Ben Masters from SolarHub Discusses the Future of Solar and Energy Solutions in Australia
Benn Masters, the founder of SolarHub, has been at the forefront of the solar industry for over 14 years. With a background in software engineering, Masters’ approach to solar installation has been anything but traditional. His company, SolarHub, operates out of Canberra and the South Coast of New South Wales, offering tailored energy solutions to homeowners and businesses. “We started the business about 14 years ago, and it’s been a challenging yet rewarding ride,” says Masters, reflecting on the industry’s ups and downs, including the recent disruptions caused by government rebates.
The Challenges of Government Rebates
One of the key issues Masters discusses is how poorly timed government rebates can negatively impact businesses like SolarHub. “When the government announces a rebate six months before it’s available, customers stop buying until they can claim the rebate, which hurts our installers and business,” Masters explains.
He advocates for better policy, such as either making the rebate immediately available or allowing retroactive claims to prevent market stagnation.
Building a Customer-Centric Approach
At the core of SolarHub’s philosophy is customer engagement. The company prides itself on designing solutions tailored to individual energy needs. “We don’t believe in cookie-cutter systems. We sit down with customers, analyse their energy bills, and design systems that work for them,” says Masters. Whether it’s a small solar system for a family or a larger one for heavy energy users, the focus is on delivering optimal results.
Expanding Beyond Solar: Air Conditioning, Hot Water, and EV Chargers
As SolarHub grew, so did the demand for a full suite of home electrification services. Today, SolarHub offers not just solar installations, but also air conditioning, hot water systems, and EV chargers. Masters acknowledges the importance of integrating all aspects of energy consumption: “Solar is just the beginning. We now offer air conditioning, hot water systems, and EV chargers to provide a full electrification solution to our customers.”
The Role of Batteries in Home Electrification
Batteries are increasingly becoming an essential part of the solar energy equation. According to Masters, batteries provide a solution for households that want to reduce dependency on the grid, especially as feed-in tariffs decline. “Batteries are coming into their own as a vital component for homeowners looking to store their solar energy and use it when the sun isn’t shining,” says Masters.
He also notes the importance of batteries in providing backup during grid outages, particularly in areas affected by natural disasters like bushfires.
Why SolarHub Focuses on Quality Installations
One of the recurring themes in Masters’ discussion is the emphasis on quality installations. SolarHub is committed to safety and high standards, which he believes are critical to the long-term success of solar systems. “We don’t cut corners. Poor installation not only shortens the lifespan of the system but can also create safety risks,” he explains. SolarHub’s team includes highly trained installers who follow strict safety protocols, ensuring that every system is built to last.
Customer Support and Maintenance: A Key Differentiator
SolarHub’s commitment to after-sales service is another area that sets them apart from competitors. Masters highlights the importance of ongoing customer support, noting that solar systems and batteries need regular checks to ensure they perform optimally. “We have a dedicated team for support and maintenance. Our customers can call us 24/7, and we’ll be there to help them,” says Masters.
This level of service is particularly important in an industry where many companies disappear after installation, leaving customers stranded with no recourse for repairs or support.
The Future of Home Energy Solutions
Looking ahead, Masters sees a future where home electrification is inevitable, driven by solar power. “The combination of solar, batteries, and electric home appliances will eventually make gas obsolete,” he predicts. SolarHub is already preparing for this shift by offering a wide range of services that help customers transition to fully electric homes.
SolarHub’s Commitment to Community
SolarHub isn’t just focused on profits; they are also committed to giving back to the community. The company sponsors various local sporting clubs and has even donated solar systems to schools. “We live and work in Canberra, and we believe in supporting the community that supports us,” says Masters.
Conclusion: The Importance of Choosing a Reputable Installer
For anyone considering solar, Benn Masters advises choosing a local, reputable installer with a proven track record. “It’s not just about the products; it’s about the installation and long-term support,” he says. SolarHub’s dedication to quality, customer service, and community involvement has made it one of the most trusted names in the solar industry in Canberra and beyond.
By focusing on long-term solutions rather than short-term gains, SolarHub continues to set the standard for quality and reliability in the rapidly evolving energy sector.
