As the threat of natural disasters increases and utility companies' power production and distribution methods become less stable and reliable, forward-thinking power consumers are turning to solar & storage and distributed generation to secure their energy future.

For decades, energy-conscious consumers have been placing solar panel arrays on top of their roofs in order to embrace renewable energy, power their homes or buildings, and save money on utility bills. This has been the status quo for so long that when most people think of solar energy, they picture a rooftop-mounted PV panel. But as solar technology benefits from continued research and innovation in materials and manufacturing practices, the paradigm is shifting.

The Internet of Things refers to leveraging interconnected devices to create a network that can communicate, gather data, and adjust operations through a centralized controller. This fast-growing technology sector spans from smart lighting and small appliances to entire HVAC systems, electric vehicle charging, and even irrigation, pool, or spa equipment.

We’ve recently announced a new strategy to ensure our clients achieve the utmost return on their solar investment. Everything Solar includes a suite of services and product offerings that our team at Solar Design Studio offers to help you curate the solar experience that is perfect for you. Our focus on comprehensive solar technology solutions such as the Smart Home and Internet of Things (IOT) connectivity helps make them more accessible and understandable to solar consumers.

There are a number of complex strategies or initiatives in the solar space that are pushed by product manufacturers. They make broad promises about energy efficiency, security, and achieving a better life through solar technology. But are they flexible enough to address the needs of individual consumers and their properties?

We recently shared a project that we’ve been involved in to add rooftop solar to a revitalized building in Kansas City’s historic Northeast neighborhood. This project has been an exciting challenge as we partnered with multiple local organizations to achieve a breakthrough - solar energy for low-income tenants. Not only will the finished building provide affordable housing for tenants, but their energy needs will also be completely fulfilled through a rooftop solar installation.