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
There are breakthroughs in solar technology announced nearly every day from laboratories around the world. Here's a rundown of solar technologies that will actually have an impact in the near future.
Written by Ben Zientara
Aptos is a newer solar panel manufacturer in the U.S. market, but it's growing rapidly each year. Here's a look at their products and whether they're good.
Written by Ben Zientara
Is it a good financial decision to go solar as a SMUD customer? Learn about SMUD solar programs and find out if solar panels are right for you!
Written by Ben Zientara
LADWP offers several solar programs for its customers, including net metering, Solar Rooftops, and Shared Solar. Save money with solar in Los Angeles!
Written by Ben Zientara
Going solar can be a great way to save money and improve your home, but choosing the wrong company can lead to disaster. Here's how to avoid solar panel scams
Written by Ben Zientara
Xcel Energy Colorado will provide new incentives that will help spread the benefits of clean energy to a wide range of Colorado residents. Learn more here.
Written by Ben Zientara
