The Dream, the Struggle, and the Triumph
It was the summer of 2015 when Tyler and Alicia Uebelhoer decided to put their life savings on the line and dive headfirst into the uncharted waters of the solar energy industry. At the time, the East Coast was still struggling to find its footing in this rapidly evolving field, but the couple was determined to make their mark.
Starting out of their modest South Buffalo home, the Uebelhoers faced a seemingly endless stream of challenges. From a lack of industry knowledge and resources to financial hurdles that kept them from drawing a paycheck for the first 18 months, it was a relentless uphill battle. “We really didn’t have anyone to turn to, to ask questions and get answers,” Alicia recalled. “Tyler did all the research on his own and called several establishments to find the information he needed.”
But the Uebelhoers were no strangers to hard work. Tyler, a former tower technician who had scaled 600-foot structures for maintenance, and Alicia, a former secretary, hotel supervisor, and sales representative, were no strangers to tackling daunting tasks head-on. And their passion for solar energy, a business they believed would “help people in so many ways,” kept them pushing forward.
A Sunny Forecast and a Brighter Future
Fast-forward to today, and the once-fledgling Buffalo Solar Solutions Inc. has not only weathered the storm but is now taking the industry by storm. In October 2016, the company outgrew their home-based operations and opened a dedicated office in South Buffalo, complete with a team of skilled solar installers and educators.
“We knew that solar was going to catch on worldwide, and while that is still off in the future, we think that solar will one day become just another typical household product,” Tyler said, echoing the conviction that has driven their success. “It will be as common as having a washing machine and dryer. In the next 20 years, we believe that 50 percent or more of households will have solar or have access to it through community solar.”
And the Uebelhoers’ prediction seems to be ringing true. With utility prices continuing to rise, potential customers are now seeking out Buffalo Solar Solutions, rather than the other way around. The company’s recent expansion into Cuba, New York, about 75 minutes from Buffalo, is a testament to their growing influence and the surging demand for residential solar solutions in the region.
Embracing the Competition, Innovating the Offerings
But the Uebelhoers’ success isn’t just about their unwavering determination and entrepreneurial spirit. They’ve also recognized the value in embracing, rather than fearing, the competition.
“SolarCity is not a threat to our business,” Alicia explained. “In fact, we welcome them because it’s great advertisement for local solar companies such as ours.” In fact, the Uebelhoers were even sought out by Tesla, Elon Musk’s electric vehicle and clean energy company, to become an exclusive certified installer of their products, including electric car charging stations and Powerwall battery storage systems.
And the Uebelhoers’ innovative spirit doesn’t stop there. They’ve recently added an attractive solar pergola option to their portfolio, which they believe is the first of its kind in Western New York. “The end result was cause for excitement among homeowners seeking a clean energy option that also adds to the overall beauty of their home and landscaping,” the company proudly boasts.
The Bright Side of the Future
As the Uebelhoers look towards the future, their optimism is palpable. With the opening of the SolarCity factory in their South Buffalo neighborhood, they see the rising tide lifting all boats. “It’s great advertisement for local solar companies such as ours,” Alicia said, echoing her earlier sentiment.
And with the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, which has provided a much-needed boost to the renewable energy sector, the Uebelhoers’ sunny outlook seems more justified than ever. According to the latest analysis from Wood Mackenzie, the solar power and energy storage sectors are poised for significant growth in the coming years.
“We’re excited to be a part of this industry’s bright future,” Tyler said, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. “And we’re proud to be bringing affordable, sustainable energy solutions to homeowners across Western New York and beyond.”
As I wrap up my conversation with the Uebelhoers, I can’t help but feel inspired by their story. From the humble beginnings in their living room to the thriving, innovative solar energy company they’ve built, their journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and a willingness to embrace change.
The Future is Bright, and It’s Powered by the Sun
As I reflect on my time with Tyler and Alicia, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of optimism about the future of residential solar solutions. The challenges they’ve overcome, the obstacles they’ve faced, and the triumphs they’ve achieved serve as a powerful reminder that the path to a sustainable, clean energy future is paved with determination, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of innovation.
And with companies like Solar A Systems Inc. leading the charge, I have no doubt that the future of residential solar is brighter than ever. So, if you’re considering making the switch to clean, renewable energy, I encourage you to take a closer look at the amazing solutions and services that companies like Buffalo Solar Solutions are offering.
After all, as Tyler so eloquently put it, “Solar just makes good sense.” And with the Uebelhoers and their ilk paving the way, the future of residential solar is looking sunnier by the day.
