Emerald Energy LLC

Emerald Energy was founded in 2009 by a team with a shared passion for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, launching the company as a way to serve North Carolina communities with reliable solar solutions. Co-owner John Leonard, an NC State graduate with over two decades in the energy-saving industry, built the Raleigh-based solar installer on a foundation of technical expertise and customer-focused service. What began as a mission to help homeowners reduce utility costs has grown into one of the state’s most trusted names in solar installation, battery storage, and comprehensive micro-grid solutions. The company holds both North Carolina General Contractor and Electrical Contractor licenses, positioning them uniquely as one of the few fully licensed general contractors in the state providing in-house solar system design and installation. This dual licensing means Emerald Energy can handle everything from initial site assessment through final commissioning, with a full in-house installation team that never subcontracts critical work. The team’s combined 50-plus years of industry experience includes NABCEP-certified professionals who bring deep knowledge of solar PV systems, battery storage integration, and the latest inverter technologies. For Raleigh homeowners and businesses across North Carolina, Emerald Energy offers turnkey solar panel installations, whole-home battery backup systems, EV charger installation, generator integration, and energy monitoring solutions designed for true energy independence. Their EnergySage profile consistently ranks them as an Advanced Installer, placing them in the top tier for responsiveness, reputation, and results, and customer reviews frequently highlight the team’s willingness to work within budgets while never compromising on quality. The company has built a reputation as battery storage experts, tackling complex off-grid and hybrid systems that other installers avoid. They’re certified installers for Tesla Powerwall, Generac Powercell, Enphase, Fortress Battery, and hold Gold Installer status with Sol-Ark, giving customers access to best-in-class equipment backed by industry-leading 25-year workmanship warranties. Unlike many solar companies that emerged during boom years only to disappear, Emerald Energy weathered the pandemic and continues to serve both new installations and legacy system repairs throughout the Triangle, Triad, and coastal regions of North Carolina. Their commitment to North Carolina homeowners goes beyond installation—customers report that the team provides ongoing system monitoring, rapid response to component failures, and has even stepped in to service systems installed by companies that went out of business. This dedication to long-term customer relationships, combined with transparent pricing and educational consultations, has made Emerald Energy a go-to recommendation among homeowners in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and surrounding communities who want a solar installer in North Carolina they can trust for decades to come.