This isn't necessarily a problem because Tesla would like to automate the sales process, or move it into Tesla's stores. So, it makes sense for fewer for Tesla workers to be selling door-to-door the way SolarCity did.

On the installation side, Tesla could offload work to hundreds of contracting partners the do the actual installation work rather than having the team in-house. Owning the installation side of the business means Tesla is taking on the operating costs of hiring workers and buying installation equipment, and it has to constantly keep those workers busy. If this work was contracted out, it would lower risk and potentially lower costs as contractors compete for business.

This wouldn't be a novel approach. Most of the construction business works on this contractor model, whether it's building a home or replacing a roof or a kitchen. And with small solar installers taking market share from Tesla, it would be wise for it to lower its operating risk.

Create a pre-engineered solution that can scale