Resources
Please contact us to discuss your solar plans and we’ll be happy to provide you with more information. Until then, here are some basic resources to get you started or explore Frequently Asked Questions about solar systems and installation.
Midwest Renewable Energy Association
Solar and wind education, Energy Fair, and Solar Tour
Dane Buy Local
Locally owned business directory
National Association of the Remodeling Industry
Construction trade association
Green Masters Program
Recognizing sustainable actions by Wisconsin businesses
RENEW Wisconsin
Advocacy for renewable energy
American Solar Energy Society
National solar advocacy and Solar Tour
Energy Star Program
Efficiency and conservation resource by the U.S. Department of Energy
Focus on Energy
Wisconsin energy project implementation program
Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy
Federal 30% tax credit and state level policy, regulations, and incentive information
How Solar Technology Has Improved Over the Last 10 Years
/in Frontpage Article, News /by Ron ChesterOver the past decade, solar technology has seen incredible advancements, making it more efficient, affordable, and accessible than ever before. What was once considered a niche option for environmentally conscious homeowners is now one of the fastest-growing sources of renewable energy worldwide.
Greater Efficiency
Ten years ago, solar panels typically converted around 15% of sunlight into usable energy. Today, many panels regularly achieve efficiencies of 20–23%, with cutting-edge models reaching even higher. This means modern systems generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight, reducing the number of panels needed for a home or business.
Lower Costs
The price of solar has dropped dramatically—by more than 60% since 2010. Improvements in manufacturing, supply chains, and installation methods have made solar power far more affordable for everyday homeowners and businesses, putting renewable energy within reach for millions more people.
Smarter Systems
Advances in solar inverters, monitoring software, and battery storage have made systems smarter and more reliable. Homeowners can now track real-time energy production, store excess power for later use, and even pair solar with electric vehicles or heat pumps for a cleaner lifestyle.
Improved Durability and Design
Solar panels are now built to last longer, with warranties often spanning 25 years or more. Modern designs are sleeker and more attractive, blending into rooftops more seamlessly than the bulky panels of the past.
The Bottom Line
In just 10 years, solar has evolved from a promising technology into a mainstream energy solution. With ongoing innovation, the next decade promises even greater efficiency, smarter integration, and a brighter, cleaner energy future for everyone.
How Roof Pitch Impacts your Solar Energy Production
/in Frontpage Article, News /by Ron ChesterRoof pitch—the steepness of your roof—can make a surprising difference in how much solar power your panels produce. In general, the best pitch for solar panels is close to your home’s latitude, which helps them capture the most sunlight year-round. A shallow pitch (low slope) might work well in sunny regions with high sun angles, while a steeper pitch can be more effective in areas with lower sun angles or more seasonal changes.
South-facing roofs typically produce the most energy, but east- and west-facing installations can still be highly effective.
When evaluating your home for solar, installers consider pitch, direction, and shading together. Even if your roof isn’t “ideal,” careful design can optimize energy production and make solar a smart investment.
The Evolution of Residential Solar: From Niche to Mainstream
/in Frontpage Article, News /by Ron ChesterNot long ago, solar panels were a rare sight—reserved for off-grid cabins or the homes of early tech enthusiasts. Today, they’ve become a common feature in neighborhoods across the country, delivering clean power and big savings to millions of homeowners.
1. The Early Days: Expensive and Limited
In the 1970s and 80s, residential solar technology was expensive, bulky, and far less efficient. Systems were mostly used for water heating or small-scale electricity generation. High costs and limited availability kept them out of reach for most homeowners.
2. The 2000s: Incentives and Innovation
As solar technology improved, efficiency rates climbed and manufacturing costs dropped. Government incentives and rebates helped drive adoption, making solar financially realistic for more households. This period also saw the rise of net metering, allowing homeowners to sell excess power back to the grid.
3. Today: Smart, Affordable, and Stylish
Modern solar panels are sleek, efficient, and designed to integrate seamlessly with homes. Pair them with battery storage, and homeowners can store power for use at night or during outages. Financing options and zero-down installations have made solar accessible to nearly everyone.
4. The Future: Energy Independence
With continued advances, residential solar is moving toward complete energy independence—combining solar, storage, and smart home tech to create self-powered homes.
Bottom line: Residential solar has transformed from a niche technology to a mainstream solution that saves money, increases home value, and helps fight climate change. The journey is just getting started.