In a world that’s increasingly turning toward renewable energy, Pure Energy Group stands as a leader in providing local solar solutions for homeowners, farmers, and businesses in Oregon. Founded by Matthew Henderson, Travis Sheffield, and Jordan Sinn, the company has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving business. With a commitment to being local, fair, and transparent, Pure Energy Group is helping Oregonians tap into the power of solar energy, one project at a time.
Matthew Henderson’s journey into the solar industry began in 2009. Working for a large solar company, he gained valuable experience in selling solar systems. However, the company didn’t build its own systems. Instead, they partnered with a local contractor in Albany, where Henderson’s best friend and future business partner, Travis Sheffield, worked. Henderson explains, “I would sell systems, and they would build them. That was great for a few years.”
As time passed, Henderson and Sheffield saw an opportunity to create something more localized and hands-on. After working together for years at different companies, they teamed up with Jordan Sinn, another experienced professional in the solar industry, to form Pure Energy Group in 2020. The timing wasn’t easy, considering the global pandemic and political uncertainties, but the team was determined. “We got together, made a business plan, and went for it,” says Henderson. Their vision was to build a solar company focused on fair pricing, local service, and a commitment to creating lasting careers rather than short-term jobs.
Growing From Three to Thirty-Two
Pure Energy Group started small, with just Henderson, Sheffield, and Sinn. But in just a few short years, the company has expanded to 32 employees, including four electricians and four apprentices in a growing training program. Henderson explains, “We do all of our work in-house. We build all our own systems, and very rarely do we use subcontractors. If we do, it’s a trusted local contractor, and we let people know upfront.”
Today, Pure Energy Group serves a broad range of clients, from residential homeowners to commercial businesses, and even state agencies like Oregon State University. Their work spans across cities like Salem, Silverton, Albany, Corvallis, and even Central Oregon, where they recently expanded. “Instead of selling local to Central Oregon, we actually have someone there who does that,” Henderson adds, emphasizing their commitment to keeping their operations truly local.
Solar Energy in Oregon’s Winter: How Effective Is It?
One of the most common questions Pure Energy Group encounters is how well solar energy works in Oregon’s famously cloudy winters. Henderson is upfront about the challenges: “Solar is not very effective in the winter months.” However, he explains that this doesn’t mean solar isn’t a good investment in Oregon.
Henderson likens solar energy production to a growing season. “Think about how we can grow crops in Oregon from April through October,” he says. “The same goes for solar. We produce most of our energy in those months when the days are longer, and that energy can be stored and used to offset the lower production in the winter.”
Thanks to Oregon’s net metering system, homeowners with solar panels can send excess energy back to the grid during the sunny months and earn credit. That credit can then be applied to their utility bills in the winter when solar production is lower. This allows homeowners to balance their energy usage throughout the year, making solar a viable option despite the winter weather.
Henderson likens solar energy production to a growing season. “Think about how we can grow crops in Oregon from April through October,” he says. “The same goes for solar. We produce most of our energy in those months when the days are longer, and that energy can be stored and used to offset the lower production in the winter.”
Thanks to Oregon’s net metering system, homeowners with solar panels can send excess energy back to the grid during the sunny months and earn credit. That credit can then be applied to their utility bills in the winter when solar production is lower. This allows homeowners to balance their energy usage throughout the year, making solar a viable option despite the winter weather.
Pure Energy’s Local Approach
At the heart of Pure Energy Group’s success is their commitment to being a truly local business. Henderson explains that this philosophy drives every aspect of the company, from their sales tactics to their community involvement. “A lot of out-of-state companies come in and use high-pressure tactics. I’ve heard people say they agreed to buy solar just to get the salesperson out of their house,” he shares. “That’s not what we do. We focus on education and consultation. We listen to what people need.”
Pure Energy Group trains its sales team to prioritize customer education and low-pressure consultation. This approach has resonated with local clients, leading to a surge in positive reviews. “We went from having about nine reviews to over 85 five-star reviews, and that’s because we follow up and make sure customers are happy after everything’s been installed,” Henderson explains.
Beyond their customer service, Pure Energy Group is deeply invested in the local economy. They regularly spend over $100,000 a year in donations and/or sponsoring local nonprofits like Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, Furniture Share, and local high schools to name a few. “We want to be a company that gives back to the community,” Henderson says. “The money stays here and gets reinvested here, rather than going to out-of-state companies.”
Tailored Solar Solutions for Every Need
Pure Energy Group offers a wide array of services beyond just installing solar panels. They also provide maintenance, electrical services, and even backup generator installation. For farmers and small businesses in the agricultural sector, the company helps secure aggressive USDA grants that make solar projects more affordable.
Henderson also highlights their service for homeowners who need to replace their roofs but already have solar panels installed. “We do a lot of tear-offs and reinstallations for people who had solar installed by companies that are no longer around or who didn’t offer good service.”
For homeowners considering solar, Henderson advises considering factors like roof orientation, shading, and roof life. “The ideal roof for solar in the Willamette Valley faces south, east, or west, and has at least ten years of life left on it,” he says. He also emphasizes that there are financing options to make solar more accessible. “You can get into solar with zero money down, but it’s important to be wary of ads that make it seem like solar is free. It’s not, but there are ways to make it affordable.”
A Lasting Commitment to Oregon
As Pure Energy Group looks to the future, Henderson is excited about the legacy they are building. “We want to create careers, not just jobs,” he says. His oldest son is now part of the company as a salesperson, continuing the family tradition of solar energy. “We plan to be here for the long term.”
Pure Energy Group’s success is not only measured by the number of solar panels they install but by the positive impact they have on their community. From creating jobs to supporting local nonprofits, they are a company that embodies what it means to think and act locally. For homeowners and businesses looking for local solar solutions that offer fair pricing, top-notch customer service, and long-term support, Pure Energy Group stands out as the clear choice.
Photo credit: Pure Energy Group website
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