256: How To Maximize Multifamily Net Operating Income Using Onsite Solar with Owen Barrett

In this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan speaks with Owen Barrett, founder and CEO of Shine, a solar company built by apartment owners for apartment owners. With a background in finance and clean energy, Owen brings a pragmatic and results-driven mindset to a traditionally misunderstood corner of multifamily investing—onsite solar energy.

Owen shares how his first exposure to real estate came after achieving financial independence through his solar ventures. Instead of starting small, he jumped into a 64-unit building, testing how large-scale solar could be layered into multifamily investment. That experience, although imperfect, helped shape Shine’s business model: targeting properties with 100+ units where solar not only benefits the environment but also boosts returns.

Jonathan and Owen examine the financial mechanics of solar energy in multifamily properties, from cost segregation and tax credits to NOI increases and tenant retention. Owen explains how Shine’s proprietary software allows solar installations to serve individually metered units, a longstanding challenge in the space. He also breaks down how syndicators and institutional investors approach solar differently, and why understanding your audience is key when pitching value-add improvements.

Owen emphasizes that solar is not about selling environmental benefits. It’s about improving the bottom line. But the secondary benefits, such as tenant retention, lower utility inflation, and greater resilience during energy volatility, add long-term value. For syndicators and operators seeking to future-proof their assets, this conversation is packed with strategic thinking, cost-saving tactics, and clear-eyed lessons from someone who installs what he owns.

In this episode, you will hear:

• How Owen Barrett transitioned from solar to multifamily real estate

• Using solar to increase NOI and attract investors

• Cost segregation, tax credits, and depreciation benefits

• Why roof condition is a make-or-break factor for installations

• The difference in decision-making between syndicators and institutions

• Leveraging solar to reduce tenant utility costs and turnover

• The reason early due diligence makes or breaks solar ROI

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Supporting Resources:

Shine website - www.getshine.com

Connect with Owen Barrett on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/owenmadsenbarrett

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.