At the Appalachian Solar Finance Fund (SFF), we’re proud to work alongside solar installers who share our vision: a stronger Appalachian economy powered by innovative, cost-saving energy solutions. One of our trusted partners is Solar Alliance Southeast, a company delivering high-impact solar installations in Kentucky and Tennessee while creating local jobs and helping nonprofits lower their energy costs.
A Proven Partner for Practical Progress
With over a decade of experience and hundreds of completed installations, Solar Alliance Southeast has become a go-to solar partner for churches, community organizations, and commercial clients across the region. Their approach is grounded in fiscal responsibility, technical excellence, and a strong belief in empowering clients to take control of their energy costs.
We’re especially grateful that Solar Alliance Southeast consistently introduces our funding and planning resources early in their conversations with churches and nonprofits, helping more organizations gain access to solar who otherwise might not consider it feasible.
“Solar Alliance Southeast always works with the client on solution-focused objectives,” said General Manager Jon Hamilton. “The solar PV project must meet the client’s goals and work long-term. Bringing the Appalachian Solar Finance Fund to nonprofits as a supportive resource increases the likelihood that the organization will be able to fully execute the system they need. We are proud to be a part of this partnership process and deliver a commercially viable solution to their sustainability needs.”
Learn more about SFF’s Programs and Benefits
The combination of a grant from the SFF and an anticipated direct payment from the Inflation Reduction Act made it possible for us to raise the balance of the cost for our solar and battery installation from the generous donations of climate-concerned church members.
Dan Terpstra, First Presbyterian Church of Oak Ridge
A Partnership That Powers Purpose
By leveraging our support, Solar Alliance Southeast has successfully delivered SFF-backed installations that are already making a difference. One standout example is the First Presbyterian Church of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where a new solar array and accompanying battery storage are helping the church reduce operating costs and more efficiently steward its mission.
From church member Dan Terpstra at First Presbyterian Church of Oak Ridge,
“The combination of a grant from the SFF and an anticipated direct payment from the Inflation Reduction Act made it possible for us to raise the balance of the cost for our solar and battery installation from the generous donations of climate-concerned church members.’
“Our new solar installation is already making a positive difference in how our church thinks about creation care [and] our batteries are allowing us to use almost all of the solar power we generate for our on-site needs.’
“Caring for the Earth by generating our own electricity is consistent with our other caring ministries, including four gardens, food ministries, and an Early Head Start daycare center.”
These are the kinds of results that matter: financial stewardship, energy independence, and stronger community institutions.
Partnering to Build a Strong Appalachia
The ripple effects of these projects go far beyond energy savings. With approximately 20 full-time employees and a reliable team of regional subcontractors, Solar Alliance Southeast has used SFF-supported projects to maintain a healthy workload, supporting local jobs and economic activity in the communities they serve.
The partnership builds hope for the region’s workforce and nonprofit community. “Appalachian Solar Finance Fund is so attentive to the needs of the churches we’ve built systems for over the past couple of years!” said Tom Talmage, Sales Director at Solar Alliance Southeast. “Once we connect them, that part of the process goes very smoothly, while we concentrate on building the system.”
We extend our sincere thanks to the team at Solar Alliance Southeast for their continued partnership and commitment to excellence. Their work in Kentucky and Tennessee helps us fulfill our mission of expanding access to solar energy in the Appalachian region as a smart investment in the future of our communities.
About Solar Alliance Southeast
Parent Company: Solar Alliance Southeast Energy, Inc.
Website: www.solaralliance.com
Installed in 2024: Over 2,750 kW across Kentucky and Tennessee
