Shedding Light on the Solar Industry Changes
Industry News
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Sunsetting the federal residential solar tax credit nine years earlier than anticipated has sent ripples through the industry. Contractors who were relying on residential solar installations are left scrambling, searching for a future direction for their businesses.
As a result of the news, these companies will be installing far fewer residential solar panels. While I personally believe that the tax credit will return eventually, the reality is that even the best contractors struggle to justify the ROI of solar panels without the massive tax credit to incentivize homeowners.
So, what does this mean for metal roofing contractors? What’s the best course of action until the credit returns?
I think this sudden change creates a fantastic opportunity for metal roofing and other home improvement contractors to make the best of unforeseen circumstances. Solar contractors excel at value-added selling. They know how to frame ROI, and they understand the needs analysis part of a professional sales presentation very well. Solar contractors are also well aware of the value of metal roofing, often discussing it as a resilient, durable material that pairs well with solar panels.
With this in mind, here are a few opportunities for you to consider:
- Reach out to solar contractors looking to pivot their businesses. Consider building a partnership where you offer installation services, or even a complete turnkey operation, to streamline their metal roofing journey. Many of these contractors ran successful home improvement businesses in your area and possess invaluable skills and knowledge.
- Watch for salespeople or other recently displaced talent; they could be great finds for your company! This transitional period will be challenging for them, but finding a place in a familiar industry is tempting for these newly uprooted workers.
- As always, LinkedIn is an excellent tool for finding potential new hires or partners who are leaving the solar industry. Look in your local area, especially, as you might find some familiar faces willing to pivot or join your team.
While no one planned for the residential solar industry to undergo this change, there can still be some good that comes out of it. If you have any questions about training, informing, and preparing any potential new hires to sell and install metal roofing, I’d be happy to answer them.
Todd Miller has spent his entire career in the metal building products manufacturing industry. He is president of Isaiah Industries, an organization recognized as one of the world’s leading metal roofing manufacturers. Todd is currently Vice President of the MRA (Metal Roofing Association) and a Past Chair of MCA (Metal Construction Association). Through his website, he strives to raise the bar on standards and practices to provide property owners with the best possible products for successful roofing projects.
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