Key takeaways

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Over the past few years, there have been some big changes in the renewable energy sector due to mergers and acquisitions. One that really caught attention was when Sunpro Solar and ADT joined forces. Back on November 9th, 2021, ADT made an announcement that took everyone by surprise – they were planning to acquire Sunpro Solar and create a whole new venture known as ADT Solar.

Prepare to dive into the captivating history of Sunpro Solar, uncovering its milestones and the reasons behind its popularity among homeowners. Our exploration doesn't stop there – we'll also give you an overview of ADT's current offerings and how they benefit customers.

A Flashback: Origins and Rise of Sunpro Solar

Sunpro Solar: A Glimpse into its Founding and Growth

Established in 2008, Sunpro Solar quickly left its imprint on the photovoltaic (PV) industry. Its growth was remarkable, leading it to rank among the top residential companies in the United States. The success of Sunpro Solar was built on a strong dedication to renewable energy and a flawless service track record.

Impact of Sunpro Solar

Covering 21 states, primarily in the southern and midwestern regions, Sunpro Solar had become a familiar choice for those in search of sustainable energy options. Their remarkable achievement of over 30,000 successful PV installations spoke volumes about their knowledge in the field and the confidence they had earned from their customers.

For a comprehensive SunPower solar panel review, customers praise its high efficiency, durability, and impressive warranty, making it a top choice for solar installations.

Sunpro Solar Business Model and Distinct Offerings

Sunpro Solar went beyond simply dealing with photovoltaic panels; their approach was all-encompassing. Through ventures like Buildpro and Energypro, they provided a range of services including roofing, energy audits, and PV installation. Their standout feature was their holistic home energy solutions, which not only involved setting up Sunpro Solar systems but also prioritized energy efficiency.

Sunpro Solar Ecosystem

Sunpro Solar constructed a vast and interlinked ecosystem. Through features like free Energypro home energy assessments and efficiency upgrades including LED lights, smart thermostats, and more, Sunpro Solar established a comprehensive energy solution. Their strategy encompassed not solely harnessing solar energy, but also fine-tuning its effective use.

ADT’s Bold Move: The Acquisition of Sunpro Solar

In 2021, the solar industry was taken by surprise when ADT announced its acquisition of Sunpro Solar. ADT, a prominent US provider of security, automation, and smart home solutions, made this move to merge its extensive expertise in home security with the robust infrastructure of Sunpro Solar. The outcome was the birth of ADT Solar, not just as a new brand, but as a big player in the nationwide market.

Building on ADT's well-established history in home security and its ties with major players like Google, the goal was to craft a more unified home experience by blending photovoltaic tech provided by Sunpro Solar with smart home features. At that point, ADT boasted a customer count close to 4 million within their service scope. Notably, more than 25% of these customers were actively considering rooftop panels for their homes. This considerable interest presented a golden chance for Sunpro Solar to grow naturally and also branch out to fresh territories.

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ADT Solar Unpacked: From Sunpro Origins to Modern Mastery

Solar Services: What's on Offer?

In the footsteps of Sunpro Solar, ADT offers a range of services designed to cater to the energy requirements of modern homeowners. Their main services include:

PV Panel Installation: ADT employs advanced technology and installation techniques to ensure optimal positioning of each panel. This approach maximizes sunlight capture and efficient conversion into usable power.

Battery Installation: Homeowners concerned about power outages can find peace of mind with ADT's battery backup solutions. With two options available, residents can maintain a consistent power supply even during extended periods of darkness.

Roofing Services through Buildpro: If you're considering a new roof, Buildpro, a roofing company founded by the same owner as Sunpro Solar, offers a convenient solution. This service allows homeowners to simultaneously install both a new roof and PV panels, streamlining the process and ensuring seamless integration between the two systems.

It's worth noting that currently, ADT does not provide EV charging station services for those specifically seeking this option.

Solar Panel Choices

Selecting the right PV panel might seem daunting, given the abundance of choices out there. ADT simplifies this process by presenting panels from three top manufacturers:

  • Qcells: These panels are renowned for their quality and endurance, boasting an impressive efficiency rate of up to 20.9%.
  • Silfab: Silfab panels are reliable and energy-efficient, with a peak efficiency of 21.4%.
  • Canadian Solar: Standing out in the residential PV panel category, Canadian Solar panels achieve an impressive efficiency of up to 22.8%, comparable to market leaders like SunPower.

When it comes to energy storage solutions, ADT Solar offers two primary battery options:

  • Tesla Powerwall: A name synonymous with innovation, the Tesla Powerwall is a preferred choice for many installers. With a capacity to provide 13.5 kilowatt-hours of energy and a commitment to maintaining 70% capacity over a decade, it's a popular and reliable choice. Homeowners can also add more units as needed, enhancing its flexibility.
  • Enphase's IQ Batteries: Available in two sizes, these batteries cater to varying energy needs. The smaller IQ Battery 3 and the larger IQ Battery 10 allow homeowners to choose the right storage capacity for their homes. Similar to the Powerwall, extra units can be added as required.

To boost energy output, ADT Solar incorporates Enphase microinverters into their installations, which operate with an efficiency rate of over 97%. These inverters not only provide individual panel monitoring but also optimize energy production, ensuring homeowners get the most out of their investment.

In a world moving towards sustainable energy solutions, ADT stands out in the residential solar sector with its comprehensive offerings. With an impressive range of products and services, homeowners looking to transition to PV energy can rely on ADT as a trusted partner.

Solar Installation Process

A PV system's performance is deeply linked to how it's installed. Following in the footsteps of Sunpro Solar, ADT prides itself on an installation approach that's both thorough and user-friendly. This process guarantees that homeowners don't feel overwhelmed or left in the dark.

  • Step 1 - Assessment: ADT starts the solar journey with a comprehensive assessment. Their team of experts visits your home, examining key factors like roof angle, design, and shading. This careful evaluation ensures that only homes suitable for PV installations move forward. For example, houses with overly shaded or steep roofs might not be the best fit.
  • Step 2 - Installation: Once the initial assessments give the green light, the real work begins. ADT Solar creates a custom system design tailored to your home. But they go beyond design. They also handle the sometimes complicated task of obtaining permits from local authorities and utility companies. After sorting out the paperwork, they coordinate with you to select an installation date. On that day, a skilled solar electrician arrives to transform your home with a cutting-edge solar power system.
  • Step 3 - Activation: With the system set up, the final steps are activation and getting ready to harness solar energy. But before you start generating power, there's one last task. ADT Solar communicates with your utility provider to ensure a seamless final inspection. Once you get the green light with the Permission to Operate (PTO), it's time to flip the switch. ADT keeps you informed throughout the process, so you'll be the first to know when your system is ready to power up your home.

Warranty Highlights

Embracing solar energy is a significant step, and homeowners rightfully seek reassurance. ADT Solar, like Sun pro before it, understands this concern and goes the extra mile by offering strong warranty options that often exceed industry norms.

While many companies provide warranties spanning 10, 20, or 25 years, ADT Solar takes it up a notch with an impressive 25-year warranty that covers both performance and equipment guarantees.

Here's a quick breakdown of ADT's warranty commitments:

Labor Guarantee: ADT stands behind its workmanship for a solid 25 years, ensuring that any labor-related issues are promptly addressed.

Power Production Guarantee: ADT Solar commits to the energy output of its systems. If your system falls short, the company pledges to provide compensation for the energy difference.

Panel Performance Guarantee: Over 25 years, ADT's guarantee covers any unexpected problems with the PV panels, offering homeowners peace of mind.

Microinverters Guarantee: Recognizing the importance of microinverters, ADT Solar extends a 25-year guarantee that covers potential issues with the system's Enphase microinverters.

Financing Options

When you're considering tapping into solar energy for your home, ADT Solar gives you three financing alternatives tailored to your requirements. Each choice carries its own array of benefits and factors to weigh.

Full Purchase: If you're financially capable, going for a full upfront purchase of your system has substantial advantages. Right from the beginning, you'll assume ownership of the system. Furthermore, you become eligible for the federal solar tax credit, a substantial perk that considerably reduces your total expenses. Plus, you'll be exempt from contending with interest fees connected to loans.

Solar Loan: ADT extends the option of a solar loan, making the sun’s power more attainable for homeowners who might not be equipped to cover the entire upfront expense. The monthly payments are consistent and hinge on your credit score. This financing route still secures system ownership for you, alongside access to solar incentives. Nevertheless, it's crucial to acknowledge that the interest rates linked to the loan could translate into higher overall expenses for the system in the long run.

Solar Lease: For those seeking an alternative to owning the system outright, ADT presents a lease possibility. With this selection, you'll make regular monthly payments to the solar company for the system. It's important to note, though, that you won't possess the system under this arrangement and you won't be able to avail of most incentives.

The Takeaway on Sunpro Solar Legacy and ADT’s Future

Sunpro Solar found its own corner of expertise with comprehensive energy solutions, crafting a legacy that earned the trust and admiration of homeowners. As ADT takes up this mantle, it not only respects this Sunpro Solar foundation but also sets its sights on new frontiers. With precise installations, an extensive range of services, and unbeatable warranty choices, ADT is gearing up to redefine solar solutions for the modern homeowner.

Key takeaways

Posted 
Sep 6, 2023
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