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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
S3E11 - 2026 Excellence Awards Finalists
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S3E11 – Smart Energy Awards Finalists
In this episode of Solar Sidekicks, Pat and Lauren are back on the podcast stage at the Smart Energy Conference in Sydney for a busy day one wrap-up.
We kick things off with a quick chat with Australian wicketkeeper and GoodWe ambassador Alex Carey, talking cricket, climate, family, and why he has put his name behind renewable energy.
Then we catch up with a stack of 2026 Smart Energy Excellence Awards finalists, including:
Springers Solar
PowerPlus Energy
Smart Commercial Energy
AC Solar Warehouse
FranklinWH
And our very own Lauren O’Neill, finalist for Emerging Leader
There are plenty of laughs, a few awards-night nerves, some great stories about company culture, innovation, training, Australian manufacturing, and what it means to give back to the solar and battery industry.
We also send a big shout-out to Luke Beattie, who is taking on a serious health fight with the strength and positivity the industry knows him for.
A fun, heartfelt, and slightly chaotic conference episode from the Solar Sidekicks podcast stage.