Valley Solar Pioneers The Latest Energy Efficient Technology
Embracing the Future of Renewable Energy
Valley Solar co-owners Mike Hempstead and Patrick Rondeau have embraced the future of renewable energy, establishing the company as a leader in the rapidly growing area of battery storage.
Today, more than half of Valley Solar’s customers choose to install battery storage systems alongside their solar panels. Like a generator, a battery can power a home during a power outage — but with far greater sustainability.
“By including battery storage with solar, you’re getting a complete home energy system,” Hempstead said. “By adding a battery you can say goodbye to power outages completely. You can run your home on solar night and day.”
Exclusive Partnership with Tesla Energy
Because of its commitment to battery storage, Valley Solar was selected by Tesla Energy as its exclusive launch partner in New England for the Powerwall 3, Tesla’s latest energy storage system.
The compact Powerwall 3 attaches to the outside of a house and stores energy generated by the sun or drawn from the grid.
Through this collaboration, Valley Solar customers will have access to:
- Pre-launch pricing for the Tesla Powerwall 3.
- State incentives, including zero percent loans for battery storage systems.
A Growing Company with Strong Roots
Founded in 2015 in Northampton by Valley Home Improvement President Steven Silverman, Valley Solar quickly established itself as a trusted provider of solar energy in the Pioneer Valley.
When Hempstead (President) and Rondeau (General Manager) acquired the company in August 2020, Valley Solar had just seven employees. Today, the company has grown to over 40 team members, including 12 licensed electricians with more than 30 energy storage certifications.
“Because of that training we’re able to offer a high standard of expertise and workmanship,” Hempstead said. “The journey for us from 3-4 years ago is we made a lot of investments in training to install batteries.”
New Headquarters in Easthampton
As Valley Solar expanded, the company needed more space and moved to Eastworks in Easthampton two years ago. The bright, collaborative office environment reflects the team’s innovative spirit and commitment to growth.
Reaching a Major Milestone
This spring, Valley Solar will install its 500th battery storage system, making it the leading independently-owned solar contractor for battery installations in Massachusetts.
“Valley Solar has installed more battery systems than any other independently-owned contractor in the state,” Hempstead noted.
Awards, Recognition, and Community Commitment
Valley Solar has built a strong reputation by offering affordable and reliable solar power to homes, businesses, and farms through personalized, expert service.
- Daily Hampshire Gazette Reader’s Choice Award: 5 years in a row.
- Valley Advocate’s Best of the Valley: Top ranking for Solar Installation (2025).
Beyond solar, Valley Solar provides electrical contracting, service, and maintenance.
The company also gives back to the community as a sponsor of major local initiatives, including the Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage and Bikes Fight Cancer.
“We go the extra mile for our customers,” Hempstead said. “We have a real spirit of innovation and a commitment to do things better; we’re always making our processes better. We’re always learning and improving so we can serve our customers more efficiently.”