenges faced by solar installers across Australia.
Together they share practical knowledge from the field, tackle important issues affecting the industry, and stand up for what’s right by helping voices be heard on topics that can hit solar installers hard. They also highlight some of the great people working in the industry and help listeners stay across the constant changes in this fast-evolving sector.
Whether you’re a solar installer, apprentice, or simply interested in solar, Solar Sidekicks keeps you informed, connected, and up to date with what’s happening in the industry.
Solar Sidekicks Podcast
S2E20 - Middle Aisle Solar
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No guest? No worries. In this jam-packed episode, Pat and Lauren catch up on all the wild weather, long days, solo installs, and industry shake-ups that have defined the past few weeks.
The big topic: Aldi Solar. Yep — Aldi has entered the solar game with its own branded inverter and battery systems, plus a tie-in with Bunnings. Pat and Lauren break down what this means for quality, pricing, and the future of the trade. Is it just another race to the bottom, or a sign of where solar is headed?
Also in this episode:
– The GoodWe inverter recall and how they’ve handled it
– WorkSafe Month and real-world safetyPat Southwell: takeaways from the rooftop (& a toastie)
– A big shoutout to GoodWe’s new brand ambassador, cricketer Alex Carey — and why this actually feels different from the usual celebrity solar promos
– Lauren’s nearly-finished Cert II, Pat’s new EV5 GT (luxury & roof racks together), and navigating charger dramas
– Plus: a few rogue calls to industry legends Blair Pester and Brad McDonald, with some surprisingly wholesome results
📍 Recorded at the Solar Sidekicks Studio
🎧 A proper catch-up between mates — smart, salty, and seriously solar.