Man pointing at a plug-in solar microinverter labeled EZ1 with the bold slogan 'DIY Solar Just Plug It In!' in the foreground.

EZ1 VOICES: See Why More DIYers are Choosing the APsystems EZ1

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Can you really start generating solar power by simply plugging into a standard wall outlet?

In this video, Dale takes a deep dive into the APsystems EZ1 plug-in microinverter and explains how it works, who it’s built for, and why plug-in solar is opening the door for more homeowners, renters, condo owners, and DIY solar users.

The review covers EZ1 setup, the APmeter zero-export monitor, estimated energy production, potential utility savings, and how small-scale solar can help offset everyday electricity use.

Watch the video, then explore EZ1 buying options and customer experiences to see if plug-in solar is right for you.

Collage promoting solar ownership: APsystems branding, people discussing energy, and solar hardware with the title 'VOICES OF SOLAR OWNERSHIP' in the center.

APsystems Homeowner Voices: Why We Chose APsystems

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Hear directly from APsystems homeowners as they share why they chose APsystems microinverter and energy storage solutions to power their homes.

From lowering electric bills and charging EVs with solar energy to gaining backup power during outages, these homeowners explain how solar and storage have changed the way they think about energy. They also discuss the benefits of APsystems microinverters, battery backup, and real-time monitoring through the APsystems app, allowing them to track production, energy flow, and savings from anywhere.

Whether the goal is energy independence, resilience during grid outages, environmental stewardship, or long-term savings, these stories highlight the real-world impact of investing in solar and storage.

Watch as APsystems customers share their experiences and discover how APsystems solutions are helping homeowners take greater control of their power, their costs, and their future.

Explore APsystems Solar + Storage Solutions

 

Martin Solar’s Award-Winning Storage Project Powers Residential Innovation in Waterloo, IL

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In Southern Illinois, Martin Solar is setting a new standard for residential energy performance. Their dual-axis tracking and energy storage installation in Waterloo earned first place in the Storage category in the annual APsystems Project of the Year Awards.

Designed to minimize grid reliance while maximizing production, the 22kW-DC system features a 40-module dual-axis tracker paired with DS3 microinverters that follow the sun throughout the day. The installation is expected to generate approximately 41,000 kWh annually, delivering exceptional efficiency and long-term value for the homeowner.

Complementing the solar array is a powerful 120 kWh APstorage solution utilizing 12 batteries. With expanded backup capability and increased energy capture, the system provides greater resilience, independence, and control over household energy use.

“We go to great lengths to ensure top-notch installation quality and project performance for our customers,” said Preston Nelson of Martin Solar. “We have tested numerous PV inverter and ESS storage systems since our founding in 2021, and can confidently say that no other compares with either the immediate or long-term value and product offering by APsystems.”

Nelson emphasized that microinverter reliability and flexibility played a critical role in the project’s success.

“AP microinverters make most all of our projects successful, including this one,” he said. “AP micros are some of the only available at all common voltage and phase configurations, right out of the box, so we use them ubiquitously across our network. Their most efficient module-level production and real-time monitoring are invaluable for ongoing support and maintenance, and the standard 25-year warranty makes AP the best value inverter option for Martin Solar and its expanding customer base.”

The decision to deploy APsystems technology was driven by both technical performance and long-term bankability.

“As you are probably aware, we’ve become big fans of AP,” Nelson added. “The ease of setup, monitoring, and maintenance; the flexibility of design and configuration; the long-term reliability with warranty; and competitive pricing make AP the biggest bang for the buck. Where AP really goes above and beyond is in the support category, especially with storage support.”

Nelson also pointed to the accessibility and expertise of APsystems’ technical team as a differentiator.

“APsystems offers the quickest, most helpful U.S.-based tech support, and AP engineers are even accessible for questions,” he said. “As we’ve built this business, I’ve experienced numerous inverter hardware, software, and support companies, and can confidently say that none comes close.”

The homeowner response has reinforced the system’s success, with straightforward module-level monitoring and strong production helping the site exceed energy expectations. Visible from a nearby highway, the installation has already sparked curiosity from passersby interested in bringing similar capabilities to their own properties.

For Martin Solar, the Waterloo installation reflects a commitment to thoughtful engineering and customer-first solutions. By combining advanced tracking technology with robust storage, the project demonstrates how modern residential systems can deliver both exceptional performance and lasting peace of mind.

SEE OTHER WINNERS HERE

 

 

Recognizing Standout Solar Installations: APsystems 2025 Project of the Year Winners

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At APsystems, innovation in solar is driven by the installers and partners who apply advanced technology to real-world challenges. Each year, our Project of the Year program highlights installations across the United States that demonstrate strong system design, technical execution, and meaningful impact.

The 2025 submissions reflected the continued growth of the solar industry across residential, commercial, nonprofit, and storage applications. We are proud to recognize this year’s Project of the Year winners, second place projects, and honorable mentions.

First Place Winners

In the nonprofit category, Swiftwater Electric and Solar earns first place for their installation at Friday Harbor Presbyterian Church in Washington. Funded through a state resiliency grant, the system was designed to provide reliable power during outages, allowing the church to serve as a community refuge. APsystems DS3 microinverters were selected for their reliability and proven performance in critical-use applications.

Martin Solar takes first place in the storage category for the Waterloo Residential Tracker project in Illinois. The system combines a dual-axis tracking array with APsystems DS3 microinverters and a 120 kWh energy storage solution. Designed to maximize energy production and financial return, the project demonstrates how integrated solar and storage can deliver long-term value for residential customers.

Southeast Energy Solutions wins the commercial category for their installation at Silver Bluff Brewery in Georgia. The 96.9 kW rooftop system spans multiple elevations and navigates rooftop obstructions using QT2-208 microinverters. The design maximizes available roof space while providing detailed module-level monitoring and long-term reliability.

In the residential category, Solar Installers of Florida earns first place for their Longwood project. The 114-panel system spans six roof surfaces and offsets approximately $1,000 per month in electricity costs. APsystems microinverters enabled flexible array design, strong performance in partial shade, and a clean aesthetic with all wiring routed through the attic.

Second Place Winners

Jolma Electric LLC earns second place in the nonprofit category for their Bayfield Rec Center installation in Wisconsin, a grant-funded system that cuts electricity costs by roughly 50 percent using QT2-208 microinverters.

Second place in the commercial category goes to GRID Alternatives for The Carlton in South Los Angeles, where a rooftop solar system helps reduce energy costs for an affordable housing community using QT2-208 microinverters.

Ecotech Solar receives second place in the residential category for the Timber Creek Community project in Washington, a multi-home development designed with APsystems microinverters and future expansion in mind.

 

Honorable Mentions

Honorable mentions include Apollo Solar (operating as American Roofing Solar) for the Woodies Restorations project in Kentucky, Hardt Electric for their commercial installation at the American College of Chest Physicians headquarters in Illinois, and Bonbon Electric 2021 for the Orshansky Residence in California, all recognized for high-performing systems using APsystems microinverter technology.

Congratulations to all of our 2025 Project of the Year winners and honorees. Your work continues to raise the standard for solar installations across the United States.

 

SEE ALL PAST WINNERS HERE

 

From Craftsmanship to Code Compliance: Voices from the Field on TEDDY Talks Live

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TEDDY Talks continues with two new conversations recorded live at RE+, spotlighting the people, values, and knowledge shaping the solar industry today—and where it’s headed next in 2026.

EPISODE 10: Teddy talks with Peter Hardt, President of Hardt Electric, about legacy, craftsmanship, and leadership in solar. A third-generation contractor, Peter shares how ownership, precision, and pride drive reliable installs and long-term success.

EPISODE 11: Teddy sits down with Chris Crowell, former Editor in Chief of Solar Builder Magazine, to discuss installer education, code compliance, and what’s ahead in 2026. The conversation explores real-world challenges, market shifts, and new opportunities for installers.

Don’t miss these conversations and more from TEDDY Talks live at RE+. Hit Subscribe and stay tuned for upcoming episodes on YouTube!

Listen to past episodes and stay tuned as new releases roll out on Spotify.

WATCH MORE EPISODES HERE

Installer Perspective: 25-Year Warranty. Zero Headaches.

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Part three of our Real APtalk with Ready Solar is here!

Owner and founder Sukhpaul Parmar breaks down why APsystems continues to be his top choice — from our new 25-year warranty to reliable microinverters that keep callbacks off the calendar.

With years of installs and zero RMAs, his team stays focused on doing the job right the first time.

Reliable products. Fast support. A partner installers can trust.

WATCH PAST EPISODES 1 & 2 HERE

Capture the Holiday Rush for Plug-and-Play Solar with EZ1

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This season, give homeowners the gift of instant energy savings. The APsystems EZ1 plug-in microinverter makes it easy to generate solar power from balconies, sheds, patios, and gardens — no wiring, no hassle, just plug in and start saving.

We’re proud of our professional DS3 and QT2 rooftop microinverters, but some homeowners are looking for smaller, flexible, plug-and-play options to brighten up their balconies or backyard spaces. Rather than watching those micro-site purchases go elsewhere, why not wrap up those sales yourself?

For installers and distributors, EZ1 opens the door to new holiday-season opportunities:

• Add-on solar kits

• Direct-to-DIY bundles

• Quick, small-project installs

This year, turn DIY solar into a season of growth — not competition. EZ1 gives you a new way to reach homeowners who want simple, affordable solar they can install themselves.

Let’s make this a brilliant season for your business. Reach out to learn more about EZ1.

PARTNER SUCCESS STORY: Forest Preserve: Net Zero Facility

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Hardt Electric Helps Deliver a Net-Zero Future for Illinois Forest Preserve Using APsystems Microinverters

The Forest Preserve District’s largest site—spanning nearly 3,000 acres of protected land, trails, winter recreation areas, fishing ponds, and habitat for 24 threatened and endangered species—is now home to a state-of-the-art net-zero maintenance facility powered by APsystems technology.

As part of a comprehensive transformation plan launched in 2021, the District set out to build a new 9,800-square-foot facility that could operate entirely on clean energy. Meeting these ambitious goals required an experienced contractor capable of navigating both the technical demands of net-zero construction and the environmental protection standards of this sensitive site—including a nationally designated 70-acre bog.

Hardt Electric, a Chicago-based electrical contractor with over fifty years of service and more than two decades of renewable-energy expertise, led the design and construction of the solar system. The team engineered a 40 kW grid-interactive photovoltaic array designed to generate 100% of the building’s annual energy needs—and it’s already outperforming expectations.

Tight site constraints required the solar array to be installed within a restricted footprint and at closer-than-normal racking distances. By selecting APsystems microinverter technology, Hardt Electric ensured the system would continue to deliver maximum production even with intermittent shading and limited spacing. The microinverters’ ability to operate efficiently in higher-temperature environments with greater system reliability, their four-module input design, real-time monitoring capabilities and the safety features of the technology were key advantages in meeting the project’s performance goals.

“APsystems played a strategic role in maximizing the system’s output,” said Peter Hardt, President of Hardt Electric, in a recent discussion onsite with Teddy Hodges of TEDDY Talks. “With the environmental limitations we had to work within, microinverters gave us the flexibility, efficiency, and reliability this project demanded.”

The result:
A fully net-zero facility powered by a solar array that is already producing more energy than modeled—delivering long-term operational savings and a smaller carbon footprint for the Forest Preserve District.

This project reflects the growing trend of municipalities and public agencies turning to advanced solar technologies to meet sustainability commitments while protecting critical natural habitats. APsystems is proud to support Hardt Electric and the Forest Preserve District in realizing a cleaner, more resilient future for the community.

PARTNER SUCCESS STORY: Cut Costs, Boost Reliability – Swiftwater Talks APsystems

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Swiftwater Electric and Solar has been serving customers since 2005 as a trusted electrical contractor in the San Juan Islands. Recently, they’ve expanded their services to include solar, batteries, and generators, offering high-quality installations tailored to each customer’s unique energy needs. “We work closely with our customers to design and install solar systems that are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective,” says owner David Nicol. Their passion for solar energy drives their commitment to making clean energy accessible to everyone, helping build a sustainable future for the community.

David Nicol shared why Swiftwater Electric and Solar chose APsystems microinverters for their solar projects. “They have a sub-1% unit failure rate, which is great,” he says, highlighting APsystems’ reliability. The 2:1 architecture “means we have half the equipment on the roof — and half the opportunity for anything to fail,” providing peace of mind for both installers and homeowners.

Cost savings are another major benefit: “Now an inverter system is less than a solar panel on a per-watt basis — that saves us money and saves our customers money,” Nicol explains. Combined with APsystems’ extended warranty, the switch has been seamless: “I have fully switched over to APS and so far it’s been a great experience for us.”

As early adopters in their market, Swiftwater Electric and Solar has also set a trend among other installers. “More than three-quarters of the time, when we compete with another installer, they’re also quoting APS — that makes me feel better about my choice,” Nicol notes. With APsystems, Swiftwater Electric and Solar has found a solution that is reliable, cost-effective, and widely trusted — a perfect match for their commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-focused solar solutions.

World’s Largest Microinverter-Powered Solar Project – 6,442 APsystems Microinverters!

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Located at the Nanjing International Expo Center in China, this landmark 25MW solar project spans over 150,000 square meters. It features 6,442 APsystems QT2D microinverters and more than 40,000 high-efficiency photovoltaic modules. The system is expected to generate approximately 24.8 million kWh annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 25,000 tons each year—the equivalent of planting 900,000 trees. This project sets a global benchmark for clean energy, showcasing the power of microinverter technology in driving sustainable, low-carbon development.