Solar power is cheap and free, but not available to all. For example, renters, people whose roofs are not suitable, and those on limited budgets can’t take advantage of this clean energy.
Now, Bright Saver is offering “balcony” or “backyard solar” plug-in solar. They’ll deliver and install a complete system that can be sited in a back or front yard, hung from a balcony, or attached to a fence or building.
Already, Germany has some 1.5 million such installations, according to Bright Saver, but the U.S. has some unique barriers: a lack of costly off-the-shelf 120V inverters and the complexity of the installation. As well, back feeding — sending excess solar power to the utility’s energy grid — can cause issues with utility companies.
Bright Saver, a nonprofit, says its plug-and-play solar systems are 40 percent cheaper per kilowatt than rooftop installations. And Bright Saver will deliver and install all necessary equipment using licensed electricians. The installation includes a smart power meter to prevent back feeding (so that a net-metering agreement is not needed) as well as overvoltage protection and temperature monitoring.
Systems are sold as subscriptions for $29 a month. The system is expected to begin paying for itself from the first day, and after six years, people own it outright.
Bright Saver plans to go national in 2026. This year, it’s building a waitlist. But Bay Area folks can get in on this now: The company is looking for 50 early adopters to act as proof of concept. If you’re ready to join the solar revolution, book a free consultation here.
Learn more from these interviews with The Weekly Anthropocene and Climate Action Now.
Hear co-founder Cora Stryker explain the company’s offerings and business model at the Third Act SF Bay Area Working Group gathering on April 28 at 4:30 p.m.