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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
S3E1 — Michael Shaughnessy
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S3E1 — The EV Trade-Off
Season 3 is here — and we’re kicking off with a wide-ranging chat with Michael Shaughnessy, who’s worked across the industry: from the roof, to the Clean Energy Council, to the EV Council. He’s been everywhere, and he doesn’t hold back.
We talk:
– 🚐 Why 2026 might be the year of the trade EV
– ⚡ What tradies need to know about utes, hybrids, chargers and towing limits
– 🧰 How electricians are best placed to lead the EV shift
– 📉 The business case for EVs (and why it’s not just about being green)
– 🔥 EV fire myths, servo PTSD and the end of crap solar
– 🛻 What happens when your shiny new ute can’t tow your trailer of panels
– 💡 Tips for selling full-suite energy systems (without the short-term thinking)
– 🏗️ Commercial EV charging, transformer upgrades and why electricians should tread carefully
– 🚛 Where electric trucks are at — and who’s buying them
Plus:
Michael shares the story of taking annual leave to install off-grid solar systems for bushfire-affected families after Black Summer — and why giving back still matters.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube or wherever you pod.
📣 Installer Night dates and locations also dropped in this episode — tune in for details.