A1 Sun, Inc.

About Us

A1 Sun was incorporated in 2007 with the goal of installing superb, affordable photovoltaic and thermal solar energy systems to benefit our neighbors, our community and the larger global environment. They are located in Berkeley and work locally. They also serve the surrounding cities of Oakland, Emeryville, Albany, El Cerrito, Richmond and Orinda and beyond.

Founding members Larry Giustino and Paul Cooper both have more than 30 years of experience in the solar field. “Old-timers” in Alameda County may remember them from the solar installation company Solar Station, Inc., and the nonprofit sister organization AEC – Alternative Energy Collective in the late 70s and 80s.

A1 Sun itself has an extremely light carbon footprint. They are located in a super-insulated, energy-efficient building and use natural daylighting with high efficiency lighting as a backup. 100+ percent of they electric power is provided by the sun. They minimize their waste production and reuse and/or recycle all possible materials (paper, plastic, glass, aluminum, steel, etc.). Construction debris that can’t be recycled partially fills a small weekly trash can. Their third company vehicle is a solar charged electric ZENN that they use to get local business done without burning up precious hydrocarbon fuel resources. Their efforts were recognized and are proud to be an Alameda County Green Certified Business.

Products/Services Provided

Their top priority is happy and satisfied A1 Sun customers. They make the process of installing solar as simple, easy and painless as possible for customers. Each member of the sales staff has practical hands-on installation and design experience. One person is in charge of your installation from the initial agreement to final building permit approval.

Paperwork: They streamline the process, from the PG&E energy audit to obtaining the CSI cash rebate. They submit all PG&E California Solar Incentive forms to ensure you receive the highest cash rebate available. They develop and submit all drawings, fees and forms required by the city. As the work proceeds, they keep you apprised of the status of your installation. They can also help you find local financiers and lowest available rates.

Design: A1 Sun provides a free site evaluation and analysis of your PG&E bills to determine the optimal system for your needs. They design a custom array to maximize your system’s production while keeping the aesthetics of your building in mind. If you have concerns, they accommodate your special requirements. They create a system with your views in mind - one that will keep you delighted with the results for as long as you own your home or business.

Installation: A1 Sun is committed to giving you the highest-quality product at a competitive price. They hire locally and their crews are honest, intelligent, dependable, reliable and responsive. They use top-of-the-line components and take time to carefully build a dependable and trouble-free system. They stand by their work with a decade-long warranty. The components they choose come with standard product warranties of up to 25 years. Your system will generate clean electricity for an exceptionally long time.

Certifications/Awards

• California Contractors License number is #891743
• Alameda County Green Business
• BBB
• Berkeley Chamber of Commerce
• Buy Local Berkeley
• Build It Green
• Ecology Center
• Sierra Club