StraightUp Solar

3 years ago StraightUp Solar installed solar panels on my house in Mahomet, IL. They did all the paperwork for me to obtain the government rebates, as well as all the paperwork for a loan for about half of the project. Their customer service has been top notch. They keep monitoring the panels’ production every day and email me right away if there is an issue. They had to come back several times due to an ‘arc fault’ error that was caused by firmware updates on the inverter. They spent a whole day taking off every panel and redoing the connections between every panel to make sure there was no issue up there on the roof, before they found out the inverter was the problem. But they didn’t charge me anything to do all this work. Their customer service is top notch and they stand behind their warranty. I would choose StraightUp Solar again if I had to do this all over again!

After a tornado warning that caused a brief power outage, my inverter could not re-connect to the router. This was noticed by Raymond Harp, a monitoring technician at StraightUpSolar, who got in touch with me and guided me through the power-cycling(which didn't work),and then further troubleshooting to figure out the problem. It turned out that the GFCI circuit-breaker had tripped, and Raymond helped me reset it. I was not aware that the breaker has three positions: ON, TRIPPED, and OFF, and that it is not possible to go from TRIPPED to ON directly; one has to go to OFF to reset the GFCI before switching it to ON. Once this was done, everything went smoothly. The inverter reconnected to the router, uploaded six days of saved production data and we are back to normal. I am very pleased with Raymond's patient help for a technically unsavvy customer and commend Raymond and StraightUpSolar for great customer service.

My solar panels did not record any new energy produced for March and April. I contacted them and within 2 days they had it fixed—in fact, it was just a display issue. This is my second home with solar panels —about 30 and 22 panels, respectively— both done by StraightUp Solar. Both the initial installation , the subsequent repairs (due to an intense hale storm) and everything has been fantastic. I highly recommend them. (I’m in Urbana IL.)

My inverter died and had to be replaced. It was still under warranty which is good. The crew from StraightUp Solar arrived and replaced it. They were nice and efficient. (They did have to take a break from the work because of lightning, but other than than the work went flawlessly.) I am glad that StraightUp Solar is there when I need them.

Good Installation- That when good customer service ended

Installation was great… Was a happy customer, so I referred a coworker then only received half of the referral bonus. Two years later received a call that something was not working correctly. Was told I had to pay for $700 a service call where they could not find anything wrong other than two connections that S.U.S. installed being the problem. Was also told this will probably going to continue happen down the road with only more costs due coming. “Performance guarantee” is just a ploy to get you in the door. They don’t stand by their work.

It was a good experience. I worked with several people at Straightup and I found each of them to be very competent. Those planning to go with solar should know that the lead time for all the paperwork and assessment of your site takes quite a while. The actual install (12 panels in our case) only took a day and a half. The good thing is that the interaction with the power company, the town for permits and inspections was all handled by the SUS team. In addition to the education about how our solar system works, they also handled the paperwork after the install to get our solar energy credits from the state. They provided information for us to get Federal tax credits as well. SUS was always paying attention to our project, they explained what was needed or going on in layman's terms, and they were very responsive when questions came up or if there were problems. 5 stars to the entire team!

EVERYONE THAT I HAD DELT WITH WAS SINCERE. I AM COMPLETLY SATISFIED WITH THE SERVICE. I WOULD RECOMEND THESE GUYS 100 %

Overall, really glad we did

Overall I am glad we went through Straight Up to get our panels installed. They were the third company we worked with to get panels installed on our house and the one company to actually follow through and get them. The first company ended up going bankrupt and the second company had delay after delay, so never saw them even come out to assess the house, we waited about a year and they still couldn't get the permits, thus we tried one more company, and I'm glad we did. We had some hurdles and road blocks with some getting some of the permits, with getting Ameren cooperating sometimes, and quite a bit with some of the electrical inspectors, but Straight Up handled the issues well and we got our panels and battery in the end. To be fair, while the issues were annoying and caused a good amount of delays, it wasn't Straight Up's fault, so 5-Stars for their service and handling of the issues! They also did a great job keeping in contact to keep me in the loop and give me updates on the status of the project.

Straight Up Solar are straight shooters

We recently decided to take the solar plunge, being 70+ years old we knew we’d never recover the cost of the investment even with the current incentives available in Illinois. For us, the prime motivation was Energy Independence/Security. After contacting five solar companies we chose Straight Up Solar (SUS) what struck us was their no-pressure presentation by Mr Dixon and ensuring all our concerns and needs were addressed on the spot. We got down into the weeds with in-depth discussions of the equipment being suggested and any options. After discussing system performance and our needs we opted to oversize the PV system (scaled to cover 125% of our annual average consumption) as Phase 1. Phase 2 in 12 to 18 months when we’ll add whole house battery backup. The extra capacity will support the batteries. SUS was easy to work with and has a great reputation in IL/MO. They worked with me revising our system many times and once we had a design that met all our needs both today and into the future, we selected them. Once the project was about to start Mr Melton was assigned as our Project Manager and was instrumental in pulling this all together while entertaining our last-minute changes and myriad of questions to make last-minute changes to our system design. That ensured a successful project. The SUS team did everything, all we needed to do was provide info as requested and sit back. Their installation team came from Mid-America Electric and Eric, Steve, and David were detail-orientated craftsmen. I show off their handy work to all my neighbors. Seeing their electrical work both inside and outside our home is a pleasure. Neighbors have commented on how good it looks and were initially concerned about what the end project would look like based on their past experiences. I joked they should have autographed one of the junction boxes they installed. In addition, they were never too busy to answer our questions and show us exactly what they were doing. Drilling holes, making complex electrical connections, and climbing all over a new house are stressful, they eased our concerns. Their work passed all the required inspections without a single issue or question. Liam from Straight Up Solar was the on-site supervisor and was a pleasure to work with and we felt comfortable leaving our home in his hands. Our system was commissioned on Sept 20th, and to our surprise we received our Permission to Operate (PTO) Certificate the very next day from AMERENIP. That has to be a record. We did have an issue post-commissioning with incorrect Consumption data production being reported via the Enphase app. Liam stepped in when the issue was identified made two visits to correct the issue and even continued to monitor our system that evening remotely to confirm all was well. That is customer service above and beyond any expectation. In conclusion, the entire process from Straight Up Solar exceeded all of our expectations. It's been a pleasure working with this team. We've enjoyed getting to know all of you and would be pleased to use SUS for our whole house battery backup project next year. Tom and Patricia Jacques USAF Retired Swansea IL

Great experience with StraightUp Solar. Process was easy, company answered all questions timely and thoroughly. Would recommend them to everyone.

Great experience

Working with Straight Up was a great experience and certainly a company I works recommend to anyone interested in going Solar. Andrew Stetter was my initial contact and shared all of the pertinent info to help me know that this was the way we wanted to go.

We Switched to StraightUp and Made the Right Decision

We started with a different solar installer that couldn't live up to its promises and we were forced to make a change deep into our discussions with them. We found Jim Dixon at StraightUp Solar and he put us on the right track from start to finish. StraightUp Solar gave us the straight talk about our solar installation. They kept us informed throughout the process and handled all of the paperwork. We're very happy with our new installation.

Great installation

Installation went smoothly. Very professional and no hiccups. Everything went as planned. System working as they said it would.

Had solar panels installed on my house nearly two years ago and have been more than pleased with the return on investment. The entire process with Straight Up Solar was pleasant. Everyone that I was put in contact with, from sales through post-install, has been helpful, friendly, and quick to respond. Could not recommend Straight Up Solar more!

Fantastic, knowledgeable, communicative and purpose-driven

Could not be happier with my experience at StraightUp Solar. They guided me through the process every step of the way, communication was excellent, and they offered many chances to ask questions, and were patient and clear answering my questions. The installation crew was polite, professional, tidy and accommodating. I'm so excited to have gone solar, if you are looking to go solar too, I'd highly recommend this company!

Great Install

I've had solar arrays installed at two locations in McLean County by StraightUp Solar. I had a great experience with the entire StraightUp Solar team. From initial design and cost analysis through installation, there were no surprises. They worked with Corn Belt Energy on the first and Ameren on the second. One was a ground mount on a farm property and the other on my home roof. Clean installations that are aesthetically pleasing. StraightUp has local crews and an office in Central Illinois. Having a company like StraightUp to support the product after installation is the most important factor in deciding who to buy from.

Very pleases with the Solar Project

Straight-up Solar did an excellent job installing our solar panels. They installed a 89 Kw system. We own a business, and it looks like we are going to save around $7K a year!! I was very happy with the staff, all the way from salesmen to installers. The system is working very well and our bill has been reduced to practically nothing. In fact, I believe we may be producing more than we need. Time will tell. The system has been working for a year so far, and we have had no problems. I would recommend Straight -Up Solar to anyone

Echo others comments regarding hidden costs

We were presented with a $3500 added cost for 3-9 foot piers in concrete for our ground mount array only after having paid over half of the $25,000 cost - when they presented their pre-permit request for approval. One would think this was predictable. We're considering cancellation, costing at least $1000, rather than risk further surprises.

Excellent service and support.

We have solar panels for our farming operation and greatly enjoy the benefits of clean energy.

They were a good compnay to work with.

They guided me through the setup process and various forms needed and answered any questions. The only problem is that the office I dealt with at the time was the St. Louis one, so there was often a wait-time for technicians to be in the area.

No complaints!

Straight up solar installed a system for my rural home and garage set up about six years ago. I was satisfied with the planning, the work, and the outcome of the installation. At my level of energy usage, I have been able to sell energy credit almost every month and have not paid for electricity since the installation. I have no complaints! And I recommend them without reservation.

kept every promise and continue supportive services

Even after several years, I continue to be impressed with Straight-Up Solar. Our area experienced a hail storm last year that required a total roof replacement, yet the solar panels were unharmed. However, they did have to be removed and re-installed to allow the roofing. Straight Up was timely and efficient in this process. The panels continue to perform at expected levels and my electric bills are unbelievably low.

Professional and Great Craftsmanship

We chose StraightUp Solar to install our ground-mounted solar array because of their experience, professionalism, and longevity in Illinois. The did what they said they would do and I am very happy with my system.

Service after the Sale

So the biggest fear you have when a group of guys drills 400 holes into your new roof is a leak right? We got one - and these guys jumped on it and stayed on it until they sourced the problem out. They were responsive, they were professional and they are reimbursing us for the small amount of ceiling damage that resulted. Leaks happen, its the service after the sale that separates the pros from the shmos. Kudos to Straight Up - From sales to installation to service, these folks have earned this 5 star review.

BE WARE OF HIDDEN COSTS AND A LACK OF POST-INSTALLATION SERVICE

Straight-up solar is very pushy when it comes to closing the sales deal. They will say anything to get you to sign the papers, and it's nothing short of a predatory loan. First of all, let me be very clear that YOU WILL NOT SAVE ANY MONEY by going to solar -- not a chance for what you have to pay up front. Our system cost $32,517 for a 9.6KW array. Regardless whether you take out a loan or pay up front, even after federal rebates, you still won't break even in at least 10 years. I'm not going to dive into too much details of the financial argument, but just know that they'll say anything to make you believe otherwise. Then, there's the local utility company requirements -- $1 million dollar mandatory liability insurance -- a major hurdle that would significantly affect your ability to sell your house, should you move. This is because whomever inherits your solar panels would have to buy additional insurance as well -- as long as it sits on the roof. On top of this, your accumulated solar power, is reset every quarter to zero! YES, if you collected 1500KW total in the spring and hope to use it in the summer, sorry, you CAN'T. The local utility company resets it after May 31st, wiping out all your gains. None of those were disclosed to us before we signed the paper. I had to find this out from someone in the City Hall. After our panels were installed, it was generating 2/3 of it's capacity for over 45 days! None of their "engineers" could tell us why until the "head engineer" came and found a wire wasn't connected. Lastly, if you decide to go with those guys, you should hope you will NEVER move. As stated above, having panels on your roof affects your ability to sell your home. If you want to take down the panels, they charge you a ridiculous $7,000 for the labor only, NOT INCLUDING POTENTIAL ROOF DAMAGE REPAIRS. Note that the average cost to remove panels in the US is about $1,000 to $2,000 tops. I spoke to someone at another solar company and they were shocked to hear the $7,000 quote. The bottom line is, you need to do a lot of research before you go solar. I learned the lesson the hard way. I am a strong advocate of environmental protection and I sincerely hoped those guys shared the same passion. To my utter dismay, Straight Up does not share this passion. They are NOT in the business to make the world a better place but only to make themselves rich.

My project

When I decided to go solar I was hoping to lower my electrical usage. The installation was quick and done professional and no problems occured. Well the system has been gatherings solar energy the last two months and my last 2 electrical bills have been no better than before. A minor deduction but nothing to brag about. For me this has been a horrible decision. Maybe my next couple of bills will surprise me but I doubt it. A bad investment for me or maybe I was expecting to much.

Excellence

Solar Experience The solar project myself and the YWCA Mc Lean County have been part of has been a very pleasant experience. Everyone at Straight Up Solar from the Installers to the President, Business Development Coordinator, Solar Specialist, Project Developer, Service Lead / Field Coordinator, Removal and Replacement Specialist, Director of Commercial Sales, Project Coordinator, Field Operations Technician, Master Electrician & Director of Design and Shine Development Partners has been absolutely wonderful to work with. It is gratifying to work with a group that takes so much pride in their work and how they do it. You can tell working with these people that they are very passionate about the work they do. I appreciated the thoughtfulness of not only how they worked but how they treated our building, the property and all of our staff when they were here. They truly made my job much easier to transition from what we had to the whole solar project. If Straight Up Solar is the definition of Solar companies, Solar is poised to be great. Perry E Mayer Director Of Building Operations YWCA of Mc Lean County

couldn't be more pleased

The quality of work was top-notch and the power production numbers are far exceeding the bid estimate. I have only been active for a little more than 6 months, but have produced 22,500 kWh, about 111% of the estimated production

Great experience

Going solar couldn’t have been simpler. We discussed all of our options and received all the information we needed to make our decision. Straight Up Solar managed all of the permits, the site plan and the installation seamlessly. We are now paying our electric company a monthly fee for the meter and that’s it. I actually look forward to receiving the bill to see how many kWh I have banked!

Great Experience with Straight-up Solar, A-to-Z

Since installing a geothermal system a few years ago, we saw our electric bills go up (although our propane bills went down), so we wanted to take the next step in both economic and environmental sustainability, and get off the dirty coal energy that electric companies around us tend to use. A neighbor had a good experience with StraightUp Solar, so we began talking with Shannon Fulton. She took the time to answer all our questions, and we went through quite a few different scenarios, each with pros/cons, before deciding to spread the solar panels over 5 different roof surfaces on the south side of our home. This was not a standard or easy installation, but every member of the team worked together, and in the end it worked beautifully. As soon as they flipped the switch, our monthly electric bill went to the $18 minimum monthly service charge. We are now in the shortest days of the year, so may have to pay a bit more than that, but so far the system has worked perfectly, and we are very happy to be generating clean energy and paying very low electric bills.