S02E2: Why 2026 Will Change Solar Forever | Batteries, AI & Electrification

What does it actually take to build one of Australia's most trusted solar businesses from the ground up and keep it relevant for two decades?In this episode, Jimi Gatland sits down with Derek McKercher, founder of Perth Solar Warehouse.Derek opens up about his journey from sole trader electrician to solar industry veteran: the customer journey obsession that shaped his business, how he's tackling the growing installer shortage, and why he believes 2026 is going to be a breakout year for batteries and whole-of-home electrification.They explore:The future of the connected home: air conditioning, EVs, intelligent energy ecosystems What a great tech stack really looks like as agentic AI starts reshaping how solar businesses operate. Plus, Derek shares why he thinks the industry's greatest competitive advantage is collaboration and not competition.Guest profile: Derek McKercher is the founder of PSW Energy, a solar and battery specialist company focused on delivering practical, high-performance energy solutions for homes and businesses. With a background in electrical work, Derek started his career on the tools, gaining hands-on experience that shaped his deep understanding of how energy systems function in the real world.Over time, he transitioned from tradesman to business owner, building PSW Energy with a strong emphasis on quality workmanship, honest advice, and long-term customer outcomes. Today, Derek is recognised for his straightforward, solutions-first mindset and his commitment to helping accelerate the shift towards more sustainable, self-sufficient energy use.