#94 - Solar Storage Punk w/ Mitch

Send us Fan MailThis week, we’re joined by Andrew "Mitch" Mitchell from Franklin WH for a wide-ranging chat on where the renewable energy sector is heading. From solar tech innovation and battery design to compliance hurdles and the evolution of virtual power plants, Mitch brings his trademark mix of insight, humour and industry know-how to the table.This episode is proudly sponsored by Southwell Solar Training—delivering practical, standards-based CPD that installers actually find useful. Their online courses cover real-world issues like defects, labelling, battery installation, and system upgrades, helping solar professionals stay compliant while building confidence on the job.Click here to check out Karl's guest appearance on Shameless Plug w/ Saul Griffith: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWffaesEPmo Just Another Solar Podcast is hosted by Luke Beattie, Karl Jensen, Nigel Morris and Jess MacPherson. It's a casual conversation that shouldn't be taken as business, financial or legal advice. 00:00:00 Introduction and Catch-Up00:01:31 Victorian Solar Rebate Update00:05:01 Australia Leading in Renewable Tech00:06:57 SIG Energy Installation Issues in Tasmania00:10:05 Nigel’s Solar Plans as a Renter00:12:28 Electrification and Kyle’s Book Feature00:14:10 All-Energy Expo and Heat Pump Mascot Idea00:16:16 Introducing Guest Andrew “Mitch” Mitchell00:17:29 Mitch’s Journey into Solar Energy00:20:50 Early Battery Days and Funny Stories00:21:50 From Enphase to Franklin Energy Journey00:24:08 Product Compliance and Certification Challenges00:26:14 Franklin Software and Industry Feedback00:27:47 Franklin Battery Pitch and Benefits00:30:12 The Case for AC-Coupled Solutions00:32:55 Next for Franklin — Integration and VPPs00:34:55 Working Groups and VPP Industry Push00:37:17 The Real Cost of VPP Participation00:38:10 Retailer and Customer VPP Experiences00:39:51 Mitch on Battery Longevity and VPP Limits00:40:10 Battery Longevity and Responsible Use00:42:05 Education, Literacy, and Industry Gaps00:45:15 “V2Pub” Concept and Battery Installation Feedback00:49:30 Installer Experiences and On-the-Ground Insights00:55:30 Punk Rock, Music, and Creative Energy01:00:05 Mitch’s Music Journey and Industry Parallels01:02:20 Final Round — Summer, EVs, and Industry Outlook01:03:45 Shoutouts and Community Reflections01:04:45 Industry Care and Hopeful Perspectives01:06:15 Mitch’s Closing Reflections and Takeaways01:07:20 Farewell