Key Takeaways from Solar Connect Webinar

Hello Solar Squad,

That really had some incredible insights, I will do my best to summarize.

Ver interesting to hear the different perspectives and key data for what we are seeing moving into the new year in the solar industry.

I think all that attended would have left feeling a bit more at ease about the year to come.

This week I was invited by Enerflo to discuss what's ahead for 2026 and how homeowner behavior is shifting. Here are the critical takeaways you need to know:

The Demand Pull-Forward Effect

Consumer demand spiked June through September, creating a pull-forward effect. Organic solar demand is now lower than previous years, with soft lead volume expected in January-February before rebounding in March.

Key Takeaway: Q1 will be competitive with lower organic demand. Win by preparing now, those who adapt fastest will capture disproportionate market share.

From Savings to Resiliency

Homeowners are shifting focus from cost savings to energy independence and resiliency. Battery storage interest is surging. Search patterns now emphasize energy independence over savings, partly driven by AI energy consumption concerns.

Key Takeaway: Update your messaging, lead with independence and resiliency, not just savings.

Marketing Strategy: TPO is Winning

TPO (Third Party Ownership) messaging is outperforming incentive-focused ads. Better alignment between ad copy and landing pages drives higher conversion rates. Target homeowners actively seeking solar—not skeptics.

Key Takeaway: Test TPO-focused campaigns with aligned landing pages for better performance.

Local & Community-Based Solar on the Rise

Regional operations and local installer relationships are increasingly important. Homeowners prefer community-based solar solutions over national providers.

Key Takeaway: Strengthen your local presence and community partnerships now.

Referrals Trump Reviews

Personal recommendations outweigh online reviews. Video content from installers explaining next steps adds crucial personal touch and improves conversions.

Key Takeaway: Build referral systems and create video content showcasing your team.

Speed Wins Sales

Fast lead response is critical. Auto-quoting, quick replies, and exceptional customer service dramatically increase close rates.

Key Takeaway: Audit your response time, every minute counts in converting leads.

What This Means for Your Business:

1. Prepare for seasonality - Budget and staff accordingly for Q1 slowness

2. Shift your messaging - Lead with resiliency and energy independence, not just savings

3. Leverage TPO offers - Clear, aligned messaging drives better results

4. Double down on local - Community presence and relationships are increasingly valuable

5. Prioritize referrals - Build systems to capture and showcase customer testimonials

6. Respond faster - Every minute matters when a lead comes in

Want to dive deeper into 2026 solar marketing strategies?

Whether you're in solar sales, marketing, or operations, these insights give you a roadmap for where the industry is headed.

[Book a complimentary strategy session]

Let's discuss how to position your business for the shifting 2026 market.

Kind regards,

P.S. Book a solar offer audit and we will guide you to which offer makes most sense for your company: Your Free Offer Audit