News and Notes
Community First
Community First At StraightUp we live by our CLEARE values: Community First Lead the Solar Tribe Educate the Solar Lesson Advocate Always Respect Others & The Environment Excellence in All We Do From St. Louis to Africa – Creating a Sustainable World We recently confirmed our vision statement: “To inspire a solar tribe to create a sustainable world.” We had the conversation that while “world” can sound somewhat vague and trite, the world is indeed the community that we’re interacting with and advocating for. ...
read moreWhat About Batteries for a Solar Electric System?
The short answer is that battery storage is possible. However, if you’re already connected to the grid, it’s likely not your best option. Most of our customers in the St. Louis region are already connected to the grid. That means that you’re eligible for net-metering of a grid-tied solar array. This allows for a 1-to-1 credit (your meter spins backwards), during a billing cycle, when your solar array produces more than your home or business is using at that point. In this case, many customers like the fact that the grid is...
read moreSolar 101
Does energy coming from the sun seem fantastical to you? If you are new to the concept the Department of Energy has put out an easily understand explanation for how solar works. Take a look to learn more.
read moreStraightUp Featured in Solar Builder
StraightUp Solar has been featured in Solar Builder Magazine for our pioneering efforts. We were the first installer to offer AC modules. This technology uses built in micro-inverters to take the pain out of DC power conversion. StraightUp is always seeking new ways to innovate and simplify the solar process so that we can build better relationships with our customers. As you may know, solar panels produce power with a direct current but our homes use an alternating current. This arrangement is generally safer and more efficient for the...
read moreSolarAid
New in 2013: For every installation StraightUp completes, we donate a solar light for Africa via Solar-Aid.org. Only 14% of people in rural sub-Saharan Africa have access to electricity. Solar Aid works to power homes, schools and health clinics with clean and affordable light from the sun. Solar lights increase a family’s income by 20%, cut carbon emissions, and improve education and health. StraightUp Solar is proud to support Solar Aid’s efforts to eradicate kerosene lamps from Africa by 2020. Beyond donating a...
read moreStraightUp Values
On January 11, the entire StraightUp team hopped off the roof for a day to review and refine our shared values, mission, and vision. We discussed what’s always been at the core of why we exist: empowering the communities we are a part of to create a sustainable future. Each team member contributed to the dialogue. The retreat focused upon how to continue to uphold our commitment to training, certification, and customer service as our team expands. We look forward to a wonderful 2013 as we live and share our “CLEARE”...
read moreMehlville Schools Featured on FOX
StraightUp Solar has completed installing solar panels on the roof of five schools in the Mehlville school district. The Mehlville School Board approved a 20-year lease agreement for the five arrays. This means that StraightUp installs and maintains the systems, but Mehlville benefits from lower energy bills. Without any out-of-pocket expenses, Mehlville begins saving money on their electric bill immediately. “By realizing an estimated $130,000 in energy savings over the next 20 years, we’re not only being good stewards of our...
read moreDefend our Renewable Portfolio Standard
A coalition of conservative state legislators is trying to reverse decades of progress for solar. The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) seeks to tear down state renewable energy mandates across the country. This should be a rallying cry for solar.Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) require utilities to incorporate a fraction of clean energy, like solar, into the mix. These standards help encourage innovation in the marketplace, spur economic development, and generate thousands of green jobs. They have enormous value and they must...
read moreOct 2012 – First St. Louis County SAVES Project
This month, StraightUp Solar completed the first solar project of the St. Louis County SAVES loan program! St. Louis County SAVES is a low interest loan program for energy efficiency and solar projects. Loans range from $2,500-$15,000. Rates are 3.5% and have flexible payment schedules up to 10 years. Steven B., a resident of Shrewsbury, financed this 4.3 kW system with only a small down payment. The system will save Steven more than $25,000 on his electric bills even after he pays it off. For more information on the low-interest loan...
read moreRefer a Friend Program
Spread the word about solar & get cash back. The more you refer, the more money you can earn! StraightUp Solar clients receive $200 for each referral that installs a solar array. Your friend also receives $200. It’s easy: Provide your friend’s contact information below and we’ll reach out and help them understand if solar is right for them. Click here to learn how to talk to your friends about the benefits of solar. ...
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