In the early days, the solar industry was rapidly evolving.

Local independent solar installation companies found themselves competing against large, national, publicly-held or private equity-backed firms. Their economies of scale threatened to overshadow the smaller, local, community-based, values-driven solar businesses. It was clear that something needed to change.

The idea for Amicus Solar Cooperative was born out of necessity and a deep-seated desire to maintain the independence and integrity of local solar businesses. The spark came from other cooperative organizations like Equal Exchange, where we learned about the cooperative business model—an ecosystem that champions collaboration and community impact.

Guided by a shared vision, a small group of pioneering companies like Namaste Solar began laying the groundwork for what would become Amicus Solar Cooperative. The founding values centered around ethical business practices, community impact, and a commitment to doing the right thing. These principles were not just aspirational; they became the DNA of our cooperative, influencing every decision and action from the very beginning.

Initially, we focused on leveraging our collective purchasing power to reduce our costs on solar panels and other equipment. However, as the cooperative grew, so did its purpose. Today, Amicus is not just about purchasing; it’s about sharing best practices, advocating for fair federal and state policies, and building a community of like-minded businesses dedicated to making a positive impact.

Looking back, the most significant achievement of Amicus is in the collaborative culture it has fostered. It’s in the connections made, the trust built, and the collective impact on the lives of everyone involved—from the business owners to their employees, to the local communities they serve and call their home.

Since 2011, Amicus Solar Cooperative stands as a testament to the power of unity, proving that when independent companies band together with a shared purpose, they can not only survive but thrive, bringing honor and integrity to the solar industry.