953: The Hardest Part of Solar Isn't What Most People Think | Jeff Spies

Few people have had a front-row seat to the evolution of the modern solar industry quite like Jeff Spies.

Over four decades, Jeff has helped shape the industry as an engineer, educator, trainer, and founder of Planet Plan Sets, working alongside installers and EPCs to solve the technical and permitting challenges behind thousands of solar and storage projects. That perspective gives him a unique vantage point on how the industry has changed—and what hasn't.

In this conversation, Jeff shares lessons from a lifetime in solar, including:

⚡ How the earliest days of residential solar still influence the industry today

⚡ Why every solar project presents a different challenge—and why experience still matters

⚡ What the rapid growth of battery storage means for installers and system designers

⚡ Why permitting, engineering, and interconnection remain some of the industry's biggest hurdles

⚡ How decades of industry evolution have shaped Jeff's perspective on where solar goes next

Whether you're designing systems, running an installation business, or simply trying to better understand the forces shaping the solar industry, this conversation offers the perspective of someone who has spent a lifetime helping it grow.

Are there other technologies you’ve scouted on the frontlines of the Clean Energy Revolution that you think we should be covering here on SunCast?

Hit us up - [email protected] with your feedback & recommendations.

If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to their contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://suncast.media/episodes/.

Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America!

You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.suncast.media/sponsors.

Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 950 other founder stories and startup advice at www.suncast.media.

We'd love if you'd leave us a 5 ⭐ rating & review and it's never been easier: https://www.ratethispodcast.com/suncast

Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/

You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on:

Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus