Solar Power of Oklahoma showcases impact of renewable energy

Solar Power of Oklahoma executives provide Oklahoma Department of Commerce officials with tour of facility.

Solar Power of Oklahoma (SPO) executives recently welcomed Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) officials as part of a statewide focus on renewable energy.

According to ODOC, more than 40 percent of the state’s electricity is generated from renewable resources like solar, wind, geothermal, biothermal and hydrogen.

SPO has reported an increase in demand for renewable energy, crediting “tremendous” year over year growth since its inception in 2017.

“We are proud to work with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to highlight our contributions to the state’s economy and the bigger picture as a vital source for consumer-accessible renewable energy,” SPO President, J.W. Peters said, while also noting the employer’s role in local job creation.

Solar Power of Oklahoma executives provide Oklahoma Department of Commerce officials with tour of facility.

Peters and SPO CEO, Kevin Jones, guided ODOC officials through the company’s Oklahoma City headquarters last month.

“Finding out more about solar power’s positive environmental impact and how it can result in consumer savings better informs our work,” said Ray Little, ODOC regional development director overseeing business retention and expansion.

“Understanding Oklahomans’ options, meeting professionals in the field and seeing firsthand how local services for solar power are coordinated enhances our vision for the state.”

SPO reported a 275 percent increase in solar power system installations in 2021. Concerns over traditional utility hikes, as well as an increase in electric vehicle owners seeking low-cost charging options have contributed to the demand.

“Our conversations with Solar Power of Oklahoma executives underscore its relevance in Oklahoma from an employment viewpoint but also as applied to the issue of informed consumer choice with solar as a sustainable option for Oklahomans’ utilities,” ODOC Project Manager, Zach Thomas said.

Thomas emphasized the renewable energy sector’s expected job growth, citing the Inflation Reduction Act as an additional component to growing the industry.

SPO has been recognized as one of the best places to work by the Journal Record, with a Tulsa facility and Oklahoma City showroom opening in 2022 to coincide the company’s tripled staff increase since 2021.

The Chamber member works with home and business owners to custom design and install solar systems throughout Oklahoma.

You can learn more about Solar Power of Oklahoma at www.solarpowerok.com.