As extreme weather and power outages become more frequent and intense, energy resilience—the ability to keep power on when the grid fails—is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

Energy resilience can take many forms, from massive solar projects that keep entire communities running to a couple of batteries tucked away in your garage. We spoke with entrepreneurs and homeowners across that spectrum to learn practical ways anyone can boost their power security, no matter the budget.

'America's first solar-powered town' never lost power during a Category 4 hurricane

Syd Kitson, a former NFL player turned sustainability developer, founded Babcock Ranch—a solar-powered town in Southwest Florida with over 5,000 residents. In 2022, Hurricane Ian put his vision to the ultimate test: The Category 4 storm hit the community head-on with 160 mph winds.

"I can remember sitting in my home and watching the weather, and the weather person said, 'it's headed right for Babcock Ranch,'" said Kitson. "That thing sat on top of us for eight hours."

The devastating hurricane knocked out power to over 4.45 million homes and businesses across the state, but Babcock Ranch never lost power.

The town’s secret isn’t just solar panels and batteries—though the community had both ready to deploy—but thoughtful infrastructure planning. Babcock partnered with Florida Power & Light to weather-proof its electrical grid, including burying all power lines and using concrete poles. Combined with strategic construction around natural waterways, the community was prepared to endure the hurricane.

"Everything we had worked on, everything we had done to plan for this, had worked. And it really proved out that if you do the right thing and you think ahead of time of what needs to be done, you can be very successful," Kitson said.

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A YouTube creator built a net-zero home with a $90k solar energy system (and doesn’t regret it)

You may have heard of Matt Ferrell, who created the popular YouTube channel Undecided with Matt Ferrell. His energy resilience journey started small: He bought solar panels and a battery at his previous Massachusetts home to provide additional peace of mind during New England winter storms.

When designing his new eco-friendly home, Ferrell went all-in with a solar and battery system large enough to achieve net-zero energy use, which means it produces as much energy as his family consumes. The investment cost was about $90,000, but he says it was worth it.

"There's just no worry. Once, I was sitting at my computer, and the power was out in the neighborhood, and we never knew,” he said, explaining the benefits of adding solar and storage to his home. “It's that sense of security for my family, knowing that we won't have spoiled food in the fridge, knowing that we don't have to worry about this kind of stuff…to me, that sense of relief makes it all worthwhile."

Ferrell said the solar energy system will save him $196,000 over 30 years, but he emphasizes his approach isn't for everyone.

"I look at the content that I've been putting together as a menu,” he said.“ Look at all the different options, but you don't have to do all the options." A system design that works well for one property may not work for another, and homeowners have varying energy priorities.

A Florida homeowner ditched his gas generator for solar and batteries

Army veteran Adam Lawrence lives in Orlando, Florida, with six family members and was experiencing regular power outages. There were just enough to be genuinely frustrating—and push him into taking action.

"We probably have an outage once a quarter or something like that for a few hours. And if it's nighttime in Florida, it's tough to sleep if your AC goes out," he said.

Lawrence first tried a traditional generator, but said the experience was miserable.

"I remember we lost power, and it was raining, and it was 3 a.m. We had a little AC window unit, and I had to get that working because we had a 7-month-old," said Lawrence. "So I'm out there hooking up propane tanks, getting the generators, setting up the interlock…and that's when I was like, 'Okay, I’ve got to figure something else out.'"

Plus, the generator was loud. "Running a generator at two in the morning is fine for me because my AC's on and I can sleep, but it's not the best for my buddy and his wife who live next door."

This past summer, Lawrence installed solar panels and batteries. It doesn’t zero out his energy use like Ferrell’s, but the system produces about two-thirds of their family's daily energy needs and provides backup power when needed, which Lawrence says is enough.

“You never really know how bad things can get, and seeing these things happen across the world, a lot of people think this can't happen here. But it can, and I'd rather be prepared for it than not,” Lawrence said.

A New Hampshire couple planning for energy security

In rural Pyrmont, New Hampshire, where there are fewer than 800 residents, Vernon and Jane Jones spent over two decades dreaming about going solar before contacting an installer in August. For them, power outages aren’t only inconvenient, but also impact their access to water from their drilled well—a critical necessity on their property

"With that kind of grid dependency, we really didn't want to have a problem and be without water for weeks at a time," Vernon said.

“We need to protect our water supply if we should need it, or if anybody around us needs it when the power goes out,” Jane added.

Timing also worked in their favor: The Joneses are scheduled for an October installation, so they were able to secure the 30% federal tax credit before it expires at the end of 2025. This will help them save around $9,000 on their roughly $30,000 investment.

The true value of energy resilience goes beyond money

Installing a solar battery isn’t cheap. It typically costs about $11,000, but your ultimate electric bill savings also depends on other factors like where you live and how much energy your household uses daily.

That means that batteries may not make financial sense for every homeowner. But as Ferrell explains, "It's not just about the finances—it's also about energy security. I keep hammering home on that, because it's hard to put a price on that.”

Ferrell said the good news is that battery prices continue dropping over time, and new, more affordable options are hitting the market every day. However, he’s the first to admit that solar batteries aren’t the best solution for everyone.

"Don't take me as saying everybody should go get a battery, because everybody's use case will be different,” he explained. But if you're very concerned about energy security because of tornadoes or hurricanes or blackout conditions, or if you live in Florida…a battery is probably where you should be looking first."

If you can’t afford a battery or aren’t ready to make the financial commitment, there are more affordable ways to improve your home’s safety and efficiency with other simple clean energy upgrades.

“Home insulation is the lowest hanging fruit,” Ferrell said. “If you have access to a home energy audit, that will be the best money you can ever spend on your house. They'll give you recommendations, and then you can take it from there.”

As the country’s electrical grid faces increasing challenges—from severe weather to growing power demand from AI data centers and electric vehicles—energy security will only become more critical. Whether you're planning a comprehensive system like Matt's net-zero home, a practical solution like Adam's backup setup, or just getting started with solar like Vernon and Jane, the key is taking that first step toward home resiliency, no matter how small that step is.

Randy Harrison stands outside his farmhouse in Lincoln, Massachusetts, reflecting on a four-year journey that has finally led to solar panels on his roof. Now that his installation is complete, he’s most excited for one simple, symbolic moment: flipping the switch.

“The thing I’m looking forward to most once the system is installed is flipping the switch,” Randy said. “After that, I know I’ll generate my own power moving forward.”

For Randy, going solar was about more than saving money—it meant embracing sustainability, stabilizing his household energy costs, and preparing for the future.

Project spotlight

A four-year solar journey

Randy’s path to solar began in 2021–and it wasn’t easy.

“I made every mistake in the book,” he admitted. “The process to get here was unbelievable.”

In Lincoln, where heavy winter storms often knock down trees and cut power, reliability was a motivating factor to make a change. Randy had even considered a backup generator at one point. But when federal tax credits were prematurely cut this year, the urgency to make the leap to solar became clear.

What Randy didn't expect was how difficult it would be to find trustworthy partners in the solar industry.

"This [solar] business is an emerging business," Randy observed, drawing on his background as a marketing consultant. "So much of this industry is focused not on being easy to buy, but on being easy to sell. It's about making their sales numbers and hitting revenue targets—and the customer becomes a necessary evil. I really felt like a lamb ready for the slaughter."

Finding EnergySage at the right moment

Randy’s journey nearly took a wrong turn.

“I was in the process of concluding my first go-round with an installer, ready to sign the final paperwork, when my wife suggested we have someone take a second look,” Randy recalled.

A quick Google search led him to EnergySage—just in time. Randy submitted his nearly-signed solar agreement for review to Aliza, an EnergySage Energy Advisor, who identified a major problem.

“I found EnergySage, submitted my paperwork, and connected with Aliza, my Energy Advisor,” he said. “She’s been my guardian angel through this whole process.”

EnergySage’s advisors are unbiased, clean energy experts dedicated to helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions. Aliza’s review uncovered $8,000 in hidden financing fees buried in the fine print of Randy’s contract.

“The average cost per watt in my area was around $3. But in my agreement, it was closer to $6,” Randy said. “Aliza discovered an $8,000 finance fee that wasn’t transparent. Without her, I never would have known.”

That discovery reset Randy’s solar journey—but this time, he had the trusted guidance he needed with EnergySage.

"That was the beginning of what set me off on this journey: To find the trust I needed to make a major, significant improvement to my home," Randy added.

But trust wasn't just about finding the right installer—he also needed transparency in an area that had caused him the most confusion: financing.

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Finding a trusted loan provider

For Randy, one of the most frustrating aspects of his solar journey was getting a straight answer to a simple question: "What will my monthly cost be when all is said and done?"

"That was the most important number for me to know," Randy explained. "With all the incentives, with the financing, with everything else—what will my monthly payment be, and how does it compare to my current energy costs?”

The answer should have been straightforward, but Randy discovered that many vendors made it unnecessarily complicated. Local installers would refer him to multiple financing options.

"To figure out the monthly number was a math exercise for an accountant, not for someone like me," Randy said. "That's where the national vendors had an advantage—they could instantly give you your monthly number. But as I learned with one vendor, that instant answer came with hidden costs."

The complexity wasn't accidental. Randy realized that some companies deliberately obscured financing details to facilitate sales, not to help customers make informed decisions. 

"So many vendors I spoke with couldn't clearly explain what I'd actually be paying each month. If you can't answer that basic question transparently, how can I trust you with a 20-year financial commitment?"

The breakthrough came when Randy's chosen installer, Second Generation Energy (SGE), offered financing through Atmos Financial—a relationship built on transparency rather than hidden fees.

"The installer had this relationship with a company they trusted, and that trust extended to me,” Randy said. “I knew exactly what the fees would be. There was a financing fee, but it was a lot less than others, and it was completely on the table–completely transparent."

Most importantly, there were no prepayment penalties after a certain period—crucial for Randy's plan to pay down the system in five years. 

"Four years ago, they couldn't offer this kind of transparent financing,” he added. “They can do it now. That was part of what made this the right time to move forward with Second Generation."

Planning for today—and tomorrow

When reviewing bids through the EnergySage Marketplace, Randy appreciated seeing different equipment philosophies from each vetted installer.

“I was looking for a few different things in my solar installer,” Randy explained. “One was product knowledge. You need someone who understands how the equipment integrates together and lasts over time. The other piece was trust. I wanted a local company I could depend on.”

He ultimately chose Second Generation Energy, a Massachusetts-based installer. Every EnergySage installer is pre-screened to ensure they’ll provide homeowners with a trustworthy experience. They are rated based on their results, reputation, and responsiveness.

"Dave from Second Generation was a straight shooter," Randy added. "Over time, he and I built that trust. So I had [trust] with EnergySage, and then having that same trust extend to the installer—that was exactly what I needed."

Randy was also thinking ahead when sizing his system; he needed the system to be future-proofed for other potential clean energy additions like electric vehicles and heat pumps. As a result, SGE educated him on critical technical details, like the importance of choosing a 48-volt battery system over a 40-volt system to accommodate EV charging without shutting down his entire solar panel array.

"I would never have known about the voltage difference," Randy said, smiling. "That's where the trust with the installer comes in—to understand my needs and ensure I have a system that can accommodate future growth."

• System size: 10.5 kW 

• Panels: SunPower X21-350-BLK-E-AC  

• Inverter: Enphase Energy IQ7X-96-2-US 

Advice to homeowners

Now, with solar panels on his roof and a solar battery in his basement, Randy is ready to lock in his energy costs and embrace a sustainable future. Reflecting on his journey, Randy describes the solar market as “the rootin’ tootin’ West.”

“There are so many sales pitches out there—it can be overwhelming. But with EnergySage, I finally found the trust I needed to make a major improvement to my home.”

Randy’s advice to other homeowners considering solar boils down to one word: trust.

"If you don't have trust, you need to find it,” he says. “Some people may find trust in working with a national vendor. For me, I needed individual attention for my specific needs."

Randy also emphasized the importance of having an unaffiliated advocate: 

"I would argue everybody needs an unaffiliated partner in this process. Having EnergySage in the mix is critically important—a resource that has the knowledge and insights, and is focused on you as a customer."

For Randy, the four-year journey was worth it to find the right partners and solution. His advice to friends considering solar is simple: 

"Run–don't walk–and contact EnergySage right away!"

When Lauren Bash opened her front door to find two gas leaks that would cost $15,000 to repair, she saw it as a sign. The Los Angeles-based climate activist and influencer said she had been considering solar for months, but suddenly the decision felt urgent—not just because of the broken pipes, but because of something much bigger looming on the horizon.

The federal solar tax credit, which allows homeowners to claim 30% of their solar installation costs as a credit on their tax bill, expires after December 31, 2025. As a longtime advocate for renewable energy, Bash said she was naturally drawn to going solar, but the tax credit was “a huge lure” for her to get the process started sooner rather than later. 

"I live in Los Angeles, where we're really lucky to have sunny days the majority of the year," Bash said. "It felt like an obvious choice that we should harness the power of the sun to power our home and essentially be like a generator for our community."

From gas leak disaster to solar success story

For Bash, the road to solar began with a bit of a disaster. When construction work on her century-old home caused underground shifting, the gas company discovered two dangerous leaks during what should have been a routine reconnection.

"The gas company was like, 'No, you have two really bad leaks,' and it was going to cost $12,000 to $15,000 just to repair the gas pipes," she said. "I'm really fortunate to have a lot of friends in the community who work in decarbonization, and they were like, 'Gas appliances will be obsolete in LA eventually, this is just the encouragement and the time you needed to electrify.'"

Instead of fixing the gas lines, Bash decided to go fully electric. She started with appliances—an induction stovetop, heat pump water heater, and electric dryer—before turning her attention to solar panels to power it all.

But like many first-time solar shoppers, she quickly felt overwhelmed by aggressive sales tactics and confusing technical jargon.

"I made the mistake of filling out a questionnaire online somewhere that said, 'I live in Los Angeles, I want solar,'" Bash said. "Every five minutes, it was an installer calling me saying, 'We saw that you're interested.' I was like, 'What a mistake putting my phone number on this questionnaire.'"

That's when a friend recommended Lauren use EnergySage. She said the difference was immediate.

"It was so nice because it's essentially like a shield between all the installers—they have to go through EnergySage to access you," she explained. "Sam was my Energy Advisor at EnergySage, and he was awesome. He walked me through everything and looked at my roof and my tree coverage, and my electricity bill."

Through the marketplace, Bash received seven quotes from local installers, with prices varying by as much as $15,000. With Sam's guidance, she narrowed it down to three detailed proposals before making her final choice.

"Sam recommended looking at how long they've been in business," Bash said. "It was very easy a couple of years ago to start a solar business because it was so hot, but the potential risk is that they might not be in business to help you maintain or repair your panels."

She ultimately chose an installer who had been in business for over 40 years—well before solar became mainstream.

Going solar right in time to claim the tax credit

While the gas leak emergency prompted Bash's decision, her installation timeline couldn't have been better positioned for the changing federal landscape. The 30% federal solar tax credit, which can save homeowners around $9,000 on an average system, is set to expire after December 31, 2025 due to President Trump’s megabill eliminating it almost a decade ahead of schedule.

"The 30% tax [credit] for getting solar was a huge lure for us," Bash said.

The average solar panel system costs around $28,000, but the tax credit drops that to approximately $19,400, meaning homeowners who miss the deadline could face significantly longer payback periods. In states without local solar incentives, missing the tax credit could push payback periods from 8-10 years to 15-21 years total.

The installation process moved quickly for Bash, about 60 days from contract signing to installation. But she said her timeline included 30-45 days of research beforehand, making the total process three to four months.

"It's definitely not a 'wait till the last minute on December 31st, find your installer' situation," she warned. "I feel even a four or five-month leeway is probably best."

That translates to starting research and getting quotes right now.

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The installation day that changed everything

On installation day, Bash's excitement was palpable. "This might not be the most glamorous home project, but it's definitely the one I'm most excited about," she shared in a video documenting the process.

The installation team completed the work in less than a day, and remarkably, her system kicked on immediately.

"The install was so fast. The guys got it done in less than a day. And on the same day that it was installed, we were generating, which was really cool," she said.

However, like many solar customers, Bash discovered that utility companies don't always make the final steps easy. "We're still in the process of getting the solar meter set up with the utility company," she explained, noting the delays from Los Angeles Department of Water and Power in getting her system fully connected to the grid for net metering.

Her system now generates significantly more power than her household needs, especially during Los Angeles's abundant sunny months. She said she’s excited to feed excess clean energy back into the grid for her neighbors to use.

Looking beyond political uncertainty

Despite current federal policy uncertainties, Bash said she remains optimistic about the long-term benefits of her solar investment. She pointed to her mother, who installed solar panels in LA about 15 years ago, before any incentives existed.

"My mom has obviously paid off her panels because she's had them for so long, and she doesn't have an electricity bill," Bash said. "Her bill used to be $3,000 a year, and now it's $30 a month for whatever fee you have to pay the utility company."

For Bash, going solar represents something deeper than financial savings—it's about health, values, and community impact.

"We're even making a cute little sign for our fence that says 'this house is fossil fuel free' because we're truly off of gas," she said. "We're not contributing to any of the toxins in the atmosphere that impact our community or our neighborhood."

For homeowners considering solar, time is running short to claim the full 30% federal tax credit. "You can still get solar and qualify for the [tax credits] if your system is fully installed before December 31st,” said Bash. “Don't hesitate, and use EnergySage to find your solar installers and start generating your own energy independence right on your own roof."

Karen and Jeffrey Walker’s solar journey began more than a decade ago, when Karen—motivated by concern for the environment and a curiosity about sustainable solutions—scheduled a Mass Save energy audit of their Lexington, Massachusetts home.

"We've got three kids and grandkids, and we're thinking about this planet," Karen said. "Energy consumption in New England has traditionally been dirty, but solar is beautiful.”

The energy audit looked promising at first. Their home had a south-facing roof, which is ideal for solar. But then came a major roadblock: their neighbor’s towering trees. With the trees blocking sunlight, their roof would be under too much shade for solar panels to make sense.

Karen was disappointed, but tucked the idea away for the future.

Project spotlight

A second chance at solar

Fast-forward to 2021. Soaring energy bills and the couple’s deepening environmental commitments brought solar back into the conversation. They had recently bought a Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicle and were considering switching out their gas furnace for heat pumps. Jeffrey began wondering how they could offset their rising electricity use.

"I saw an article on solar and thought, 'This is talking about significant cost savings,'" Jeffrey recalled. "I went and did more research on Mass Save and came across the EnergySage link."

Although initially hesitant, Jeffrey started to explore the solar Marketplace more seriously. He liked what he saw.

The EnergySage Marketplace offers a transparent experience that puts homeowners like Jeffrey in control. He started by uploading his electric bills and basic home information to the platform. EnergySage then matched him with seven pre-screened, qualified solar installers. When he had questions about comparing the different proposals, an Energy Advisor was available to guide him through the process without steering him toward any particular installer.

"EnergySage provided information about how solar could be successful, but also gave me contractors who would provide competitive bids, as opposed to me having to talk to individual solar providers without knowing if they were offering the best equipment or pricing," Jeffrey explained.

Karen appreciated EnergySage’s streamlined approach: “It's so easy—everything all in one location. I think that kept us really engaged."

When the installer bids started arriving in his inbox, Jeffrey was amazed. Some contractors promised over 100% coverage of their current electric bills, while others were more conservative at 77-81%. With his Energy Advisor’s guidance, Jeffrey felt confident evaluating the quotes.

"The guys who were over 100% were going to put more panels on the roof than I felt comfortable with the roof supporting," he reasoned. "I liked the one that was 81% coverage—it seemed very reasonable and was the most cost-effective option."

A family affair

The Walkers ultimately selected local installer Brightway Energy, based in Massachusetts. They were drawn to Brightway’s conservative but realistic approach and competitive pricing. The company's site assessment also made a lasting impression, particularly on Karen's four-year-old twin grandsons.

"The installer showed up with a drone," Karen remembered fondly. "He engaged with the boys, showed them how it worked, explained why he was flying it over the house, and even saved a video for them. What a wonderful way to work with families—they're real people who engage with you as human beings."

• System size: 12.9 kW

• Panels: Qcells DUO BLK ML-G9+ - 380 Watt

• Inverter: Enphase Energy IQ7PLUS-72-x-US-240

Their system came online in January 2022, initially producing only modest amounts of power since it was winter. But as spring arrived, their power production soared.

"I can remember the first time it reached 10.1 kilowatt hours and generated 75 kilowatt hours over the day," Jeffrey said. "I was looking at the app a couple of times a day—now it's down to once a day."

Exceeding expectations

Today, the Walkers’ solar panel system covers approximately 90% of their household’s electricity usage, significantly better than the originally projected 81%. This is particularly impressive considering they've since added a heat pump and EV charging capabilities.

"We now have a heat pump and one rapid charger for my car as part of that 90% coverage," Karen said. "Our electric bills for air conditioning used to be astronomical in summer, and now we still have energy credits going through the whole summer."

Jeffrey is also amazed by their savings. "Even with the EV charging taking significant energy, it doesn't exceed our solar production. We still have enough generation."

"In July, it's like Christmas," Karen laughs. "He's on his phone saying, 'Oh my goodness, Karen, look at this production!'"

Lock in solar savings and stop paying rising utility rates

Learning from experience

Like many homeowners, the Walkers still faced small unexpected bumps on their solar journey. When squirrels chewed through some wiring, one of their two arrays went offline for five months. Fortunately, their installer diagnosed the problem and added critter guards to prevent it from happening again.

"If you live in the northeast with lots of squirrels, install the critter guard," Jeffrey advises. It's not expensive and definitely worth it."

Paying it forward

The Walkers’ journey—from a tree-blocked roofline to a high-performing solar energy system—shows what’s possible when homeowners have the right tools and support to make informed, confident decisions when it comes to going solar.

"We've recommended EnergySage to so many people," Karen said. "It's an easy one-stop marketplace that puts all the experts in one place. There's so much we don't know about this new industry, and having all that expertise accessible is a valuable asset."

Jeffrey agrees. "EnergySage allows you to get the most economical solution, find the best contractors and products, and get competitive bids,” he said. “We feel very confident recommending it because we know people will get the best ability to evaluate solar."

Sue Marren’s solar journey began long before her solar panels were installed.

Having worked at an economic consulting firm with an extensive energy practice, she had been surrounded by experts working on renewables and energy economics for years.

"I had a lot of exposure to it and knew that it made sense to do both economically, but also environmentally," Sue explained.

The catalyst came when her old gas heating system finally needed replacing. Sue decided to switch to electric mini-split heat pumps, knowing her electric bill would increase significantly if she didn’t.

"I knew that my electric bill was going to go up. Not quite as much as it actually did," she said. "So at that time, I figured it would make sense to do solar."

After a positive experience with the savings from her heat pumps, she decided it was time to look into going solar, too.

Project spotlight

Breaking through the sales noise

Sue had been casually researching solar for about two years, initially considering it for her house in Cape Cod. When that proved unworkable due to tree removal requirements, she turned her attention to her Newton, Massachusetts home.

What she found in the solar market was disheartening at first.

"A lot of it's probably like roofing or siding—everybody was very salesy. They all kind of disappeared after the first or second call, and I'd never hear from them again," Sue recalled. "I was getting really discouraged."

That’s when she discovered EnergySage at a summer seminar hosted by the Eastham Climate Action Committee—and it turned out to be exactly what she was looking for.

Unlike the sales-driven approach she had encountered elsewhere, EnergySage offered a more transparent, consumer-first experience. She began by filling out a short survey on the website, sharing a few basic details about her home. Her information stayed private and was enough to match her with a handful of pre-screened, trustworthy solar installers in her area; when homeowners have questions, there’s a team of Energy Advisors available to help them make the best decision for their home and budget.

"I was really glad to find that there was somebody who could help me wade through this," she said.  

That somebody was Energy Advisor Maria Kiley. Unlike door-to-door salespeople, EnergySage’s advisors don’t work for any installation company. Instead, they’re unbiased, clean energy experts dedicated to helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions.

"What I loved about Maria—she was knowledgeable, there was nothing salesy, I never felt under pressure, and I really did feel that she had my best interests at heart," Sue said. 

This transparency was crucial for Sue, who had grown wary of the sales-heavy approach she'd encountered elsewhere in the industry.

"The homeowners I talk with often aren't looking to be sold on solar,” Maria explained. “I meet with many well-researched individuals, like Sue, who have already decided they want a PV system. They typically aren't looking for canned marketing answers. Instead, they hope to have an honest conversation about costs and expectations, with the main goal of finding the best company for the job."

Choosing quality over price

When it came to selecting an installer, Sue had clear priorities: She wanted someone with a good reputation who wouldn't disappear mid-project, and she preferred a smaller, local company over the big national players.

“What I found really helpful was when I filled out the survey on EnergySage, I received eight or nine different bids,” Sue explained. “And it was broken down in a way that I could easily compare, and that was probably one of the most useful tools in the process.”

Sue ultimately chose Great Sky Solar as her installer, and the decision went beyond just price.

"They were actually a little bit more money than some of the other ones, but one of the reasons was they employ their own staff," Sue explained. "I learned that a lot of the big companies just hire people sort of on a day rate, and they come and go. And so I liked that."

What sealed the deal was her initial conversation with a Great Sky representative.

"He was really a believer in renewable energy, and that's what we talked about. There was no big sales pitch, and he really seemed like he cared about what he was doing," she said.

Great Sky installed a 10.1kW solar panel system on Sue’s home:

• System size: 10.1 kW

• Panels: Qcells DUO BLK ML-G10+ 405 Q.PEAK 

• Inverter: Enphase Energy IQ8PLUS-72-2-US

Smooth installation with immediate benefits

The installation process exceeded Sue's expectations. Great Sky's team handled the two-day installation professionally.

"They were polite, they were nice, they were clean. You wouldn't know that they were here, and they really seemed to know what they were doing," Sue said. "There was a manager on site who gave me a whole intro to what they were doing and answered all my questions."

Great Sky also handled all the complicated paperwork, coordinating with her utility,Eversource, for interconnection and managing city permitting requirements.

"I would get emails and answer a few questions, fill out a form, and then just magically, it all happened," Sue recalled.

Solar savings made simple

While Sue wasn't primarily motivated by financial savings, the numbers worked out better than expected. The combination of rising electricity costs and falling solar prices created an attractive payback period.

"Great Sky calculated a five or six-year payback, but it was a lot less expensive than I thought it was going to be, and a lot less than bids I had received for the Cape house several years earlier," she said. 

Sue was able to claim the federal solar tax credit without any complications, saving her an additional $10,000 on her upfront costs: 

“Filing for the solar credit of $10,000 was really easy,” she explained.  “I used TurboTax, and there was a place to enter the cost of the system. When it calculated my taxes, the $10k credit was applied!”

Go solar now so you can take advantage of the solar tax credit

The psychological benefits have been just as valuable as the financial ones.

"Once you make the [financial] outlay, it is just really nice not to mostly be thinking about electric bills, not to be making that calculation when you're cold in the house—should I turn on the heat or should I not? Should I turn on the air conditioner?" Sue explained. 

“In my case, the size of my roof limited the number of panels that could be installed, so I knew going in that I would likely have some electricity charges during the winter months,” she said. “That did happen, but for the rest of the year, I pay nothing and build up credits that are applied against the winter charges.”

A testament to working with professionals

Sue's experience highlights the value of working with a trusted advisor in a complex market. Her advice to friends considering solar is straightforward:

"I would definitely tell a friend to call EnergySage," she said. "Like all new industries, there are still a lot of players out there that just don't seem really dedicated and on the up and up. Having somebody help you through the process was just incredible."

Now, as Sue enjoys her reduced electric bills and the peace of mind that comes with clean energy, she's become an advocate for solar in her community.

"I'm looking forward to being able to talk to friends and neighbors about solar, because I think it's a great thing," she said. "Now I drive around and think, why don't these people have solar panels on every piece of construction?"

For Sue, the combination of EnergySage's guidance and Great Sky Solar's expertise turned a potentially frustrating process into a smooth transition to clean energy—proving that with the right support, going solar can be both economically smart and environmentally responsible.

“Today, our operation is powered by our solar panels,” says Grey Sail Brewing founder and owner Jennifer Brinton, a big smile on her face.

Jennifer and her husband, Alan, founded Grey Sail Brewing, where they produce beer and malt beverages. They also manufacture spirits and canned cocktails.

Owning a brewery in Westerly, Rhode Island, has allowed them to play an active role in their community. So, when they began their solar journey in early 2023, they saw it as an opportunity to give back.

“At Grey Sail, we’re a small family business,” Jennifer says. “And we knew from the start that we wanted to be a strong community member and advocate for the town of Westerly. Solar panels are a way of contributing environmentally to the community.”

Project spotlight

A business mindset

Shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, Jennifer, Alan, and their business partner, Chris Campagnari, began considering solar. They were looking for ways to save money, become more consumer-friendly, and stand out in the increasingly competitive brewing industry.

During the pandemic, many breweries—including Grey Sail—faced CO₂ shortages due to commercial rationing, significantly impacting production. In response, Grey Sail installed a CO₂ capture system.

“The CO₂  capture system is an environmentally better system since it captures our CO₂  that comes off of fermentation and reuses it,” Jennifer explains. “It also provided cost savings since it reduced our need for commercial CO₂ .”

Grey Sail’s carbon capture system sparked an interest in other ways the brewery could make an impact—and save money at the same time. 

“We were already in this business-strategic mindset,” says Jennifer. “Solar was the next step.”

Finding a trusted solar partner with EnergySage

Choosing a reputable solar installer was a critical part of Jennifer’s process. As a business owner, she knew she didn’t have the time or resources to manage a large project. So when Chris introduced her to EnergySage, she was intrigued—but skeptical. 

“Chris is a brilliant ideas guy,” Jennifer says. “He brought us to EnergySage and said, ‘They handle everything!’”

EnergySage does this for homeowners and business owners. When businesses consider solar, the first step is a consultation to assess whether and how solar can meet their goals. From there, EnergySage connects businesses with vetted, qualified local installers who provide tailored quotes.

“I was looking for the process,” Jennifer says. “Cost was certainly a factor, but it was really a matter of did they give me confidence in their process? Were they really going to take care of everything?”

Her concerns were quickly put to rest when EnergySage introduced her to John Fitzgerald Weaver from Commercial Solar Guy. 

"John gave me the sense that I could really trust him,” Jennifer says. “And now, looking back, I can honestly say that gut feeling I had when I first met him was spot on. He really did handle everything. I never even went to town hall for a permit.”

The solar installation process

Grey Sail Brewing’s solar installation was completed in December 2023, which was an important factor to Jennifer:

“We were racing the end-of-year tax clock,” she explains. “A big part of solar is the tax credits. And I wanted to have something fully installed in the year you make the expense so you can get the benefits of the tax break. Our installer was instrumental in this and worked very hard to that end.” 

Grey Sail Brewing installed a 52kW solar panel system:

• Size of system: 52kW

• Solar panels: Q Peak Cells G9.3 440W

• Module count: 120 modules

What surprised Jennifer most was how attentive the Commercial Solar team was. 

“As with anything in manufacturing, especially when dealing with electrical and mechanical systems, you’re going to run into bumps in the road,” she explains. “But the team handled every bump in the road and they handled it quickly. John was even instrumental in selecting different parts of the supply chain that were important to me.”

Serving the community

Now that their system has been up and running for a full year, Jennifer has seen both financial and community benefits.

“It’s great to be able to share that we had this very positive experience in the process. –As well, we’re seeing the benefits on our electric bill,” she says. “We’re seeing the benefits of about an 18-20% drop in our usage, which translates to a greater amount in cost. It really helped augment the savings that we are seeing from solar.”

To this day, Jennifer still gets customers and businesses coming in and asking her about the solar panels.

“My advice to other businesses is: explore,” she says. “Have the conversation and learn—like I did—that the solar installation can be a simple process for the business owner. And the benefits can outweigh the cost. Some things are going to come up, but if you choose the right supplier or the right vendor, like we did with Commercial Solar Guys, they're going to take care of it.” 

Subhajit Bhattacherjee has gone solar before. It was 2011 when he saw an ad on Facebook that prompted him to switch. “I knew nothing about solar other than the fact that it sounded like a good idea,” he admitted. With its abundant sunshine, living in Arizona made the decision feel relatively safe. 

At first, Subhajit was happy with his solar panel system. But like many early solar companies, his installer eventually went out of business. Another company took over his lease, and the problems started.

The issues persisted even after moving to a different house and passing the solar lease to the new homeowner. “The new company ended up being a really bad steward,” Subhajit reflected. Despite no longer holding the lease, he continued to be charged for the system. It wasn’t until he personally went to the bank that the payments finally stopped.

Over a decade later, with a clearer understanding of what not to do, Subhajit was ready to explore his solar options again. This time, he wouldn’t be an easy sell.

“Based on my past experience, trust was hard to come by. EnergySage helped me develop trust in the vendors.”

Project Spotlight

Regaining trust in the industry

As a Tesla EV owner, Subhajit started his solar journey there. However, he was disappointed by the lack of technical expertise from the company’s representatives and found himself back to square one. A quick Google search led him to EnergySage.

EnergySage’s comprehensive resources, online marketplace, and impartial Energy Advisors empower homeowners like Subhajit to explore their options confidently, shop for sustainable energy solutions, and easily evaluate installation offers.

After providing some basic information about his property on EnergySage, Subhajit quickly connected with his personal Energy Advisor. Unlike solar salespeople, EnergySage Energy Advisors work solely for the customer. These energy experts, available free of charge, help answer questions, clarify rebates and incentives, and offer tailored assistance. Whether through multiple phone calls or simple email exchanges, Energy Advisors adapt to each customer's needs.

For Subhajit, a video call with his advisor proved to be the most helpful:

“If EnergySage, and specifically my Energy Advisor, weren’t available, this process would not have been very fast.  I think it would’ve taken me at least two to four times the amount of time that it took to find the right vendor.”

Making informed decisions on his own terms

Confident in EnergySage’s vetting process, Subhajit received six quotes from local solar installers. With the help of his Energy Advisor and EnergySage’s side-by-side comparisons, he narrowed his options down to three. He ultimately selected Solar TOPPS to install his 24.3-kilowatt system in October 2023.

• System size: 24.3 kW

• Solar panels: REC Group 410 watt

• Inverter: Enphase IQ8A

What won Subhajit over was Solar TOPPS’ willingness to push back when they believed his requests weren't in his best interest. Their expertise and professional discernment showcased their trustworthiness. Still, Subhajit credits EnergySage for enabling him to trust his installer.

“Would I have trusted that vendor without EnergySage? No. EnergySage helped me place my trust in the vendors.”

For homeowners like Subhajit, a resource like EnergySage empowers them to take control of their energy future, ensuring that solar is not just a leap of faith but a well-researched decision that pays off in more ways than one.

Second time’s the charm

Subhajit’s sophomore solar system now provides him with monthly savings ranging from $120 to $600, along with the added benefit of a reduced carbon footprint. "Thanks to EnergySage, I was an informed buyer this time around," he said, reflecting on the lessons learned from his first solar experience.

With the support of EnergySage, he could compare options, avoid pitfalls, and ultimately secure a system that aligned with his needs and values. Now, his solar journey represents financial savings, peace of mind, and confidence in his decision.

Paul Levine watches from his front yard as Great Sky Solar, his solar installer, raises the first set of panels for his new system. He is ecstatic; his solar journey has been a long and overwhelming process, but it’s finally approaching the finish line. 

“We’ve been thinking a lot about the social good and environmental impact, and for us, it was less about the money and more about ‘what’s the right thing to do?’” Paul said. “Since we needed to replace the roof, we felt it was the right time to consider solar panels.” 

And so they did.

Project spotlight

Embarking on a solar adventure

Paul’s "solar adventure” – as he calls it – began a year ago. It was put on hold when he realized that he would have to replace his roof before switching to a solar panel system. 

“I went to EnergySage and put in my address and a tiny bit of information, and within a couple of days, I had a zillion quotes from a lot of different installers, which would have been great – except I realized they had to replace the roof first before I could do anything,” he said. “I spent a long time dancing with roofers.”

Fast forward six months, and Paul was ready to re-engage with EnergySage. This time, Paul utilized the expertise of EnergySage’s Energy Advisors. These in-house experts provide unbiased information to EnergySage customers and are dedicated to helping them at any stage of their solar journey, especially when it comes to choosing the right installer.

“The first time, I didn't speak with anyone. I just entered my information on the website,” Paul said. “The second time I was connected with my Energy Advisor, Maria Kiley, and she was great.” 

Maria helped Paul sort through the initial list of installers, along with a few installers that neighbors had recommended.

“With a long term investment, like solar, I recommend comparing at least two options whenever possible to help confirm that the company you sign with best matches your preferences and goals,” Maria explained. “I’m really glad Paul decided to sign up for quotes on EnergySage and book a call to discuss his options further because he ended up finding a competitive solar offer through an outstanding local installer.”

In the end, Paul selected Great Sky Solar as his solar installer:

"I said, ‘Holy moly, Great Sky Solar! They just did an installation for an organization I’m on the board of, and they’re highly recommended,’” Paul recalled. “Maria put me directly in contact with Great Sky, and the process has been flawless since then.”

Working with great installers

Every homeowner is different when it comes to defining the best solar panel system for their needs. Paul, for example, was focused on finding a system that was durable and could capture the most sun, considering his roof’s unique shape.

“I looked at the list of proposals I got from some of the installers. Everything was great, except so much of it seems like it was based on price without clarity,” he explained. 

Great Sky Solar stood out from the other proposals because of their transparency. They even explained that his neighbors' trees and the angle of his roof might prohibit 100% utilization of his solar panels. 

"Some people want 100% utilization. Great Sky explained I might not achieve that, but I told them I’d be happy either way,” he said. “I’m just trying to do the best I can with what I’ve got.”

Darren Chan, the Manager of Residential Sales at Great Sky Solar, explained that their job involves combining each customer’s specific needs with their long-standing expertise in the industry as an objective educational resource.

“It's really about taking our time and listening to the customer,” Darren explained. “At the end of the day, the only thing that customers should be evaluating is the installer themselves and whether or not they have the customers' best interests in mind. Everything else is secondary. The system size, equipment, and aesthetics should always be up to the customer."

"It's our job to advise accordingly and be the experts in the industry in terms of knowing what's reliable and qualitatively the best for each customer's unique needs", Darren continued. "The industry has access to all the data needed to know roof details and accurate production numbers but displaying that information in a transparent way is what makes responsible installers like us stand out.”  

Paul selected a 13.8kW solar panel system:

• Size of system: 13.8kW

• Solar panels: Qcells DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400 Q.PEAK 400 watt 

• Inverter: Enphase IQ8+ micro inverters

Looking forward to a sustainable future

Paul’s new solar panel system is the latest addition to his year-long home electrification project. In fact, he purchased a heat pump system just last year:

"We had two gas-fired furnaces from 1989 when the house was built, and they were nearing the end of their practical life,” he said. “Rather than replace them with gas — which, by the way, would have been the least expensive option — we agreed it was time to make both a social and ecological investment. So we ended up with two heat pump systems.”

Today, Paul feels peace of mind knowing that his home is environmentally friendly. “It was not about the money. It was about cutting back our natural gas consumption. And now, with the solar panels, I’m looking forward to using less grid electricity.”

Hosting a block party usually involves grilling, lawn games, and in Wayne and Cherie Jenkins’s case, showing off their new solar panels and reduced electric bills.

The Jenkins family took a bold step as the first in their neighborhood to go solar. After years of being held back by their HOA, they wasted no time once they finally got the green light. Fed up with ever-increasing electricity bills, they craved more energy independence, and solar power was their ticket to just that.

“Since we moved here, our utility has increased rates twice,” Wayne shared. “But because we have solar [now], we’re protected from that for the most part.”

But their solar journey was filled with a few obstacles on a tight deadline.

Project Spotlight

Avoiding the sales fluff

As a retired engineer and self-proclaimed “spreadsheet guy,” Wayne Jenkins wasn’t interested in flashy sales pitches. He wanted the facts. EnergySage helped him bypass the noise and get straight to the heart of the matter. “We just ignored the quotes we weren’t interested in,” Wayne recalled. “I never had to deal with those companies or hear their sales pitches. I just dealt with the three companies I chose.”

The EnergySage Marketplace provided the Jenkins with comprehensive resources and access to unbiased experts, empowering them to confidently explore their options. The platform made it easy for them to evaluate offers from various installers and select the best fit for their needs.

After entering basic property details into EnergySage, Wayne and Cherie connected with their personal Energy Advisor, Nicole Turley. “She was very upfront and helpful, explaining what everything meant,” Wayne said. “She made the process simple.”

Unlike typical solar salespeople, EnergySage Energy Advisors work solely for the customer. Available for free, these experts answer questions, clarify rebates and incentives, and provide tailored guidance. Whether through a series of calls or a quick email exchange, Energy Advisors adjust to each customer’s preferences. For the Jenkins, a single video call with Nicole was all they needed to feel confident moving forward.

“Wayne and I walked through different figures based on each quote,” Nicole explained. “By the end of the call, we were confident that Renu was the best quote for him.”

Installing solar on a tight timeline

Wayne and Cherie weren’t just avoiding solar sales tactics out of preference — they were on a deadline. As retirees, the Jenkins wanted to maximize the federal solar tax credit, which required having an operational system by the end of 2023. Already late in the third quarter of the year, the Jenkins made it clear to all prospective installers: They wouldn’t entertain anyone who couldn’t have the system up and running before Christmas.

Some companies hesitated, but Renu Energy Solutions stepped up and guaranteed they could meet the deadline. 

And they delivered.

Not only did Renu fulfill their promise, but they were also well ahead of schedule. The Jenkins’s 6.9-kilowatt system went live on November 4, 2023 — nearly two months before the deadline.

• Size of system: 6.9 kW

• Solar panels: Qcells 405 W

• Inverter: Enphase IQ8 microinverters

“I would tell any of my neighbors to use EnergySage. It made the process so easy for me.” 

Empowering the neighborhood

The Jenkins’s solar panels produce more than enough electricity to cover their household needs, resulting in average monthly savings of $204. Even during the sweltering South Carolina summer, when their AC ran full blast, their electric bill was almost nonexistent. In July, they paid just $3 in energy costs and a mere $10 in August.

Most of their bill now comes from utility service fees.

Wayne’s experience has made him the neighborhood expert. Whether it’s showing curious neighbors his system or sharing his latest energy bill, his experience carries weight. In fact, all it took for his next-door neighbor to sign with the same installer as the Jenkins was Wayne’s seal of approval.

"It really paid off [for my neighbors] during the recent storm," Wayne explained. "They have a battery back on their system so they weren't without power because they could use the batteries until bedtime and they recharged during the day."

With South Carolinians facing rising energy costs, there’s a good chance solar panels will continue to pop up in the Jenkins's neighborhood. For the Jenkins, who have already made the switch, their energy costs have been practically eliminated. Now, they’re looking forward to years of continued savings — and a smaller carbon footprint to boot.

Allen Dean isn’t easily impressed. He’s thorough and analytical, he asks smart questions, and he sees right through sales gimmicks. So, it’s unsurprising that the first solar salesman who knocked on Allen’s door in 2023 left empty-handed.  

The exchange, however, got Allen thinking about solar again. He dusted off the quotes and pamphlets he collected in 2015 when he first considered installing solar panels and started researching current offerings. What he found was a congested market that made it hard to know where to start, let alone how to sift fact from fiction. 

“The amount of information you need to know to go solar is overwhelming,” Allen said. “Having something that put things into categories that made sense to me was really helpful.”

Solar energy is complicated. It’s a confusing space, an expensive purchase, and plenty of bad players are looking to take advantage of the situation. It’s easy to go in circles without guidance. Making an educated decision requires not only understanding the technology and how it interacts with your utility and your home, but also local regulations and incentive programs. 

Knowledge is power, and Allen found that in EnergySage.

Project spotlight

Cutting through the clutter

EnergySage’s informative content, online marketplace, and unbiased Energy Advisors make it easy for homeowners like Allen to learn more about their options, confidently shop for clean energy solutions, and compare installation offers.  

Allen answered a few questions about his property on EnergySage and was connected with his personal Energy Advisor, Maria Kiley. Unlike the solar company salesman who came to Allen’s house, EnergySage Energy Advisors work solely on behalf of the customer. They’re energy experts available (for free) to answer questions, provide context around rebates and other incentives, and offer personalized assistance, whether it’s through multiple phone calls or by simply responding to questions via email. 

Maria helped Allen review potential solar installers based on their warranties and company reputations.  

“Maria and I discussed how long each installer had been around and what kind of warranty they had,” Allen said. “Can I reasonably expect that they’ll be around in five years? What happens when something goes wrong? Because this is not something that I’m going to be able to fix myself.”

"I talk to a lot of smart homeowners, like Allen, who are simply looking for straightforward, honest answers to their questions,” Maria said. “It makes sense — like any long-term investment, I would want to assess the potential risks and ‘what ifs?’ before making a commitment."

Comparing apples-to-apples

Empowered with a solid understanding of the solar landscape, Allen collected several quotes both from EnergySage and through his own outreach. He was able to make apples-to-apples comparisons between the quotes using EnergySage’s comparison shopping tools.

Ultimately, Allen hired Great Sky Solar to install an 11.2-kilowatt solar panel system on his home:

• System size: 11.2 kW

• Solar panels: Qcells DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400 Q.PEAK 400 watt

• Inverter: Enphase IQ8+ microinverters

Allen’s decision to go solar resulted in an average annual savings of $3,500, fully covering his annual energy needs. As Maria wisely noted, in Massachusetts, it’s key not to overproduce—since you won’t be able to reclaim those extra credits.

Stewart Lanier walks through his garden, phone in hand, looking at his solar energy monitoring app, Enphase. It’s another 85° day in Worcester, which means his central air conditioning will be running all day. Still, Stewart can rest easy knowing his newly installed solar panels will cover 75% of the electricity cost.

Stewart’s solar journey started in 2021 when he signed up for a community solar project. Not satisfied with the program, he knew he wanted a solar energy solution that offered better savings. 

“Solar farms can be confusing in understanding how it’s actually working for you,” he explained. “You’re paying for when you’re producing electricity and not when you’re using it.” 

At the time, a tree was (literally) blocking his chances of switching to solar. But fast forward to the spring of 2024; the same tree had become a potential hazard, and was finally being removed. 

“There was a very tall tree next to our house, which prevented us from qualifying for solar panels at the time,” he said. “But when we decided it was time to take the tree down to prevent it from falling into our neighbor's property–we qualified!”

With all potential obstructions out of the way, Stewart was finally able to resume his mission to go solar.

Project spotlight

Navigating the Wild West

“I was inspired to switch to solar because of environmental concerns,” Stewart explained. “I was watching its economics in recent years and even in recent months, and it was starting to make sense. It just looked like it was becoming more affordable to go solar.”

Deciding to invest in solar was the easy part. Finding a reliable installer was tricky: 

“The solar panel industry seems a bit like the Wild West,” Stewart said. “In a neighborhood like this, we probably had five different people come and knock on our door over two years. And because I was starting to get interested, I got a proposal for one of them, and it was clear that these folks were really good with sales. I wasn't confident that they would be good at delivering.”

Instead, Stewart decided to do his own research, and landed on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ website, where he discovered EnergySage. 

“Mass.gov had a link to EnergySage, and when I looked it over, I saw that they weren’t working on commission. It was clear EnergySage wouldn’t be a part of a sales bid,” Stewart said. 

Stewart signed up with EnergySage and connected with Energy Advisor Peter House. Unlike the door-to-door salespeople, EnergySage Energy Advisors don't work for installation companies. Rather, they serve as trusted experts whom consumers can rely on for unbiased information. 

“My energy advisor, Peter House, was really good,” Stewart said. “Once we had five bids inside the portal, I met with him, and he coached me on what to look for. Peter was very neutral. He wasn’t steering me towards anybody. He was really there to help me make my decision.” 

“Stewart was great to work with,” Peter said. “Throughout our meetings, I could tell he was doing his homework and learning as much as he could about how solar could work for him. He asked all the right questions and was thorough. I enjoyed working with Stewart and helping him move forward with the installer that was the best fit for his project.”

Stewart received five quotes from vetted installers on the EnergySage Marketplace platform.

“Another thing I really appreciated was that EnergySage had standard criteria for who could be in the [installer] program and who could submit bids. So I was pretty confident that the folks I was looking at had the basic credibility,” he added. 

Selecting a scalable solar solution

Stewart ultimately chose Viridis Energy, one of New England’s top solar companies.

“I was looking at what amount of electricity folks were proposing, and I think some were lowballing to be price competitive,” Stewart explained. “But I was specifically interested in having more capacity than we’re currently using, so I would feel more comfortable adding on electric usage in the future.”

Ultimately, Stewart hired Viridis to install a 5.53 kW solar panel system on his home:

• System size: 5.53 kW

• Panels: Qcells Q.TRON BLK M-G2+ 425W

• Inverter: Enphase IQ8+ micro inverters

“The conversation starts with what the customer wants,” Jereme Erlandson from Viridis said. “Stewart said he wanted to produce around 130% and we were able to use his available [roof] space.”

Staying relaxed one kWh at a time

Since switching to solar energy, one of the most significant changes in Stewart’s day-to-day life is the newfound sense of relief when using everyday necessities. 

“I look at my Enphase app about 12 times a day to see how much electricity I’m using and how much of it is being covered by the solar panels,” he explained. “It’s making me more relaxed about how much we use our central air conditioning.”

“It’s having the confidence in this very competitive–and in some cases sleazy– market that folks are vetting solar installers. It just raises the confidence level. Since switching to solar panels, we feel responsible, and it has changed and improved our energy usage habits.”

Kathy Wexler went solar on a time crunch. Although she had been thinking about it for a while, the impending deadline to lock in more favorable rates under California’s net metering regulations meant she had to install solar quickly. But, unfamiliar with the solar landscape and unsettled by information overload, Kathy needed to know she wasn’t being taken advantage of.

project spotlight

Navigating the solar rush

Kathy didn’t know much about solar technology, but she knew that not every company had pure intentions. Unfortunately, California’s impending net metering policy (NEM 3.0) created ripe opportunities for scammers and bad players to take advantage of hasty solar shoppers. Kathy’s biggest fear was falling victim to one of them.

“The regulatory change meant it had to happen quickly—more quickly than I would’ve liked," Kathy explains. "I had been besieged by door-to-door salespeople, and it was really hard to be confident in the information they gave me.”

Various salespeople had provided Kathy with different offerings, making it difficult to evaluate the proposals on an apples-to-apples basis. She found her way to EnergySage through online research, and, for the first time as a consumer on her solar journey, felt genuinely helped.

“Net metering is very confusing, but EnergySage was very helpful. I was so impressed with how well-organized the information was. I could really compare my options. They’re up on the latest and the greatest with regulations.”

Getting answers

Kathy perused EnergySage and was immediately comforted by its consumer-first approach. She quickly connected with her own personal Energy Advisor to answer her questions and review the six quotes she received without a company bias. 

“There was some conflict among the different bids, and I was about to shell out a large amount of money. I didn’t want to be one of those people who find out they trusted the wrong company after the fact. It was almost like my advisor, Jessica, was my therapist!” 

EnergySage Energy Advisors don't work for installation companies, rather they serve as trusted experts consumers can rely on for unbiased information. They answer questions, provide context, explain proposals, and assist customers in whatever way needed.

In this case, Jessica Rayberg helped empower Kathy over the course of  multiple phone calls and follow-up emails to make an informed decision she was comfortable with:

“I hear so many consumers talk about how they are hesitant to move forward with solar because they've heard horror stories about it going wrong,” says Jessica. “With our help, and our awesome installer partner, Kathy was able to get a system that will produce what she needs for decades to come."

With Jessica's help, Kathy confidently signed a contract with a reputable installer in time to lock in NEM 2.0 rates, boosting the value of her solar investment by thousands of dollars:

• Size of system: 5.2 kW

• Solar panels: 400 watt

• Inverter: SolarEdge Home Wave inverter

“I’m very afraid of being taken advantage of. My Energy Advisor was extremely knowledgeable. I really felt confident when I finally signed a contract with my installer."

Empowered by renewable energy generated on her own property, Kathy is ready to make her next move: buying an electric vehicle.

“I feel good when I walk around my neighborhood and see the solar panels on everyone’s roof—including mine. I’m part of a community effort.”

After noticing his electricity bill was 40% higher than just a year earlier, Edward decided it was time to switch to solar power. But he proceeded with caution. 

Like many others, Edward found the solar process complicated. He researched, found a local installer, and even signed a contract, but became skeptical when they failed to answer his questions meaningfully. 

Edward wanted to be sure that what he was buying into wasn’t a farce: “The first company I initially signed a contract with talked to me about this mystical thing called SRECs. For the life of me, I just couldn’t get my head around it.”

Aware of the risks associated with solar scams, Edward canceled that contract. “It just sounded too good to be true. They couldn’t explain it to me in a way that made any sense.”

Back at square one, he eventually found his way to EnergySage.

Project spotlight

Working with EnergySage

Through EnergySage’s library of online content, Edward finally started to better understand the solar process. He read thorough yet digestible articles about SRECs, the different types of solar warranties, and solar equipment. From there, he turned to another free EnergySage resource: a personal Energy Advisor who could answer his remaining questions.

Unlike solar company sales representatives, EnergySage, Energy Advisors work first and foremost for the consumer; and after his challenging experience with his first installer, Edward wasn’t settling for half-answered questions filled with industry jargon that didn’t make sense to him.

It wasn’t until he connected with his Energy Advisor, Maria Kiley, that he finally felt at ease in his solar journey. Maria used her energy expertise to educate and empower Edward throughout his solar journey.

"Maria reached out to me and for the first time, I began to understand how to go about the process in an intelligent way."

"Before Ed found EnergySage, he was prompted to sign a contract without being informed about the different financing options and local and federal incentives,” Maria said. “Together, over a series of video and phone calls, we discussed these topics until Ed and his wife felt confident in choosing the proposal that best fit their needs."

Maria built a detailed spreadsheet that “showed every imaginable thing one could ask,” as Edward put it. “She made a complicated process seem so easy and comprehensible for me.”

Edward received five quotes from the EnergySage Marketplace. Together, they compared the prices, reputations, timelines, and equipment options of each quote to ultimately find Edward an installer he could trust. In the end, Revolution Solar offered the transparency and reliability he had been looking for all along.

"EnergySage does due diligence on these companies," Ed adds. "It made me feel a lot more comfortable."

A successful transition

Finally equipped with confidence, Edward installed a 9.12-kilowatt solar panel system in 2023.

“Revolution Solar has been terrific, and Maria had something to do with that," he said.

Edward’s decision to go solar resulted in average monthly savings of $200, regular SREC payments, and a clean energy conscience. 

“My experience with EnergySage has been amazing. I couldn’t be more pleased.”