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
Make an informed solar choice—ask solar companies the right questions about service, pricing, equipment, and warranties before you commit.
Written by Ben Zientara
JA Solar is a leading solar panel manufacturer offering high-quality solar panels. But are they worth it?
Written by Ben Zientara
We tested a dozen of the top portable solar generators on the market and uncovered the 5 best options for the varying needs of different kinds of people.
Written by Ben Zientara
NEM 3.0 is here, with a new type of solar rate plan called Net Billing. There's reduced compensation for excess solar energy and increased incentive to install batteries, but you can still save money with solar in California.
Written by Ben Zientara
Bluetti makes portable solar generators, battery backup systems, and foldable solar panels. Check out our expert review of Bluetti batteries today.
Written by Ben Zientara
The state of Connecticut changed its net metering program for solar homeowners in January 2022. It now comes in two options and provides even more savings than its predecessor.
Written by Ben Zientara
