Ben Zientara

Solar Policy Analyst

Expertise:

Solar policy | Industry trends | Solar generators

About Ben Zientara

Ben Zientara is a writer, researcher, and solar policy analyst who has written about the residential solar industry, the electric grid, and state utility policy since 2013.

His early work included leading the team that produced the annual State Solar Power Rankings Report for the Solar Power Rocks website from 2015 to 2020. The rankings were utilized and referenced by a diverse mix of policymakers, advocacy groups, and media including The Center for American Progress, The Institute for Local Self-Reliance, the Solar Institute at George Washington University, PolitiFact, and The Guardian.

In 2020, Ben joined SolarReviews and now lends his expertise to the annual Solar Industry Survey, Top Solar Manufacturers list, Top 10 Solar States list, and throughout articles and pages across the site.

Ben holds a B.S. in Scientific & Technical Communication from the University of Minnesota, with special coursework in Environmental Science and a minor in Sustainability Studies. He spends his time away from the solar power world cooking and eating delicious food or spending quality time with his wife, kids, and big brown dog in the mountains, woods, parks, and playgrounds of the Portland, Oregon area.

Articles by Ben Zientara

Solar loans: Everything you need to know

Solar loans let you get solar panels with no upfront costs. We look at whether they are worth it, and how you can find the best one.

Written by Ben Zientara

Generac PWRcell expert review: is it the right battery for you?

The Generac PWRcell is a home solar battery backup system that stands apart from the competition. Find out if it's right for your home here.

Written by Ben Zientara

Guide to TECO solar programs in 2023

TECO offers two solar savings programs for Florida residents, and one will save you substantially more than the other. We explain each (and which one you should sign up for) in our latest blog.

Written by Ben Zientara

How heat pumps reduce energy consumption and work with solar panels

Heat pumps are the key to electrifying your home's HVAC and water heating. They can be paired with solar panels and batteries to massively reduce emissions and change the way you use energy.

Written by Ben Zientara

How to claim the solar tax credit: IRS Form 5695 instructions (2024)

Step-by-step instructions for using IRS Form 5695 to claim the 30% federal solar tax credit.

Written by Ben Zientara

How SCE customers can save money with solar panels

Southern California Edison (SCE) has solar programs that can help you save money on energy bills, but they are set to expire soon.

Written by Ben Zientara