Business Details
8 Years
experience
Commercial Solar Energy Solutions
Nelnet Renewable Energy was founded in 2018 as a division of Nelnet, a company with over 40 years of service-oriented expertise. Our team combines decades of experience in solar project development, tax equity financing, and clean energy innovation to deliver tailored solutions for commercial, industrial, and institutional clients. We specialize in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for solar systems, backed by Nelnet's financial strength as a publicly traded, investment-grade company. Our vertically integrated approach enables us to finance, develop, deploy, and manage solar assets from concept to operation. We maintain a customer-centric philosophy, demonstrated through five-star service, Tier 1 equipment sourcing, and NABCEP-certified professionals.Our 2022 acquisition of GRNE Solar expanded our commercial installation capabilities, while our venture capital arm accelerates CleanTech innovation. With over $571 million invested in 200+ solar projects nationwide, we prioritize transparency, safety, and long-term client partnerships. Our Net Zero Academy platform extends sustainability education to K-12 and postsecondary institutions, reflecting our commitment to environmental literacy. As a purpose-driven organization, we align profitability with planetary stewardship, evidenced by 41 GWh of annual clean energy generation from our installed projects.
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Commercial Solar Systems
Solar Tax Equity Financing
Net Zero Academy
Engineering Procurement Construction
Battery Backup Systems
Electric Vehicle Charging
CleanTech Venture Capital
Operations & Maintenance
Solar Development Solutions
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- We offer 10+ years of solar project development experience since 2012
- Our team provides five-star service backed by Nelnet's 40+ years of expertise
- We maintain vertical integration across solar asset lifecycle management
- Our NABCEP-certified professionals ensure industry-standard compliance
- We've invested $571M in 200+ nationwide solar projects
What people say
Professional and responsive team
Successfully completed project
Eliminate CO2 emissions
Exceptional customer experiences
Met production expectations
Services
Residential Solar Installation
Our residential solar solutions delivered from 2012-2024 included complete system design, permitting, and installation with Tier 1 components. We provided battery backup integration and EV charging compatibility while maintaining five-star customer service. Transitioning focus to commercial markets, our legacy residential systems continue delivering energy independence and cost savings.
Commercial Solar Systems
We engineer and install custom commercial and industrial solar systems tailored to specific energy needs and site requirements. Our EPC services cover everything from feasibility studies to grid connection, utilizing GRNE Solar's expertise acquired in 2022. Systems generate 41 GWh annually across 200+ project sites nationwide.
Solar Tax Equity Financing
Our co-investment platform enables corporations to reduce federal tax liability through solar project investments. With $571M deployed since 2018, we structure tax equity deals that deliver financial returns while advancing sustainability goals. Services include asset management and compliance monitoring for investment portfolios.
Net Zero Academy
This online learning platform develops sustainability literacy for high school through postsecondary institutions. Using gamification techniques, it assesses environmental knowledge and promotes eco-friendly behaviors. Curriculum covers energy conservation, waste reduction, and climate action strategies.
Engineering Procurement Construction
We provide full-cycle EPC services for commercial and utility-scale solar projects. Our capabilities include system design, equipment sourcing, construction management, and ongoing maintenance. With 100+MW installed since 2012, we deliver turnkey solutions meeting strict safety and quality standards.
People
Scott Gubbels
Executive Director of Corporate Tax
President of Nelnet Renewable Energy with 20+ years tax leadership experience. Managed tax strategy for 60+ acquisitions and established Nelnet's $600M+ renewable energy division in 2018.
Alyssa Martin
President
Harvard Law graduate directing company strategy since 2020. Instrumental in tax equity transactions and acquisition of GRNE Solar. Focuses on sustainable business practices and community development initiatives.
Chad Hartnett
Chief Financial Officer
CPA with 25+ years financial leadership experience. Former Treasurer at HDR Engineering. Oversees financial operations and capital structuring for solar investment portfolios.
Adam Rue
Managing Director
Solar industry veteran overseeing project management and construction. 15+ years developing commercial solar systems. Board member of Illinois Solar Energy Association and environmental nonprofits.
Brandi Nye
Director of Business Development
Energy sector expert with decade-plus experience in renewable project development. Leads portfolio management and strategic sales initiatives for commercial solar solutions.
Questions
What commercial solar solutions do you offer?
We provide complete EPC services for commercial and industrial solar systems, including design, permitting, installation, and maintenance. Our services cover rooftop, ground-mount, and carport installations tailored to specific energy needs.
How does your tax equity financing work?
Our co-investment platform allows corporations to reduce federal tax liability through solar project investments. We structure deals that deliver financial returns while meeting sustainability goals, with $571M deployed since 2018.
Which states do you serve?
We currently operate in Colorado, Illinois, Nebraska, and New York with expanding service territories. Our Midwest roots support nationwide project execution capabilities through regional offices.
What happened to residential services?
We've shifted focus to commercial markets while honoring all residential warranties and support obligations. Existing customers receive ongoing maintenance and service through dedicated support channels.
How do you ensure project quality?
Our NABCEP-certified team follows strict quality standards with Tier 1 components. We maintain full lifecycle control through engineering, procurement, construction, and O&M services.