About Ben Zientara
Ben Zientara is a writer, researcher, and solar policy analyst who has written about the residential solar industry, the electric grid, and state utility policy since 2013.
His early work included leading the team that produced the annual State Solar Power Rankings Report for the Solar Power Rocks website from 2015 to 2020. The rankings were utilized and referenced by a diverse mix of policymakers, advocacy groups, and media including The Center for American Progress, The Institute for Local Self-Reliance, the Solar Institute at George Washington University, PolitiFact, and The Guardian.
In 2020, Ben joined SolarReviews and now lends his expertise to the annual Solar Industry Survey, Top Solar Manufacturers list, Top 10 Solar States list, and throughout articles and pages across the site.
Ben holds a B.S. in Scientific & Technical Communication from the University of Minnesota, with special coursework in Environmental Science and a minor in Sustainability Studies. He spends his time away from the solar power world cooking and eating delicious food or spending quality time with his wife, kids, and big brown dog in the mountains, woods, parks, and playgrounds of the Portland, Oregon area.
Articles by Ben Zientara
Each year since 2001, the Gloria Barron Prize is awarded to 25 outstanding young leaders ages 8 to 18 who have made a significant positive difference to people and the environment. This year, we're pleased to announce that two of those amazing young people received the prize because of the innovative, inspiring ways they use solar.
Written by Ben Zientara
Wisconsin's solar net metering allows homeowners to send power back to the grid and earn credit on their electricity bills. Here's how it works.
Written by Ben Zientara
Some solar installers use inflated estimates of utility price growth to make it seem like savings will be higher than they likely will. It's time to stop.
Written by Ben Zientara
Home security giant ADT is set to acquire Sunpro Solar at the end of 2021 - what does this mean for homeowners and the solar industry as a whole?
Written by Ben Zientara
New Hampshire's net metering program is a good deal, and you stand to save a lot of money with solar. Find out what you need to know about CT's NEM 2.0.
Written by Ben Zientara
Solar panels may increase property tax or cost you hundreds of dollars in sales tax - unless your state offers solar tax exemptions. Here's what's out there.
Written by Ben Zientara
