News > Bob Norton’s Solar Success Story in Alabama

Bob Norton’s Solar Success Story in Alabama

• Stories

March 4, 2025

When Bob Norton and his family moved into their home in Alabama, he knew that finding a clean energy solution was a priority. With his heightened sensitivity to air quality, Bob often noticed pollutants in the air before anyone else and this awareness pushed him to look into renewable energy options early. As a natural organizer, he spent a lot of time researching solar power.

Bob never thought he could afford solar, he assumed it would require a big upfront cost. But he quickly found a game-changing opportunity: financing a solar system. This approach allowed him to generate energy and reduce costs. The idea of replacing dirty energy with clean energy at a similar price point was too good for him to pass up.

Bob’s research led him to Solar United Neighbors and SUN helped him find a solar company. The company installed the solar system and essentially took over his power bill. Now, instead of paying for dirty energy, his money supports clean, renewable power.

Additionally, Bob was pleasantly surprised by net metering, where the solar power his home generates counts against his electricity bill. He didn’t think Alabama would offer this kind of program, considering the state’s traditional energy practices but he was so glad to be wrong.

The process wasn’t without its challenges. To qualify for solar financing, Bob needed a 750 credit score and homeownership. Convincing the homeowner to support his vision was a hurdle, but he persevered. His patience and dedication paid off when the system was installed at no upfront cost, and the savings began immediately.

Since switching to solar, Bob has started upgrading his home further. His family replaced their water heater, and now they want to upgrade their heating and air conditioning systems with water-supplied heat pumps. The financial freedom from lower energy bills has made these home improvements more accessible.

Bob’s solar journey didn’t just end at his own home. He has pushed for solar energy in communities that may not be able to afford it and has participated in disaster recovery work, helping bring solar panels to storm-affected areas in the Gulf South.

His advice for anyone thinking about solar is simple: check if net metering is available in your state. He also shares there are options out there, but you have to do a bit of homework.

Bob credits SUN with helping him navigate the world of solar energy. He would not have found all the information he needed without the support. His story shows how solar energy, hard work, and community support can change a home and a whole neighborhood.