ReVision Energy

I signed up through the Solarize Mass program in October 2013. The system was installed in May 2014, around Memorial Day. The delay was part due to the Winter, when they do not install, part due to them being incredibly busy, but also in part to them "forgetting" about me (their words)? I understand that they're super-busy, but I don't like to be forgotten about. So, the install went great - the guys were fantastic, nice, polite, quick, and hard working! But before the panels can be activated, you have to get inspected and then commissioned. The inspection went fine, but then the commission was delayed because they "forgot" about me (again their words). The commissioning took place 8 weeks after the install. After that, the inverter wasn't working well so they came back to do a software install. The system didn't really come online until the 3rd week of August (after the software install). But now that it's working it's fantastic. I generated enough energy in my first 2.5 weeks to cover the energy used in my highest usage month in the past year!!! Overall, the people I worked with were great, but it seemed like the office stuff was a bit disorganized. The delays were especially annoying during the long, sunny days of summer.

Sunbug did a fantastic job managing the installation of my system. They executed on the agreed plan, the system works fantastically. I am very happy with the work they did. Its a great, state of the art system designed exactly as I had envisioned.

Install was very smooth. Only took 2 days!

Great. I learned about SunBug from a co-worker. They answered all my questions and worked with me to change the design a bit and add two more panels. They were one of the most customer-focused and friendly group of people I've ever worked with. They were also extremely well coordinated (mostly by Andrea), professional, and did everything they said they would do. There were really no surprises except the initial salesperson left the company shortly after I signed the contract. They handled it very well though and even gave me a chance to back out if I wanted. The whole process from initial proposal to turn on of the system took about 3 months, although the install took less then two days. I couldn't recommend them more highly. As far as price, they came in a bit cheaper then a national company (Astrum). Because SunBug was local, and their material was of higher quality overall, it was a no-brainer to go with the local company.

The whole experience from first contact to final connection was fantastic. I probably spoke or emailed with 6 people throughout the whole process, from the initial discussion, design, pricing, purchasing, forms, installation and the final flip of the switch. Everyone was professional, friendly and most important, did what they said they would do. There was no chasing, guessing or any nonsense. I have already recommended Solar Bug to a neighbor and will probably be using them to put a system on my mothers roof within the year. Highly recommended.

I originally found Sunbug Solar thru an internet search. I was able to check out their revues thru Angie's List. I was originally impressed by the reviews I read on their company. Once I actually contacted Sunbug it was obvious to me why they had received such glowing reviews. I initially dealt w/ Mike O who came to my house & explained the solar system. Mike was excellent to deal with, he patiently answered all my questions. He helped me to consider several different options, guiding me to choose the correct one. Once I had made my decision to go with Sunbug for my Solar System, Andrea expertly took over negotiating all the paper work. She made sure that all the paper work was correctly filed for all the necessary permits, rebates & credits. Andrea scheduled the instal, inspection & connection of the system. Both Andrea & Mike were easy to reach if I had any questions. They both made me feel that my project was the only project they were working on. The installers were always early, courteous & cleaned up before they left for the day. They made sure I was informed of what their days work would entail. It looked to me that they did a good job installing my solar system. I would highly recommend SunBug Solar for your Solar panels needs.

Did all the engineering including sun measurements, structural considerations, costs, site variations and aesthetics. Only company of the four I looked at that had the expertise to consider all angles of the installation. They were honest in given options even if it decreased their profit. They were able to keep cost down and were tied for low bid. The installation was done ahead of schedule and there was always someone available to answer questions. Unlike the other vendors they do not take a cookie cutter approach. This is the best contractor I have worked with and I used to spec homes. Also the performance of the system exceeds expectations.

My system was a challenge to size, design and install. I live in a 1870 remodeled duplex. My neighbor on the other side of the house didn't want the utility disconnect to be on their side of the house. This required a separate utility drop on my side of the house. SunBug addressed the issue, worked with the local building inspector and the utility company to come up with a solution. Sunbug wasted no expense to do it right by erecting two separate walls in my basement, one to mount my dual 5000 watt inverters and production meters. A second wall was constructed to mount the line side tap and utility disconnect. The result was a well thought out design that has a clean professional look to it. I love showing it off when my friends come to visit.

We contracted to have both systems installed. Dan Covey from Sunbug has been more than a pleasure to deal with so far. At this point the hot water system has been installed and went very smoothly. The only thing left is to get rid of our old hot water tank but the installation and cleanup were impeccable. Our PV permitting is waiting approval for setbacks since it is a ground mount system. We will update with a full review and photos once complete.

When a local company came in with a very low bid (later found to be spurious bic) he cautioned us that they were probably not an accredited/licensed installer and they were not. We ultimately found another near-by provider that is less costly but SunBug and Mike Ozog are true professionals

Sunbug's rep Mike Ozog spent the time with me to go over my options and explain clearly the costs, schedule, and benefits of such a system. He clearly explained the complex web of rebates, tax credits, and SRECS. He obviously had a sound knowledge of the state of solar installation in MA and the way it worked, and, although I had a bid from another company, I decided to go with SunBug because of their local experience and history of installing client-owned systems. The other company obviously was pushing the "rented" option. Mike checked out the site and measured and produced a well-thought-out proposal and budget, which SunBug stuck to except for $300 for structural reinforcement of the roof. I signed the contract in early January, and Andrea Burke started my paperwork in early January. SunBug handled all the paperwork?I just had to sign here and there. Andrea was always very responsive to any questions I had. I was expecting to wait until late April before any installation would take place, but Installation took a couple of days with a courteous, professional crew at the beginning of April. I got inspected within a week, and I went solar April 21st. I had thought it would take longer and was delighted at the speed and ease of the whole process. Thanks to SolarBug for making this such a positive experience. I highly recommend this company. They know what they're doing.

We were very impressed. They were very thorough in explaining technology, discussing various incentives for installing solar panels and also upfront about the cost. We didn’t go with them as there were concerns in our roof to hold the number of panels.

From start to finish, they were honest, professional, punctual, clean, nice - an extraordinarily positive experience. They explained everything, answered all questions, kept in touch with me throughout the whole process, so I always knew what the next step was and when it was going to happen. The project was delayed by the innumerable snow storms this winter; each time it snowed, Andrea would contact me and tell me that they couldn't work but schedule the next possible opportunity. Andrea took care of all the paperwork. (There is a lot of paperwork). The people who worked in our house were extremely fastidious and considerate. The people who worked outside the house came early every day (in the bitter cold) and waited until 7 a.m. before asking us to move our cars so they could get started. They couldn't have been harder working, braver, cleaner, or nicer. The government inspector told us it was well done. The people who worked here never complained about anything. It was bitter cold and windy, and they never complained or were negative about anything. I have rarely dealt with such a uniformly professional organization. It was expensive, but I think solar panels are expensive.

I had contacted a few different solar companies; most of them were only willing to install a small system on my home. SunBug was willing to listen to me, and design a system that used as much of my roof space as possible to generate electricity. It was a pleasure to work with them. They came up with a detailed project proposal that included drawings, a price and estimates for how long it would take for my system to pay for itself. They were patient with me while I made my decision, and then they were efficient about scheduling the installation. I particularly appreciated how careful they were to work around my garden bed in front of the house; I've had work crews smash my plants, but SunBug left my flowers unharmed. I also noticed that the electrician they subcontracted did superlative work, so I later hired him for another project. Once the panels were installed, we had to wait months for National Grid to inspect the system so that we could start. They kept me informed through the waiting period, and they were almost as excited as I was when the power finally started to flow. The last service they provided for me was plenty of concrete advice on filling in the forms needed to get my state tax refund and start selling SRECs. The paperwork was daunting, and without their help I would have missed out on important opportunities. Now, two and a half years later, the solar panels have operated reliably the whole time. On one occasion, one of the inverters had a problem, and SunBug contacted me to investigate the problem. It turned out to be minor and easily fixed, but I appreciated the fact that they continue to monitor my system long after it was installed.

SunBug Solar was a pleasure to work with. From the initial meeting, they explained the entire process and the cost/benefit of going solar. They set up a schedule and kept to it. They were reliable and professional throughout the process. Update: We have now had our panels up for 10 months and could not be more pleased with our decision to go forward. We are very impressed with the quick and knowledgeable response(s) we receive from Sun Bug solar whenever we have a question. We could not recommend this company more highly!

I asked Mike at SunBug to evaluate whether we'd be a good candidate for solar. He responded quickly with an analysis based on a satellite image of our house and indicated we would not likely be good candidates in regard to a return on our investment. I appreciated his honesty, but still asked if he'd come by the house to evaluate it in-person in the event the satellite image was misleading. He came by just a few days later, did a thorough analysis and (unfortunately) came to the same conclusion. While my property won't be able to benefit from solar, I will certainly consider using SunBug Solar in the future if we move elsewhere. All of Mike's responses were timely and professional.

The Sun Bug crew was professional, punctual and respectful. They respectfully removed their work boots each time they entered the house; this was especially helpful given the weather at the time. The installation is meticulous. They were equally meticulous about cleaning up as well. Great job!

SunBug solar was a pleasure to work with from start to finish. We love our solar panels and and I highly recommend SunBug as an installer. I love financial modeling and Dan Covey was more than happy to endure my endless array of questions and scenarios on how to optimize the return on investment of solar panels. My questions were always answers promptly, skillfully and with enthusiasm. By the time we decided on a PV system design and a financing plan, I was totally convinced that I was making optimal and informed decisions. The installation process went smoothly and quickly and SunBug did a great job of keeping me up-to-date on our project status. SunBug has excellent documents which clearly explain the installation process and our installation went exactly as planned. SunBug also does a great job of managing all of the paperwork associated with state and federal rebates, registration with NSTAR, and selling solar renewable energy credits. They even continue to help me with the paperwork, as just recently, nearly a year after our installation, Andrea Mitter-Burke helped me submit the appropriate paperwork to make some changes to our NSTAR account.

SunBug provided such an exceptional level of service that I have brought them back later for other, not-directly-solar work (at which they also excelled)! From initial consultation to proposal development to system design and installation, everyone at SunBug was thoroughly professional and an absolute pleasure to work with. The design took all our concerns into account (including placing the maximum possible number of panels on the roof) and also was made to provide an esthetically-pleasing look, neatly and seamlessly wrapping the panel layout around the existing skylights in a manner that makes it look as if they were installed simultaneously, and not 16 years apart. The neatness of the installation extends to routing the wiring and mounting all the hardware in the basement as well as on the outside of the house. The array has worked flawlessly since installation 20 months ago, and SunBug has always remained available for any questions or concerns. I highly recommend them.

I contacted SunBug Solar partially based on the other positive Angie's List reviews and I have not been disappointed. They immediately got back to me to set up a time to come and check out the house and see if we were a candidate for PV power. Ben Apro came out and did an assessment of the house to determine if we would still be a candidate for solar even though the roof isn't quite southern facing. He also explained different financing programs, solar energy credits, potential rebates from utilities and tax credits currently being offered by the state and federal government. After taking measurements and discussing my expectations he went back and came up with a report detailing the proposed system design, output expectations, potential return on investment and even a mock-up of what the system would look like when installed on the roof. We ended up deciding to install a pretty good size system consisting of 34 solar panels to maximize the output of the system using the entire roof. Once we signed the contract to do the work Andrea took over and began the process of arranging things to pull permits, deal with the utility company, town inspectors and any other paperwork issues to ensure that we followed guidelines for Tax Credits and rebates on the system. It took about 6 weeks to get all the paperwork done and then schedule a time to start the installation, which was anticipated to take 2-3 days. Of course on the scheduled day it started to rain, but Jake and his crew were able to get going on the interior work that was needed in the attic and running the electrical system. It eventually stopped raining a few days later and they were able to finish most of the installation, but had to come back to finish a later the following week. Once the system was installed it needed to be inspected and "commissioned" before we could officially throw the switch and start generating power. Andrea took care of all the scheduling which took another week or so to coordinate. Once it was up and running they were able to monitor the system and noticed that one of the panels wasn't registering properly and they sent a crew right out to check and it found that there was a defective part which Andrea arranged to have replaced as soon as they could get it in. After a hiccup or two getting the part they came right out and swapped it out no problem. Overall the project went very well and the workmanship was excellent. Everything was left neat and clean and things were well planned out. I would highly recommend the work done by SunBug Solar.

They provided a solid quote for a 4 kW system at $18000. Unfortunately, there's too much shade on my roof for it to be useful.

I'm a hard homeowner to please. I'm eager for information, often impatient in getting it, and want ALL the details. This sometimes drives contractors crazy and may intimidate some. But SunBug rose to the occasion, even liked my enthusiasm to learn, and was responsive from the start. I'm still able to reach the owner by email to answer lingering questions and he responds within a day. They explained the pros/cons of various manufactures' products, warrantees, and technologies; detailed a payback timeframe; and kept their schedule during installation, weather permitting. I was impressed with the install. Jake, the lead electrician, and all the crew were courteous and respectful of the home. None had a problem taking off their shoes when entering the dwelling areas, which we appreciated. All electricians and technicians answered questions along the way and kept us abreast of their progress. Once the system is full installed, they test it, but you're not allowed to officially turn it on until they receive final approval from the Mass Clean Energy Center. This approval can take a couple of weeks and it's agonizing to wait; but, SunBug has apparently maintained a good relationship with these folks and gently nudges them when necessary. I've had two excellent experiences with contractors during renovations done on the house since we've owned it (two years now) and working with SunBug has been one of these experiences. I'd highly recommend working with Ben Mayer and his team.

When we started looking at PV systems we contacted about two dozen installers when we were at a home show. Many never returned our calls. A few took months before they did. They all seemed to have some of the answers to my questions, but not all. Based on my research, I knew a number were providing mis-information. Some produced payback spreadsheets that were laughable -- maximum (and laughable) SREC values, 25 year SREC payments, output assuming 100% of a penels rating, etc. When I worked my way through, and rejected, all the home show vendors I turned to Angie's List. I found SunBug Solar and their great reviews. Everyone I dealt with was absolutely professional and knew the answers to my questions. They didn't try to hype the system with unrealistic expectations. In the end they sold me on their honesty and professionalism. Price-wise they were in the same ballpark as everyone else meaning, expensive. My only real complaint on price was that their price scaled linearly whereas most others provided discounts as the system got bigger. In the end, we opted for a pre-paid lease; the finances using that approach worked out better than an outright purchase (which I was also willing to do). The system I chose to put in was just shy of 20kW utilizing 60 SunPower E20 panels and five SunPower inverters. The system was ground based with twelve panels on each of five poles; about 60 by 20' footprint. Or, to put it another way, two to four times the typical home installation. The only negatives had to do with communication: there were multiple occasions where we were left in the dark as to the status of the approval process (for systems of this size, it was long); emails and phone messages would go unanswered days to weeks. On the positive side the planning process (what type of system should be installed, location, etc) was very well done. The installation process was excellent; they did a fantastic job installing the system. The work was impeccable. At this point, about four months post turn-on, the system is out there and producing.

The sales staff was very patient and informative, answering our seemingly endless questions. Once we committed, the design and project management team put all the paperwork together and coordinated all portions of the work. The crew who put it together was quick, efficient and very professional. The whole Sun Bug team did a great job. Since installation, well over a year ago, we can say confidently the system has exceeded it's designed potential and has been working flawlessly. Thanks Sun Bug!

Ben returned my phone call right away, even though from the very beginning it wan clear that I was out of their service area and only looking for a back up solar kit, not a solar system. For a company to take a minute on the phone with someone they know will not immediately become an actual customer shows a high level of professionalism. Most other companies would either not return your call, or quickly call you back with a canned response that you were out of their area. Thanks Ben!