The Solar Store: Tucson's Trusted Solar and Energy Experts Since 1998

The Solar Store operates as an established provider of solar energy and related services within the Tucson metropolitan area and surrounding Southern Arizona communities. With a headquarters based in Tucson and over 60 years of combined technical experience, the business focuses on delivering renewable energy solutions for residential and commercial properties, balancing whole-home energy system work with targeted upgrades.

Comprehensive Localized Services

The company’s services are designed to meet the specific demands of Tucson’s climate and housing stock. Their offerings are grouped into key categories with clear local application.

Solar System Installation and Repair

This includes adding solar panels to existing systems and full solar system installations. Given Tucson’s high solar irradiance, with over 280 sunny days annually, these services help homeowners in areas like the Catalina Foothills and Oro Valley maximize energy production and offset high cooling costs during the intense summer heat.

Specialized Solar Solutions

The Solar Store provides off-grid and hybrid solar solutions, as well as solar structures and ground mounts. These are valuable for properties in the more rugged, expansive terrains of Tanque Verde or Saddlebrooke, where connection to the grid can be challenging or where homeowners seek energy independence.

Integrated Electrical and Plumbing Services

Services include electric and plumbing inspections, plumbing installation, and water heater and water pipe installation. This expertise is critical for integrating solar water heating systems and ensuring all work meets the specific codes enforced by Pima County and local utilities like Tucson Electric Power. It addresses common needs in Tucson’s mix of mid-century modern homes and newer developments.

Detailed Local Service Area

The Solar Store’s team is operationally familiar with the infrastructure across a defined Southern Arizona service territory.

Primary Service Zone: The company routinely serves Tucson neighborhoods including Catalina Foothills, Oro Valley, Tanque Verde, Flowing Wells, and the Catalina area.

Extended Service Area: Service extends to surrounding communities such as Saddlebrooke and San Manuel. The technicians understand the varying permitting processes and structural considerations, from the foothills' rocky soil to the different roofing styles common in each area.

Company History and Deep Local Roots

The Solar Store was founded in Tucson in 1998, growing alongside the city’s expansion and increasing adoption of solar technology. Under the leadership of Katherine Kent, who has been with the company since its opening, the business has built its operations around the local community. Its physical presence and growth in Tucson anchor its long-term commitment to the region, navigating the evolution of local and state solar incentives.

Leadership and Certified Team

Katherine Kent provides consistent leadership with a deep understanding of the Tucson market. The team consists of licensed and certified technicians who hold credentials specific to Arizona’s regulatory requirements for solar electric and plumbing work. Their professional competence is tailored to the technical demands of the local environment and building codes.

Community-Specific Specializations

The Solar Store has developed documented areas of expertise relevant to Southern Arizona homeowners and businesses.

• Designing systems resilient to Tucson’s extreme summer temperatures and monsoon season dust storms, which can impact panel efficiency.
• Providing energy solutions for the region’s prevalent single-story ranch and territorial-style homes, optimizing roof space and orientation.
• Navigating the interconnection processes with Tucson Electric Power and the permitting offices of Pima County and the Town of Oro Valley efficiently.
• Offering solar water heating solutions that are particularly effective given the region’s abundant sunshine, reducing reliance on traditional water heaters.

Local Reputation and Reliability in Tucson

The Solar Store’s community standing is built on its longevity as a Tucson-based operator since 1998, predating many market entrants. The business demonstrates reliability through its consistent adherence to Arizona state codes and local inspection standards. Its adaptation to the operational challenges of the Sonoran Desert—from system design for heat tolerance to scheduling around seasonal weather patterns—positions it as a knowledgeable local authority for solar installation in Tucson, AZ, and related electrical and plumbing services.