Business Details
8 Years
experience
Trusted Solar Energy Solutions Provider
GRNE Solar has been at the forefront of clean energy solutions since its inception in 2018, building on the legacy of its parent company Nelnet, which has served communities for over 45 years. We specialize in financing, developing, deploying, and managing solar energy projects tailored to commercial, industrial, and residential clients. Our expertise spans engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) for solar systems, complemented by innovative financing solutions through tax equity co-investment platforms. With a vertically integrated approach, we handle projects from origination to asset management, ensuring seamless execution and long-term value.Our team has completed over 200 solar projects nationwide, generating 41 GWh annually and investing $571 million in sustainable infrastructure. We prioritize five-star customer service, evidenced by our 1,500+ residential installations since 2012 and partnerships with CleanTech innovators. Headquartered in Illinois, we operate across 13 states, driven by a vision to power the next generations sustainability goals while delivering financial returns for investors.
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Commercial Solar Solutions
EPC Services
Tax Equity Financing
Net Zero Academy
Battery Backup Systems
EV Charging Stations
Venture Capital Investment
Asset Management
CleanTech Innovation
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of combined industry experience through Nelnets legacy.
- Our vertically integrated model handles projects from financing to asset management.
- Weve invested $571 million in 200+ solar projects nationwide.
- Our team delivers five-star service with 1,500+ residential installations since 2012.
- We serve 13 states with tailored commercial and residential solar solutions.
What people say
Energy savings
Timely installation
Professional team
Eco-friendly impact
Seamless process
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Our residential solar installations empower homeowners to achieve energy independence while reducing utility costs. With over 1,500 projects completed since 2012, we provide end-to-end solutions including system design, permitting, installation, and maintenance. Customers benefit from customizable configurations, battery backup options, and access to federal tax incentives, ensuring long-term savings and environmental impact.
Commercial Solar Solutions
We design and deploy large-scale solar systems tailored to commercial and industrial clients. Our EPC services cover feasibility studies, engineering, procurement, and construction, ensuring projects meet energy goals and regulatory standards. Businesses gain predictable energy costs, reduced carbon footprints, and eligibility for SREC credits, supported by our $571 million investment track record.
Tax Equity Financing
Our tax equity co-investment platform enables businesses and investors to fund solar projects while securing federal tax credits. We structure financial partnerships that optimize returns for both developers and co-investors, leveraging our $571 million portfolio experience. This model reduces upfront costs for clients and accelerates project timelines through proven capital deployment strategies.
Net Zero Academy
Net Zero Academy offers gamified sustainability literacy programs for K-12 and postsecondary institutions. The platform assesses eco-knowledge, educates through interactive modules, and tracks behavior changes to foster environmental stewardship. Schools use it to engage students and staff in measurable sustainability initiatives aligned with institutional climate goals.
CleanTech Venture Capital
Our venture capital division identifies and invests in emerging CleanTech and ClimateTech startups. We provide capital and strategic support to innovators developing next-generation renewable energy solutions, from smart grid technologies to advanced solar materials. This initiative accelerates market adoption of sustainable technologies while generating diversified returns for investors.
People
Scott Gubbels
President
Scott leads GRNE Solars tax equity and solar initiatives, leveraging 20+ years of tax strategy experience. He oversees $600 million in solar investments and manages EPC operations, driving growth since 2018.
Alyssa Martin
President
Alyssa shapes strategic vision and legal frameworks for GRNE Solar. A Harvard Law graduate, she specializes in tax equity transactions and corporate governance, closing major deals while promoting sustainable business practices since 2020.
Chad Hartnett
Chief Financial Officer
Chad manages financial operations with 25+ years in accounting and finance leadership roles. His expertise spans treasury management, tax equity structuring, and capital allocation, ensuring fiscal discipline across $571 million in solar investments.
Adam Rue
Managing Director
Adam directs project management and construction for solar installations. With a background in logistics and construction management, he oversees quality control and safety protocols for commercial and residential projects nationwide.
Brandi Nye
Director of Business Development
Brandi leads business growth initiatives with 12+ years in energy sector sales and strategy. She focuses on portfolio expansion, client acquisition, and renewable energy solutions like community solar and PPA structures.
Questions
What solar services does Nelnet Renewable Energy offer?
We provide residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar installations, EPC services, tax equity financing, and CleanTech venture capital investments.
Do you offer financing options for solar projects?
Yes, our tax equity co-investment platform structures financing solutions for developers and investors, optimizing federal tax credit utilization.
Which states do you serve?
We operate in 13 states including Colorado, Illinois, Nebraska, and New York, with plans for further expansion.
How can businesses benefit from your services?
Businesses reduce energy costs, qualify for SREC credits, and meet sustainability goals through our tailored solar systems and financing models.
What is Net Zero Academy?
It’s our gamified sustainability education platform designed for schools to engage students and staff in climate action initiatives.
Reviews (4)
Sandy K.
Jan 06, 2022
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I was so pleasantly surprised at GRNE Solar. From the first visit to explain solar and costs to install to first bill they have been so attentive and professional. If I had a question I had an answer within 24 hrs. I have a flat section of roof no other solar company was interested in installing. GRNE Solar installers and installation was above my expectations. An electrician friend even commented it was a good install for a flat roof. They installed product and lines not using nails but weights and rubber blocks under lines to insure no damage to the flat roof. I am so grateful my GRNE
Stephen Thome
Sep 04, 2021
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Did a great job on my first system in late 2018 and the same on a system expansion in early 2021. Would definitely use them again.
Brent Rogers
Sep 02, 2021
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I had a great experience with this company. I shopped around with like 5 different solar companies prior to selecting them to install my system. They were able to accommodate all my requests and provide me with a bigger kWh system for less money than many other competitors. Special thank you to Amy in the Indianapolis office who was very helpful and always got me answers quickly and professionally. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone interested in installing a solar system.
Mark Watts
Nov 19, 2020
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GRNE solar is fantastic. First Installation was in the summer of 2017, (35 panels), this year our budget allowed us to increase our solar collection by 10%. An email to GRNE generated a quick response followed by a competitive quote. Because we were so impressed with the first installation we decided to go with GRNE again. Kendall Ludwig and his crew had the new panels installed in half a day. We are very satisfied customers.Thank you GRNE!!!
