Dubuque Business Leads the Way for Solar Energy Across Iowa, Illinois, & Wisconsin
Eagle Point Solar, a leading solar energy provider based in Dubuque, is making waves across the Tri-States. Recognized on the 2024 Top Solar Contractors List by Solar Power World, the company ranks 162nd nationally and 184th in the Solar + Storage Installers category. This recognition highlights Eagle Point Solar's role in bringing clean energy solutions to homes and businesses in the region.
The Solar Advantage & Why It Works in the Midwest
Since starting in 2010, Eagle Point Solar has been dedicated to installing top-quality solar and solar + storage systems. They have already put in place 74.655 megawatts (MW) of solar power, with 9.955.82 MW added just last year. The company employs over 100 people, all working to bring renewable energy to more communities.
For those of you wondering, a megawatt (MW) is a unit of power used to measure the capacity of electricity generation. To make it easier to understand:
- 1 megawatt = 1,000 kilowatts
- 1 kilowatt = 1,000 watts
Think of it this way: a typical household light bulb uses about 60 watts. So, a megawatt is the equivalent of 1,000,000 watts, or about 16,667 light bulbs all turned on at once! In terms of energy use, a megawatt can power about 1,000 average U.S. homes for an hour. So, when we say Eagle Point Solar has installed 74.655 megawatts, we're talking about a huge amount of power, enough to potentially power tens of thousands of homes!
Jim Pullen, the company's President and CEO, is passionate about dispelling myths about solar energy, like the idea that it doesn’t work well in places with cloudy weather or snow. Pullen explains that solar systems can still generate energy on cloudy days because they capture ultraviolet light, not just direct sunlight.
Additionally, while snow cover can be an issue, as ice and snow melts it cleans the solar panels, just like rain does naturally. Additionally, since solar panels absorb energy from the sun’s abundant light, not its heat; a sunny day is just that to a solar panel, whether it is in the scorching summer or the frigid winter. In fact, extreme heat can actually be worse for solar panels, so our milder to cooler temperatures are perfect.
Eagle Point Solar takes a personalized approach to solar installations. They start by reviewing the last 12 months of a potential customer's energy bills to understand their energy use and costs. This information, along with the customer's specific goals, helps the company design a solar system that fits perfectly, whether for a home, business, or farm. They provide a preliminary report with cost estimates and installation options, followed by a detailed site assessment to finalize the project.
Pullen also addresses the financial side of going solar, emphasizing the long-term savings compared to traditional energy sources. He encourages people to think about how much they spend on electricity over 25 to 30 years and how much they could save with a one-time investment in solar panels, which can greatly reduce or eliminate monthly energy bills.
Check Out Our Full Interview with Eagle Point Solar CEO Jim Pullen
Challenges and Growth: Navigating the Solar Landscape
Eagle Point Solar has faced some challenges in expanding its services, including legal battles over financing methods like the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This model allows schools and municipalities to install solar systems without paying upfront, instead spreading the cost over time. Despite some pushback from local utilities, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled in favor of Eagle Point Solar, allowing them to continue offering PPA agreements. They are currently working through similar issues in Wisconsin.
Why Go Solar in the Midwest? The Benefits and Incentives
The benefits of solar energy are extensive. Not only does it help save money, but it also reduces our reliance on fossil fuels, which can be expensive and harmful to the environment. Solar panels can also increase the value of your property, with studies showing that homes with solar systems sell faster and for higher prices.
For those in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, there are several incentives to make going solar more affordable. These include a 30% federal tax credit on solar installations and USDA grants under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which can cover up to 50% of project costs for eligible rural businesses and farms.
Making Solar Accessible and Understandable in the Tri-States
Eagle Point Solar is dedicated to educating the public about the benefits of solar energy. They offer a free solar analysis on their website and emphasize that there’s no obligation during the consultation process. Pullen encourages everyone to explore their options and consider the benefits of choosing renewable energy.
As Eagle Point Solar continues to expand its reach, the company is playing a key role in the adoption of solar energy across Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. With a focus on providing tailored solutions, navigating industry challenges, and promoting the many benefits of solar power, Eagle Point Solar is helping businesses and residents make a positive impact on their energy costs and the environment.
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