Meet the Inventor Behind This Game-Changing Solar Tool
We love spotlighting innovators who are transforming the game for electricians, and this time, we’re diving into the story behind the Solar Serpent—a groundbreaking multi-tool for solar panel connectors. From its invention to its status as a must-have in every Solar Pro’s toolkit, the Solar Serpent is changing how the job gets done. Discover what makes this tool a game-changer, why it’s likely to become the MVP in your bag and pick up a few insights on the journey of bringing an invention to life.
Josh’s Journey in Solar
Rack-A-Tiers: Thanks for taking some time to talk with us! Can you tell us a bit about yourself, how you got started in the solar industry, and what you’re up to now?
Joshua Bingham: I began my journey in the solar industry working in construction on one of Alberta’s largest utility-scale solar farms at the time. Eager to deepen my knowledge, I enrolled in specialized solar courses and continued working on large-scale projects. Over time, my experience grew, and I transitioned into management. I currently oversee the operations of several utility-grade solar farms, ensuring they run efficiently and contribute to a sustainable future.
Breaking Down the Solar Serpent
Rack-A-Tiers: What exactly is the Solar Serpent, and how does it make life easier for electricians in the solar industry?
Josh: The Solar Serpent is an innovative tool designed to streamline solar industry operations by addressing a common challenge: disconnecting various types of solar module connectors.
Traditionally, there hasn’t been a single tool capable of handling multiple connector types, which can complicate and slow down the process. The Solar Serpent fills this gap, offering compatibility with multiple connector types, making it an essential tool across different solar installations. In addition to its versatility, the Solar Serpent is crafted from highly durable materials, setting it apart from other tools on the market, which often wear out quickly.
It also features some additional functionalities, providing extra value to users. This tool is designed for anyone in the solar industry, from those involved in construction to professionals managing operations and maintenance, ensuring efficiency and reliability in their daily tasks.
How the Solar Serpent Idea Was Born
Rack-A-Tiers: When did the lightbulb moment hit you for creating the Solar Serpent?
Josh: The idea for the Solar Serpent emerged from my firsthand experience working in the solar industry. I often faced frustration using Ty-Raps or plastic disconnect tools that frequently broke under pressure. One day, while dealing with this challenge, inspiration struck during lunch. I modified a fork from my lunch kit, using its prongs to successfully disconnect a solar connector. That moment sparked the initial design, and it set me on the path to developing a more durable and versatile tool—the Solar Serpent.
Developing the Solar Serpent
Rack-A-Tiers: From the time you had the idea, how long did it take before you started making it happen?
Josh: It didn’t take long for me to start pursuing the idea of designing my own tool after that initial spark of inspiration. However, perfecting the concept and bringing it to life was the real challenge. The development process took over two years of continuous refinement and testing to ensure the Solar Serpent would meet the industry’s demands for durability and versatility.
Rack-A-Tiers: What was the toughest part of bringing your invention to life?
Josh: The hardest part was deciding how to bring my idea to market—specifically, finding a company willing to take on the concept and determining if I should invest my own money into the project. The design process itself was another significant challenge, requiring a lot of planning, re-planning, and iteration. Fortunately, I had the invaluable support of my father, who helped me with the computer-based design and contributed potential ideas. Together, we worked through the complexities to create a tool that could truly make a difference in the solar industry.
What You Should Know About Inventing Electrical Tools
Rack-A-Tiers: What might surprise people about pitching a tool like this to manufacturers or creating a new product in general?
Josh: One surprising challenge is just how difficult it is to get a response from companies. I sent out countless emails and tried reaching out through different channels, often without hearing back. The process is tricky because you need to pitch your idea without revealing too much—there’s always the risk of giving away your concept. Without a signed NDA, you have to be very careful about what information you share. When Rack-A-Tiers finally reached out, it was a huge relief. After so many attempts, it was incredibly rewarding to know that someone was genuinely interested in the tool I had worked so hard to develop.
How the Solar Serpent Is Making an Impact
Rack-A-Tiers: What’s been the most rewarding part of getting the Solar Serpent out into the world?
Josh: The most rewarding part has been knowing that I’ve created a tool that’s now on the market, helping others with their solar needs. The solar industry is growing rapidly, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my invention is contributing to this growth. Being able to make a meaningful impact and assist others in the industry makes me feel proud and reinforces my passion for renewable energy.
The Solar Serpent: A Game-Changer for Solar Panel Work
Thanks to Josh for sharing his story and giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the Solar Serpent. Josh’s journey shows how practical solutions often come from firsthand experience. The Solar Serpent was designed to tackle real challenges in the solar industry, making work more efficient and less frustrating for electricians and solar professionals. It’s a simple, durable tool with a big impact, and it’s already proving its value in the field. If you’re looking for a reliable addition to your toolbox, the Solar Serpent might just be what you need. Check it out through the link above and see how it can make your day-to-day tasks a little easier.
