Three things we don’t like about the solar industry
And why we’re doing things differently
Solar power is transforming the way we live, and Australia is ahead of the game with one of the highest rates of household solar in the world.
Solar power cuts energy bills, reduces our reliance on a dirty coal powered grid, reduces emissions, and gives households more control.
But let’s be honest. The solar industry doesn’t always have the best reputation. Too many people have had bad experiences, and it’s created a lot of mistrust.
This only seems to be increasing, with solar companies racing to make money from the recently announced Cheaper Home Battery program in Australia.
Smart solar system installed by This is Electric on a sunny roof in Taroona
At This is Electric, we’ve been listening to our customers over the last few years.
We’ve seen the frustration, and we’ve felt it ourselves - called in to fix bad solar installations, designs that are not fit for purpose and replace cheap and faulty products.
We believe the industry needs a shake-up.
We want to prove that solar installers can be fair, and trustworthy and systems designed to meet customers needs and budget.
That is why we’re starting to offer solar design and installation services to our customers in southern Tassie and around Hobart.
Here are the three biggest problems we see in the solar industry, and how we’re committed to doing things differently.
Pushy sales tactics and upselling
The problem
Many solar companies rely on aggressive sales tactics to push customers into buying products they don’t need.
This might include extra panels, oversized systems, or unnecessary add-ons.
We’re finding a lot of examples of solar companies selling very expensive EV chargers to integrate with the solar system, when much cheaper and better options are available.
This upselling often leaves people with systems that aren’t right for their home or their budget.
How we’re different
We’ll never sell you something you don’t need.
Our approach is simple: we design systems based on your actual energy use, your roof, and your goals.
Nothing more, nothing less.
Our job is to give you honest advice, not meet sales targets.
We don’t push or promote our solar services because the market is already saturated. But we’re finding that customers who want honest, trustworthy advice are finding us anyway.
We are committed to ensuring that the clean energy transition is fast and fair, and includes the people who are impacted by climate change the most.
That is why we trade as a verified social enterprise, dedicating all of our profits towards clean energy education projects in schools and supporting climate justice.
We want to prepare our young people for the clean energy future with all the skills and experiences they will need.
Phil from This is Electric running a school education program focussed on solar generation and reducing carbon emissions
Cutting corners with cheap products
The problem
The market is flooded with low-quality solar panels and inverters that just don’t last.
Some installers cut costs by using the cheapest products available, and using untrained installers, leaving customers with failing systems and expensive repairs.
How we’re different
We only install equipment we’d be proud to have on our own homes.
We have a trained team of solar designers and installers, with all the right insurances and licenses. We don’t cut corners.
Quality, safety, and reliability are non-negotiable.
When you choose to work with us, you can trust that your solar system is designed specifically for your home by qualified electricians, is built to last, with strong warranties and an installation that you can rely on.
As a verified social enterprise, we are also committed to ensuring we reduce our impact on the earth and reduce our waste, recycling precious materials whenever we can.
Lack of transparency and overpromising
The problem
It’s all too common to hear about hidden costs, fine print, or big promises that don’t match the reality.
What we’re finding talking to our customers is that some companies claim solar will “wipe out your power bills completely” or “pay for itself in 1 or 2 years”, but the numbers don’t always add up.
In some cases this might be true, but we’ve heard too many stories of solar companies promising the world, and customers being disappointed with their ongoing bills.
How we’re doing things differently
We’re upfront about everything: the costs, the savings, the benefits, and the limitations.
We’ll never promise you something we can’t deliver.
We take the time to explain your options in plain English, so you know exactly what you’re getting and why and give you practical advice that will save you money.
Solar power and going all electric in your home or business can save you a lot of money, but we need to get the systems and design right for you.
Rewiring Australia image of a solar powered electric house
Doing solar the right way
We’ve decided to offer solar services because we believe there’s a better way and that business can be done differently.
For us, it’s not about selling systems.
It’s about helping and supporting families, businesses, and communities take real, reliable steps towards a clean energy future.
At This is Electric, our promise is simple: no pushy sales tactics, no shortcuts, no hidden extras.
We want you to have the best possible experience, because we believe in the clean energy transition and making sure it is fair and fast and includes us all.
Get in touch and let’s chat about clean energy options that might work for you.
Honest work, reliable service, and solar done right.