Watts Up Solar Podcast

Emmitt Muckles
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Watts Up in Solar is your go-to weekly podcast for everything solar—from rooftop installs to remote troubleshooting and everything in between. Hosted by Emmitt Muckles—solar trainer, consultant, and all-around energy expert—this show breaks down the tech, talks real-world solar issues, and helps you stay plugged into what matters most in solar energy. Whether you’re a homeowner thinking about going solar or a solar pro looking to sharpen your skills, each episode delivers something for you: Plain-English breakdowns of solar tech, from inverters to batteriesReal talk on home energy efficiency and utility billsTips for avoiding solar scams and shady sales pitchesLive field stories, installer insights, and industry interviewsWeekly “Watt’s New” solar headlines and commentaryIt’s solar knowledge for the real world. No fluff. Just facts.

  1. Plug-In Solar Is Here: Cut Your Electric Bill with the APsystems EZ1: Teddy Hodges

    5h ago

    Plug-In Solar Is Here: Cut Your Electric Bill with the APsystems EZ1: Teddy Hodges

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! What if you could start producing solar energy without financing a $30,000 rooftop system, permanently modifying your home or waiting months for a traditional installation? In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles sits down with Teddy Hodges of APsystems to explore the EZ1 plug-in microinverter—an affordable, portable solar solution designed to make clean energy more accessible to homeowners, renters, apartment residents and DIY enthusiasts. Emmitt shares his firsthand experience building a basic wooden rack, connecting two solar modules and watching his system begin producing approximately 500 watts. The entire setup took only a couple of hours, including constructing the temporary frame. But let’s keep it real: plug-in solar is not intended to take an entire home to net zero. Its purpose is to reduce the electricity consumed by everyday loads such as televisions, computers, lights, internet equipment and other appliances that quietly draw power throughout the day. Depending on system size, sunlight, electricity rates and consumption, those savings could become meaningful over time. Teddy explains how the EZ1 brings technology already familiar in parts of Europe into the growing American plug-in and balcony-solar market. The system connects to two solar panels, plugs into a standard outlet and includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth monitoring through the AP EasyPower app. The conversation also tackles one of plug-in solar’s biggest challenges: unwanted electricity flowing back to the utility grid. Teddy introduces the APmeter, which monitors household electricity usage and automatically adjusts EZ1 production to help limit export. This could be especially valuable for customers who do not have a net-metering or interconnection agreement. Emmitt and Teddy also discuss:  Who can realistically benefit from plug-in solar  Why renters have largely been excluded from conventional solar  How much electricity a small system may produce  The importance of sunlight, panel orientation and avoiding shade  Balcony, backyard, garage and ground-mounted applications  When a dedicated GFCI-protected circuit may be appropriate  Why electrical-panel work should be performed by a qualified professional  How smart utility meters detect electricity flowing back to the grid  Opportunities for solar contractors to serve customers who cannot afford full-sized systems  How small systems may help retirees and households living on fixed incomes  Potential solar businesses for young entrepreneurs  Using plug-in solar as the first step in a customer’s larger energy journey  APsystems’ plans for battery storage that could support essential equipment during short outages This episode challenges the solar industry’s obsession with selling the biggest possible system. Instead, Emmitt and Teddy make the case for meeting customers where they are, solving immediate energy problems and helping people start small. Plug-in solar will not eliminate everyone’s power bill. But it could give millions of people their first practical experience producing their own electricity—and that’s a pretty serious market disruption. Learn more about the APsystems EZ1 and the APmeter zero-export solution. Discount: Use code: COACHEMMITT for 10% off eligible EZ1 and APmeter purchases. Requirements for plug-in solar vary by state, utility and local jurisdiction. Always follow applicable electrical codes, manufacturer instructions and interconnection requirements. Consult a qualified electrician before opening or installing equipment inside an electrical panel. The sun never sends a bill. Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    39 min
  2. From Project Finance to Solar Power: Brad Stutzman’s O3 Renewable Energy Journey

    Jun 3

    From Project Finance to Solar Power: Brad Stutzman’s O3 Renewable Energy Journey

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, Emmitt Muckles talks with Brad Stutzman, founder of O3 Energy, about the real business behind commercial solar and renewable energy development. Brad shares how he entered the renewable energy space after the Great Recession, how project finance shaped the early days of his solar career, and how O3 Energy grew into a company focused on commercial solar, small utility-scale projects, construction, asset management, and long-term operations and maintenance. This conversation gets into the parts of solar most people never see: financing, proformas, project viability, heavy power users, energy procurement, battery storage, and why the industry is shifting from “solar as a climate solution” to “solar as a measurable business solution.” Emmitt and Brad also discuss the future of batteries, why commercial customers are becoming more interested in integrated energy strategies, how the industry changes when incentives disappear, and why solar companies need to understand numbers just as much as technology. This is a practical, real-world conversation for anyone interested in solar development, commercial energy strategy, storage, finance, and where the renewable energy industry is headed next. And of course, Emmitt closes it out with a reminder we can all stand on: The sun never sends a bill. Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    29 min
  3. How Sunvoy Is Revolutionizing Solar Customer Retention, Service & Revenue | Joe Marhamati

    May 12

    How Sunvoy Is Revolutionizing Solar Customer Retention, Service & Revenue | Joe Marhamati

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, Emmitt Muckles sits down with Joe Marhamati, founder of Sunvoy, to discuss how solar companies can finally solve one of the industry’s biggest blind spots: customer engagement after installation. Joe explains how Sunvoy’s white-label customer portal helps installers unify solar, storage, EV charging, monitoring, service tickets, referrals, and recurring revenue into one seamless branded experience. From his early days at the Department of Energy to building one of the nation’s most tech-forward solar companies, Joe shares real-world insights on scaling solar businesses smarter. Key topics include:  Customer retention  Solar software  Recurring revenue  Service plans  White-label apps  Data integration  Solar + storage growth If you’re serious about growing in solar, this is essential listening. LinkedIn Promotional PostSolar installers: The biggest money may actually come AFTER installation. In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, I sat down with Joe Marhamati of Sunvoy to unpack: ✔ Customer retention  ✔ White-label solar apps  ✔ Service plans  ✔ Recurring revenue  ✔ Solar + storage + EV integration  ✔ Long-term brand loyalty The reality is simple: Too many solar companies install systems… then disappear. Joe breaks down how smart companies are creating 30-year customer relationships instead of one-time transactions. This is one of the most practical conversations I’ve had around solar business growth. Watch now and rethink your post-PTO strategy. #SolarEnergy #SolarBusiness #RenewableEnergy #EnergyStorage #SolarInstallers #CleanEnergy #WattsUpSolarPodcast #SolarSoftware #CustomerRetention #SEPowerConsulting Short Viral Clip IdeasClip 1: “There’s More Money After PTO Than Before the Sale.” Clip 2: “Solar Companies Are Losing Customers to Their Own Hardware Apps.” Clip 3: “Why Solar Needs HVAC-Style Service Plans.” Clip 4: “Solar Is an Untaxed Stock Market Return.” SEO Keywords solar customer retention  solar software platform  white label solar app  Sunvoy solar  solar recurring revenue  solar service plans  solar installer business growth  solar CRM platform  solar monitoring software  EMTT Muckles podcast  Watts Up Solar Podcast  solar industry innovation Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    30 min
  4. SolarAPP+, AI, and the Future of Solar Permitting with CEO Matthew McAllister

    May 7

    SolarAPP+, AI, and the Future of Solar Permitting with CEO Matthew McAllister

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! In this episode of Watts Up Solar Podcast, host Emmitt Muckles interviews Matthew McAllister, CEO of SolarAPP Foundation. Together they explore how SolarAPP+ is revolutionizing solar permitting by reducing soft costs, standardizing compliance, and accelerating solar deployment through automation and AI. Topics include:  Instant solar permitting  Cost reduction strategies  Jurisdiction standardization  AI virtual inspections  EV charger permitting  Future electrification infrastructure This conversation is essential for anyone in solar, clean energy, permitting, or infrastructure planning. Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    27 min
  5. Luis Vazquez - The Truth About First Solar Installs in New Markets

    Apr 7

    Luis Vazquez - The Truth About First Solar Installs in New Markets

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Most solar companies think they can take what worked in one market and drop it into another. That mindset is costing them—big time. In this episode, Emmitt sits down with Luis Vasquez of Power Media Partners to break down the real-world challenges of entering new solar markets. From Puerto Rico to the mainland U.S., Luis shares what actually happens during early installs—and why installers are the most undervalued piece of the entire ecosystem. They dig into:  Why solar expansion strategies fail  The disconnect between corporate and field teams  What installers deal with that companies don’t see  How storytelling impacts adoption and trust  Why hands-on training is making a comeback If you’re in solar—or thinking about getting in—this episode gives you the blueprint most companies miss. Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    27 min
  6. Why Solar Deals Fail (And How to Fix Them Fast) with Wesley Muscleman solo.io

    Apr 1

    Why Solar Deals Fail (And How to Fix Them Fast) with Wesley Muscleman solo.io

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Most people think solar is just panels and installs — but the real game happens before the install even begins. In this episode, Emmitt sits down with Wesley Muscleman from Solo.io to break down the hidden side of solar sales: proposals, speed, accuracy, and the systems that determine whether a deal closes or dies. You’ll learn:  Why slow proposals kill deals  How top teams generate proposals in minutes  The real impact of design errors and revisions  Why “design verification” is a game changer  How solar sales is evolving with batteries and bundled energy solutions If you're in solar — or thinking about getting in — this episode gives you a real look behind the curtain. Because at the end of the day…  The sun never sends a bill. Solar isn’t just installs—it’s a speed game.  And most companies are losing before they even start. Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    27 min
  7. The Solar Industry Reset (And Why It’s Good)

    Apr 1

    The Solar Industry Reset (And Why It’s Good)

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! The solar industry is going through a major shift—and most people don’t fully understand what’s happening. In this episode, Emmitt sits down with Will White from Fluke to unpack the reality behind the headlines. They cover:  The phase-out of residential incentives and what comes next  Why rising utility rates are accelerating solar adoption  The role of batteries, virtual power plants, and grid stability  How AI and automation are quietly transforming solar O&M  The evolution of solar careers and the skills that matter  The shakeout of low-quality installers—and why that’s a good thing This is not hype. This is what’s actually happening in the field. If you’re in solar—or thinking about it—this episode gives you a clear view of where things are headed. Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    46 min
  8. Why Clean Energy Marketing Needs Community, Not Competition (with Jacob Yang)

    Jan 13

    Why Clean Energy Marketing Needs Community, Not Competition (with Jacob Yang)

    Send us a Text to Watts Up Solar Podcast! Clean energy marketing is tough—and it’s not because marketers lack skill.  It’s because they’re often alone, under-resourced, and expected to explain complex technology while justifying their own existence. In this episode of the Watts Up Solar Podcast, I’m joined by Jacob Yang, clean energy marketing strategist and founder of Amp Your Story, a global community created to connect and support marketers across solar, wind, nuclear, and climate tech. We talk about: Why clean energy marketers feel siloedThe rise of fractional marketing rolesHow storytelling drives trust and adoptionWhy marketers should be seen as revenue driversHow community helps professionals survive layoffs and industry swingsThis conversation is honest, strategic, and grounded in real experience—not LinkedIn hype. If you’re navigating marketing, communications, or growth in clean energy, this episode gives you perspective and practical insight you can use immediately. 🔗 Learn more: https://www.ampyourstory.marketing 🌞 More solar education: https://www.solarenergyforconsumers.com Our Sponsor for this Episode is S.E. Power Consulting S. E. Power Consulting offers Fractional Training Leadership—meaning you get expert-level training support when you need it, without the cost of a full-time hire.Whether you’re scaling up or just getting organized, we help you train smarter, not harder. Visit SEPowerConsulting.com to learn more. S.E. Power Consulting—Fractional training. Full-time results.

    23 min
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About

Watts Up in Solar is your go-to weekly podcast for everything solar—from rooftop installs to remote troubleshooting and everything in between. Hosted by Emmitt Muckles—solar trainer, consultant, and all-around energy expert—this show breaks down the tech, talks real-world solar issues, and helps you stay plugged into what matters most in solar energy. Whether you’re a homeowner thinking about going solar or a solar pro looking to sharpen your skills, each episode delivers something for you: Plain-English breakdowns of solar tech, from inverters to batteriesReal talk on home energy efficiency and utility billsTips for avoiding solar scams and shady sales pitchesLive field stories, installer insights, and industry interviewsWeekly “Watt’s New” solar headlines and commentaryIt’s solar knowledge for the real world. No fluff. Just facts.

Information

  • Creator
    Emmitt Muckles
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Watts up in Solar 2025
  • Show Website
    Watts Up Solar Podcast