Vertical Solar Panels are Changing the Game in Snowy Locales

 Installing solar panels flush against rooftops has long been the standard practice. This horizontal approach maximizes sun exposure in regions with consistent sunlight. 

However, in areas that endure snowy winters, this setup has one big weakness. Snow regularly accumulates on flat or angled panels, tanking energy production and creating a maintenance burden for homeowners. 

So what’s the solution? More and more installers are finding that vertical installations hit the sweet spot.

Over Easy Solar

Vertical PVs Defy Low Expectations for Winter Solar

According to PV Magazine, vertical panels perform significantly better under snow-covered conditions. They shed snow efficiently, often avoiding any buildup at all, ensuring that the panels remain exposed to sunlight. 

In fact, their angle is optimal for catching snow-scattered rays.

A study published by the U.S. Department of Energy's Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) notes that vertical systems capture more sunlight reflected off the snow-covered ground, reflection known as the "albedo effect." Vertical bifacial solar panels, which absorb sunlight on both sides, double that captured energy. This makes vertical panels particularly valuable where snow cover persists for extended periods.

Vertical installations also protect against snow load-induced stress, which can damage conventional rooftop systems – especially when homeowners can’t clear the snow quickly. 

A New Opportunity for Contractors

For solar contractors, offering vertical panels can be the ticket to multiplying sales. Many homeowners in wintry climates feel that they can’t take advantage of solar, believing that panels would be perpetually covered in snow. So they’re left with two scenarios: minimal energy production, or the constant chore of snow clearing. 

With vertical installations, contractors can address these concerns head-on and unlock a previously untapped market. In fact, the Over Easy Solar blog points out that vertical panels not only improve energy efficiency but also minimize roof penetrations, reducing the likelihood of leaks or structural damage. And their presence actually helps speed up the natural thawing process, making snow disappear off rooftops faster. These added benefits are major selling points for cautious homeowners.

Finally, vertical panels open up possibilities for residents whose rooftops aren’t so suitable for installations. Ground or fence-based systems are highly effective and often preferable.

Keep Sales Coming with Exclusive Solar Leads

Contractors looking to maximize their outreach and conversion rates should also consider new strategies for lead generation. Partnering with a reputable lead generation service like Grid Freedom can help contractors connect with homeowners who are legitimate prospects, ready for solar now. Grid Freedom only delivers pre-screened appointments to ensure that contractors spend their time with serious buyers, increasing the likelihood of landing successful installations.

The best way to get solar leads in snowy regions is to target homeowners who are frustrated with high winter energy bills and skeptical about traditional rooftop systems. By offering vertical solar solutions and leveraging Grid Freedom’s services, cold-climate contractors can see much more success in their markets.

Get Quality Solar Leads at GridFreedom.com 

Senator Heinrich’s Re-election Signals Positive Growth for New Mexico Solar

 

New Mexico’s solar industry is celebrating a big win after this election. Senator Martin Heinrich has retained his senate seat, which is great news for the state’s renewables outlook. Known as one of the Senate’s strongest clean energy advocates, Heinrich can help the state weather some major challenges on the horizon—especially as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to introduce new tariffs and roll back renewable energy incentives.

A Proven Solar Advocate 

Senator Heinrich has spent years fighting for policies that promote clean energy in New Mexico. From his support for extending the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) to his advocacy for large-scale renewable projects (like the $8 billion transmission line enabling New Mexico to export clean energy), Heinrich has built a reputation as one of Southwest’s biggest renewable energy champions.

He’s also helped secure tax incentives that have driven a boom in solar and wind deployment, supported the clean energy workforce, and pushed for funding to advance solar research at New Mexico’s national laboratories. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) praised his leadership, highlighting his role in strengthening the American solar market, and expressing optimism over his re-election.

These efforts have helped New Mexico become a leader in renewable energy, with the state now generating over 30% of its electricity from solar and wind. Heinrich’s re-election means his work in promoting clean energy will continue—good news for an industry that will need strong state-level support in the years to come.

Trump’s Tariffs: A New Challenge for Solar

Despite the positive news from Heinrich’s win, the solar industry at large is bracing for tough times ahead. President-elect Trump has announced plans to implement a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, which will directly affect the cost of solar panels and other equipment sourced from China. These tariffs could drive up prices for solar projects across the country, including New Mexico, where the cost of installing solar is already higher than the national average.

Coupled with Trump’s expected rollbacks of renewable energy incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), these tariffs could put significant pressure on solar companies.

For solar contractors, Heinrich’s leadership and policies can help maintain momentum in the face of these federal headwinds. His track record of protecting clean energy incentives and promoting state-level solutions can help offset some of the negative impacts of federal cuts that may be coming. New Mexico solar businesses will need his support to navigate these challenges and keep growing in a changing market.

Opportunities for Solar Contractors in New Mexico

Solar installers should feel optimistic about what Heinrich’s re-election means for their businesses. His continued advocacy for clean energy incentives will likely create new opportunities for solar projects in New Mexico, especially as the state doubles down on its renewable energy goals.

But in a tough policy landscape, contractors must also be more proactive about finding the right customers. That’s where Grid Freedom comes in. 

By providing qualified solar appointments, Grid Freedom helps contractors connect with serious, ready-to-buy customers, reducing the time and cost of lead generation. Their guaranteed solar appointments ensure contractors can focus on installations and growth instead of chasing down dead-end prospects. Maximizing efficiency and securing real, sale-prepped solar appointment leads will be more important than ever for contractors looking to stay competitive.

Grid Freedom can help contractors adapt to the evolving market conditions and maximize opportunities created by state policies. Our agency will deliver a reliable supply of high-quality solar appointments, allowing contractors to position themselves for success in 2025 and beyond. 

Get Guaranteed Solar Appointments at GridFreedom.com

It Just Got Easier for States to Launch Solar Battery Distribution Incentives

As more states aim to ramp up their energy storage capabilities, Solar United Neighbors (SUN) has unveiled an initiative that could simplify the expansion of solar battery distribution programs nationwide.

With growing interest in transitioning from pilot projects to large-scale distributed power plant (DPP) programs, SUN’s latest

move offers local governments a tool to kickstart legislative action, aiming to make solar batteries widely accessible through incentives. By drafting model legislation for state governments to use, SUN is transforming the way local governments can pursue energy distribution and grid management.

Giving the Boost Needed to Move Beyond Pilot Programs

Currently, solar battery distribution programs in many states exist in a fragmented, pilot-project phase. Often, these are very

limited in scope and lack the structured frameworks necessary for expansion. Large-scale rollouts of distributed battery

incentives are therefore a big leap. 

SUN aims to address these challenges directly by offering model language and an organized framework that local

governments can adopt and adapt. The non-profit has provided states with a legislative template to help them draft the bills necessary to bring solar battery incentives to a broader range of residents.

Additionally, they’ve drafted a model approach for states to advance distributed power plants (DPPs)—aggregations of behind-the-meter distributed energy resources

(DERs) like solar batteries—into standard, regulated programs that utilities can operate. 

The model policy and approach were made to tear down obstacles that have historically slowed down DPP adoption, such as inconsistent regulatory policies

and the need for standardized operating practices across jurisdictions. These templates provide the necessary blueprint for

utilities to operate DPPs within existing energy systems, enabling DERs to contribute to peak load reduction, grid resiliency,

and other essential services in coordination with local utilities.

As each state will face unique regulatory conditions and energy needs, SUN’s model legislation is designed to be flexible.

Local governments can adjust details to reflect their specific energy goals and policy structures, allowing similar programs to be implemented across diverse regulatory landscapes. States will be able to design DPP programs that integrate smoothly with local energy policies, grid structures, and community energy needs.

Building a Foundation for Widespread Solar Battery Incentives

Traditionally, crafting effective legislation requires extensive research, resources, and regulatory navigation—challenges

that have often left state legislators struggling to put forward comprehensive bills. SUN’s model policy simplifies the task by outlining definitions, program requirements, and eligibility criteria that state officials can use to draft bills with little extra research.

The policy establishes clear parameters around essential components, such as:

• Grid Events and Grid Services: These define when batteries are used to support grid operations, from frequency regulation to peak load shaving, ensuring the DERs provide energy precisely when the grid needs it most.

• Compensation Models: By providing examples of performance payment structures, the model ensures that compensation for battery owners is transparent and consistent, with no hidden disincentives for participation.

• Low-Income Customer Incentives: Acknowledging the need for equitable access, the model includes provisions for higher upfront payments for low- and moderate-income (LMI) customers, as well as those in environmental justice communities.

With these provisions, SUN’s model legislation empowers states to structure solar battery incentive programs around

transparent compensation and performance metrics, making it easier for DERs to participate effectively within the grid. 

Moreover, the framework empowers third-party aggregators to help streamline customer enrollment, enabling a seamless

process for those looking to join. By standardizing the participation process, the model also aims to encourage private investments, reducing utility reliance on fossil fuel-powered peaker plants during high-demand periods and ultimately lowering costs for all ratepayers.

Grid Freedom: Solar Lead Generators Help Contractors

Succeed Despite Policy Barriers

While SUN is working to make pro-solar battery incentives accessible across the country, many states are still a long way from

rolling out supportive policies. For solar installation contractors, this means operating in what is often a challenging environment. 

However, that doesn’t mean contractors are left to fend for themselves. Grid Freedom provides essential support by delivering

high-quality, pre-qualified solar leads, helping contractors grow their businesses and reach interested homeowners,

regardless of current policy limitations.

In a market where many states still lack robust solar programs, connecting with ready-to-buy customers becomes essential.

Grid Freedom pre-screens and delivers exclusive solar company leads, giving contractors an edge by ensuring they’re

engaging with homeowners who are prepared to move forward. 

As more states adopt policies based on SUN’s model legislation, the demand for solar battery installations is bound to grow.

In the meantime, contractors can stay competitive with the steady pipeline of opportunities that Grid Freedom offers.

This partnership will lay the groundwork for a thriving business when more solar-friendly policies arrive.

Start Sourcing from America’s Best Solar Leads Company: GridFreedom.com 

Guaranteed Solar Appointments Can Help Contractors Lagging Behind Fall Targets

 

As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, solar installers face an urgent challenge: closing enough sales before

winter's unpredictable weather and holiday distractions bring projects to a standstill. 

Fall is a critical season for the solar industry, a time when businesses must push hard to meet targets that ensure financial stability. Unfortunately, as the weeks pass, many find themselves staring at numbers that are dangerously off-track. 

But contractors don’t have to accept the cycle of stress and scrambling to secure leads. With the right partnership, hitting fall sales goals can become a certainty.

The Fall Crunch: Why Contractors Feel the Pressure

When autumn takes hold, contractors know that they’re racing against two forces: winter weather’s arrival will get in the way

of installations, and the demands of the holidays will soon take priority for most households. 

This leaves little room for failure. Missing out on fall sales opportunities can lead to a lean winter, with fewer projects in the pipeline and the inevitable delays caused by inclement weather. It's a high-stakes period—one where falling short can leave one struggling to cover costs in the slower months ahead.

All the worse is the fact that competition gets even fiercer. As the pool of potential customers begins to shrink over the season, contractors are fighting harder against each other for the last sales on the table. Traditional marketing efforts can often fail to generate enough solar appointment leads fast enough to fill the calendar. 

Sourcing Guaranteed Solar Appointments Creates a Lifeline

One of the most effective strategies for contractors looking to close the gap is sourcing pre-scheduled solar appointments

that have been protected from competitors. 

Unlike cold calling or self-sourced leads, which can be unpredictable and time-consuming, guaranteed and exclusive solar appointments provide a direct connection to homeowners who are already interested in going solar. These leads have been pre-screened, and verified, and are ready to take the next step.

Reliability is the key here. Contractors don’t have to waste valuable time chasing down unqualified prospects, or those who are in talks with other installers. Instead, they can focus on one-on-one connections with customers who are ready to take the leap now. 

Grid Freedom is the Ideal Partner

When it comes to securing appointments that give contractors the highest chance of closing a sale, Grid Freedom stands out

as the industry’s top source. Each appointment is carefully screened to ensure that the homeowner is not only interested in

solar but also pre-qualified for installation. Once secured, that lead is never shared with other contractors.

Grid Freedom’s model takes the guesswork out of lead generation. Partnering contractors don’t have to worry about where their next appointment is coming from, or whether the leads they’ve sourced are legitimate. With Grid Freedom’s competition-free appointments, contractors can trust that they’re given high-quality prospects who are primed to close in time for fall’s end.

Get Qualified Solar Appointments in Your Area: Visit GridFreedom.com 

Solar Reforms Failed in Massachusetts - What Now?

At the beginning of this summer, the outlook for Massachusetts solar energy reforms looked bright. Earlier in July, the state’s House of Representatives passed Bill H.4876, “An Act accelerating a responsible, innovative and equitable clean energy transition”.

 The landmark bill aimed to propel the state's renewable energy sector into the future, with particular emphasis on expanding solar power and storage. However, the momentum that had been building came to a screeching halt when it failed to pass the final hurdle in the state legislature.

 H.4876’s collapse has left many in the solar industry reeling. All signs pointed to victory, and the market was eagerly anticipating more accessible and affordable solar in its future. But with the bill’s sudden death, those reforms are now off the table.

What Could Have Been

The bill would have drastically reformed the state's approach to solar energy, bringing about a new era in which clean energy deployment was a top priority for the state.

One of the bill's key components was the creation of an Office of Environmental Justice and Equity within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. This office would have been tasked with developing guidelines for energy infrastructure that balanced the needs of local communities with the state's ambitious renewable energy goals.

Additionally, H.4876 proposed significant changes to the way clean energy projects (such as solar installations) are sited and permitted. Establishing a facility siting division within the Department of Public Utilities was meant to streamline the process.

H.4876 also aimed to spur solar deployment by introducing new standards for small clean energy generation facilities. This included uniform public health and environmental standards that local governments would have to adopt when issuing permits for solar projects. By reducing the bureaucratic hurdles and providing clear guidelines, the bill was expected to accelerate the growth of Massachusetts’ solar industry.

Why Didn't the MA Legislature Pass H.4876?

Despite initial optimism, the bill met formidable resistance at the final stage, involving a mix of political maneuvering, lobbying by powerful interest groups, and internal disagreements among lawmakers.

One of the primary reasons for the bill's demise was the strong opposition from utility companies and other vested interests. These groups argued that the bill's provisions would impose unnecessary costs and burdens on the energy sector, potentially leading to higher electricity prices for consumers. They also raised concerns about the bill's impact on existing energy infrastructure, particularly the potential for the new regulations to disrupt ongoing projects and investments.

Moreover, political divisions within the state legislature played a significant role. While many supported the bill's goals, there was considerable disagreement over the specifics of the proposed reforms. Some lawmakers were concerned about the bill's impact on their constituents, particularly those in rural areas who might be disproportionately affected by the new siting and permitting regulations. Others were wary of the bill's ambitious timeline, fearing that it might be too aggressive and could lead to unintended consequences.

In a guest op-ed, Chris Marchi of Air Inc. expressed frustration with the legislature's decision, stating that "...Massachusetts’ legislature has decided yet again to prioritize profits and political posturing over the wellbeing of residents." Marchi's sentiments echo the disappointment felt by many in the solar industry who had hoped that H.4876 would pave the way for a cleaner, more equitable energy future.

Consequences for MA’s Solar Industry

The failure of H.4876 has significant implications for both solar customers and contractors in Massachusetts. Without the reforms proposed in the bill, the state's solar industry is looking at a continuation of the conditions that have long hampered solar uptake: lengthy and complex permitting processes, inconsistent local regulations, and uncertainty around future policy changes. These obstacles will continue to slow the growth of the solar market in Massachusetts, reducing the incentives to invest in solar.

Customers are looking at higher costs and longer wait times for solar installations, and contractors will still need to wrestle with a patchwork of local regulations, making it difficult to plan and execute projects efficiently.

What's Next for Solar Reform in MA?

Despite the setback, there are still hopes for solar reform in Massachusetts. Many advocates are already discussing the possibility of reintroducing the bill in a future legislative session, with some modifications to address the concerns that led to its failure. However, this will require a concerted effort by renewable energy advocates, lawmakers, and other stakeholders to build consensus and overcome the opposition that derailed H.4876.

In the meantime, the solar industry in Massachusetts will need to adapt to the current regulatory landscape and continue pushing for incremental changes. This may involve working with local governments to streamline permitting processes, advocating for more consistent state-level regulations, and continuing to educate consumers about the benefits of solar energy.

For contractors contending with low customer numbers, a partnership with an agency that provides guaranteed solar appointments can provide significant relief. This is where Grid Freedom can make a difference.

Grid Freedom Delivers Confirmed and Qualified Solar Appointments Throughout Massachusetts

By providing high-quality, pre-set solar appointments with serious buyers, Grid Freedom helps MA contractors continue growing despite the state’s policy setbacks.

With Grid Freedom's services, contractors can find and book solar appointment leads with ease, actively countering the negative effects of the current permitting and regulation landscape.

All leads are supplied on an exclusive basis, meaning competition isn’t a factor. Contractors get to enjoy the ease of working with fully prepped leads, eliminating much of the initial generation and nurturing work. Grid Freedom’s lead delivery allows contractors to skip the right to consultations with homeowners who are ready for solar.

Connect with MA’s Best Solar Customers at GridFreedom.com

Midwest Flooding Brings Widespread Outages - Solar’s Role in the Era of Extreme Weather

 

Recent bouts of extreme rainfall have unleashed disastrous flooding across the Midwest, extending from Minnesota to

Nebraska and beyond. The severe weather has wrought havoc on communities, resulting in widespread power outages that

left thousands in the dark. 

This season of storms has sparked urgent discussions about the need for stronger power grid infrastructure - and that includes the increasing importance of individual homes having their own source of power behind the meter. Independence from utility companies is becoming a matter of safety, and midwestern contractors are likely to see many new solar leads driven by this motive. 

One Extreme Spring

In June, Minnesota experienced record-breaking flooding. The deluge resulted in the partial failure of the Rapidan Dam,

causing extensive damage to nearby areas and leading to significant power outages. More than 10,000 homes in northern

Minnesota lost electricity. Some residents endured days without power as crews battled against conditions to restore services.

Iowa also faced severe weather, including tornadoes that compounded the damage caused by flooding. The state’s governor, Kim Reynolds, declared a disaster recovery effort, noting the widespread destruction in both urban and rural areas. Thousands of Iowans were left without power, and utility companies were struggling to keep up with the repair demands.

This weather was so widespread it reached all the way down south in Texas, bringing similar chaos. East Texas was particularly hard hit: over 15,000 homes went unplugged in prolonged power outages. Residents faced not only floodwaters but also extreme heat, making many of those in blackout zones doubly exposed to danger. Now, in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, Texas is again suffering an even more severe situation.

Better Power Solutions Are Needed

As power failures caused further hardships in these catastrophe areas, the people of the central U.S. have again voiced the

need for a stronger power grid. Traditional grid infrastructure is often outdated and ill-prepared for the severity of weather

patterns under climate change, making blackouts an increasingly common occurrence. This reality has intensified calls for a

grid that includes more distributed energy resources.

Solar power, particularly residential solar systems, can be a big part of the solution. Homeowners equipped with solar panels and battery storage systems can maintain power during grid outages, mitigating the impact of extreme weather events and ensuring local disaster resources aren’t overly strained. 

These recent storms have driven more residents to consider solar installations. After making it through extended outages, many are recognizing how having an independent power source can keep them safer through threatening conditions. For those who are having to repair or rebuild their homes, solar installations are becoming a must-have upgrade. 

Finding High-Quality Solar Leads Amid the Spike in Interest

As the Midwest grapples with the storm aftermath, solar contractors can expect an influx of residents seeking dependable

energy solutions. However, navigating this surge will require a careful approach. Without a strategy in place, contractors can

easily lose too much time to prospects who aren’t yet ready to commit.

Top solar lead companies like Grid Freedom can step in as crucial partners here, offering a streamlined process to connect with already qualified leads. Our service provides confirmed appointments with homeowners who have undergone a full screening process, ensuring that contractors meet only with those who are informed and prepared for solar adoption. This efficiency is key in the current circumstances, where many homeowners are exploring solar options but aren’t actually in a position to install them. 

Find Exclusive Solar Leads in the Midwest at GridFreedom.com 

CPUC Okays More Fees: Will This Push CA’s Utility Bills Even Higher?

 

On May 9th, 2024,  the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) announced its approval of new flat rate charges for electricity consumers. As part of an effort to overhaul the state’s electricity pricing structure, the decision introduces income-based fixed charges for residential customers while simultaneously adjusting usage rates. 

As Californians grapple with already high living costs, these changes are yet again raising questions about affordability, equity, and the impact on the state's solar market. Below, we discuss what went into the CPUC’s decision, and how it’s expected to impact solar uptake. We also take a look at how the right solar lead provider can help contractors endure demand fluctuations in the wake of CPUC policy revisions. 

New Flat Rate Charges Coming to Utility Bills

The CPUC's decision to implement fixed charges dramatically changes how electricity costs are calculated. Under the new plan, residential customers will pay a flat fee alongside traditional usage-based rates. 

Although the state’s top utilities proposed charges ranging from $49 to $74, the CPUC decided the following:

• The flat rate will be $24.15 per month, with low-income customers eligible for discounted flat rates of $6 or $12.

• Electricity usage rates will now be 5-7 cents lower. 

The Solar Industry is Wary of CPUC's Motivations

The CPUC justifies these changes as a necessary step towards a more equitable and sustainable energy system. According to them, the flat rate charges are intended to ensure that all customers contribute fairly to the maintenance of the electric grid, regardless of their energy consumption. 

Additionally, by lowering usage rates, the CPUC hopes to incentivize customers to adopt energy-efficient practices and technologies, including rooftop solar installations and accompanying storage systems. This dual approach aims to stabilize utility revenue.

These claims have been met with skepticism. The memory of the CPUC’s NEM 3.0 cuts still looms large. Critics argue that the new fixed charges will disproportionately impact low- and middle-income families, potentially discouraging the adoption of rooftop solar and other electrification measures. Many feel that this is yet another case of CPUC working in the economic interest of IOUs. 

Stephanie Doyle, California state affairs director for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), voiced these concerns, stating:

 

“While the final charges are lower than what investor-owned utilities wanted, these are still new costs coming out of the pockets of California families that are already struggling with the high cost of living in the state. Any future changes to the fixed charges must thoroughly consider the impact of rooftop solar and storage adoption and electrification measures that are critical to meeting the state’s climate goals. It’s clear that there are better ways to reduce California’s extremely high utility rates and encourage electrification, and SEIA will continue to push for those policies going forward.” 

What’s the Fallout for Households and Solar?

California’s solar sector has already had a tough enough year thanks to NEM 3.0 and other anti-solar decisions by the CPUC. So the ripple effects of this new change have become a source of added anxiety. 

The introduction of flat rate charges is expected to have a mixed impact on California’s electricity consumers. Those in higher income brackets will feel the pinch of the new charges the least. Conversely, lower-income households will likely experience even more of a burden due to rising energy bills. 

For the solar industry, the implications are equally complex. The CPUC asserts that the new charges will promote the adoption of solar energy by making it more affordable to invest in rooftop installations. Lower usage rates could make solar-generated electricity more attractive, potentially offsetting the fixed charges. Obviously, in the face of inflated utility bills, solar becomes especially enticing. But with added financial burden and reduced net metering compensation, some customers may feel as though they still can’t afford solar. 

Solar Lead Generators Keep Sales Moving Forward

By connecting contractors with homeowners who have already qualified as top solar prospects, solar lead generation companies like Grid Freedom ensure that contractors can find the customers they need, no matter what’s going on in the market. 

Contractors can get a steady stream of pre-scheduled solar leads, relieving the worry of when they’ll find their next sale. Grid Freedom delivers confirmed appointments with prospects who have demonstrated clear intent to install solar ASAP. 

Find California’s Most Prepared Solar Buyers at www.GridFreedom.com