Built on Cooperation: The Northwind Solar Difference in Central Wisconsin

October is National Co-op Month and Energy Awareness Month!

Thinking about going solar and supporting a business with roots right here in Central Wisconsin? Northwind Solar is different. Here’s what sets us apart from other Wisconsin solar companies: we’re an employee-owned, local solar cooperative, rooted in our community, and committed to quality at every step of your solar journey.

Why We Became a Worker-Owned Solar Cooperative

It’s hard to believe we've been designing and installing solar electric systems across Wisconsin since 2007, and that it's been almost 10 years since we became an employee-owned cooperative. 


A Different Kind of Wisconsin Solar Installer

We were founded in 2007, and in that time, we’ve brought megawatts of clean, renewable energy to Central Wisconsin, helping thousands of homes, businesses, local governments, and nonprofits leverage the financial and environmental benefits of solar electricity.


In 2017, after a couple of years of planning, we officially became a worker-owned cooperative, moving away from a traditional LLC to a more inclusive and employee-driven structure that empowers our team to provide the best possible service to our community. 


We didn’t just want jobs; we wanted all of our employees to have a stake in our company’s future. Transitioning to an employee-owned co-op has brought an ownership mentality to every single project. You’ll see it in our customer service, design, products, service, and our reputation among Central Wisconsin home and business owners.


What Does This Mean for You?

Our employee-owners live and work in the communities we serve. When you go solar with us, you’re working with local owners who are committed to quality and reliability for years to come.


“For us, being a worker-owned cooperative means our employees are our greatest asset. When we invest and trust in our employees, we help them be successful, and in turn, help Northwind Solar be successful. We live and work here and can provide the service that out-of-state and remote companies simply cannot.” 

 — Woody Bolton, Design & Sales, Northwind Co-op Board President


What is an Employee-Owned Cooperative?

A cooperative is much more than just a corporate structure. Every employee at Northwind Solar has the opportunity to become an owner, take part in company decisions, and share in our mutual success. This shared ownership brings a special commitment and pride to our work.


Benefits of an Employee-Owned Solar Co-op:

  • Pride of ownership and quality craftsmanship in every solar installation
  • Personal, local service
  • Community-focused decisions that keep dollars working here in Central Wisconsin


Our Cooperative Principles: Powering Community and Clean Energy

  1. Open & Voluntary Membership: Every team member has a path to ownership.
  2. Democratic Member Control: Employees have a say in how Northwind runs.
  3. Economic Participation: Profits are shared among employee-owners.
  4. Autonomy & Independence: Decisions are made by employee-owners who are involved in the day-to-day operations and committed to the well-being of our cooperative, customers, and the integrity of the service we provide.
  5. Education & Training: Ongoing education for our team and our customers.
  6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives: We support and learn from other co-ops nationwide.
  7. Concern for Community: We always put our Central Wisconsin neighbors and customers first.



“We really embody the cooperative approach, not only with how we do business, but each and every system we design and install. That’s why we’re trusted as one of Wisconsin’s solar leaders.”

 — Jordan Kaiser, Commercial Design & Sales, Employee-Owner


Our values: self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. These drive our business every day.


What Customers Experience: The Employee-Owned Difference

Choosing Northwind means you’re not just picking a contractor, you’re building a partnership for the long haul:

  • Local Ownership: Your solar system is planned and serviced by owner-employees.
  • 10-Year Workmanship Warranty: We stand behind every project.
  • Community Investment: Every dollar stays in Central Wisconsin.
  • Ongoing Support: One call connects you to a local owner ready to assist.

“The face of the company has changed over time. We’ve been blessed with some incredible contributors who are no longer with us. But the amazing people who are here are confidently building Northwind into a stronger company and strengthening our community ties. The values that the company was founded on carry on. I am deeply proud to be a part of this.”

 - Josh Stolzenburg, Founder, Director of Sales & Marketing


Watch Josh and Jordan share how Northwind Solar became employee-owned.


Ready to Experience the Co-op Solar Difference?

This October, we're celebrating Co-op Month and Energy Awareness Month! Take the next step with Northwind Solar, Wisconsin's employee-owned solar cooperative.

Request a Free Estimate
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Increased Property Value Professional installation by a local commercial solar power company will enhance your property's attractiveness to potential buyers and tenants by promising lower energy costs and sustainability. Energy-efficient properties are in demand, particularly as environmental consciousness becomes a critical factor in business decisions. Studies have shown that buildings equipped with solar power systems have seen an increase in property value compared to those without such systems. This added value not only enhances asset worth but also gives businesses a competitive edge in the real estate market. Return on Investment (ROI) Depending on location, system size, and available incentives, businesses can see a return on their solar investment typically within a few years. For example, in sunny regions where solar efficiency is at its peak, ROI periods can be markedly shorter. Furthermore, utility cost savings can be reinvested into business or directed towards further sustainability initiatives. In fact, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, solar accounted for 69% of all new electricity-generating capacity added to the U.S. grid in the first quarter of 2025, signaling a robust future for ROI in solar investments. Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Decreasing Carbon Footprint By converting sunlight into electricity, solar panels facilitate clean energy production, substantially lowering carbon emissions. Businesses that transition to solar power significantly diminish their reliance on fossil fuels, which are the primary sources of carbon emissions. Given the global push towards carbon neutrality, adopting solar power supports broader environmental goals. Deploying solar technology is not just a financial investment but a commitment to environmental stewardship that resonates with today's eco-conscious consumers. Fortunately, a reliable commercial solar power company in your area can install panels for your property and start decreasing your carbon footprint right away! Enhancing Brand Image In the current market landscape, sustainability is a key differentiator. Companies that embrace green energy like solar are perceived as responsible and forward-thinking, appealing to environmentally aware consumers and partners. This green shift not only enhances brand image but can also augment customer loyalty and attract top-tier talent who prefer to affiliate with companies prioritizing sustainability. Thus, commercial solar power is not just an operational decision but a strategic move to enhance brand perception. Meeting Corporate Sustainability Goals Many corporations have ambitious sustainability targets, often aiming for substantial reductions in carbon emissions. Hiring a skilled commercial solar power company can play a critical role in these strategies, providing a renewable source of energy that aligns with these goals. It's an effective way to demonstrate progress towards sustainability commitments in annual reports and stakeholder communications. As consumers and investors increasingly weigh sustainability heavily in their decision-making processes, solar energy becomes integral to holistic corporate responsibility efforts. Technological Advances in Solar Power Improved Panel Efficiency Solar panels have evolved significantly, with current models offering higher conversion efficiencies than ever before. Breakthroughs in materials and design, such as bifacial panels that capture light on both sides, help maximize electricity generation even in less than optimal conditions. With these innovations, businesses can produce more power from smaller surface areas, enhancing site feasibility and output. 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A reliable partner will guide businesses through the entire process, from initial consultation to ongoing maintenance, ensuring a seamless and efficient transition to solar power. This strategic partnership can greatly influence the long-term performance and return on a solar investment. Post-Installation Support Post-installation support from a professional commercial solar power company plays a vital role in maintaining system performance and protecting the solar investment. Services include regular maintenance checks, performance reporting, and warranty management. Enlisting a skilled support team helps address any technical issues swiftly, minimizing downtime and maintaining optimal performance levels. Long-term post-installation support ensures that businesses continue to benefit from solar power while safeguarding their investment. Future Trends in Commercial Solar Power Innovations in Solar Technology The solar sector is at the cusp of major technological revolutions with new materials and designs set to enhance efficiency. Emerging innovations such as tandem solar cells and perovskite materials promise significant performance gains. Companies adopting next-generation solar technologies stand to benefit from increased energy output and reduced costs. By investing in R&D, the solar industry continues to unlock new frontiers, paving the way for more ubiquitous and efficient solar installations across diverse commercial landscapes. Integration With Green Building Practices Green building practices emphasize sustainability and resource efficiency, with panel installation by a professional commercial solar power company playing a crucial role. Solar installations complement other eco-friendly building components like insulation and water efficiency measures. With increasing emphasis on sustainable construction, the integration of solar technologies is expected to grow. As part of a holistic environmental strategy, solar energy provides competitive advantage and aligns with green building certification systems such as LEED. Policy and Regulatory Changes Government policies play a pivotal role in the progression and adoption of solar technologies. As environmental concerns gain prominence, policies are anticipated to increasingly favor renewable energy development. These changes could likely result in more favorable conditions, such as tax benefits and subsidies, propelling solar adoption. Businesses must remain proactive in monitoring policy developments to capitalize on emerging opportunities and ensure compliance in a changing regulatory environment. Hiring a commercial solar power company is indispensable in reducing business overheads while enhancing environmental sustainability. By investing in solar technology, companies not only slash operational costs but also position themselves as leaders in corporate responsibility. For businesses located in Central Wisconsin, our team at Northwind Solar located in Amherst, WI can assist with ease. We are a premier solar installer in the community and provide high-performance solar power and battery storage systems for both homes and businesses. We offer over 100 years of collective experience in renewable energy, a 10-Year labor warranty, and free consultations and estimates. Contact our reliable team today to get started!
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