Current Home Strengthens Dealer Model with Egil Rosten’s Expertise Amid Industry Scrutiny
In the midst of increasing scrutiny surrounding certain sales practices within the solar industry, Current Home is taking a proactive stance by appointing industry veteran Egil Rosten as the new Vice President of Business Development. This strategic move aims to bolster the company’s dealer platform and restore credibility to a dealer model that has faced significant challenges due to aggressive tactics employed by some sales networks.
Current Home is committed to establishing a selective, compliance-oriented dealer program that prioritizes integrity and accountability. Recent investigations, notably by Time, have highlighted how independent sales groups, often referred to as 'solar sales bros,' have relied on high-pressure sales tactics and misleading claims, resulting in erosion of consumer trust. These predatory practices have, unfortunately, led to increased cancellations and disillusionment among clients, leaving many installers and sales organizations to manage the fallout.
Egil Rosten brings a wealth of experience to Current Home, having previously led dealer program development at several rapidly-growing solar companies. Known for his ability to create sustainable dealer networks, Rosten’s appointment represents a decisive step toward cultivating a more ethical sales environment in solar energy. He emphasized that while the dealer model is not inherently flawed, many aspects of it have been mismanaged, often leading to chaos and unsustainability. His mission at Current Home is to develop a transparent program that not only benefits homeowners but also supports ethical dealers.
To ensure success, Current Home has implemented a rigorous vetting process that prioritizes dealer conduct over sheer sales volume. This means that even if a potential dealer has the potential for high sales numbers, they will not be accepted unless they adhere to the company’s commitment to integrity and customer satisfaction. Out of every four applicants, only one is typically approved, ensuring a high standard of quality among their dealer network.
Once accepted, dealers are required to participate in comprehensive training programs, which cover compliant sales strategies, digital marketing techniques, and adherence to consumer protection regulations. Such guidelines include following the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and other protective measures, making compliance a foundational element of their partnership. The monitoring of dealer practices continues post-acceptance, with a dedicated operations team working to identify and address any suspicious behaviors that could harm the reputation of the company.
"Dealers crave stability, not empty promises," stated Brian Walrod, CEO of Current Home. He acknowledges that true growth in the industry stems from sustainable practices, reinforced by Rosten’s expertise. With industry collapses like that of Titan Solar serving as cautionary tales, the pressing need for a trustworthy dealer model has never been clearer. Current Home’s initiative stands to protect homeowners, reward ethical operators, and enhance trust in the solar dealer ecosystem.
Tony Rodriguez, the Vice President of Lead Generation and Events, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of providing dealers with tools for success while ensuring compliance with stringent regulations. By focusing on regulatory adherence as a strategic advantage rather than an obstacle, Current Home hopes to alleviate burden on homeowners while empowering dealers to establish robust businesses.
In conclusion, Current Home’s dedication to responsible energy solutions is underscored by the integration of experienced leaders like Egil Rosten. By committing to a more ethical dealer network, the company aims to redefine interactions in the solar industry and enhance consumer confidence in renewable energy solutions. As this dynamic unfolds, both dealers and homeowners can expect a more reliable and trustworthy engagement while transitioning to cleaner energy sources.