Environmental Responsibility Meets Smart Savings - The Johnsons' 10.95 kW Rooftop Solar in Plover, WI

Sunnysides: Solar Stories from Northwind Customers

In Plover, WI, Brad Johnson’s 10.95 kW grid-tied solar electric system produced 13,432 kWh in 2024, saving their household $1,775 in WPS territory in one year alone. At Northwind Solar, we know every solar journey is unique, and we’re happy to share the Johnsons' story, who combined their commitment to the environment with the excitement of moving into their new home as the tipping point for going solar.

We sat down with Brad for a Q&A to hear about his experience with the solar system so far, and what it was like going solar with Northwind...

What motivated you to go solar?

Brad and his wife, a retired couple, settled into their newly built home in August 2023, located in the Arbor Haven subdivision in Plover, WI. For Brad, the decision to go solar was a clear choice, “I have always thought renewable energy was important for environmental reasons,” he shares. While environmental stewardship was the main driver, the financial benefits quickly became a welcome bonus. “The cost savings are an added benefit,” he notes.

What financial benefits have you seen from your solar array?

The financial results have been substantial. Brad reports, “Certainly our electric bills are much lower.” In the 12 months of 2024, their system produced 13,432 kW of energy, resulting in $1,775 in savings. The trend has continued in 2025, with 10,529 kW produced and $1,506 saved in just the first nine months.

What was the experience like working with Northwind Solar?

When reflecting on his experience with Northwind Solar, Brad highlights the seamless coordination with their home builder. “They worked hand in hand with our builder (R. Smith Construction) to make this happen.” Even when a minor issue arose, a “little glitch with one of the solar panels,” it was fixed quickly.

He also values the post-installation support saying, "After install, we were also instructed on the workings of the system and the SolarEdge app, which I find very useful for keeping track of what we are generating."

When asked about the main benefit of choosing Northwind specifically, Brad pointed to our local presence and dedication: “They are close by and responsive to questions.” Brad happily recommends Northwind Solar to others and appreciates our "easy to work with" approach, "good education and follow up (and that we are close by)."

What would you say to future generations and those considering solar?

His advice to future generations and those considering solar is clear and insightful: "The start-up costs are fixed, but the savings will increase as the price of energy goes up." This perfectly captures the long-term value and smart investment that solar energy represents, and rings more true than ever as we see the price of electricity rise due to more demand for energy from things like data centers. WPS customers, like the Johnsons, are positioned to generate their own electricity with solar, as rate payers in WPS territory are bracing for a proposed 6.82% rate increase in 2026.

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