Business Details
43 Years
experience
Your Trusted Solar Panel Partner in Omaha, NE
Founded in 1983, Solar Heat & Electric stands as Nebraska's oldest and most respected solar system designer and installer, with extensive projects across Iowa. Our expertise spans solar thermal, electric systems, and energy conservation, refined over 30 years of innovation. We specialize in scalable solutions for residential, commercial, agricultural, and municipal clients, including grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid systems. Our team, led by NABCEP-certified professional Michael Shonka, combines hands-on installation excellence with educational leadership, having pioneered Nebraska's first solar lab and training curriculum.We prioritize client education, transparent financial planning, and leveraging federal/state incentives like the 30% tax credit. Our proven track record includes landmark projects such as the Midwest's first solar-powered irrigation system and community solar initiatives that create local jobs while reducing energy costs. With a focus on long-term system performance and customer satisfaction, we deliver sustainable energy solutions that align environmental responsibility with economic benefits.
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Commercial Solar Solutions
Agricultural Solar Systems
Municipal Solar Projects
Solar Repair Services
Grid-Tied Systems
Hybrid Solar Systems
Solar Consultation
Tax Credit Assistance
Energy Efficiency Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We have 30 years of hands-on solar installation experience across the Midwest.
- Our team includes NABCEP-certified professionals with educational leadership in solar technology.
- We offer tailored solutions for residential, agricultural, commercial, and municipal projects.
- We maximize savings through expert guidance on 30% federal tax credits and state incentives.
- Our proven track record includes Nebraska's first solar irrigation and community solar projects.
Associations and certifications
- NABCEP
What people say
Handled everything with great foresight
Lived up to their reputation
Best decision for us
Made this principle a reality
Pragmatic strategies from long term success
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Custom solar panel systems for homeowners seeking energy independence. We assess roof orientation, energy consumption, and financial incentives to design grid-tied or hybrid systems that reduce utility bills. Our 30-year expertise ensures optimal placement and compliance with local regulations, maximizing long-term savings through federal tax credits and net-metering programs.
Commercial Solar Solutions
Scalable solar installations for businesses aiming to cut operational costs. We evaluate facility energy use and site conditions to engineer systems that offset 70-100% of electricity needs. Our services include financial modeling for ROI optimization, leveraging accelerated depreciation benefits, and coordinating utility interconnection agreements to ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
Agricultural Solar Systems
Solar-powered irrigation and equipment solutions tailored for agricultural operations. We design systems that integrate with center pivots, grain dryers, and barn facilities, reducing energy expenses while qualifying for rural energy grants. Our installations include monitoring systems to track performance and maximize returns through utility rebate programs.
Municipal Solar Projects
Large-scale solar implementations for towns and public institutions. We manage projects from feasibility studies to grid connection, helping municipalities achieve 25+ years of stable energy costs. Our services include council education, grant application assistance, and workforce development programs to create local green jobs.
Solar Repair Services
Comprehensive repair and maintenance for existing solar installations. Our technicians diagnose issues with inverters, controllers, and panel arrays, prioritizing cost-effective repairs over component replacement. We offer phone diagnostics to troubleshoot common failures and schedule site visits for complex system restoration.
People
Michael Shonka
Principal Solar Consultant
NABCEP-certified installer with 30 years of solar industry leadership. Developed Nebraska's first solar lab and training curriculum, teaching at four Midwestern universities. Oversees project engineering and client education initiatives.
Questions
What solar incentives are available for Nebraska homeowners?
Nebraska residents qualify for a 30% federal tax credit with no system cost cap. Additional state-specific incentives may include property tax exemptions and utility rebates.
Can solar panels power agricultural operations effectively?
Yes. Our systems power irrigation pumps, grain dryers, and farm equipment, with installations like the Midwest's first solar irrigation system generating 40,000 kWh annually.
How do municipal solar projects benefit communities?
They create local green jobs, stabilize energy costs for 25+ years, and attract environmentally conscious residents while reducing community carbon footprints.
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Minimal annual inspections and cleaning. We offer diagnostic phone support to identify common issues like sensor failures or inverter malfunctions before site visits.
Can businesses achieve energy independence through solar?
Commercial systems typically offset 70-100% of electricity use. With federal tax credits and accelerated depreciation, most businesses see ROI within six to seven years.
What solar system types do you install?
We offer grid-tied systems for net-metering benefits, off-grid systems for remote locations, and hybrid systems combining battery storage with grid connectivity for energy flexibility.