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About Upstart Energy

Helping homeowners understand solar and battery systems before making major energy decisions.

We are an independent solar consultancy partnered with Powur PBC serving homeowners nationwide

Go Solar With Confidence

Our Founder, Carol Cole-Lewis, is the author of Go Solar With Confidence, a guide designed to help homeowners understand solar energy before making installation decisions.

The book became an Amazon best seller and has helped many homeowners approach solar with clarity rather than confusion.

[ Learn More About the Book ]

Why Us

Solar energy is one of the most important changes happening in the way homes are powered.

But for many homeowners, evaluating solar can feel confusing.

Utility policies vary widely. Solar proposals can differ dramatically. Battery technology is evolving quickly. And most homeowners are asked to make decisions before they fully understand how everything works.

Upstart Energy was created to help homeowners approach solar with clarity rather than pressure.

The goal is simple:

Help people understand how solar works so they can make informed decisions for their homes.

Why We Exist

Many homeowners first encounter solar through traditional sales presentations.

While many installers do excellent work, the sales process often focuses on closing a project quickly rather than helping homeowners fully understand their options.

Upstart Energy was created to provide a different starting point.

Instead of beginning with a sales proposal, the process begins with education and evaluation.

Homeowners can learn how solar systems work, understand the role of batteries, and evaluate whether solar makes sense for their specific situation.

Only after that clarity exists does installation become the next step.

Our Approach

Upstart Energy focuses on three principles.

Clarity

Homeowners deserve to understand how solar works before making a major investment.

Education

Solar systems interact with utilities, electricity rates, and battery technologies in ways that are not always obvious. Clear information helps homeowners make better decisions.

Thoughtful System Design

Every home and utility environment is different. The best solar systems are designed around the homeowner’s goals, usage patterns, and local utility structure.

Installation Partnerships

Upstart Energy provides independent solar consultation and system design guidance.

Through our partnership with Powur PBC, homeowners can access solar installation delivered by experienced local installation partners.

This model allows homeowners to benefit from:

Independent guidance during the evaluation process
Professional installation through vetted partners
A system designed around their specific needs

Powur operates a nationwide platform that connects solar consultants, installers, and homeowners to deliver solar systems efficiently and responsibly.

Who We Work with

Upstart Energy typically works with homeowners who:

Are exploring solar for the first time
Want to understand battery backup and financing options
Prefer education before making decisions
Want to evaluate solar thoughtfully rather than rushing the process

Many homeowners begin by reading one of the Solar Planning Guides, then schedule a Solar Clarity Call to explore their specific situation.

Testimonials

"Finally"

"Finally, a clear description of the Solar Story for the non-solar professional!"

— Bill C., Solar professional and Guide reader

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"Solar is not the best direction"

"I'm grateful to have had this conversation before I signed anything, as I discovered solar is not the best direction for my family and me right now."

— Tery S., Clarity Call recipient

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"Saw Your You Tube Videos"

Our interest in the possibility of going solar lead us to the YouTube videos by Carol Cole-Lewis. The videos were really informative and inspiring. So we contacted Carol, who is a delight to work with. We...[read more]

— David S. Rooftop Solar + Battery

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