Business Details
13 Years
experience
Your Trusted Solar Energy Partner in Santa Cruz
At Day One Solar, we believe the time for solar energy is now. Our mission is to deliver highly efficient solar energy systems to all who are ready to transition to clean, renewable power. With over a decade of service to the Santa Cruz County community, we have helped hundreds of families and businesses reduce energy costs and environmental impact. Our team brings decades of combined experience in solar system design, installation, and maintenance, ensuring tailored solutions for residential and commercial clients. We prioritize quality craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and sustainability in every project.As a certified Monterey Bay Green Business, we practice eco-conscious operations and support local initiatives like the Jon M. Rumble Memorial Scholarship for renewable energy education. Our commitment to excellence extends to ongoing support for existing customers and seamless integration of battery storage and EV charging solutions. We handle every project phasefrom site assessment to utility approvalswith precision and transparency, ensuring long-term value for our clients.
Services
Solar System Design
Solar Installation
Battery Storage
EV Charging Stations
System Check
Commercial Solar
Electrical Services
PG&E NEM Remediation
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- 12+ years serving the Central Coast with 700+ satisfied customers.
- Experienced team with 20+ years of expertise in solar energy systems.
- Certified Monterey Bay Green Business committed to sustainability.
- Comprehensive services from design to utility approvals.
- Award-winning customer support for residential and commercial clients.
Associations and certifications
- Monterey Bay Green Business Network
- California Green Business Network
What people say
Personable, professional, and reliable
Knowledgeable and professional team
Efficient and courteous installation
Faster than estimated process
Highly recommend
Services
Solar System Design
Our solar design process begins with a personalized consultation to understand your energy goals. We analyze usage patterns, determine optimal system size, and select high-quality materials to create a customized proposal. Our team ensures seamless integration with your property's architecture while maximizing energy efficiency and cost savings. Every design includes detailed engineering plans and permitting assistance.
Solar Installation
We handle full solar installations from permits to activation, ensuring safety and precision. Our certified technicians install roof-mounted or ground-mounted systems using industry-leading equipment. The process includes electrical integration, grid connection, and final performance testing. We coordinate utility approvals and provide system walkthroughs to ensure clients understand their new energy solution.
Battery Storage
Our battery storage solutions enable energy independence by storing excess solar power for use during outages or peak demand. We offer tailored systems that integrate with existing solar setups or grid connections. Installation includes system compatibility checks, electrical panel upgrades, and performance optimization to maximize savings and reliability.
EV Charging Stations
We provide customized EV charging station installations for homes and businesses. Our services include site assessment, electrical upgrades, and secure mounting for fast, reliable charging. Systems are designed to accommodate current and future EV needs while integrating with solar energy systems for sustainable operation.
System Maintenance
Our maintenance services ensure peak performance of existing solar systems. We offer diagnostic checks, inverter replacements, panel cleaning referrals, and system upgrades. Our team troubleshoots performance issues and provides repair solutions for systems originally installed by us or other providers.
People
Tony Armor
President/CEO
Tony founded Day One Solar in 2013 with a background as a General Building Contractor. He leads operations with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Tony resides in Santa Cruz, where he practices organic gardening and beekeeping.
Matt Thompson
VP, Project Management
Matt manages residential and commercial projects with 20+ years of solar industry experience. He lives in Santa Cruz with his family and enjoys surfing and mountain biking in his free time.
Megan Barrett
Operations Manager
Megan oversees office operations and customer relations since joining in 2019. She interfaces with PG&E and manages administrative functions. Megan enjoys running and playing the banjo in her spare time.
Ray Evert
Lead Electrician
Ray brings 20+ years of electrical expertise to solar installations. He ensures quality workmanship and service excellence. Ray spends his free time fishing with his dog, Shaman.
Ryan Mobley
Lead Solar Installer
Ryan leads solar and storage installations since joining in 2021. He previously worked on commercial projects with Day One Solar. Ryan enjoys music, drone flying, and hair-cutting services for friends.
Questions
What solar services do you offer?
We provide system design, installation, battery storage, EV charging stations, maintenance, and commercial solar solutions. Contact us for a full list of services.
Do you service existing solar systems?
Yes, we service systems from other installers, including diagnostics, repairs, and upgrades for residential and commercial clients.
How can I maximize solar savings?
Pairing solar with battery storage optimizes energy use, reduces grid reliance, and provides backup power during outages for maximum cost savings.
Are there incentives for solar installation?
California offers a 30% federal tax credit for battery storage systems. We help clients navigate eligibility requirements and utility program participation.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Clara Counties for residential and commercial solar projects.
