Business Details
8 Years
experience
Trusted Solar Energy Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Nelnet Renewable Energy is a purpose-driven company founded in 2018 with a mission to advance clean energy solutions. As part of Nelnet, a diversified financial services company with over 40 years of experience, we combine deep industry expertise with financial strength to deliver solar development, financing, and EPC services. Our team specializes in commercial and industrial solar projects, offering turnkey solutions from design to asset management. We prioritize sustainability, client satisfaction, and innovation, evidenced by our $571M investment in 200+ solar projects nationwide.Our vertically integrated approach ensures quality, reliability, and long-term value for clients, while our venture capital arm supports CleanTech and ClimateTech advancements. With a focus on education through initiatives like Net Zero Academy, we empower communities to embrace renewable energy and reduce environmental impact.
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Commercial Solar Development
Tax Equity Financing
EPC Solutions
Net Zero Academy
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined experience through Nelnet's financial expertise and solar industry leadership.
- Our vertically integrated model ensures seamless project execution from financing to asset management.
- We have invested $571M in 200+ solar projects nationwide since 2018.
- Our NABCEP-certified team delivers Tier 1 equipment and proven commercial solar expertise.
- We provide innovative financing solutions, including tax equity co-investment platforms for corporations.
What people say
Professional and responsive
Completed as planned
100% production expectations met
Exceptional customer experiences
Proven expertise
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Our residential solar solutions empower homeowners to achieve energy independence while reducing utility costs. We handle every step from consultation to installation, offering battery backup systems and EV charging stations. Backed by five-star service and over 1,500 installations since 2012, we ensure seamless transitions to clean energy with durable, high-efficiency systems tailored to individual needs.
Commercial Solar Development
We design and deploy large-scale solar systems for businesses, municipalities, and institutions. Our EPC services include site assessment, permitting, construction, and maintenance. With 41 GWh of annual energy production across our portfolio, we deliver cost savings, tax incentives, and sustainability benefits while adhering to strict timelines and regulatory standards for commercial clients.
Tax Equity Financing
Our co-investment platform enables corporations to reduce federal tax liability through solar tax equity partnerships. We structure deals that combine financial returns with ESG goals, offering access to $571M+ in managed capital. This solution supports developers seeking funding while providing investors with scalable, impact-driven opportunities in renewable energy projects.
Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) Solutions
We provide full-cycle EPC services for utility-scale and commercial solar projects. Our NABCEP-certified engineers and project managers oversee design, equipment procurement, and construction using Tier 1 components. With 100+ MW installed, we guarantee system performance, regulatory compliance, and on-budget delivery for developers and asset owners nationwide.
Net Zero Academy
This online platform educates K-12 and postsecondary institutions on sustainability practices. Through gamified modules, it assesses knowledge gaps and promotes eco-friendly behaviors among students and staff. Developed in partnership with educators, it aligns with institutional ESG goals while providing measurable outcomes for reducing carbon footprints through behavioral change.
People
Scott Gubbels
Executive Director of Corporate Tax
Scott leads Nelnet Renewable Energy's tax and investment strategy, managing over $600M in solar tax equity. With 20+ years at Nelnet, he oversees acquisitions, tax planning, and CleanTech innovation initiatives.
Alyssa Martin
President
Alyssa directs corporate strategy and legal operations, leveraging her Harvard Law background to close tax equity deals and acquire GRNE Solar. She focuses on sustainable business practices and community resilience initiatives.
Chad Hartnett
Chief Financial Officer
Chad brings 25+ years of financial leadership experience from HDR and the coffee franchising industry. He manages fiscal operations, risk assessment, and capital allocation for Nelnet Renewable Energy's solar projects.
Adam Rue
Managing Director
Adam oversees project management and construction, applying his 15-year solar industry expertise. He has led hundreds of MW in installations and advocates for environmental nonprofits like the Illinois Solar Energy Association.
Brandi Nye
Director of Business Development
Brandi drives portfolio growth with a decade of energy sector experience. She specializes in renewable procurement strategies, decarbonization roadmaps, and expanding commercial solar partnerships nationwide.
Questions
What services does Nelnet Renewable Energy offer?
We provide residential and commercial solar installations, EPC services, tax equity financing, and sustainability education through Net Zero Academy. Our solutions cater to homeowners, businesses, and CleanTech innovators.
Why did Nelnet Renewable Energy exit the residential solar market?
In 2024, we shifted focus exclusively to commercial solar to leverage growth opportunities and align with long-term sustainability goals while honoring existing residential warranties.
What financing options are available for solar projects?
We offer tax equity co-investment platforms for corporations, asset-backed financing for developers, and structured deals that reduce federal tax liability while supporting renewable energy adoption.
Which states do you serve?
Our solar services operate in Colorado, Illinois, Nebraska, New York, and expanding Midwest regions. Commercial projects span nationwide through our EPC capabilities.
How does Nelnet Renewable Energy ensure project quality?
We use Tier 1 equipment, NABCEP-certified professionals, and rigorous project management standards. Our 100+ MW installed portfolio demonstrates consistent on-time, on-budget delivery.
What sustainability initiatives does the company support?
Beyond solar projects, we developed Net Zero Academy for sustainability education and invest in CleanTech startups to accelerate the renewable energy transition through innovation.
