S01E04: Birchy’s Electrified Life: Leaving Economics to Power a Solar Future
In this episode of The OpenSolar Podcast, host and solar-curious homeowner Melissa sits down with OpenSolar CEO Birchy to talk about what it really means to go fully electric. From powering a centuries-old farmhouse with sunshine to driving an EV charged by the roof, their conversation explores the possibilities and challenges of living an electrified life.
Also available to stream on Apple and Spotify.
From solar professional to solar-powered homeowner
Birchy’s journey with solar started long before his own home became electrified. After decades in the industry, he returned to rural Devon determined to put theory into practice.
His family’s 600-year-old farmhouse now runs entirely on clean energy, proving that even leaky old buildings can be transformed. Rooftop solar panels supply electricity for the house and their EV, a ground source heat pump provides efficient heating, and battery storage keeps things balanced.
Melissa, a homeowner herself, admits she’s been curious but hesitant. “It’s something I’ve thought about for my own home, but the process felt overwhelming,” she says. For her, Birchy’s example shows that even complex homes can start somewhere and build over time.
Overcoming the myths about cost and complexity
For many, the biggest misconception about solar is cost. Birchy reframes it as an investment in future energy independence. “With solar, you’re prepaying for 25 years of energy,” he explains. And thanks to financing options like mortgage roll-ins or monthly plans, the transition is more accessible than ever.
Melissa admits her own assumptions were challenged. “I always thought it wouldn’t add up financially.” But Birchy shares how their fully electrified home has cut energy costs by more than half over 20 years. Beyond savings, there’s the peace of mind that comes with not relying on volatile fossil fuel prices and with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology on the horizon, EVs may soon even give back to the grid.
Why the electrified home is closer than you think
The core technologies for an electrified life are ready now. Solar, batteries, EVs and heat pumps are no longer niche or require compromise. What’s needed now is smarter software and simpler systems that empower homeowners to manage energy use seamlessly.
“This isn’t about waiting for the next big innovation. The tools are here and it’s time to use them,” Birchy says.
Birchy sees this as the next step in OpenSolar’s mission: equipping pros and households alike with the tools to build a clean energy future.
A call to action for homeowners and pros
For homeowners, the path is clear: start with solar, add storage, switch to a heat pump and choose an EV. Ready to electrify your life? Get started here >
For solar professionals, the opportunity is even larger. As demand grows, pros are crucial to scaling installation and support networks worldwide. Discover OpenSolar’s end-to-end solar software >
OpenSolar isn’t just a software company. It’s a platform helping communities take back control of their energy. As Birchy puts it, “We’re moving power from a handful of fossil fuel giants into the hands of millions of families and local businesses.”