Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Solar Energy Partner in Chicago
Windfree Solar has been at the forefront of delivering innovative solar energy solutions since 2009. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, we specialize in residential, commercial, and municipal solar installations, along with battery storage and electric vehicle charging station development. Our team of industry specialists combines technical expertise with a commitment to sustainability, ensuring clients receive tailored systems that reduce energy costs and environmental impact. As a certified Minority Owned Business and Equity Eligible Contractor, we prioritize community engagement and ethical practices.With over 600 residential projects across the Midwest, our full-service EPC approach guarantees seamless project execution from design to installation. We emphasize transparency, teamwork, and long-term client relationships, offering ongoing support to maximize system performance. Our mission-driven approach has earned recognition through partnerships like the Switch Together Chicagoland program, further solidifying our role as a trusted leader in renewable energy.
Services
Residential Solar
Commercial Solar
Municipal Solar
Energy Storage
EPC Solar Services
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in solar installation across the Midwest.
- Our full-service EPC approach ensures seamless project execution from design to installation.
- We specialize in complex projects that other companies cannot complete.
- We offer integrated energy storage solutions for uninterrupted power supply.
- Our team provides ongoing system monitoring and maintenance support.
Associations and certifications
- Minority Owned Business (MBE)
- Equity Eligible Contractor (EEC)
What people say
Best pricing
Helped figure out rebates
Experts in installation
Seamless process
Reliable long-term support
Services
Residential Solar
Our residential solar solutions empower homeowners to reduce energy bills, increase property value, and contribute to environmental sustainability. We design custom systems that integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure while maximizing state and federal incentives. With over 600 installations across the Midwest, our team ensures reliable performance and long-term savings through meticulous design and expert installation.
Commercial Solar
Commercial solar installations help businesses hedge against rising energy costs while demonstrating environmental responsibility. We handle projects of all sizes, from small storefronts to large manufacturing facilities, providing tailored solutions that align with operational goals. Our full-service approach includes incentive optimization, system design, and ongoing performance monitoring to ensure maximum return on investment.
Energy Storage
Energy storage solutions enable uninterrupted power supply and greater energy independence by storing excess solar production. We offer advanced battery systems that provide grid resiliency during outages and optimize energy usage patterns. Our experts assess site-specific needs to recommend the most efficient storage configurations, ensuring clients maximize their solar investment's value.
Municipal Solar
Municipal solar projects reduce public utility costs while advancing community sustainability goals. We collaborate with local governments to develop scalable solutions for schools, administrative buildings, and public facilities. Our experience with complex permitting processes and grant programs ensures efficient implementation of cost-effective solar infrastructure for public institutions.
EPC Solar Services
Our EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) model delivers comprehensive solar solutions from initial design through installation and maintenance. This integrated approach guarantees quality control, cost efficiency, and timeline adherence for residential, commercial, and municipal clients. We manage all project phases internally, ensuring seamless execution and long-term system performance.
People
Eric Heineman
CEO
Eric Heineman leads Windfree Solar's strategic vision, driving innovation in renewable energy solutions. With extensive industry experience, he focuses on expanding sustainable practices while maintaining operational excellence across all projects.
Doug Snower
President
Doug Snower oversees Windfree Solar's growth initiatives and market expansion. His leadership emphasizes technical innovation and client satisfaction, ensuring the company maintains its position as a Midwest solar industry leader.
Chris Lamas
Chief Operating Officer
Chris Lamas manages daily operations, optimizing processes for efficiency and quality. His expertise in renewable energy systems ensures consistent delivery of high-standard solar installations across residential and commercial sectors.
Brittany Brilliant
Marketing Director
Brittany Brilliant leads Windfree Solar's marketing strategy, focusing on community engagement and brand development. She emphasizes transparent communication to educate consumers about solar energy benefits and company values.
Joseph F. Clair
Vice President, Commercial
Joseph F. Clair directs commercial operations, leveraging technical expertise to develop scalable solar solutions for businesses. He specializes in navigating complex incentive programs to maximize client financial benefits.
Questions
What solar incentives are available in Illinois?
Illinois offers state and federal tax credits, rebates, and net metering programs that significantly reduce solar installation costs. Our team helps clients maximize these incentives during project planning.
How does the solar installation process work?
Our EPC process includes site assessment, system design, permitting, installation, and final inspection. We handle all stages internally, ensuring seamless execution and minimal client involvement.
Can solar panels increase property value?
Yes, solar installations typically increase property value by $20 per $1 saved annually on utility bills, offering long-term financial benefits beyond energy cost reductions.
Do you offer energy storage solutions?
We provide battery storage systems that store excess solar energy for nighttime use or grid outages, optimizing energy independence and system efficiency.
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Our systems require minimal maintenance, primarily periodic cleaning and annual inspections. We offer ongoing monitoring services to ensure optimal performance throughout the system's lifespan.
Are you licensed for commercial solar projects?
Yes, we're certified to handle commercial installations of all sizes, with expertise in complex projects requiring specialized engineering and permitting solutions.