Here Comes the Sun

How a high-school dropout brought renewable energy to coal country

By Andy McCarthy

About The Book

Here Comes the Sun is a story of overcoming adversity, finding a purpose and avoiding the potholes that throw you off course.
When Andy McCarthy left school in Year 10 because of relentless bullying, his career prospects weren't great, but he was determined to prove the doubters wrong. At age 19, he connected his first solar panel and suddenly found himself powered by a purpose. He would accelerate the world's transition to renewable energy, and he would do it in the coal-fired heartland of Victoria's Latrobe Valley.
From tiny beginnings in his home garage, Andy overcame a tide of ridicule, setbacks and opposition to build one of Australia's largest employers in the renewable energy sector: Gippsland Solar. But when his obsessive drive landed him in hospital, Andy realised something had to give. For his work to finally pay off, he would have to transform himself too.
Here Comes the Sun is an electrifying tale for anyone interested in renewable energy, in building a business and in what it takes to follow a purpose without burning out.

About The Author

credit to come
Andy McCarthy

Andy McCarthy is a storyteller and passionate lover of life. He thrives on creating connections with others, and wants to make an impact wherever he goes. Andy met his soulmate, Kelly, as a nineteen-year-old and they spent several years living abroad, backpacking through more than seventy countries, gathering life experiences and saying yes to anything that promised an adventure. Upon returning to Australia in their late twenties, Andy and Kelly moved to a tiny village in the hills above the Latrobe Valley to start a business and raise a family, immersing themselves in the local community while raising three energetic boys. Despite the pressures of being a global changemaker in the energy space, Andy always makes time to travel across Gippsland to coach, umpire and cheer on his boys' sporting endeavours.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Affirm Press (July 30, 2024)
  • Length: 272 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781923046337

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Raves and Reviews

'An inspirational story; a must-read for any aspiring leader.'Tony Wheeler AO, founder, Lonely Planet Guidebooks

'Andy's powerful and inspiring account is a ray of hope. His fascinating journey from a troubled youth to becoming a leader in Australia's energy transition - the highs and lows told with honesty and vulnerability - will provide inspiration to anyone working to change the world for the better.We need people with courage, vision and a commitment to their communities to guide Australia through these times - and Andy has these in spades.'Simon Holmes Court, convenor, Climate 200

'Andy's story is a compelling read for everyone. As an entrepreneur who can relate to many of his highs and lows, I found Andy's journey both inspiring and enlightening - a true testament to the power of resilience and innovation in driving positive change.'Adrian Critchlow, co-founder, Booking.com and founder, Australian Solar Group

'There is nowhere more exhilarating than to be at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. Andy has had a tremendous impact on the Australian energy landscape over the years, inspiring those around him and developing the leaders of tomorrow. A thrilling story revealing the passion, authenticity and care of a true leader.' Kane Thornton, chief executive, Clean Energy Council

'Personal. Compelling. Insightful. A captivating account of an incredible success story, which provides inspiration for those of us across the globe who have admired Andy's journey.' Conall Bolger, president, Irish Solar Energy Association

'Not many stories will have such a practical impact in your life. Here Comes the Sun is a must-read to realise that anything is possible.' Gus Balbontin, director, investor, advisor, explorer

'A heartfelt and honest account from the forefront of Australia's energy transition, from one of the solar industry's most inspiring pioneers.' Stan Krpan PSM FAICD, chief executive officer, Solar Victoria

'Andy's story encapsulates a critical lesson for the transition to renewable energy: it can be good for consumers, good for the planet and good for business. An honest look at the highs and lows of a good and admirable person, trying and succeeding at making a real difference.' Lily d'Ambrosio, Victorian energy minister

'Andy McCarthy has forged an incredible legacy in Gippsland, and this book captures his richly informed journey in a powerful and authentic way. Andy's unwavering belief in our region's future and ability to bring others along with him have been inspiring and infectious. Our future is considerably brighter for Andy's leadership, and I am so pleased that he has documented his story, and explored his big-hearted lived experience and personal challenges, for others to take learnings and inspiration from.' Kellie O'Callaghan, former mayor, Latrobe City Council

'This book is more than a biography; it is a beacon of hope and a call to action. Andy's story reminds us that with passion and determination we can overcome any obstacle and create a brighter future.' Adrian Noronho, CEO and chairman, Schletter North America

'An uplifting tale of success against the odds'. - The Weekend Australian

'An electrifying tale'. - Smart Energy

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Here Comes the Sun

How a high-school dropout brought renewable energy to coal country

By Andy McCarthy
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