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Off The Grid

Off The Grid

By: Source Energy Group
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Welcome to Off The Grid, the Source Energy Group podcast hosted by Jason Cooke and Cam Fitch. This podcast helps Australian homeowners beat the cost of living, eliminate power bills, and break free from the grid with custom solar and battery systems. Each episode delivers honest, no-nonsense conversations on Australian solar rebates, battery storage, and how to choose the right installation without getting burned. With a SAA accredited in-house install team and a genuine 25-year local support commitment, Source Energy Group provides quality systems that cut grid usage to 0 to 5%. No subcontractors. No overselling. Just real advice from people who will still be answering the phone in 2050.Copyright 2026 Source Energy Group Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • #008 - Dodgy Installs, Fake Savings, Experts Reveal The Doggiest Solar Operators.
    Jul 3 2026

    Book your free energy audit 👉🏻 https://go.sourceenergygroup.com.au/

    Power bills are rising even when usage is dropping, dodgy installs are still happening, and homeowners are left wondering what’s real.

    In this new episode, Jason and Cam react to viral clips, industry claims and everyday stories, showing what solar and batteries actually change.

    ◼️ Why window tinting and “better offers” don’t solve the cost‑of‑living squeeze

    ◼️ How cowboy installs, sales tactics and overseas call centres keep burning homeowners

    ◼️ Why properly designed solar and battery systems cut bills and protect against inflation

    Timestamps:

    00:00:00 Introduction

    00:00:42 - Solar and Battery Installation Benefits

    00:01:22 - Importance of Bird Proofing Solar Panels

    00:02:01 - Choosing a Good Solar System and Installer

    00:02:11 - Issues with Solar Installations

    00:02:54 - Rising Electricity Bills Despite Lower Usage

    00:04:09 - Inflation and Electricity Costs

    00:04:39 - Window Tinting vs. Solar and Battery Systems

    00:06:14 - Questionable Solar Sales Practices

    00:07:09 - Better Offer Notices on Power Bills

    00:07:50 - Challenges of Switching Electricity Providers

    00:08:48 - Electricity Price Reductions in Queensland

    Follow Source Energy Group:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sourceenergygroup.solar

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sourceenergygroup.solar/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sourceenergygroup

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/123473935/

    Show More Show Less
    10 mins
  • #007 - How To Assess If A Solar Installer Is Dodgy
    Jun 30 2026

    Book your free energy audit 👉🏻 https://go.sourceenergygroup.com.au/

    The solar industry has a massive trust problem, and most homeowners only realise it once something goes wrong.

    In this new episode, Jason and Cam sit down with Braden to break down the exact red flags that help you spot a dodgy installer before you sign anything.

    ◼️ Why 50% deposits signal cash flow issues and high risk

    ◼️ How product overload, overseas call centres and contractor swaps expose poor operators

    ◼️ Why site inspections, spare tiles, workmanship warranties and consistent products matter

    Timestamps:

    00:00:00 Introduction

    00:00:43 - Red Flags: High Deposits and Financial Instability

    00:01:52 - Supplier Relationships and Product Knowledge

    00:02:28 - Warning Signs: Too Many Product Options

    00:03:30 - Importance of Specialization in Solar Products

    00:04:20 - Pre-Installation Site Inspections

    00:05:32 - Common Installation Issues: Roof Damage and Repairs

    00:06:11 - The Importance of Accurate Site Assessments

    00:07:58 - Shading Issues and Their Impact on Solar Design

    00:10:40 - Designing Systems for Future Energy Needs

    00:12:07 - Understanding Energy Bills and Savings

    00:13:06 - Supply Charge Increases Post-Solar Installation

    00:14:11 - Monitoring Energy Usage with Apps

    00:16:29 - The Role of Customer Support and Communication

    00:18:30 - Red Flags: Overseas Call Centers and Cost-Cutting

    00:20:09 - Reviewing Customer Feedback and Experiences

    Follow Source Energy Group:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sourceenergygroup.solar

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sourceenergygroup.solar/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sourceenergygroup

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/123473935/

    Follow Braden Nolan:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/braden-nolan-8340bb368/

    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
  • #006 - Is Solar A Scam? (Experts Reveal The Math)
    Jun 24 2026

    Book your free energy audit 👉🏻 https://special.sourceenergygroup.com.au/opt-in-spotify-org

    Solar gets called a scam every day, but the truth only shows up when you look at the maths.

    In this new episode, Jason and Cam break down why the industry feels messy and what actually drives the confusion.

    ◼️ Why most “solar is a scam” stories come from bad installs, not the technology

    ◼️ How payback periods, rebates and zero upfront finance really work

    ◼️ Why proper design and long term support make or break your outcome

    Timestamps:

    00:00:00 Introduction

    00:00:31 - Understanding Solar Payback Periods

    00:01:00 - Return on Investment in Solar

    00:01:55 - Impact of Adding Batteries to Solar Systems

    00:03:08 - Comparing Solar ROI to Other Investments

    00:03:52 - Government Rebates and Upfront Discounts

    00:04:38 - Financing Options for Solar Installations

    00:05:24 - Insurance and Maintenance Concerns

    00:06:15 - Maintenance Requirements for Solar Systems

    00:06:56 - Issues with Pushy Sales Tactics

    00:07:36 - Importance of Proper Energy Audits

    00:08:43 - Pre-Installation Site Inspections

    00:09:50 - Differentiating Price and Long-Term Cost

    00:10:33 - Market Segments in the Solar Industry

    00:12:07 - Challenges for New Solar Installers

    00:12:50 - Mid to High-End Market Support

    00:14:17 - Long-Term Customer Support and Satisfaction

    Follow Source Energy Group:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sourceenergygroup.solar

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sourceenergygroup.solar/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sourceenergygroup

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/123473935/

    Show More Show Less
    15 mins
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