SunCast
SunCast
Nico Johnson
906: Solar Revolution: Abby Hopper's Transformative Decade at SEIA
1 hour 40 minutes Posted Mar 5, 2026 at 9:00 am.
From Defense to Forward-Looking Strategy
Lessons from Firefighting and Law
Managing Conflict in Solar’s Growth
Navigating Trade Wars and Tariffs
The Political Role of Trade Associations
Competing with Fossil Fuel Influence
Differentiating Clean Energy Advocacy
Building a Diverse, Transparent Culture
Scaling the SEIA Board and Mission
Domestic Manufacturing and Consumer Protection
Tackling Local Community Opposition
Transforming SEIA into a Research Powerhouse
The "Big Tent" of Clean Power Advocacy
Why Solar CEOs Must Support PACs
Building a Local Political Strategy
Solving the Residential Business Model Problem
The Future of Domestic Solar Manufacturing
Leadership Growth and the Art of Delegation
Redefining Leadership on Social Media
The Origins of Solar Sisters
Addressing Furniture Poverty and Community Service
Rapid Fire: Policy Wins and Industry Myths
Advice for the Incoming SEIA CEO
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Show notes

For nearly a decade, Abby Hopper served as President and CEO of SEIA, the Solar Energy Industries Association, representing the U.S. solar industry through one of its most transformative periods.

From trade wars and policy battles to the rise of domestic manufacturing and record industry growth, Abby had a front-row seat as solar moved from the margins of the energy system to the center of it.

In this conversation, Abby reflects on the challenges she inherited, the progress the industry made, and the work that still lies ahead — from building political influence in Washington to strengthening credibility across the market.

It’s a candid look at the decade that reshaped solar, and what comes next for the industry.

Expect to learn:

🔹 What reshaped solar’s domestic manufacturing strategy

🔹 Why the solar industry still lacks political influence compared to oil and gas

🔹 What Abby believes could slow the next phase of solar growth

🔹 The uncomfortable truth about why solar companies underinvest in political advocacy

Listen now to hear Abby Hopper’s unfiltered perspective on the past, present, and future of solar leadership.

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